Dental Implant Problems
Among adults in the United States, dental implant treatment is one of the most popular solutions for missing teeth. A dental implant is a post that is surgically installed in the jawbone and designed to act like the root of a tooth, supporting an artificial crown or prosthetic denture attached on top. This designed stability and durability is one of the primary reasons why implants have become so popular. However, complications or long-term problems can occur after dental implant surgery. Before you commit to dental implant treatment, your dentist will want to make sure you are aware of potential dental implant problems. Here is a bit more information on the problems or complications that can occur after dental implant treatment.
Common Problems with Dental Implants
Although they are rare, there are problems that can occur after dental implant treatment. Some of the most common problems that occur after implant treatment include:
- Sinus issues: Dental implants that have been installed in the upper jaw can cause sinus obstruction. This obstruction will lead to swelling that can cause headaches, pain, tenderness, or puffiness around the cheeks and eyes.
- Damage from excessive force: Just like with natural teeth, accidents, trauma or excessive force can cause damage to dental implants. Grinding the teeth during sleeping can also damage dental implants. If you grind your teeth, prior to getting dental implants you should explore options to help protect your dental implants from the damage caused by nightly grinding.
Dental Implant Surgery Complications
Dental implant treatment requires surgery to place the implant in the jawbone. There are rare complications that can occur after the implant surgery, including:
- Infection: If post-surgery instructions aren’t followed dental implant surgery can cause an infection. How the resulting infection should be treated will depend on the severity and location of the infection.
- Gum recession: Some patients with implants have issues with the gum tissue around the implant starting to recede. This receding tissue can cause inflammation and pain. If you notice the tissue around your implant is starting to pullback, you should contact your dentist to schedule a visit.
- Loose implant: The implant fusing with the jawbone during the post-surgery healing process is critical to the long-term success of the implant. In some rare cases, the implant does not successfully fuse with the jawbone and needs to be removed.
- Nerve or tissue damage: If a dental implant is placed too close to a nerve it can cause long-term numbness or pain. If you observe your implant feeling numb, tingly, or painful you should contact your dentist immediately.
Avoiding Problems with Dental Implants
To ensure the success of your dental implant and to avoid any complications, you should follow the post-surgery instructions provided by the surgeon. After the implant surgery it is best to avoid hot and cold food and drinks and strenuous activity for a few days. It is also important to gently clean the tissue surrounding the implant. Lastly, to make sure your implants are healing successfully, you should maintain regular check-ups and dental cleanings.