[More About Dental Implants] Are you a suitable candidate for dental implants? A dentist answers your questions about the risks and precautions of dental implants.
Dental implants, also known as "dental implants," are used when a patient has lost natural teeth. Materials that the body can tolerate, such as titanium, are implanted into the alveolar bone to support the artificial teeth. Artificial crowns, bridges, or denture bases are then attached to the implants.
When is dental implantation necessary?
Most patients have long-term dental problems that have resulted in severely damaged and irreversible teeth; teeth may also be damaged due to accidents or impacts and cannot be repaired. If a patient is missing a tooth due to any of these reasons, the doctor may recommend dental implant treatment to avoid oral problems such as malocclusion and gum recession.
Who are not suitable candidates for dental implants?
While dentists may recommend dental implants for those with missing teeth, they are not suitable for everyone. Individuals with serious chronic illnesses, such as severe cardiovascular disease, poor blood clotting, or severe diabetes, who are currently taking medication for osteoporosis, have undergone chemotherapy or radiation therapy, or have a history of head, neck, or oral cancer, are not suitable candidates for dental implant surgery. It is recommended to consult a dentist for an evaluation before proceeding with any treatment.
What are the risks of dental implant surgery?
Dental implantation is an invasive medical procedure, and the main complications are in the upper and lower jaws.
The main risks of maxillary dental implants are due to the proximity of the implant area to the nasal cavity, which can lead to damage to blood vessels, nerves, or the maxillary sinus membrane, causing sinusitis and sinus perforation. The main risks of mandibular dental implants are due to the more complex nervous system of the posterior teeth; if the surgery is not performed correctly, it may cause nerve damage, leading to numbness in the corner of the mouth or gums.
Poor post-operative habits such as inadequate cleaning and maintenance can lead to inflammation at the implant site. Biting hard objects or experiencing sudden external impact can also cause the implant crown to fracture or loosen. However, the resulting post-implant complications will vary depending on the location of the implant.
What precautions should be taken after dental implantation?
To prolong the lifespan of dental implants, proper post-implant maintenance is also crucial.
Although dental implants do not cause cavities, they have poor antibacterial ability. In addition to daily cleaning, it is recommended to use dental floss to thoroughly clean between teeth after meals or use mouthwash as a cleaning aid to reduce the chance of inflammation around the implant.
Because dental implants lack periodontal ligaments, they can withstand lower biting forces. Therefore, you should avoid using the implant area to chew large or hard foods to prevent excessive wear and tear on the teeth.
Author: Dr. Eric Chan
