Are you undergoing a Dental implant procedure to remove or replace one or more of your missing teeth? If yes, then the next question that could come to your mind is, “Are Dental Implants Safe?
In most cases, the dental implant procedure performed by a skilled dentist is safe. However, you may not be a suitable candidate for one reason or another, for instance, if you smoke.
Let us discuss in detail: What are dental implants? Are dental implants safe? And many more questions to help you decide if you want to undergo the procedure.
What are Dental Implants?
In simple words, Dental implants are permanent false teeth. A dentist recommends getting dental implants if you are missing one or more teeth. The dental implant procedure is split into multiple steps over several months to give bone and tissue some time to heal between each step.
Are dental implants safe, or is there a risk associated with them?
The answer to the question is yes, Dental implants are safe for most people, especially if you are generally healthy and your dentist recommends them.
In the United States, dental implant systems must be approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA follows strict international standards to ensure the materials used in teeth implants are safe before granting approval.
The process of getting dental implants is lengthy, and it extends for several months. It includes steps like anesthesia, surgery, and a period of recovery. It’s also important to note that dental implants can be expensive. These factors, along with your overall health and age, can influence the success and suitability of dental implants for you.
Complications from dental implants include:
- Complications during surgery include damage to the other teeth, injury to the tissue or bone in the mouth, nerve damage, or sinus cavities.
- Improper implant settings could affect functions such as chewing or speaking.
- Risk of infection.
- Extended healing periods.
- Possible tooth sensitivity.
- Difficulty in maintaining proper hygiene for the implant and nearby teeth.
Why you may not be suitable for getting a dental implant
Dental Implant may not be suitable if you do the following:
- Smoke
- Suffer from osteoporosis
- Undergo chemotherapy or radiation
- Have Gum disease
- Have autoimmune disease or diabetes
- Have a poor immune system
- Have certain allergies
- Take medication that affects the calcium present in the body.
Are dental implants safe for older people?
If you are in your 60s or older, you must consider the risk associated with dental implants.
A 2020 study suggests that older individuals should take into account:
- Longer healing periods after surgery
- Negative impact on preexisting health conditions
- Potential effects on bone health due to the procedure
How common are complications with dental implants?
If you are healthy, there is a high chance that your dental implant procedure will be successful.
A recent study from 2022 found that 93% of implants survived for 20 years after the patients received tissue-level implants. The study also highlighted that individuals with gum disease had a higher risk of complications and implant failure if they didn’t follow proper gum care.
Another study conducted in 2020 reported smokers have an 11 % implant failure rate compared to 5% of nonsmokers.
According to a 2022 study, people who smoke have a 140% higher risk of implant failure than those who don’t.
Are Dental Implants Safer than not getting them?
By now, you must be sure that dental implants are safer than not getting them at all. The consequences of living with one or more missing teeth negatively impact your overall health more than the procedure itself. It saves you from:
Jawbone Deterioration
If you lose teeth for some reason, then your jawbone deteriorates around the area where the missing teeth were placed. The Capillaries shrivel up and cut off the flow of nutrients. This weakens the bone and causes it to break.
Distributed Pressure
When you have one or more missing teeth, the adjacent teeth have to deal with extra pressure when you bite or chew. This extra pressure can cause them to break, shift, or wear down faster. Dental implants step in to absorb and evenly spread that pressure, thereby protecting your remaining teeth from these issues.
Are Dental Implants Safe for Ideal Candidate?
Yes, the teeth implant procedure is mostly safe for suitable candidates. You may be an ideal candidate for an implant if:
- Your overall health is good
- You take care of your oral health
- You don’t have a gum disease
- Your jawbone is strong enough to hold an implant
Conclusion
Are Dental Implants Safe? Dental Implants are usually safe and effective for most individuals with good overall health. However, it’s essential to consult with a qualified dentist to discuss your specific situation and address any concerns you may have about the procedure.
Looking for the Best Dental Implant Solutions in Kirkland, WA?
Discover safe dental implant solutions at Seattle’s Best Smiles in Kirkland, WA. Book your appointment online to discuss your dental implant options with our experienced team. All new patients can call us at 425-363-9864, and current patients can reach us at (425) 307-1177.
FAQ
How long do dental implants last?
Teeth implants can last a lifetime for many patients with good care.
Are dental implants safe long term?
Dental Implants are durable and don’t break, corrode, shift, or cause discomfort or harm to your mouth. Since they do not irritate your gums, jawbone, or surrounding teeth, they are totally safe.
What are the alternatives to dental implants?
Some alternatives to dental Implants are Same-day teeth, Mini implants, Conventional dental bridges, Adhesive dental bridges, Partial dentures, etc.
