If you’re considering dental implants to replace missing teeth, you may have questions about whether the procedure is safe. After all, dental implants require oral surgery, and it’s natural to feel a little nervous about undergoing any surgical treatment. Fortunately, dental implants have been used successfully for decades, with a strong track record of safety and reliability. While complications are possible, the overall risk is relatively low for appropriately selected patients.
How Safe Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants have been a trusted tooth replacement solution for well over three decades. Research and clinical experience have demonstrated that they are generally safe and highly successful when placed by trained dental professionals.
According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, dental implants have an overall success rate of approximately 95%. Although individual outcomes vary, this demonstrates how predictable the treatment can be.
Dental implants are typically made from biocompatible materials, such as titanium or zirconia, that are designed to work safely within the body. Once placed in the jawbone, the implant gradually bonds with the surrounding bone, creating a stable foundation for a replacement tooth.
What Are the Potential Risks of Dental Implant Surgery?
Like any surgical procedure, dental implant placement carries some risks. However, complications are relatively uncommon and are often manageable when identified early.
Potential complications include:
- Infection: Bacteria can enter the surgical site and cause an infection during healing.
- Nerve damage: In rare cases, an implant may affect nearby nerves, potentially causing numbness, tingling, or discomfort.
- Sinus problems: Implants placed in the upper jaw can occasionally affect the nearby sinus cavities.
- Implant failure: Sometimes the implant doesn’t properly bond with the surrounding bone, making it unstable or requiring removal.
Your dental provider will evaluate your oral health and anatomy to help minimize these risks before recommending treatment.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Most healthy adults with missing teeth can be considered for dental implants, but certain factors influence whether the procedure is appropriate.
Your dentist will evaluate your gum health, jawbone density, and overall medical history. Conditions that affect healing, uncontrolled diabetes, untreated gum disease, and tobacco use may increase the risk of complications.
Having one of these risk factors doesn’t automatically mean you can’t receive dental implants. Additional treatments, lifestyle changes, or adjustments to your treatment plan may help make the procedure possible.
How Can You Keep Your Dental Implants Safe?
Your responsibilities don’t end once the implants have been placed. Proper aftercare is essential for protecting your investment and maintaining healthy surrounding tissues.
Follow your dentist’s recovery instructions, keep the surgical area clean as directed, and attend all recommended follow-up appointments. Once your restoration is complete, brush and floss regularly, maintain routine dental visits, and avoid habits that could damage your new teeth.
Dental implants are a well-established, reliable way to replace missing teeth. With careful planning, professional placement, and consistent maintenance, they can provide a stable, natural-looking smile for many years.
About the Practice
Denton Dental Center is led by Dr. Todd Balington, DMD, who earned his dental degree from Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine after completing his undergraduate studies at the University of Florida. Practicing dentistry since 2006, Dr. Balington enjoys all aspects of restorative dentistry and has a particular passion for helping patients restore their smiles. His experience and commitment to family dentistry help patients feel comfortable pursuing treatment options that support their long-term oral health.
Call us at (940) 383-3300 or schedule your appointment online