Are Teeth Implants Safe? Here’s What You Should Know

14th October 2020

Are Teeth Implants Safe? Here’s What You Should Know

For people who have lost teeth due to decay, illness, or trauma, many problems can arise from failing to replace missing teeth. If left untreated, gaps can cause adjacent teeth to shift to fill the hole, creating alignment problems. Gaps can also lead to an increased risk of decay and gum disease as shifting teeth become difficult to clean. 

Dental implant surgery is a permanent solution for tooth replacement that restores your natural smile. But many patients wonder, are teeth implants safe? 

 

Are Teeth Implants Safe? The Risks Of Teeth Implants

Getting dental implant surgery in Australia is a routine and safe procedure, especially with a skilled and experienced dentist performing the operation. Regulations are stringent in Sydney regarding hygiene and implant materials. 

possible risks are teeth implants safe sydneyBut, as with any major dental procedure, there are risks to dental implant surgery. Problems following surgery are generally minor and can be treated by your dentist. Some of the risks of dental implant surgery include: 

  • Nerve damage, causing pain numbness or tingling
  • Infection at the site of the implant
  • Sinus Problems resulting from implants placed in the upper jaw
  • Injury to surrounding teeth

Knowing these risks exist, how are teeth implants safe? The probability of these complications occurring due to tooth replacement is minimal because dental implant surgery has a success rate of 98%

However, to reduce the risks of post-operative complications further, there are several things patients can do. Ensure that you follow the dentist’s post-operative instructions. Keep the implant site clean with adequate oral hygiene, and avoid hard foods to prevent damage to the screw and surrounding tender gum tissue. Proper oral care can include gentle brushing, a salt water rinse, or a special mouthwash prescribed by your dentist to prevent bacteria from causing infection. 

 

Benefits of Dental Implants 

The benefits of dental implants are incomparable when it comes to tooth replacement options. 

 

  • They prevent bone resorption

Dental implants prevent bone loss from having gaps in your smile. The jawbone needs stimulation from your teeth’ roots to maintain its density, and the titanium post used for dental implants replicates the natural tooth root. 

This reinforcement also prevents changes in your facial structure. When the jawbone loses mass, it affects how your chin and cheeks appear, so supporting the jaw will maintain the face’s structural integrity, making it look fuller and more youthful. 

 

  • They restore bite force

The titanium implant used in dental implant surgery is biocompatible and fuses with the jawbone through osseointegration. Once the process is complete, the implant has the strength of the natural root, restoring your ability to chew and enjoy your favourite foods. You’ll also be able to pronounce sounds properly and speak clearly.  

 

  • They don’t decay

Since dental implants are prosthetic, the artificial crown won’t decay, but the implant can become infected if you don’t maintain good oral hygiene. Just like your natural teeth, dental implants are vulnerable to gum disease, teeth grinding, chipping or being knocked out. 

 

  • They’re long-lasting

The longevity of dental implants is one of the most significant benefits of this form of tooth replacement. While other tooth replacement solutions need replacing every few years, dental implants are designed to last a lifetime. 

 

Who is a Candidate for Dental Implant Surgery?

Although dental implants are one of the safest and most effective tooth restoration methods available, not all patients are eligible for the procedure. People who have serious gum disease, poor bone density, or autoimmune disease or diabetes are unsuitable candidates for dental implant surgery. 

Pre-existing medical conditions and a lack of a stable foundation can increase the risk of implant failure and may contribute to post-surgical complications. 

In some cases, your dentist may be able to perform a sinus lift or bone graft to improve the quality of the jawbone to accommodate a dental implant, which can drastically improve the odds of a successful implant. 

 

Dental Implant Surgery 

Due to the new technology used in dental implant surgery, many people wonder, are dental implants safe? 

surgery are teeth implants safe sydneyWhat makes dental implants safe is the amount of preparation done before the procedure, and extensive follow up appointments post-operation. During the initial consultation, your dentist thoroughly examines your mouth and takes 3D images or X-rays to determine the health of your mouth and jaw. If you are a good candidate for implant surgery, your dentist creates a treatment plan. 

During the dental implant surgery, the titanium implant is embedded in or above the jawbone. Even though dental implants are safe, there is always a small risk during any surgical procedure because of the local anaesthesia or sedation used. Talk to your dentist before the surgery date to determine the right form of sedation for you. 

Following the surgery, there may be mild swelling and bruising, which you can manage at home with over the counter pain medication and ice packs applied to the face. It will take approximately 3-6 months for the bone and titanium screw to bond. After that time, you will return to the dentist for another appointment in which the abutment is fastened on top of the implant, which is how the prosthetic tooth is attached.

When the gums have fully healed, then impressions are made of your teeth, and the prosthetic tooth can be created in the lab to match your natural teeth perfectly. 

 

Are Teeth Implants Safe?

Many factors make dental implants safe in Australia. Stringent health and safety measures mean your procedure is performed in a sterile environment by dentists with extensive training who know how to make dental implants safe. 

Contact your No Gaps Dental dentist at (02) 8806 0227 to schedule an initial consultation and begin your journey to a healthier, more confident smile by permanently replacing missing teeth. 

 

Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.