3 Common Dental Implant Complications

Dental implants are ideal for people with missing and broken or severely decayed teeth that are beyond repair. Individuals with insufficient bone can also benefit from the treatment. The procedure has various benefits. The implants behave like natural teeth, so you will regain your normal chewing power soon enough after the surgery.

Unlike other temporary dental restorative procedures like bridges, implants can last a lifetime. Moreover, dental add-ons can prevent bone loss by providing the necessary stimulation for healthy bone growth.

While dental implant complications are rare, you should watch for the following issues. 

Osseointegration Failure

Osseointegration refers to the permanent bond formed as the bone adheres to the dental implant. The process may take up to six months, depending on the number of implants you need, the state of your jaw bone, and your ability to heal. 

If the process fails, the dental implant may not properly hold the crown. Hence, the implant may dislodge, or you may have to remove it due to discomfort, especially when eating or talking. Your dentist may recommend replacement or explore other less complicated alternatives like dentures.

Ill-Fitted Implant

Your dentist may have placed your implant too shallow, at an incorrect angle, or too deep. As a result, the dental implant may not have adequate jawbone support to secure it properly. This problem can lead to pain and discomfort. Also, the dental implant may pierce through the jawbone, leading to damage and severe sensitivity to pressure and temperature. 

If the implants are installed in your upper jaw, they can puncture the sinus, triggering infections. Additionally, poor implant placement can cause the dental fittings to become loose and fall off or get too close to the neighboring teeth, making you uncomfortable.

Nerve Injury

Dental implants drilled too deeply into the lower jaw can pierce the inferior alveolar nerve, leading to nerve injury. You may experience numb, painful, or tingling sensations in the chin, lips, and gums. You may also suffer from drooling or struggle to talk normally. Fortunately, modern dentists use highly-advanced X-ray technology to identify the location of the nerves.

This step will help the specialist avoid damaging the nerve. Also, professionals may use shorter dental implants to reduce nerve injury risks. You should schedule regular dental visits so that your dental expert can monitor your healing progress and unearth complications on time before they worsen. Remember, if you experience sharp pain or numbness in your teeth or gums that persist for hours, you should see your dentist immediately.

Consult your dentist to learn more about dental implants.