If you’re dealing with missing teeth and researching your options, you may be considering dental implants. As an alternative to dentures and bridges, implants permanently replace teeth from root to crown. Let’s take a look at some of the advantages and possible complications of dental implants so you can decide for yourself whether they’re worth pursuing a consultation.
Advantages of Dental Implants
Dental Implants offer many advantages over traditional replacement options. The implant is a titanium post that is inserted into a patient’s jaw bone. Because implants fuse to the jaw, they provide improved comfort, speech, and appearance. Dental implant patients can eat their favorite foods without discomfort or pain.
While removing and placing dentures can be a messy process, and sometimes embarrassing when they fall out, dental implants stay in place. They require the same hygiene care as real teeth, brushing, flossing, and routine professional cleanings. Dental implants, unlike bridges, don’t alter the health of surrounding teeth, which improves long-term oral health exponentially.
Dental Implant Complications
Dental implants have dramatically altered the way dentists and patients think about replacing missing teeth. As long as patients are healthy enough to undergo the procedure, they are candidates for dental implants.
Two requirements for this procedure are healthy gums and bone, although many concerns can be addressed, making patients eligible. People interested in implants should also be committed to regular dental visits and good oral hygiene. With proper care, dental implants have a 98 percent success rate.
Complications occur in a small percentage of cases but can be treated provided they are caught before severe symptoms take hold. Some of these situations include:
- Infection surrounding the implant
- Teeth decay and trauma
- Sinus problems, particularly if implants are placed in the upper jaw near the sinus cavities
- Implants fail to fuse with bone – this is more common with heavy smokers
Caring for Dental Implants
Dental implants can last a lifetime as long as they receive proper care. Brushing, flossing, and routine dental visits will protect the smile and ensure it stays healthy.
Want to learn more about our dental implant procedures in Northern Virginia? Call our office today to schedule an appointment.
