DENTAL implants are a groundbreaking modern solution to a tooth loss problem.

What problems are common with dental implants? What can I do about them myself, and what requires a professional?

We’re here to address your most pressing questions and concerns around problems with dental implants.

Dental implant overview

Dental implants are a high-tech solution used to replace your missing teeth; your natural tooth root is replaced with a titanium screw that fuses to your jawbone during the implant process. This titanium root acts as an anchor for a dental restoration, typically either a crown, bridge, or dentures.

These permanent solutions can improve your chewing and speaking ability, along with your look. Even better, they don’t get cavities but still require proper care to avoid other problems.

Reasons your dental professional may recommend dental implants include:

• Cavities

• Fractured or broken teeth

• Excessive tooth wear from grinding your teeth (also known as bruxism)

• Injury

If you’re considering implants it’s a great idea to consult with your dental professional regarding your risk factors that impact your chance of complications.

Problems with implants

According to research, implants are considered safe and there’s only a five per cent chance that you will reject your implant. Although these risks are usually slight and can be treated by your dental professional, various complications can arise.

Complications of dental implants can include:

• Infection around the implant

• Damage to blood vessels, teeth, or other tissue

• Nerve damage leading to pain, numbness, or a tingling sensation

• Issues with your sinuses (in cases where the implant is placed in the upper jaw).

The full process of getting dental implants can take several months as it can include tooth extraction, preparation, implantation, healing, and placement of the restoration. For this reason it’s vital to give yourself the best chance of successful healing and integration of the implant with your natural bone.

Your risk for complications may be increased if you:

• Are in poor health, regardless of age

• Smoke or use tobacco products

• Have diabetes, leukaemia, or other chronic illness

•Received radiation therapy in the past

• Do not follow the aftercare instructions by your dental professional carefully

• Do not take medications as prescribed.

We recommend contacting your dental professional if you experience signs of infection, unusual swelling, pain, or have a difficult time chewing or speaking after your implant procedure.

Treatment and prevention

Implants can provide a solution for the remainder of life for some people while others experience complications or require additional treatment. Even though the implants and restoration are not natural teeth, your diet and oral care routine are still essential in maintaining their long-term success and your health.

Treatment for complications like loosening or infection typically includes removal and re-implantation by your dental professional. It may reassure you to know that even if your implant fails, re-implantation is successful about 90 per cenyt of the time.

You can reduce your chance of complications with dental implants by:

• Avoiding smoking and tobacco products

• Preventing gum disease through proper diet and oral care

• Brushing for two minutes twice daily

• Cleaning between your teeth using a flossing device once daily

• Scheduling regular visits with your dental professional

• Properly caring for your dental restorations

• Not grinding your teeth (consider a mouthguard at night to help reduce the damage).

Here are some steps to reduce discomfort following dental implantation:

• Rinse with a mix of three per cent hydrogen peroxide and equal parts water, or antibacterial mouth rinse

• Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that could irritate your sensitive mouth.

• Take over-the-counter medications as instructed on the packaging.

• Use a cold compress or ice pack by applying it to the affected area outside your cheek for 20 minutes, three times a day.

Dental implants have positively affected the lives of many, thanks to the ability of titanium to integrate into your bone. Even though your restorations can’t get cavities it’s vital to maintain a proper diet and dental routine to avoid complications.

Dr Sharon Robinson, DDS, has offices at Dental Place Cosmetix Spa, located at shop #5, Winchester Business Centre, 15 Hope Road, Kingston 10. Dr Robinson is an adjunct lecturer at the University of Technology, Jamaica, School of Oral Health Sciences. She may be contacted at 876-630-4710 and 876-441-4872 (WhatsApp). Like their Facebook and Instagram pages, Dental Place Cosmetix Spa.