Understand the risks of dental implants.

While considered the best possible treatment for missing teeth, there are still risks associated with dental implants. Dr. Alger discusses risks and preventative measures with each patient when planning treatment.

What are the risks of dental implant procedures?

There is a 95 – 98% success rate associated with dental implants placed by a dental specialist. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with dental implant placement. Common risks include:

  • Nerve damage
  • Loosening of posts & crowns attached to the implant
  • Failure of the implant to fuse to the jaw bone
  • Loss of bone grafts placed during implant insertion
  • Excessive bleeding
  • Development of peri-implant disease

What is peri-implant disease?

In the same way that patients can develop periodontal (gum) disease around their natural teeth, they may experience an inflammatory condition following their implant placement. This is called peri-implant disease.

Common causes of peri-implant diseases include:

  • Infections from bacterial plaque accumulation around implants
  • Cement around implant supported teeth
  • Poor bone support around existing implants
  • Complications associated with the artificial teeth attached to the implants
  • Smokers and diabetics may be more prone to developing peri-implant disease.

There are two main types of peri-implant disease:

Peri-implant mucositis occurs when inflammation is found around the gum tissue of an implant, with no signs of bone loss. This condition is treatable with non-surgical methods if caught early.

Peri-implantitis occurs when inflammation is found around the gum tissue of an implant, with bone deterioration present. This bone deterioration can often be corrected by Dr. Alger with surgical procedures, such as implant detoxification and bone grafting.

Trust an experienced implant surgeon.

While these risks are always present, they are substantially reduced when careful planning is utilized by your dentist and an experienced implant surgeon like Dr. Alger. The best way to treat implant complications is to avoid them to begin with, by careful planning and risk aversion.

Your dentist and Dr. Alger will work as a team to minimize your risks and provide you with the best results possible. Dr. Alger will carefully monitor a patient’s progress before, during and after implant surgery for an optimal chance of successful implant treatment.