While dental implants are an effective, functional, and stable solution to replace missing teeth, there’s always a small chance of side effects. Side effects of dental implants aren’t common, but if you’re considering getting a tooth implant, it’s important to understand the risks.
The success rate of dental implants ranges from 80 to 95% depending on which type of implant you get. However, the chance of side effects is highest immediately after the procedure. The JC Dental Como team has put together this article to help you learn about possible side effects of dental implants. This will help you can spot signs early and address them as soon as possible!
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots (typically made of titanium) that are surgically placed into the jawbone. They provide a strong foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth custom-designed to match your natural teeth.
The dental implant process involves several steps, including the initial consultation, implant placement surgery, healing period, and finally, the placement of the visible artificial tooth or crown.
There are several types of dental implants, each suited to different needs and situations:
Dental implants rarely cause any kind of side effects. However, possible complications may come up both during and after dental surgery. The more you know about dental implant risks, the better prepared you’ll be to handle them if they arise.
Pain at the implant site and general discomfort are common after dental implant surgery. Whether you’ve had a surgery that’s drilled into the bone or a less invasive one that has placed an implant under your gum, there will be inflammation that leads to pain.
Over-the-counter painkillers, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, can help manage this soreness. Your dentist might also prescribe stronger pain medication if necessary. If your pain persists for more than 10 days, visit your dentist for a check-up.
Swelling and bruising around the implant site and face are typical dental implant side effects. This usually peaks within the first 48 hours and can last up to a week. Applying ice packs to the affected area in short intervals can reduce swelling. Keeping your head elevated, especially while you’re sleeping, can also help ease these symptoms much faster.
Minor bleeding is normal for the first 24 to 48 hours following dental implant surgery. To control bleeding, you can gently bite down on gauze pads (which your dentist should provide).
If the bleeding continues for more than 3 to 4 days or becomes heavier, contact your dentist immediately. Avoid strenuous activities and try not to rinse your mouth vigorously, as both of these actions can make bleeding worse.
Infection is a possible risk with any surgical procedure, including dental implants. Symptoms include increased pain, swelling, redness, and discharge from the implant site. Good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing and flossing, can reduce the risk.
Nerve damage is a rare but serious side effect of dental implants. It can result in numbness, tingling, or pain in the lips, gums, or chin. This condition can be temporary or, in some cases, permanent. Dentists use advanced imaging techniques to plan the surgery and avoid nerves, but it’s important to report any unusual sensations to your dentist immediately.
Some patients might experience allergic reactions to the materials used in dental implants, like titanium or certain alloys. Symptoms can include swelling, itching, or a rash. If you suspect an allergic reaction, contact your dentist right away. Discussing any known allergies with your dentist before the procedure can help prevent this issue.
Gum recession around the dental implant can happen, exposing the metal post. This can increase the risk of infection and affect your appearance. Regular dental check-ups are important to monitor gum health and make sure any signs of recession and gum disease are addressed as soon as possible.
For implants placed in the upper jaw, there’s a risk of sinus issues if the titanium screw protrudes into the sinus cavity. Symptoms may include sinus pain, pressure, or infections. Dentists take careful measurements to avoid hitting the sinus cavity, but it can happen. Further surgeries may be needed to fix the problem.
Peri-implantitis is an inflammatory condition which affects the tissues around a dental implant. It can lead to bone loss and implant failure if not treated fast. Treatment options include deep cleaning, antibiotics, or surgical intervention. Get in touch with your dentist as soon as possible if you experience swelling that won’t go down, bleeding that doesn’t stop, or a fever.
Dental implants can initially impact your daily activities, like eating, speaking, and oral hygiene routines. You should eat soft foods for the first few days after your dental implant surgery to avoid putting extra pressure on the implant site. Gradually, as the implant heals, you can get back to doing things the way you always would.
So what’s the final verdict on Invisalign vs braces? Here's a quick comparison.
| Invisalign | Traditional Braces | |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Virtually invisible | Quite noticeable |
| Comfort | High level of comfort | Metal ends can cause irritation |
| Removability | Fully removable | Not removable at all |
| Treatment Time | From 6 to 18 months | From 1 to 3 years |
| Cost | Usually more expensive | Less expensive |
On rare occasions, dental implants fail. Dental implants have a high success rate, so these are unusual, but it’s important to understand that they can happen. The chances of dental implants failing are low, especially if you take good care of them after your oral surgery.
If the implant doesn’t properly fuse with the jawbone, there’s a high chance of implant failure. This can happen due to multiple reasons, like poor bone quality, insufficient bone density to support the implant, or not enough healing time before placing the new teeth (crowns or dentures).
Patients with osteoporosis or other bone disorders are at higher risk of this complication. Also, smoking and certain medications can hinder osseointegration.
Infection around the implant site (peri-implantitis) can also lead to implant failure. If the infection isn’t treated quickly, it can spread to the bone, compromising the stability of both the implant and the jaw in general. Symptoms include swelling, redness, and bleeding gums around the implant.
Implant overloading occurs when the implant is put under excessive force, especially if it’s not fully healed yet. Overloading can happen if the implant is placed in an area of the mouth with a high bite pressure, or if the crown isn’t aligned properly.
