Dental Implants Causing Problems? Try Troubleshooting

Dental implants are among the most popular forms of cosmetic dentistry today, because they go far beyond pure cosmetics and actually have a very real functional use. Yet in order to make sure they are functioning correctly, it is important to be on the lookout for signs of trouble.

Dental implants are small, titanium cylinders designed to take on the look and feel of the actual roots that sit inside human teeth. They are constructed out of titanium or other similar materials and are inserted into the jawbone itself in place of what was once the actual root itself.

Through a process known as osseointegration, the dental implants are actually accepted into the bone structure as if they were naturally placed there. This firmly anchors them in place and allows various types of artificial prostheses such as caps, crowns, dentures and veneers to be attached.

Because of the nature of this process, each implant becomes firmly anchored in place and services as a permanent, fully functioning part of a patient's mouth. The vast majority of them are inserted easily and successfully and develop no problems over the course of the patient's life.

Nonetheless, there are various potential problems that can occur and it is up to the patient to not only be on the lookout for the warning signs, but also to help prevent them in the first place.

One of the easiest ways to develop complications is through the onset of a bacterial infection. This occurs when bacteria grows and develops in and around the area where the implant was surgically inserted. 

This can be prevented by maintaining a program of good oral hygiene that both starts and ends with the individual. It is extremely important to consistently brush and floss the area and it is also helpful to rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash whenever possible.

It is also possible for the implant to be inserted too close to a nerve, which can cause damage to that nerve and to the surrounding area. If there is moderate to severe pain in and around the affected area following the surgical procedure, it should be reported to your dentist right away.

Dental implants can also become loose over time or even break, and this is usually due to poor osseointegration that can be caused by several factors. This is easily detectable simply by feeling around the area, and this should also be reported to a dentist right away.

The majority of these issues that can arise with dental implants can be avoided simply by following the explicit instructions each patient is given following surgery. Nonetheless, it is still important to always be on the lookout for these and other issues to be sure that no complications develop over time.