Dental implants are a fantastic way to restore your smile and boost your confidence. They’ve been around for a while, but they continue to grow in popularity today. And, for good reason. For those with one or more missing teeth, dental implants are a natural-looking alternative to the real thing.
Since they involve implanting something into the gums, many patients wonder just how safe they are.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants work and function just like a real tooth. A titanium “root” is implanted into the jaw bone and will eventually act as an anchor to hold the tooth in place. Once implanted, it takes a few months to fuse with the bone and become sturdy enough to proceed.
When the fusing process is complete, an abutment post will be inserted into the titanium anchor post. The replacement tooth is then attached so that it can be secure and function just like a real tooth. Plus, it looks real, too. Unless you tell someone it is an alternative tooth, no one will know.
Are Dental Implants Safe?
Yes, dental implants are very safe for good candidates.
Good candidates are those that are in good general health. For instance, eating well, getting movement every day, not smoking, and not having any serious health concerns. It is also important that candidates have healthy gums with no signs of periodontal disease. Because the titanium post will be implanted into the bone, sufficient bone density is also necessary. In certain instances, the dentist may recommend having bone grafting done before implantation to ensure the jaw bone is strong enough for the procedure.
As long as the dentist examines a patient’s teeth and determines they are a good candidate for dental implants, it doesn’t matter how old the patient is. Young kids and elderly patients can safely take advantage of dental implants.
Nearly all who take advantage of dental implants do so successfully.
Complications From Dental Implants
Like we said, dental implants are very safe – especially when placed by an experienced, highly skilled dental team. However, as with anything, there is the possibility of complications. One of the most common that is found with dental implants is what is known as peri-implantitis. This is a bacterial infection that is found near the implant. It can be the result of the implant area not being properly cleaned during the implant procedure or not properly cared for afterward. Experienced dentists and careful attention to aftercare instructions can minimize – or eliminate – the risk altogether.
Another complication, implant rejection, is very, very rare. Also referred to as foreign body rejection, this is usually the result of an allergic reaction or an immune system reaction.
Get Dental Implants At Howard Levitt, DDS
If you are interested in learning more about dental implants or you want to see if you may be a good candidate, Dr. Howard Levitt, DDS, and the entire dental team are here to help. We know how well these natural-appearing alternative teeth can work to change your smile – and your overall quality of life.
Get started today. Contact our office at 203-775-2225. Or request an appointment online.