Dental implants are the most ideal way to replace teeth lost due to injury, disease, or decay. They are a great alternative to dentures or bridges and have many benefits, including improved facial appearance, prevention of bone loss and support of other teeth; not to mention, they resemble natural teeth more closely than any other treatment option.
While most implant procedures are successful with problems being rare, there are some possible risks. As with any procedure, it is important to be informed of the potential complications associated with dental implants. Here are some of the most common:
Infection
Infection at the implant site can set in when bacteria is present during, or any time following the implant procedure. Infections can cause bone loss and implant failure, but are generally preventable with proper dental hygiene and antibiotics. If you have diabetes, thin gums, poor oral hygiene or if you’re a smoker, you may be at higher risk of getting an infection.
Sinus Problems
Sinuses pose a major challenge to dentists placing dental implants in Ottawa, specifically when placing implants in the upper jaw. If the dental implant protrudes into one of your sinus cavities, the area can become infected or inflamed. If you have any sinus issues prior to the surgery, be sure to inform your dentist.
Nerve damage
Another possible complication, though dentists specializing in dental implants in Ottawa agree that it’s rare, is damage to the nerves surrounding the implant. When an implant is placed too close to a nerve, it can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in your teeth, gums, lips or chin. The pain could be temporary or permanent and the implant may need to be removed. You should expect to experience some bleeding and pain for a couple of days after the surgery, but if the pain is extreme, or bleeding lasts longer than a few days, you should contact your dentist immediately.
Failed osseointegration
Osseointegration is the formation of a connection between your bone and the artificial implant, and takes place over the course of several months after the implant is placed. This complication occurs when the jawbone fails to properly fuse with the implant. There are several reasons that this could happen, including incorrect positioning, insufficient bone density, damage to surrounding tissues, sudden impact, fractured implants, or even a reaction to anesthesia.
These complications may sound scary, but ensuring that you choose a reputable dentist who has experience placing dental implants in Ottawa will significantly reduce your risk. If you experience any alarming side effects following the procedure, you should act fast; early detection of an issue will enable your dentist to take corrective action before additional complications occur. If you require any additional information about dental implants, Ottawa dental professionals are a wealth of information and will be happy to answer any questions you may have.