Dental Implant Problems
Dental implant placement, like any other dental procedure, may involve certain problems or complications. Fortunately, this happens very rarely, and the risk of failure of this type of procedure is only 1-2%. However, it is worth being prepared for various scenarios and being aware of the problems that patients using dental implants may face.
Dental implants – complications
Dental implants are usually well tolerated by the patient's body, and serious complications rarely occur after their installation. Before performing the procedure, however, the doctor informs about the possibility of complications following the implantation of dental implants, including:
- loose or unscrewed healing screw - the screw is an element screwed in temporarily to heal the gum above the implant. In a small percentage of patients, the screw may spontaneously loosen or loosen. Fortunately, this is not a serious problem and does not adversely affect the success of the entire treatment. In such a situation, you should see a doctor to tighten the screw or install a new one;
- implant rejection – in approximately 1-2% of patients after completing implant treatment, the implant is rejected due to the lack of connection between the implant and the bone. This phenomenon is visible on X-ray even before the treatment is completed. In such a case, the doctor removes the implant (painlessly and without damaging the bone), and after a few weeks implants a new one in its place.
Implantation of dental implants – side effects
After completing implant treatment, many patients complain of general ailments and discomfort, which often occurs after other dental procedures. These symptoms usually include:
- swelling - swelling of the gums is a natural defense of the oral cavity, thus protecting the soft tissues. If the swelling does not decrease or if it increases after 72 hours, there is a risk of infection developing, which should be consulted with a doctor;
- pain – associated with the very fact of screwing in the screws, which leads to tissue damage. If the pain does not decrease over time, it may mean that the implant is too close to a nerve or a sensitive area that was previously infected;
- bruising - this symptom should disappear within a few days after implantation;
- discharge - oozing of blood and pus from the teeth adjacent to the implant may indicate the development of an infection in the oral cavity, which should be treated immediately;
- numbness – implants may affect the operation of small nerves that are not always visible on an X-ray or CT scan. However, if the feeling of numbness does not subside within 72 hours, it is worth contacting your dentist to assess the situation.
Dental implants – how to avoid complications?
To prevent problems related to dental implants, postoperative recommendations must be strictly followed. The key issue here is to take care of the hygiene around the implanted implants. It is a good idea to avoid eating and drinking for a few hours after the procedure and eat your first warm meal only after 24 hours. In the first week after the procedure, hygiene around the implant should consist only of gentle cleaning using a soft brush and toothpaste with increased bactericidal properties. Call us now if you are having dental implant complications or if you’d like to schedule an appointment for your implant procedure or aftercare!