Undergoing dental implant surgery is mostly safe but, and as with any surgery, there are inherent risks. Dentists have been installing dental implants for some time now, and the technology has advanced significantly in the last decade. Implants are now very sophisticated devices designed that are placed by highly trained professionals like Dr. David J. Weinstock in Philadelphia, PA. Thanks to these advances, dental implants are 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 confidence and in complete comfort. Implants are durable and will usually last a lifetime with proper care and usually with only minimal adjustments or none at all. Because they are rooted into the jawbone using a titanium implant screw, implants bond with jawbone tissues and remain secured, preventing bone erosion and shifting or loose teeth.
Risks Of Dental Implants
As with any other surgery, there are possible complications that could occur. However, problems with a dental implant are rare, most often 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
- Material of replacement tooth and potential allergies (usually made of titanium or zirconia)
Working with an experienced and professional dentist like Dr. Weinstock means that your implant procedure has a much smaller risk of issues.
Some patients may have suffered bone loss in the jaw along with whatever damage cost them their natural teeth. For these patients, bone graft surgeries may be necessary. This procedure involves harvesting bone from other areas of the body and replacing it on the jaw where it will eventually fuse to the existing bone. This will allow the jawbone to be stable enough to one day support implants. Because these procedures are themselves additional surgeries they have their own 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%. This rate varies depending on the patient, the dentist, the number of implants needed, the methods used, and other factors.
However, when working with a dentist experienced in the installation of implants like Dr. Weinstock, 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 Philadelphia, PA
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 Philadelphia, PA area, please call (215) 857-8054
or contact us online to schedule a consultation with Dr. Weinstock to see if dental implants can help you have the smile you want!