Dental implants are a safe and effective way to replace missing teeth (learn more about them here), but since some minor surgery is involved in the process, you may be thinking, are dental implants safe? And are there any serious complications with dental implants that you should worry about?
The short answer to this question is yes, dental implants are a safe option to replace missing teeth, when done carefully by an experienced team. The procedure has been used in dentistry successfully for over 30 years, and is regarded to be extremely safe for most patients who are in good health. Whether you’re opting for single dental implants, multiple, All-on-4, All-on-6 or denture implants, there is almost no risk of any serious complications or issues with the dental implant procedure for those who live a healthy lifestyle.
Well, just how safe are dental implants, and what is the success rate? There has been lots of research on the success of dental implants, with one study suggesting that between 95%-98% of dental implants are successful over a period of 40-50 years. Dental implants are known to be one of the safest, long-lasting tooth replacement options available for patients with good oral health.
Whilst there are many types of dental implants, you may be wondering if all types of dental implants are safe. As with any dental implant procedure, as long as it is being carried out by a qualified and experienced implant dentist and the client is a good candidate, all types of dental implants are safe.
Are all-on-4 dental implants safe? The answer to that is yes, in most cases all-on-4 dental implants are safe and the majority of all-on-4 dental treatments are successful. Whilst the risks with this treatment are low, in approximately 5% of cases, the implant may not fuse to the bone correctly, known as an ‘implant failure’. The cause of implant failure is often unknown, but the good news is that a new implant can usually be placed again, and there is a high chance that it will integrate into the bone the second time.
Complications from dental implants are very rare, especially if the treatment is carried out by an experienced dentist, however that isn’t to say that there isn’t any risk with the dental implant procedure.
The most common complication of dental implants is peri-implantitis. This is an infection of the gum tissue near the tooth implant and it can occur due to a number of factors, including improper cleaning of the implant area during and after the procedure, existing gum disease and smoking.
In even fewer cases, the implant may fail to fuse to the bone correctly, but this is more common in patients who have a weaker jaw bone and can be avoided with thorough pre-planning and a potential bone graft to ensure the implant has enough bone to fuse to.
Another extremely rare complication with dental implants is ‘foreign body rejection’, which is where you may have an allergic reaction or immune system reaction to the implant. This complication is very unlikely, as only specific, biocompatibility tested materials are used to make the implants.
In general, dental implants are safe for the elderly, as long as they are a suitable candidate in that they have suitable jawbone density and good overall oral health. However, older people are known to heal slower from surgery and are more likely to have a pre-existing medical condition that could impact the dental implant procedure.
It’s always best to speak with a doctor and your dentist if you have any concerns about risks or complications with dental implants, and here at Smile Stories, we’re happy to help with any questions you may have.
Whilst in some cases diabetics are more likely to experience dental implant failure, they are not automatically ruled out from having implant treatment. If a diabetic’s diabetes is well-controlled, they can still have dental implants with a good chance of success.
In fact, here at Smile Stories, we have treated patients with diabetes who have had successful dental implants.
Why are diabetics more at risk of dental implant failure? Diabetics are more at risk of dental implant failure because for some, it takes longer to heal and could be more prone to infection. Diabetes can also affect the osseointegration process, which is the process by which the implant fuses with the bone. In diabetics, this process may take longer or not occur at all which will result in the dental implant not being able to support the crown. If you have diabetes and are not sure if dental implants are suitable for you, speak to us for more advice.
So, dental implants are safe, but success depends on overall health, oral health and lifestyle.
At Smile Stories, we use world-leading Swiss-manufactured implants, which have proven results over decades, so you’re in good hands when it comes to restoring and perfecting your smile and function.
Happy that dental implants are safe and would like to know if they’re the right option to fill gaps in your smile and allow you to eat your favourite foods again?
Our implant dentists in Bournemouth offer a handful of complimentary online or in-person consultation each month. They’re no obligation and will provide you with all of the information you need to make the right choice about this life-changing treatment.
Just hit book now to reserve your space.