Dental Implants: Replacement and Infection Risks

Have your Calgary dentist recommended dental implants? These are special tooth replacements that look and feel like natural teeth. Many get them because they want to be able to smile and eat their favourite foods without a problem.

Much the same as other things, though, dental implants also have their possible challenges, including the need for timely replacement or catching an infection. Now, let us learn about dental implants in-depth and how to care for them.

Understanding Dental Implants and Their Importance

Dental implants are an excellent way to replace missing teeth because they have the potential to provide a person with the confidence to smile and eat comfortably. 

In contrast to removable dentures, implants remain in the mouth attached to the jawbone; thus, they are very stable and trustworthy. People opt for dental implants because they resemble real teeth and also keep the jawbone healthy.

What Are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is made up of three main parts, explained as follows: 

1. Implant: The light implant is this small screw-like piece in your jawbone. It is always made of titanium because it is one of the strongest metals, and it is safe inside the body as well.
2. Abutment: It's the piece that connects the implant to the artificial tooth.
3. Crown: It's what looks like a real tooth. It is what you see when you smile.

An implant acts like the root of a tooth, holding everything in place. Over time, it merges with the jawbone to serve as a stable base for the crown fitted over it.

Can a Dental Implant Be Replaced?

Yes, but it is quite rarely done. Sometimes, the implant does not fuse properly with the jawbone, or it may get damaged. In such a case, the dentist may need to remove it and get a new one replaced. 

The replacement procedure for a dental implant is very much like getting a new one. Your dentist will examine your jawbone and your overall health before commencing the replacement process.

Can a Dental Implant Become Infected?

Well, just like any other natural tooth, dental implants can get infected. The infection is known as peri-implantitis. It is caused 100% by bacteria, which may collect around the implant if the implant is not cleaned properly. 

Due to the infection, there will be redness and swelling of gums around the implant, bleeding at the time of brushing teeth, pain around the implant, and loosening of the implant. If you have noted any of the following signs, contact your dentist immediately. They can treat this infection and stop it from getting worse.

Common Dental Implant Problems and Complications

While dental implants have a tremendous success rate, problems do sometimes arise. However, you can prevent most of these issues with proper planning and care. Some common complications include the following:

1. Implant Failure: The implant fuses to the jawbone sometimes; it does not get fused. The condition is known as failure of the implant. This may be due to an insufficient quantity of bone or malposition of the implant.
2. Infection: As already mentioned, the infections may be a result of bacterial accumulation at and around the implant.
3. Nerve Damage: When the implant is placed beside the nerve during the procedure, there may be a feeling of pain and numbness, followed by paresthesia.
4. Sinus Issues: Sometimes, the implants in the upper jaw can project into the sinus cavity and cause problems.

Importance of Proper Maintenance Care for Dental Implants

For dental implants, aftercare and maintenance are as important as for the natural tooth. Here are some tips to keep your implant healthy:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, brushing all parts of the implant. 
• Floss once a day. Flossing around an implant will loosen food and plaque. 
• See your dentist regularly to make sure your implant stays healthy. 
• Avoid smoking because it puts you at risk for implant failure and infections. 

Proper care will make your dental implants last a long time, which will keep your smile bright.

Comparing Dental Implants with Other Tooth Replacement Options

Indeed, there are other ways of replacing teeth, such as dentures and bridges. This is how dental implants compare to them:

1. Dentures: Most of the time, dentures are removable and sometimes even quite uncomfortable. They might even slip. Dentures must be taken out from time to time for cleaning purposes. Dental implants are fixed. Therefore, they offer a feel almost like natural teeth.
2. Bridges: Bridges are fixed replacements that make use of the adjacent teeth to serve as support. This can sometimes lead to the destruction of healthy teeth adjacent to the gap. Dental implants do not affect the surrounding teeth and are more independent.

Dental implants are considered the better alternative. It looks natural, it is almost permanent, and it helps keep the jawbone healthy.

Conclusion: Ensuring Long-Term Success of Dental Implants

Dental implants in Calgary are excellent restorations for missing teeth because they look and feel very natural, and if well taken care of, they could last a lifetime. Much as that is the case, risks still abound, such as the need for a replacement or probably the incidence of infection. 

You can ensure your implant is healthy and firm through good care and frequent visits with the dentist. Consider Inglewood Family Dental to take care of all your dental needs and offer you treatment when needed.