What Are the Adverse Effects of Teeth Implants?

Teeth implants, or dental implants, are artificial teeth placed in the mouth when a person has a missing tooth or teeth and he does not desire a denture. The procedure requires surgery and the prospective patient must be healthy and have a strong jawbone with sufficient bone that will accept the implants. A patient will be informed of the possible adverse effects of the surgery prior to giving consent.

Surgery Complications

• Surgery complications can accompany any procedure. If a nerve is struck, the potential exists for numbness, either temporary or permanent. Also, if there is insufficient bone in the upper jaw the implant could intrude into the sinus cavity. Both of these effects are unusual but do occasionally occur.

Failure to Take

• This describes the effect of the implanted tooth not taking root and becoming an integral part of the jaw. A properly placed implant will fit in with the other teeth and be firm and comfortable for the patient. A loose or uncomfortable implant that does not take, or become a solid part of the jaw, is one of the most likely adverse effects.

Infection

• Once the implanted teeth are in place, the danger of infection exists. You can minimize the risk by engaging in proper dental hygiene, including flossing, cleaning and brushing. The gums and soft tissues of the mouth are at risk following the surgery, so this effect cannot be minimized.

Damage to Healthy Teeth

• One possible effect of implanting artificial teeth involves the risk to the other, healthy teeth. A healthy tooth or teeth could be damaged during the surgery or could sustain injury during the recovery period. In either event, there remains a potential adverse effect.