Advances in Mental Health

You may want to get dental implants but feel worried that the procedure might fail. These devices actually have an excellent track record, with success rates up to 98 percent. However, some individuals do experience problems. Some of those problems can be prevented, so take action to reduce the risk and feel more confident about getting dental implants. 

Reasons for Implant Failure

Tobacco Use

Smoking and chewing tobacco are big risk factors for dental implant failure. They cause gum and bone deterioration and disrupt blood circulation. Some dentists will not offer this procedure to patients who use tobacco products. Even if a patient is not truthful on the paperwork, a dentist can see the evidence on the teeth and gums.

If you smoke or chew tobacco, quit now and ask the dentist how long you should wait after quitting before getting the implants. 

Medication Usage

The dentist will want to know all the medications you take regularly. Some drugs interfere with new bone formation, which can prevent metal implants from fusing with the jaw. Examples of these drugs include corticosteroids, bisphosphonates and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants. Your doctor may be able to change your medication so you can avoid this issue. 

Medical Conditions

If you have uncontrolled diabetes or high blood pressure, you're at greater risk of dental implant failure. Chronic high blood sugar and hypertension have negative effects on circulation and also cause your body to eliminate too much calcium. That can lead to loss of bone density, including in the jaw. See your doctor to get these conditions under control before having dental implants placed. 

Teeth Grinding

As with normal teeth, grinding your jaws together with dental implants can cause damage. Grinding wears down the cosmetic crowns and may even break them. You can get those crowns replaced, but you may have to do so numerous times at your own expense. In addition, chronic teeth grinding can cause the metal rods to loosen in the jawbone -- or never to fully bond with the bone at all.

It's best to break this habit before having implants placed. If you grind your teeth during sleep, see your dentist for help. It's difficult to stop this involuntary activity, but a dentist can prescribe a mouth guard that stops your teeth from moving against each other. 

Concluding Thoughts

Talk with your doctor and dentist about any issues that might compromise your ability to be successful with dental implants. In many cases, being proactive and making changes allow patients to have these devices placed and enjoy great success with them. 

For a dentist in your area, contact a dentist such as Peter J. Kaufman, DMD.