The implant procedure requires surgery, which is why dental implant costs so much. While usually problem-free, you may develop a dental implant infection, so after the procedure, look for common dental implant infection symptoms. An infected dental implant can be painful and require emergency treatment from an implant dentist.
Dental implants are replacement structures for missing teeth. They are bolted, with a titanium screw, directly to your jawbone. The titanium screw fuses with the jawbone in osseointegration, providing the same solid connection as a natural tooth. It’s a permanent solution to teeth restoration.
Although often highly successful, several issues can occur when you receive a dental implant. Statistically, less than five percent of individuals ever experience a dental implant infection or other problem, but knowing all your options and concerns better prepares you for your implant procedure. You also reduce the risks of dental implant problems when you visit a talented team of our experienced dental professionals.
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Some Common Risks Associated with Implants
Dental implant surgery consists of cutting into your gum, exposing the jawbone, and drilling holes for the dental implant anchor. Your cosmetic dentist, a seasoned general dentist — gives you local anesthesia and possibly a sedative for your comfort before starting. Most people feel little or no pain during the procedure and only mild soreness, bruising, and bleeding afterward. It is a surgery, however, and with surgery come risks, such as:
- All surgeries open the body to the chance of infection. Dental implant infection can also occur since all your food and drink pass through your mouth. An infected dental implant is serious; see your dentist immediately, even if you need a Sunday dentist.
- Injury or damage to surrounding structures, such as other teeth, gums, or blood vessels, can occur during the procedure. Always visit a cosmetic dentist experienced in dental implants.
- Surgery rarely causes nerve damage. Pain, numbness, or tingling of your natural teeth, gums, lips, or chin are the typical signs of damage.
- Your dentist may have to do a bone graft if there’s insufficient bone mass. With bone loss, the dental implant can be incorrectly positioned.
- Occasionally, implants fracture due to an uneven bite or other concerns.
- Rarely the bonding of the post or implant with your jawbone doesn’t proceed as expected.
- Smokers experience a higher than average rejection rate of dental implants, so you will be advised to quit.
- Your physical health and condition can jeopardize implant success. Bone growth is affected by blood supply, so if it’s compromised by diabetes or high blood pressure, implant rejection or an infected dental implant is possible.
- Your dentist may opt for immediate loading by placing a crown on your implant immediately. But it’s rare. The pressure on the implant by chewing could compromise the bonding or ossification process.
All these dental implant problems are relatively rare. Few patients experience issues. Knowing the signs keeps you ahead of any concerns.
Symptoms of Dental Implant Problems
Dental implant infection is usually the primary concern of any good general dentist. After your procedure, watch for dental implant infection symptoms, such as:
- Red swelling lasting more than a few days
- Extreme tenderness for more than a few days
- Any pus-colored or foul-smelling discharge from the site
- Redness or streaking down your face and jaw
- Fever or chills
The dental implant infection is severe and needs to be treated immediately. The good news is that your dentist can usually treat the infection and attempt an implant at a later date.
Sinus Issues with Implants
One other notable condition can occur as a result of dental implants. Your upper teeth sit against your sinuses, so an infected dental implant can protrude into your sinus cavity and become inflamed. Implants placed in your upper back jaw can be complex due to the proximity to your sinuses and insufficient bone quality and quantity. The bone in this area is not as dense, heavy, or thick as your lower jawbone, hindering the osseointegration or bonding process.
You should mention any previous sinus surgeries during your medical history. If your dentist determines the bone is insufficient for an implant, the options are:
- They are grafting a small piece of bone at the implant’s root. This surgery takes about four to eight months to heal before introducing an implant.
- They are performing a sinus augmentation. Your dentist lifts the existing bone slightly into the sinus cavity, creating space for a more sizeable bone graft. This bone graft can take four months to heal before the implant is introduced.
Dental Implant Costs
Dental implants are not always covered by insurance, so that the cost can be a factor. Ask your dentist about financing options to help with your budgetary needs before making a decision.
Regarding aftercare, practice good oral hygiene and avoid chewing hard items. If you grind your teeth at night, your dentist may recommend a mouth guard to protect your teeth and dental work. Open on weekends, your Saturday dentist or Sunday dentist prepares a customized treatment plan for your dental needs and budgetary concerns.
Do you have any questions about dental implant problems? Please contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment with the best implant dentist Farzin Farokhzadeh, DDS of a dental clinic in Yonkers.
