Dental Implants

Dental implants are generally a standard and successful procedure. However, like all other dental procedures, there are complications and infections if it’s healed improperly. A failed dental implant is a rare situation, but there is no need to stress or panic if it does happen. Contact your dentist immediately to have your dental implant evaluated for further treatment.
Dental implants have three essential parts for you to recognize:

• The titanium implant is inserted into the bone
• The attachment called an abutment is securely attached
• A crown will be fixed onto the abutment and aligned to the remaining teeth.
• Osseointegration allows the titanium implant to fuse with the gums for full function. During the process, the body produces living cells to grow around the implant that is anchored to the jawbone. With time, the healthy bone will continue to surround the implant.
• When the bone does not heal properly around the implant, the main sign to look for is mobility. If the implant had failed to integrate, it would consistently wobble and be unstable when you talk or chew.
• A further sign of dental implants that have not formed properly during osseointegration includes pain, irritation, swelling, or infection. Contact your dentist promptly so an x-ray can be arranged to check the bone growth. An x-ray of a failed implant will show a significant amount of bone loss around the titanium portion of the implant.
• Gum disease or bruxism can damage the implant to stop hindering the healing process. Conditions such as osteoporosis can attack the bone density and strength to make it difficult for the implant to be screwed onto the anchor.
• Advanced cancer treatments may temporarily stop your dental implant option since radiation therapy may constrain routine bone healing.
• Medications can be a risk factor for dental implant failure. For example, anti-depressants can affect the rate of bone metabolism.

Before you decide to get a dental implant, it is recommended to have a consultation with your dentist to discuss risk factors that can limit the success of the implants. You should always maintain good oral hygiene to avoid any implant complications. By brushing your teeth twice daily and rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash, you can keep your gums healthy while your new tooth heals.