A dental implant is a metal post that is surgically attached to the jawbone to support an artificial tooth replacement. Once the dental implant is in place, a replacement tooth will be mounted to the tooth by the restorative dentist or the oral surgeon. Amazingly, the dental implant procedure has a very high success rate.
However, while very slim, there is still a possibility that patients will experience dental implant failure. Dental implant failure can be attributed to different causes. For instance, dental implant failure can occur when you do not observe proper aftercare after the dental implant procedure.
Ideally, if you are a candidate for dental implants, it is ideal that you find out all there is to know about the dental implant procedure. This should include the possible cost, the requirements needed and the possible dental implant complications.
Dental Implant Failure and Other Possible Complications
Problems or complications from dental implant surgery can occur a few months after the procedure or a few years after. However, early dental implant procedures can typically occur in the first three to four months after the procedure.
It is also important to keep in mind that you might experience some degree of pain or discomfort after the procedure. Thankfully, any discomfort or pain can be easily managed by over-the-counter pain relievers and medications. However, you need to visit your dentist again if you experience severe pain during the first week.
It will often take three to six months for the implants to completely heal. You can also expect to experience some pain and swelling. While quite common, you need to still look out for other possible complications such as:
Infection at the implant site.
It is possible for infection to develop during or after your dental implant procedure. Risk factors for infection at the implant site include bad oral hygiene, smoking, and autoimmune conditions.
Micro movements of the implants.
Micro movements of the implant can occur when the dental implant is not stable. An artificial tooth is not attached to the dental implant until it has been established that the implant has successfully integrated with the jawbone.
However, there are instances where a surgeon will carry out immediate tooth replacement after the implantation. The method will involve fewer visits to the dentist. However, there might be extra stress on the implant that can result in implant failure.
Allergic reaction
If the patient is allergic to titanium alloy, they might develop an allergic reaction to the implant. Common symptoms of possible allergic reaction include tingling sensation, swelling, and loss of taste. Make sure you inform your dentist about any allergies you may have so they can factor that in before carrying out the procedure.
Insufficient bone support
Dental implant failure can also occur when there is no sufficient bone left that can strongly support the dental implant. Without adequate bone left, the dental implant won’t be able to properly fuse with the jawbone. Without proper osseointegration, there won’t be a robust post for the artificial tooth.
Not following the instructions of the dental professional
It might not be common knowledge but certain activities and habits can have a dramatic impact on the success of your implants. With that in mind, it is ideal that you strictly follow all the instructions (including the aftercare ones) that are provided by your dental professional.
Case in point, you might be instructed to eat only soft foods until the implant has successfully fused with the jawbone and has healed completely. It is also possible that you will be asked to avoid eating anything that is chewy or hard and observe proper aftercare and oral hygiene.
