Dental implants are one of the most widely celebrated methods of replacing teeth, and for good reason. Even when compared to other high-quality methods of tooth replacement, the realism, strength, and durability of dental implants is singular.
However, unlike other methods of tooth replacement, dental implants require surgery to place. This being the case, lots of people who are interested in dental implants are reticent about the procedure or are concerned about whether aftercare is going to be possible for them. If that sounds like you, here’s what you should know about the safety of dental implants.
How Safe is the Dental Implant Surgery?
Obviously, any surgery involves some kind of risk. However, as far as these kinds of procedures go, dental implant surgery is incredibly safe. Dental implants have a startlingly low rate of failure; around 95% of them are still successful at 20 years. Moreover, studies have shown that the rate of success remains consistent for patients at any age, so if you’re on the older side and are concerned that getting dental implants could be problematic, you don’t necessarily have to worry.
What Risks are Associated with the Dental Implant Procedure?
That said, there are some things that you may need to think about if you want your dental implant procedure to go off without a hitch.
The first problem you could run into is during healing. If you have an impaired healing factor, it may take a while for the dental implant to fuse with the jaw, or it may not happen successfully at all. For that reason, you should let your dentist know whether you have diabetes, cancer, or any other condition that could impede this process.
The second problem is something that you’ll have to worry about for as long as you have your dental implant: infection. If bacteria seeps under the gum line, it’s possible for it to attack the jawbone holding the dental implant in place, causing it to fail.
This is more likely if you’re already dealing with oral health problems, so we’ll be sure to treat any gum disease you have before the surgery. And you’ll have to remain consistent with your dental hygiene for as long as you have dental implants to prevent these kinds of problems from coming back.
About the Author
Dr. Robert A. Camenzuli is a dentist who places strong emphasis on relationships with his patients, so when you visit him for dental care, you’ll benefit from personalized care from a dentist who’s actually invested in your health and happiness. Dr. Camenzuli received his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the Louisiana State University School of Dentistry. He has earned the title of “Fellow” from the Academy of General Dentistry, a distinction earned by only 6% of dentists across the U.S. and Canada.
If you have any questions about dental implants, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (504) 584-4225.