Dental implants are an excellent choice if you want to replace missing teeth. They are artificial roots to hold replacement teeth that a dentist surgically inserts into your jawbone. One advantage of a dental implant is that it looks and feels like a natural tooth. But as is with all medical procedures, there is a possibility that something could go amiss. It is important to know what could go wrong and how to give yourself a better chance of a successful procedure.

What Could Go Wrong?

A good dentist will explain all the risks involved in receiving dental implants and how you can prevent them. They will also do medical tests and analysis to determine if you qualify for the procedure. One of the common dental implants complications is infections. A small bruise or poorly managed inflammation can escalate to a severe gum infection. If there are bacteria around the implant, it can interfere with the metal implant's integration with your bone. In such a scenario, an infection can arise and cause the bond between the bone and the implant to break. You can reduce your risk of infection by honoring your dentist's appointments, taking oral hygiene seriously, and adhering to your doctor's post-surgery instructions. 

If you tend to grind or clench your teeth, the force can exert pressure on the implant and cause a fracture. A fracture could also occur if the implant is placed incorrectly. If this happens, your doctor will have to repeat the entire placement process. Another possible complication is a reaction to pain medication or anesthesia, which your doctor can manage by giving an antidote or replacing your pain medication. Nerve damage, though rare, could also happen in which case you will need to remove the implant completely and undergo nerve repair treatment.

How Can You Prevent These Complications?      

Some of the reasons dental implants fail are unavoidable. However, you can avoid most complications by being knowledgeable and taking precautionary measures early enough in the process. For smokers, it cannot be stressed enough how critical it is for them to quit cigarettes if they plan to do a dental implant. Smoking causes extensive damage to your teeth and gum and compromises your ability to heal from mouth wounds. Smoking causes gum diseases, which starts with bacteria and affect the gum structure that supports your teeth.

Taking good care of your teeth and gums is also paramount if you are going for implants. Floss and brush twice a day to reduce bacteria accumulation in your mouth, which could result in an infection that will complicate healing. It is also important that you work with a professional dentist that you trust. Prosthodontists complete three additional years of advanced training after dental school, training focused on dental and facial problems such as restoration and replacement of teeth. Working with one could, therefore, be a good idea.

Anytime you introduce a foreign object into your body or undergo surgery there is a chance your body could react negatively. A good dentist will conduct all the relevant medical tests, observe your dental behaviors, and explain the risks of dental implants to you before you commit to the procedure. Signs of trouble include a loosening implant, inflammation after healing, persistent pain, or foul smell or test. Any of these warrant an immediate visit to your dentist.

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