Dental Implant – What Determines Success and Failure?

Usually, most people would rather talk about the good of a particular thing and shy away from the negative effect it can have. This is no exception to dental implants. You already know that a  dental implant is often a perfect replacement for your missing teeth. As much as the success rate is high, when not carried out perfectly, dental implants can have serious consequences.

Research has it that this oral treatment has a 95% overall success rate. Some authorities have even claimed that it’s higher. However, regardless of the success and failure rate, the dental implant is undoubtedly still the most successful and profitable procedure a general dentist can perform.

Causes of dental implant failure

Dental implant failure is attributed to many factors. While some of these factors can be avoided, others cannot. Implant failure occurs in the short-term, i.e., failure within one year of surgery, implant, and restoration. Short-term implant failure is also known are early implant failure. And those that occur in the long-term, i.e., after a year.

When there has been inadequate and incomplete Osseointegration (i.e., the bone has accepted the implant and incorporated itself around the implant), the predominant indicator is the mobility of the implant. Initially, this mobility may only be discovered by a dentist or hygienist. Still, as failure increases, the initially limited mobility will progress to the prosthetic crown’s movement.

Chewing and talking. Other indications of the lack/loss of Osseointegration and potential implant failure may include pain, infection, or swelling. This will occur in the long term. Progressive evulsion occurs when there is a significant loss of bone around the implant fixture. Once there is a significant loss of bone around the implant fixture, progressive evulsion and failure occur.

Infection, poor bone quality, a contaminated implant, and contaminated osteotomy are some factors that cause early implant failure. Also, late implant failure is caused by poor hygiene, overloading of the implant, improper placement, etc.

With a dental implant having a high chance of failure, it is only fitting that you do the needful beforehand to guarantee yourself a chance of success during your dental implant. To ensure the best chance of success, here is a list of things to consider.

1. Bones

A solid and healthy jaw bone is essential in dental implant surgery. Your dentist might advise you about bone grafting if your bones are found to be insufficient. Bone grafting will help make your implant possible for your case.

2. Smoking

Smoking diminishes the healing process of the dental implant, so if you’re a smoker, your dentist will likely ask you to quit the habit at least six months before your dental implant surgery. Stopping your smoking habit can increase your chances of having the best outcome.

3. Hygiene

Regularly brushing, rinsing, and flossing the mouth is essential in post-implant surgery care. Maintaining good oral hygiene helps reduce the risk of infections that may compromise the integrity of your dental implant.

4. Diet

A few weeks after your dental implant surgery, your dentist will likely recommend a soft food diet for you. You will also be asked not to chew in the area. Eating a well-balanced diet will help the healing process.

Conclusion

The dental surgeon’s experience and skill will also affect your implant’s success. This is why it’s essential to have the procedure done in a well-equipped dental implant hospital that can make the surgery less forceful and more comfortable.