What 5 things to keep an eye out for after having dental implants fitted

When it comes to having any kind of cosmetic surgery, whether it is dermal fillers, oral implants, or even Botox, it is important as part of the aftercare that you know when things have gone wrong.

If your treatment was Botox, it is usually the inability to move the majority of your facial muscles, resulting in the dreaded frozen face. With dermal fillers, it is excessive bruising and swelling. But what about oral implants?

When you come to see our team at High Dental, we will aim to ensure that your dental implants Melbourne are fitted with the best technology and methods available and that you are supported through the aftercare to prevent issues from occurring, prolonging the lifespan of the implants.

But just to be safe, what are some of the signs that there is an issue with your dental implants Melbourne?

Implant failure

One of the most significant concerns with dental implants Melbourne is implant failure. This occurs when the implant does not properly fuse with the jawbone, leading to instability or even total loss of the implant. Issues that can lead to implant failure include poor oral hygiene, smoking, certain medical conditions, and implant placement errors. Fortunately, implant failure rates are relatively low, with most studies reporting success rates of 95% or higher.

Infection

Infection is another potential complication that can occur with oral implants. If bacteria enter the surgical site during the implant procedure, it can lead to inflammation and infection. Symptoms of infection include swelling, pain, redness, and discharge. If left untreated, an infection can lead to implant failure. Treatment may involve antibiotics, drainage of any pus or fluid, and removal of the implant in severe cases.

Nerve damage

During implant placement, there is a risk of nerve damage in the surrounding area. This can cause numbness, tingling, or even pain in the tongue, lips, or chin. Most cases of nerve damage are temporary and will resolve on their own over time, but in some cases, permanent damage can occur. So, it is essential to choose a skilled and experienced implant dentist like ours!

Peri-implantitis

Peri-implantitis is a condition that occurs when the soft and hard tissues surrounding the implant become inflamed and infected. It is similar to periodontitis, which is an infection of the gum tissue. If left untreated, peri-implantitis can lead to implant failure. Risk factors include poor oral hygiene, smoking, and a history of periodontal disease. Treatment may involve antibiotics, deep cleaning, and in severe cases, removal of the implant.

Implant fracture

Although rare, an implant can fracture or break under excessive force, such as from grinding or clenching teeth. This can result in instability or complete failure of the implant. To prevent implant fracture, it is essential to wear a night guard if you have a history of teeth grinding or clenching.

Allergic reactions

In very rare cases, a patient may have an allergic reaction to the materials that make up an implant. The symptoms of an allergic reaction to your oral implant may include itching, swelling, or a rash at the implant site. If you have a history of metal allergies, it is essential to discuss this with our team before undergoing implant surgery.

DISCLAIMER

All treatment carries risks. Individual consultation is required with one of our practitioners to ensure that the treatment is right for you.