Despite the massive breakthroughs in dental care, millions of people the world over still experience tooth loss. Fortunately, there’s a treatment option that is now available for those who have lost a tooth or more. Nowadays, dental implant procedure is considered the go-to treatment for many people.
In essence, dental implants are replacement tooth roots. The dental implant procedure provides a solid foundation for fixed or permanent teeth or removable ones. Dental implants are also designed to mimic the function and appearance of the natural teeth. The dental implant procedure has a very high success rate.
However, it is still possible for people to experience dental implant failure. While the percentage of dental implant procedures is very minimal (only around 5 to 10 percent), dental implant failure can still occur. Several factors can affect the success of the dental implant procedure. For starters:
Smoking
Since smoking can restrict the flow of blood to the gums, it can lead to dental implant failure. It can also cause the healing process to dramatically slow down. Many studies have shown that smokers have as much as 20% chance of dental implant failure.
However, smoking won’t automatically disqualify you from getting dental implants. If anything, you have a better chance of dental implant success if you stop smoking at least a few weeks after the procedure. It is also recommended that you don’t smoke for at least two months after the procedure.
Gum Disease
For the dental implant procedure to be successful, you need to have healthy gums. You also won’t be qualified for dental implant procedure if you have an active gum disease. Gum disease is an infection that can damage the gums and the jawbones.
If there is an untreated infection around the implant, it can also result to dental implant failure. It is also recommended that you tell your emergency dentist commack ny about any gum problems or issues you have before considering the procedure.
Insufficient Jawbone
The success of your dental implant procedure will also depend if you have sufficient jawbone that can effectively support the implant. Without sufficient bone, your dentist won’t be able to place the implant in your jaw successfully.
Bone loss can also occur when you have osteoporosis. The condition can develop when the bone density decreases. Bones can also become fragile. When this happens, there is also a risk of experiencing fractures. Severe gum disease can also result in the deterioration of the bones in the mouth.
Medical Conditions
When you have an autoimmune disease or condition like rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes, dental implant failure can also occur. Autoimmune conditions can also cause the body to heal much slower. Slow healing can also affect osseointegration which is the successful fusing of the bone and the implant.
The use of some medications might also lead to dental implant failure. With that in mind, it is important to let your dentist know if you are taking prescription or over-the-counter medications. In a 2016 study, it was discovered that heartburn medications can lessen the growth of new bones.
This can also affect the way the implant fuses with the jawbone. Another research also indicated the same results in people who are taking antidepressant medications.
Poor Oral Hygiene
The ability to practice good oral hygiene can also impact the success of your procedure significantly. At times, you are not considered a good candidate for the procedure if you have limitations that can interfere with your ability to clean your teeth thoroughly.
There is also a higher chance of dental implant failure when you are working with an inexperienced surgeon. An experienced surgeon knows that a number of implants can support tooth replacement. This is important as few implants can cause excessive stress and might lead to dental implant failure.
