Are Dental Implants Safe?
Glendale, AZ
Implants in Glendale provided by Dr. Michael Allard
at Arrowhead Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
 Dental implants have revolutionized the field of dentistry, offering a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution for tooth replacement. However, doubts often arise about their level of safety, so let's clear a few things up.
Understanding Dental Implants
Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, dental implants are titanium posts surgically implanted into the jawbone to serve as artificial tooth roots. These posts provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth, offering a natural look and feel.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants are firmly anchored in the jawbone, providing stability that surpasses traditional dentures or bridges. This ensures that replacement teeth feel and function like natural ones. They are also designed to closely mimic the appearance of natural teeth.
The titanium posts of dental implants integrate with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. This helps preserve the bone structure, preventing the deterioration that commonly occurs with tooth loss. With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime.
The Safety of Dental Implants
Decades of research and clinical use back the efficacy and reliability of implants. Thanks to the biocompatibility of titanium, the osseointegration process creates a stable and durable foundation for replacement teeth.
Moreover, dental implant procedures are routine and are performed under strict sterilization protocols, minimizing the risk of infections or complications. Though minimal risks are always present, adverse events with dental implants are relatively rare.
Factors Influencing Dental Implant Safety
Several factors contribute to the safety and success of dental implant procedures, one of which is the individual's overall health and oral health. Conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune deficiencies may impact healing and increase the risk of complications, as does poor oral hygiene. The density and volume of the jawbone also affect the success of implant integration.
Success Rates of Dental Implants
Dental implant success rates typically exceed 95%, making dental implants a reliable and predictable option for tooth replacement. Factors influencing the success of dental implants include proper case selection, patient adherence to aftercare instructions, and regular dental check-ups. Routine follow-ups allow us to detect any potential issues early.
Candidacy for Dental Implants
In general, a good candidate for implants is someone who has good oral health and overall health. Conditions like diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and osteoporosis, can also affect your candidacy. You will also need sufficient jawbone mass, otherwise you may need a bone graft.
The Dental Implant Procedure
The dental implant procedure is a multi-step process. It begins with a thorough examination assessing your oral health, discussing treatment options, and determining candidacy for dental implants.
During the surgical phase, titanium implant posts are strategically placed into the jawbone. Over the next few months, osseointegration occurs as the bone fuses with the implants. Once this is complete, abutments are attached to the implant posts to connect the implants and the replacement teeth.
Next, we will take impressions of your mouth to create custom replacement teeth that match your natural teeth in color, shape, and size. Finally, we will attach the custom-made replacement teeth to the abutments.
Aftercare and Maintenance of Dental Implants
After you receive your completed implants, it's important that you care for them to ensure their longevity. Practice good oral hygiene by regularly brushing, flossing, and using antimicrobial mouthwash. Also remember to come into our office for regular checkups and professional cleanings. If you grind your teeth, we may recommend a night guard to protect both your natural teeth and implants from excessive force.
Common FAQs about Dental Implant Safety
Are dental implants safe for everyone?
Dental implants are generally safe for the majority of individuals. However, those who don't have adequate gum or bone health may not qualify as candidates. Conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders may impact healing and increase the risk of complications.
What are the risks and complications associated with dental implants?
While dental implants have a high success rate, they do have potential risks and complications.
Infection at the implant site is rare, but following postoperative care instructions and coming in for regular follow-up appointments help minimize this risk. Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to components used in dental implants, though this is extremely rare. Allergy testing may be recommended for those with known metal sensitivities.
Another rare complication is damage to nearby nerves or tissues, but this is mitigated by careful treatment planning, precise surgical techniques, and the use of advanced imaging technology. Complications can also occur with bone grafts, but these risks are also generally low, and bone grafting is a routine and well-established practice in implant dentistry.
While uncommon, implant failure can occur due to factors such as poor bone integration or excessive forces on the implant. Proper case selection, professional expertise, and patient adherence to aftercare significantly reduce the likelihood of implant failure.
How long do dental implants last?
With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime. Regular dental check-ups, diligent oral hygiene practices, and avoiding habits like smoking contribute to the long-term success of dental implants.
Can dental implants cause any allergic reactions?
The implant posts are typically made of biocompatible materials, such as titanium, which rarely cause allergic responses. However, in exceptional cases, individuals with known metal sensitivities may experience allergic reactions. To address this concern, we may recommend allergy testing before the implant procedure.
What precautions can be taken to ensure dental implant safety?
To ensure the safety of the procedure, we will schedule a thorough initial consultation, which includes a discussion of your medical history and preexisting conditions. We also use advanced imaging technology, such as cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), during the planning phase to enhance precision. This allows us to visualize the anatomy in three dimensions, minimizing the risk of complications during surgery. It's also essential that you follow postoperative care instructions after the procedure.
Choose Safe Dental Implants for Your Oral Health in Glendale, AZ
Dr. Michael Allard will guide you through the process to help you pick the right treatment option. If you have any questions or concerns, please let us know during your consultation. |
