Dental implant complications are not especially rampant, but they are not entirely avoidable either. Dental implants are artificial teeth implanted into the gums and jawbone. The process requires surgery and is one of the most invasive and complicated dental procedures. It is natural that such a procedure involves certain risks, both during and after the procedure.
Although present, complications caused by tooth implants are not that common. Dental implant surgery boasts of a high success rate, which is also why it is the most preferred tooth replacement option in the dental world. However, the possibility of complications cannot be ruled out. Implant specialists are well-trained not only in conducting dental implant surgery but also in dealing with complications that may arise during or as a result of the said surgery.
Here are some of the complications linked to tooth implants.
Dental Implant Complications to Watch Out For
- Jawbone Integration
- Sinus Problems
- Tissue Damage
- Other Possible Indicators of Complications
1. Jawbone Integration
Some of the most common dental implant complications reported have to do with problems in the jawbone integration. Tooth implants are planted into the jawbone, so the jawbone has to heal over it and integrate with it. If this does not happen properly and the implant does not bond with the bone that surrounds it, the tooth implant may feel unnatural, uncomfortable, or loose enough to fall out easily.
If there are jawbone integration problems, your implant specialist can easily remove the problematic implant and simply re-do the procedure. Take note, however, that the next procedure should only be done when the bone in the area has had ample time to heal. This usually takes a few weeks.
2. Sinus Problems
Sometimes, despite a dentist’s careful carrying out of the procedure, some unexpected problems may also arise. One of these is a sinus problem, characterized by clogged sinuses or painful sinuses.
Sinus problems caused by dental implants are most common among people who seek implants for any of the upper row of teeth. It is triggered when the dentist reaches far enough to reach any one of the sinus cavities. This complication can be treated with another surgical procedure to correct the placement of the implant and keep it from affecting the sinus.
3. Tissue Damage
Dental implants can also cause tissue damage or any form of infection that assails the body. Usually, tissue damage is accompanied by an infection and/or swelling in the mouth. Symptoms that may point to an infection include pain, unusual numbness, and a tingling feeling, usually in the different parts of the face.
Tissue damage often occurs due to improper placement of the implant. It is common in patients who receive dental implants to replace any of the lower teeth. Sometimes, the dentists nick a particular nerve, thus causing pain. However, this particular dental implant complication usually come up only in especially sensitive and/or extreme cases.
4. Other Possible Indicators of Complications
It is also important to know what factors indicate dental implant complications so you can address the problem immediately by seeing your doctor once you start noticing or feeling anything unusual. Common implant surgery complications usually include nerve pain and bleeding coming from the area where the implant is placed. Usually, to see the problem more clearly, a dental x-ray would have to be conducted prior to the treatment procedure.
Why Some Patients Don’t Qualify for Tooth Implants
Not all dental patients are allowed to seek dental implant procedure due to the risk of complications. Not all dental patients make good candidates for the implants. Ideally, patients should be in good health and should have healthy gums.
The structure of an individual’s jawbone also enters the scene. In some people, there is very little space in the jawbone area for an implant to be placed properly. This is often enough reason to cancel the procedure altogether.
There are other options, however, that will allow patients to receive dental implants despite some dental implant complications. For example, some patients get bone grafting or sinus augmentation first so their facial structure can accommodate the implant. When these procedures are conducted, there has to be at least 4 months interval before an actual dental implant procedure is done. The 4-month gap is enough time to make the jawbone heal completely.