Getting dental implants is a surgical procedure, and as with any surgery there are risks that come along with it. Dentists have been providing patients with dental implants for some time now, and the technology involved has advanced quite a bit. Implants are now very sophisticated devices designed and placed by highly trained professionals like Dr. Jessica Christy of Orchard Hill Dental in Hendersonville, NC. Although there are alternative treatments, dental implants are widely considered one of the strongest and most reliable ways to replace missing teeth.
Benefits Of Dental Implants
Dental implants replace missing, damaged, or infected teeth, allowing patients to eat, speak and smile with renewed comfort and confidence. Implant screws are made of titanium and therefore are very durable and may last a lifetime, with only minimal adjustments or none at all. Because they are rooted into the jawbone, implants do not need to be removed for cleaning, need no messy adhesives and prevent bone loss by promoting the growth of healthy tissue.
Risks Of Dental Implants
As with any other surgery, there are possible complications that can occur. However, problems with a dental implant are rare and usually minor and easily repaired. Risks include:
- Infection of the surgical site
- Damage to teeth, blood vessels, or nerves in the surgical area
- Implant rejection
- Sinus problems
- Rejection of material of replacement tooth and potential allergies (usually made of titanium or zirconia)
Working with an experienced and professional dentist like Dr. Christy means that your implant procedure has a much smaller risk of issues.
Some patients may have suffered the erosion of bone tissue in the jaw along from missing teeth for some time. For these patients, bone graft surgeries may be necessary to reinforce the jaw enough to support an implant. This surgery involves harvesting bone from other areas of the body and replacing it on the jaw where it will eventually fuse to the existing bone. As these are additional surgeries they have their own accompanying risks and complications such as infection, more discomfort and longer recuperation.
The Success Rate Of Dental Implants
Dental implants generally have a success rate of about 95%. Although, this rate varies depending on the patient, the dentist, the number of implants needed, the methods used, and various other factors.
However, when working with a dentist experienced in the installation of implants like the compassionate professionals like Dr. Christy they are inherently safe. Titanium implants- which are the industry standard- can last up to 20 years or longer. Other materials like zirconia cost more but last longer.
Dental Implants in Hendersonville, NC
If you have lost teeth or have teeth that cannot be saved, implants may be the dental restoration option for you. For patients in the Hendersonville, NC area, please call (828) 247-7001 or contact us online to schedule a consultation at Orchard Hill Dental to see if dental implants can help you have the smile you want!