ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS SAFE?

500,000 people every year are choosing dental implants to replace their missing teeth. As an alternative to a bridge or denture, you can enjoy a nearly perfect replica of your natural smile; however, the process of replacing lost teeth is a bit more complex. A titanium post is surgically placed into your jawbone to serve as a new root. Your bone will fuse to it to provide a stable foundation for your prosthetic, which is attached using an abutment. While they are effective, are dental implants safe? Yes! Most patients with good oral and general health can benefit from dental implants.

Safety and Success of Dental Implants

Dental implants offer predictable results with over a 95% success rate. Whether missing a single tooth, multiple teeth, or an entire arch, dental implants are a great option for people with good oral and overall health. 

However, certain issues can increase your risk of complications, like:

• Autoimmune Diseases and Diabetes: People with health conditions that affect their ability to heal and fight infections can have difficulties with osseointegration, which is the process of your bone fusing to the posts.
• Medications: Certain medications can affect healing and immune response. Some medications can also interfere with how the body processes calcium, which can affect the way the jawbone heals around the post.
• Gum Disease: You must have healthy gums to be a candidate for dental implants.
• Osteoporosis: Low bone mass can prevent you from getting dental implants. However, bone grafting can strengthen the jaw to provide sufficient density to support implants.
• Tobacco: Smoking and using tobacco restricts blood flow to the gums, which can increase the risk of infections, inflammation, and delayed healing.
• Chemotherapy or Radiation: Cancer medications or radiation to the head or neck can weaken the bone structures and the overall lifespan of a dental implant.

Your dentist will learn more about your medical history and any medications you’re taking to ensure dental implants are a safe option for you. They will also review a CT scan of your oral structures to look for any concerns below the surface, like bone loss or gum disease.

If you have pre-existing conditions or poor oral health, that doesn’t mean you can’t get dental implants. Instead, your dentist may recommend additional procedures, like periodontal therapy or bone grafting, to ensure the success of your new smile. They may also take certain precautions to minimize your risk of failed osseointegration or infections. 

With a good oral hygiene routine at home and regular care from a dentist, your dental implants can last for 30 years or more. Your dentist will create the personalized plan you need to treat your tooth loss permanently. 

About Dr. Brian C. Oyler

Dr. Oyler achieved his dental degree from Indiana University’s School of Dentistry and has regularly continued his education in advanced treatments and techniques, including dental implants. He is a proud member of many professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. Request an appointment through our website or call (812) 221-1014 to see if dental implants are right for you.