There are a few options for replacing missing teeth. Depending on the circumstances, a partial denture, a dental bridge, or a dental implant are methods for tooth replacement. Of the three, when the circumstances are optimal a dental implant is the method of choice for several reasons.
Dental implants have a very high rate of success – over 95%. However, even though the rate of success is high, there are circumstances that can cause an implant to fail even with a patient who was an otherwise good candidate for the procedure.
Infection and Inflammation
It is very important to keep up with your oral hygiene when you have a dental implant. If bacteria builds up around the implant site, there is a chance that infection may result. Dental implants are foreign objects placed in the body. Occasionally a person’s immune system will create antibodies to reject the implant.
In order for the implant to be successful, it must fuse with the jaw bone. If an infection occurs it can stop the process. Even when they have integrated, infection can cause weakening which may break the bond between the bone and the implant.
Fractures
This is a very rare occurrence, however, there are certain circumstances under which it may occur. People who clench or grind their teeth on a regular basis are at risk of having a dental implant fracture. This happens as a result of the pressure that is constantly exerted on the implant.
The newer techniques of placing implants make it less likely that faulty placement will be the cause of a failed implant. On occasion, an implant can be placed in such a way that it is subjected to unnecessary pressure or significant stress. On the rare occasion when this happens the implant needs to be removed and the procedure needs to be repeated.
Failed Bone Integration with Dental Implants
Infection can interfere with the bone and the implant integration. There are also other circumstances that can keep it from happening. Sometimes there are complications with the healing process. The body can reject the bone grafting process when a graft is needed for a successful implant. If the blood supply to the implant area is not sufficient the bone will not fuse properly.
The vast majority of dental implants are successful. As technology advances the margin of failure decreases. If you have a missing tooth or teeth and would like to explore the possibility of implants, contact Mission Bend. A thorough dental exam will reveal your suitability for dental implants.