Dental Implant Problems
Dental implant treatment is a long-term solution for a missing tooth. The actual dental implant is a metal post that is surgically placed into the jawbone. This post is designed to act like the root of a natural tooth supporting an artificial tooth or crown. Due to the stability and durability they provide, dental implants have become increasingly popular among adults in the United States. However, complications and long-term problems can arise from dental implant surgery. Before you commit to getting dental implants, you should make yourself aware of the procedure and some common dental implant problems. More details on dental implants are provided below.
Common Dental Implant Problems
There are some common problems that occur with dental implants, including:
- Sinus issues: Dental implants in the upper jaw can protrude into the sinus cavities, causing swelling of the sinuses. This swelling can cause pain, tenderness, swelling around the cheeks, eyes, or forehead, or sinus headaches.
- Damage from excessive force: Just like natural teeth, dental implants can be damaged with excessive force. Implants can crack or become loose. Individuals who grind their teeth while sleeping should pay special attention to their dental implants and consider treatment to avoid damage to their implant.
Problems After Implant Surgery
Though less common, some patients have issues after implant surgery, including:
- Infection: Infection after dental implant surgery can occur without proper post-surgery care. It is important to follow the oral surgeon’s detailed instructions for the recovery process. Treating an implant infection will depend on the severity and location of the infection.
- Gum recession: It is less common; however, some individuals find that the gum tissue around the implant begins to recede and pullback. The gums receding can cause inflammation and pain. If you start to notice your gums pulling back from your implant it is important to schedule a visit to your dentist and have them examine the implant to avoid it from needing to be removed.
- Loose implant: A part of the dental implant treatment is the healing process when the implant fuses with the jawbone. This process will take several months and is critical to the long-term success of the implant. In some rare cases, the implant fails to fuse with the bone and the implant may need to be removed.
- Nerve or tissue damage: Sometimes, a dental implant may be placed too close to a nerve. This placement can cause long-term numbness or pain. If your implant is numb, tingly, or painful you should contact your dentist immediately.
Taking care of implants
The best way to avoid problems after dental surgery and ensure the success of a dental implant is to follow the surgeon’s after surgery instructions. After implant surgery, patients should avoid hot food and drinks. Additionally, patients should avoid strenuous exercise for 2–3 days to prevent increased blood flow and swelling. Additionally, dental implants and the tissues surrounding it require the same regular cleaning as natural teeth. It is also important to maintain regular dental check-ups and routine dental cleanings.