Q: My dentist recommends a dental implant for my missing back tooth. I know that dental implants are great alternatives to dentures and bridges. What are some problems that I can expect from dental implants? – Albert R.
A: Dental implants are used in place of dentures and dental bridges. Dental implants are not immune from problems, though. Some of the problems with dental implants include the following:
- Bone loss around implants. Implants are immune from cavities but not from gum disease. When inflammation or gum disease occurs around dental implants, bone loss and subsequent loss of the implants can occur. Bone loss around dental implants seems to be the most common problem encountered with dental implants.
- Screw loosening. The screw that attaches the crown part to the dental implant can become loose over time and needs to be tightened.
- Implant Fracture. Improper implant size with heavy biting force can fracture dental implants.
- Crown Fracture. The crown that is attached to the implant can fracture (when made of porcelain outer cover) just like crowns on natural teeth can fracture.
- Overdentures becoming loose. When dentures are held in place by implants (implant overdentures), the connecting mechanism becomes loose due to natural wear from use. The connecting mechanisms need to be checked periodically and replaced when needed. Overdentures also do not fit the jaw after sometime due to the natural shrinkage of the jaw bone. The overdenture can easily be relined to fit the jaw by your dentist.
- Bone loss around dental implants. Blue line is where original bone level might have been.
Prevention of Problems with Dental Implants
Problems with dental implants are not common. Newer designs of dental implants have mostly eliminated dental implant fractures and screw loosening. Bone loss around dental implants from gum disease can be prevented by effective personal oral hygiene and regular check ups with your dentist.
Questions? Ask Dr. Implant.
