What Are the Side Effects of Dental Implant Surgery?

Senior couple with healthy smilesDental implants are a revolutionary treatment that can replace one or more missing teeth with permanent, highly lifelike restorations. Experts agree that dental implants offer greater stability, durability, and oral health protection than other tooth replacement options. However, if you are planning to visit our Wilmington practice for adental implant, you may be wondering about the side effects. Fortunately, implant surgery is a very safe, low-risk procedure, especially when you receive your restorations from an experienced practitioner like Dr. Jeffrey Emmi or Dr. Laura A. Dougherty. Call Smile Solutions by Emmi Dental Associates today to learn more about dental implants and the minimal side effects of this procedure.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are the only restorative dentistry treatment designed to replace the dental root, as well as the tooth itself. To place an implant, Dr. Emmi or Dr. Dougherty will create a personalized treatment plan, taking x-rays and CT scans of your jawbone to determine the best placement for the titanium posts.

On the day of your procedure, your dentist will numb your gums with local anesthesia. We also offer nitrous oxide, and our office is furnished with plenty of amenities to keep you comfortable during treatment. Then the dentist will surgically place one or more implant posts in your jawbone. As your bone heals, your gum tissue will integrate with the post so that it acts as a permanent dental root. When your healing is complete, you will return to the office, and the dentist will attach your custom-made restoration. Dental implants can support a single crown, a dental bridge, and even a full set of dentures.

Side Effects of Dental Implants

Dental implant surgery is a safe, proven procedure, and because titanium is 100 percent biocompatible, your body will not reject the implant posts. Thanks to our dentists’ surgical precision and personalized care, this treatment is safer and more effective than ever. However, as with all surgeries, there are a few side effects and risks. They include:

  • Infection
  • Nerve damage
  • Sinus damage
  • Loose implants
  • Damage to surrounding teeth or blood vessels

You may also experience some temporary discomfort and tissue irritation, although this will typically disappear within two weeks. Additionally, you should give yourself a few weeks to adjust to speaking with your new restorations in place.

Managing Temporary Discomfort

Often, you can control post-surgical sensitivity with over the counter pain pills. If your discomfort is more severe, Dr. Emmi or Dr. Dougherty can also provide prescription medication. You should eat soft foods for the first day or two following your surgery. You can then return to your normal diet, as directed by your dentist, although you should avoid spicy foods and food with small pieces, such as seeds, until your recovery is further along. While it is important to brush your teeth after your surgery to avoid infection, you should be extremely gentle when doing so, particularly around the implant site. Your dentist may also prescribe a special mouthwash to aid in your healing.

How to Reduce Your Long-Term Risks

The vast majority of implant cases are successful. However, by taking a few simple steps you can further reduce your risk for lasting side effects:

  • Choose a dentist with experience
  • Choose high-quality materials for your implants
  • Ask about oral surgery options, such as bone grafting or sinus lifts
  • Be honest about your medical history
  • Stop smoking
  • Follow all pre and post-surgery instructions

Schedule Your Implant Consultation

Because implants pose so few risks and offer so many benefits, there is no reason that you should not enjoy an enhanced smile and dental functionality. To learn more about implants and to find out if they are right for you, contact our office today.