Dental Implant Problems in Queens, NY

Dental implant problems can turn into serious complications if not treated promptly. And various dental implant complications are more common than others. According to the Mayo Clinic: “Like any surgery, dental implant surgery poses some health risks. Problems are rare, though, and when they do occur, they’re usually minor and easily treated.”

Potential risks include:

• Peri-implantitis that affects the tissues that surround your implant. Peri-implantitis results in inflammation caused by bacteria, and it can result in bone loss and bleeding. Suppuration, which is an abscess with pus leaking from the surgical site, also can occur.
• Dental implant infection, which is one of the most common dental implant problems. It’s a risk associated with any surgery. Consider too, that a foreign object in the form of an implant screw is being placed into your jaw. While the metal that’s used for implants is compatible with the human body, it’s still possible to have a negative reaction or improper fusing of the implant with your jaw bone. Dental implant infections can turn severe and end up breaking the bond between your jaw and the implant if left untreated.
• Implant failure, which results when the bone and implant fail to fuse appropriately. Your body may just reject the implant for no apparent reason.
• Nerve damage, which is another possible dental implant problem that can occur with almost any surgical procedure. If you do have nerve damage and associated nerve pain after an implant, the implant post must be taken out.
• Fractures that pose a risk if you clench your jaw a lot or grind your teeth at night. Fractures also can occur if the implant wasn’t placed properly.
• Sinus damage, which happens sometimes for implants used to replace upper teeth. Tell your dentist if you’ve had sinus issues prior to the surgery. A puncture or tear in your sinus tissue may require additional surgery to fix. You may need a sinus augmentation if your dentist believes your sinus cavities may interfere with the procedure.
• Gum recession, which is a dental implant complication that can become a problem when implants are not positioned correctly. If you don’t have sufficient gum tissue or bone to successfully receive an implant, you may need a gum graft or bone graft to provide the best support.

While your dentist takes every measure to perfectly fit your implants, complications can arise from a medical condition or through your own poor lifestyle choices. Dental implant complications can arise due to:

1. Untreated gum disease
2. Excessive alcohol consumption
3. Smoking
4. Cancer
5. Poor hygiene

You must make a commitment to your dental health in order for dental implants to provide the benefits they are capable of. Take care of your oral health to prevent bacteria from building up. Once you have implants, your gums are more susceptible to infection and gum disease. Regular dental checkups and cleanings are the surest way to avoid dental implant problems in the future.

Don’t cut corners when it comes to your dental health. You’ve invested in your implants, so take the necessary precautions to ensure your investment is worthwhile. The consequences may end up being serious and require additional treatments. Your dentist’s skill and the quality materials he uses mean the difference between a healthy smile now or a long, protracted recovery.

Dental implant complications shouldn’t be taken lightly; they can quickly become serious. You will experience some discomfort following an implant, but contact your dentist right away if the pain doesn’t subside or becomes increasingly stronger. It may be a sign of an underlying issue that needs attention quickly.