Overloading can also happen if you fail to follow your dentist’s advice. Eating hard, sticky foods is one thing that can easily ruin an implant!
A dental implant may become loose for various reasons, including not enough bone support, trauma to the mouth, or improper placement. If an implant feels loose, it can compromise the stability of the entire prosthetic tooth.
Loose implants could need adjustment, or in severe cases, removal and replacement. If your implant feels loose, don’t wait! Contact your dentist as soon as possible so they can fix it before it becomes worse.
Fractures of the implant screw or the implant itself are rare but can happen. These fractures often happen when there is too much stress in the implant or manufacturing defects. Unfortunately, if an implant fracture occurs, it usually requires surgical intervention to remove the broken parts and replace the implant.
Cement failure is when the adhesive used to secure the prosthetic crown to the implant post fails. This can lead to the crown loosening or detaching. It isn’t difficult to fix, but cement failure needs to be addressed as soon as you notice it, so it doesn’t lead to worse issues.
Smoking is one of the biggest factors affecting the success rate of dental implants. It reduces blood flow to the gums, impairs healing, and increases the risk of infection. Smokers are more likely to experience dental implant failure and complications like peri-implantitis.
Conditions like diabetes, osteoporosis, and autoimmune disorders can impact bone healing and increase the risk of implant failure. If you have one of these conditions, you’ll need to work closely with your healthcare providers and dentists to manage them and make sure the implant surgery can be done safely.
Medicines such as bisphosphonates, used to treat osteoporosis, can interfere with bone healing around the implant. Moreover, blood thinners may increase bleeding risks during surgery. Inform your dentist about all medications you’re taking to plan appropriately and manage any potential complications.
How you look after your dental implants after they’ve been placed can make or break the success of your dental implants. Follow your dentist’s guidelines, which may include taking prescribed antibiotics, using a special mouth rinse, and avoiding hard foods. Keep the implant site clean and monitor for signs of infection, such as swelling or pain.
Regular dental check-ups allow your dentist to monitor the condition of the implants, clean around them, and check for any signs of complications. Early detection of problems can lead to more straightforward and effective treatments. Your dentist will also be able to get a much closer look than you can, so their input is especially important.
Making some lifestyle changes can improve the success rate of dental implants. Quitting smoking is one of the most critical steps. Also, maintaining a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support bone health. Regular exercise and good overall health practices contribute to better healing and implant success.
Patients with specific health conditionsneed special considerations when receiving dental implants. These conditions can affect healing and increase the risk of complications. Tailoring the treatment plan to accommodate these conditions isn’t just helpful –it’s necessary if you want your dental implants to be successful.
Diabetic patients need careful management when they have dental implant procedures. High blood sugar levels can impair healing and increase infection risk. You’ll need to maintain good blood sugar control before and after the surgery. Dentists may also recommend more frequent check-ups to monitor healing progress and address any issues quickly.
Those with osteoporosis face unique challenges with dental implants. The condition affects bone density, which can impact the stability of the implants. Dentists may use bone grafting to improve bone quality before placing their implants. These patients also need to discuss their medications with their dentist, as some osteoporosis treatments can influence bone healing.
Autoimmune disorders can complicate dental implant procedures due to the body’s altered immune response. These patients may be at higher risk for infections and delayed healing. Close collaboration between the patient’s healthcare provider and dentist is important to make sure the procedure will be safe.
If you’re experiencing any adverse reactions or side effects related to your dental implants, contact your dentist ASAP. JC Dental Como is ready to help you get the dental care you need!
Good alternatives to dental implants include dental bridges and dentures. A dental bridge is a prosthetic device that fills the gap left by one or more missing teeth, and it’s a common option. Resin-bonded bridges are a slightly less invasive choice.
Dentures (full or partial) are removable appliances that replace missing teeth and the surrounding tissues. These days, dental technology has made dentures much more comfortable and less cumbersome than they used to be!
The average cost of a single dental implant in Australia can range from $3,000 to $5,500. This price usually includes the cost of the implant post, the abutment (the piece that connects the implant to the crown), and the crown (the visible artificial tooth).
However, it’s important to note that this is just an average. The total cost may vary depending on factors like how many implants you get, the type of implant you get, the materials used in your implants, and the dentist’s fees.
Back to top: Are There Side Effects of Dental Implants?
I had a great experience at JC Dental. Dr. Colleen is very gentle, professional, knowledgeable and very informative. Dr. Colleen made me feel comfortable and pain-free through out the whole process. Thank you Dr. Colleen. I would highly recommend this practice!
I went for a checkup, scale and clean. Dr Colleen Ling did an amazing job on my teeth! She is very gentle, caring and very patient.
My dental experience with her was very positive & reassuring. She showed great concern and is ever so lovely.
JJ and Colleen are both gentle, compassionate and efficient. They explain through the procedure to make sure you are aware of the details and the associated fees before you commit.
Dr. Colleen is a highly professional, kind, and patient dentist. She has been taking care of my family members’ teeth for many years
Did my invisalign braces with Dr Colleen. Great results. Would highly recommend!