Are Dental Implants Safe?
By:
Northwest Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery - Technology Forest
| Published 01/07/2021
If you have one or more teeth that are missing, a dental implant is one of your best options for replacement. More people are opting for dental implants because the crowns they support look and feel more realistic than other options. If you are considering dental implants for your missing tooth, you may be asking if they are safe. Here is some information that you need to know.
A dental implant supported crown consists of two parts. The first part is a post made of titanium which is implanted through the gums into the jaw bone. The jaw bone then heals around the post, holding it securely in place. Once the post has healed, a false tooth, also known as a crown, can be supported by it. When properly placed and managed after careful review of your health history, dental implants are safe in most patients and they have up to a 98 percent success rate. Dental implants are made from titanium, a type of metal that is biocompatible with humans and similar to that used in artificial knees, hips and shoulders.
What Are the Risks Associated With Dental Implants?
It is true, there are some risks associated with dental implants. These are associated with the patient’s general medical health and oral health. If the patient’s health history is carefully reviewed and there are no absolute contra-indications, implants can be safely placed. There are certain health conditions, where consultation with the patient’s physician and coordinating care to optimize the patient’s medical problems may be necessary prior to undertaking implant placement for improving outcomes. Planning the final restoration with the patient’s dentist prior to placing the implant and having an honest conversation with the patient regarding expectations given their oral health and medical health is also a very important facet for achieving good outcomes. Care of implant supported restorations on a continuing basis by the patient and dentist are critical to achieving long term success.
What Can Be Done to Increase Safety When Having Dental Implants Placed?
While dental implants are safe, there are steps you can take to help increase your safety and reduce your risks when having dental implants placed. One step you should take is have your dental implants placed by a board-certified oral surgeon, as opposed to a regular dentist. An oral surgeon, or an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon, has completed an additional four to six years of education after completion of dental school, including hospital-based training in the administration of IV anesthesia.
Dental implants are a safe and successful option for replacing missing teeth. If you’re in need of a tooth replacement in Spring, Houston, The Woodlands, Magnolia, Conroe, or Huntsville, here at Northwest Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, we look forward to consult with you on the best options to meet tooth replacement needs.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation to discuss dental implants.
