While dental implant failure is not common it is always a possibility. Complications from the procedure can include nerve damage, infection, the body’s rejection of the implant and the implant itself breaking. Even the strongest of metals can break under the right (or wrong) circumstances. The forces generated in a patients mouth while eating can sometimes overwhelm even the best of implants. For the implant to work, a dental implant dentist must carefully plan both the dental implant surgery and the final restoration.
Dental implant failure occurs in less than 7% of the patients who receive dental implants over 10 years. Mandibular implants (jaw implants) have a higher success rate than maxillary implants. The most common complication is the breaking of the post that connects the implant to the dental implant crown. This is nowhere near as common as it used to be due to advances in dental technology. Bone loss is another probable complication with dental implants. When a tooth is absent, the bone needed to support it tends to disintegrate. Getting an implant can actually prevent this bone loss, but it can still happen despite the best of efforts.
The benefits of getting dental implants generally outweigh the risk of dental implant failure since failure is uncommon. With dentures the patient will lose a great deal of biting force, which can be quite awkward. Dental implants can restore as much as 95% of biting force to the patient. Smoking can cause complications for dental implants by slowing the healing process and increasing the risk of peri-implantitis. This is a phenomenon where mucus builds up in pockets around dental implants causing inflammation.
Dental implant failure is a real risk but fortunately, small. If you are looking for a dental implant dentist, feel free to visit the Atlanta Dental Group PC, located in the Midtown/Buckhead area of Atlanta. Our dentists are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being. Dr. Padolsky is a cosmetic oriented implant dentist and loves restoring patients' mouths to their full potential. You are welcome to join our family of patients. If you would like a free dental implant consultation with our Atlanta Implant Dentist, Dr. Mark Allan Padolsky, call 404-874-7428 to make your appointment .