Dental implants are a preferred tooth replacement option by dentists and patients alike. Thanks to their ability to restore the roots of the missing teeth, they offer a wide range of benefits that you can’t achieve with dentures or dental bridges. Getting dental implants requires a multi-step process, including a surgical procedure. You may be wondering – are dental implants safe? Here’s what you should know.
What Are the Risks of Dental Implant Surgery?
Dental implants have a success rate of over 95% when placed by a trained professional. Your chances of experiencing a complication are very slim. However, just like any other procedure, getting dental implants comes with some risks. Here are the ones that you should be aware of.
- Infection of the implant site
- Injury to surrounding structures
- Nerve damage
- Sinus issues
Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
To reduce your possibility of complications, your implant dentist needs to ensure that you are a good candidate for the procedure. They need to confirm that your gums and jaw are strong and healthy enough to properly support the implant posts. Here are some characteristics of a good implant candidate.:
- Good Oral Hygiene: If you aren’t committed to your dental health, you are more likely to experience issues regarding your dental implants. Remember to brush twice, floss, and rinse with mouthwash every day.
- Sufficient Jawbone: Part of what makes dental implants last so long is that they are anchored into the jaw tissue beneath the gumline. This means that you need to have a strong, sufficient jawbone. Some patients need bone grafting before they can get dental implants, especially if they’ve been without teeth for a while.
- Healthy Gums: Dental implants rely on healthy gum tissue to be successful. If you have gum disease, this needs to be resolved before you can get dental implants.
- Good Lifestyle Choices: Drinking excessively and smoking can cause issues when it comes to dental implant placement surgery.
- Free from Chronic Disease: Some chronic diseases can create risks for people with dental implants. This includes uncontrolled diabetes and osteoporosis.
Complications may be rare, but they are something to be on the lookout for. When you choose a skilled dentist and meet the criteria for the procedure, you can minimize your risks. You will be showing off a complete smile before you know it!
About the Author
Dr. Tracy D. Jenkins earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the Indiana University School of Dentistry. After dental school, he continued his education with extensive dental implant training at the White Capp Institute Center for Dental Implant Training. This expert training allows him to perform the entire dental implant process here in-house. To learn more about dental implants or to schedule a consultation, visit his website or call (208) 522-8061.