Dental Implants Birmingham, AL
Common Problems with Dental Implants
Dr. Maddux Explains Common Problems Associated With Dental Implants
Common Problems with Dental Implant Procedures
When An Implant Does Not Fuse With The Bone
Occasionally implants can fail if they do not properly integrate with the jawbone. This failure called osseointegration generally takes many months to occur. If the implant becomes loose or mobile after this time, it can fail. Additionally, if there is a significant amount of bone loss around the dental implant after the initial integration period, it can fail.
Alabama Periodontics carefully plans the implant placement with the latest technology, making sure we are correctly positioning the implant so that it doesn’t come under stress through being incorrectly loaded with the replacement tooth. Sometimes if a patient does not have enough bone, we will perform a gum graft to build up the bone in areas where it is lacking.
Peri-implantitis
The presence of bacteria at the time of your dental implant surgery, or failing to keep up a regular oral hygiene routine can lead to an infection called peri-implantitis. Similarities of this infection can be made with Gum disease, as the tissue and bone around the implant becomes inflamed and infected. Often times the infection can be treated, however, other times the implant must be removed to clear up the infection. Smoking can increase your chances of developing peri-implantitis, as well as having poor oral hygiene or are diabetic and less able to fight infections.
At Alabama Periodontics, we take extra care using the strictest infection control procedures, and make sure all patients know how to properly care for their dental implants. Keeping your dental implants cleaned and attending regular checkups will minimize risk of peri-implantitis. If caught early on, this infection can sometimes be successfully treated. If you have swollen gums, infected gums or sore gums near or around your implant please book an appointment to see us as soon as possible.
Damage to Tissue and Nerves
Placing an implant too close to a nerve can cause pain or numbness. A tingling sensation can also be experienced in the lips, cheeks or gums. This issue is often temporary, however, sometimes the implant will need to be removed so the nerves can heal.
Dr. Brett Maddux has been experienced in placing dental implants for over 21 years. He is specialized in avoiding important structures such as nerves to ensure a successful implant procedure for all patients.
Total Implant Failure
Implants are made from high grade titanium alloy, therefore, it is very rare for an implant to fail. Putting the implant under too much stress, or making the implant with cheaper materials can result in a failure of the implant.
Alabama Periodontics only uses the highest quality dental implants from world-renowned manufacturers. The implants are rigorously tested to ensure failure does not occur.