Thinking about getting a dental implant? You might have some questions that are making you hesitate. Even though it’s a relatively simple procedure, surgery of any kind can be nerve-wracking.
Can a dental implant make you sick? Are you okay with putting something foreign in your mouth on purpose? What if your missing tooth isn’t noticeable to others? Are dental implants safe in the long run? How much time does it take to get a dental implant? Is it really worth going through the whole implant process?
These are all common questions that many people think about before deciding on dental implants. We’ve created this guide to help you understand Whether a dental implant makes you sick and why it stands out as one of the top choices for replacing a missing tooth.
Can a Dental Implant Make You Sick?
When considering whether dental implants can make you sick, it’s crucial to understand their safety profile. In short, dental implant surgery is a remarkably safe procedure, boasting a success rate above 97%. For healthy adults, there should be minimal risks associated with this treatment.
Most dental implants are made from titanium, a biocompatible metal that integrates seamlessly with your bones, gums, nerves, and surrounding oral tissues. It means that allergic reactions or infections are unlikely to occur (in most cases).
Are Implants Safe in the Long Run?
The durability of your dental implant does not diminish over time. With proper care, regular brushing, and flossing, your implant can last a lifetime without any significant issues.
It’s important to note, however, that this longevity pertains specifically to the implant itself. The crown, which is the visible part resembling a natural tooth and sits atop the implant, may need replacement after 10 to 15 years, depending on its quality. Fortunately, replacing the crown is a straightforward procedure and does not compromise the effectiveness of your implant.
Can a Dental Implant Make You Sick in the long run?
For the most part, dental implants won’t make you sick. However, there’s a small chance you might experience symptoms that seem like an illness if you develop an infection. These symptoms can include:
- Having a fever
- Noticing swollen or bleeding gums
- Feeling tired or in pain
- Having persistent bad breath
- Finding it hard to chew and eat
Thankfully, it’s not very common to have these symptoms after getting an implant. Following your dentist’s aftercare instructions carefully should help your implant heal smoothly without any major issues.
Can Dental Implants Cause Health Complications?
After dental implant surgery (DIS), there are several complications that patients should be aware of. Below are some common issues that may arise:
Infection:
The most common issue of dental implant surgery is an infection at the implant site. Treatment for an infection depends on its severity and location. For instance, a bacterial infection in your gum may need antibiotics or a soft tissue graft. If the infection has affected the bone, it will require removal of the infected bone tissue and implant, followed by a bone and soft tissue graft.
Gum Recession:
In some instances, patients may notice gum tissue around the implant starting to recede. This can cause inflammation and discomfort. Seeking prompt evaluation from a dentist is crucial to prevent the need for implant removal.
Loose Implant:
In the initial weeks after dental implant surgery (DIS), the implant undergoes a process called osseointegration, where it integrates and fuses with the jawbone. This phase is necessary for the long-term success of the implant and can take several months to complete.
If the implant fails to properly fuse with the bone, the dental surgeon may need to remove it. After the area has healed, the patient may consider reattempting the implant procedure.
Nerve or Tissue Damage:
There’s a risk of nerve or tissue damage during dental implant surgery if the implant is placed too close to a nerve. This can cause numbness, tingling, or pain. While short-term symptoms are more common, some individuals may experience long-term effects.
Immediate attention is necessary for any nerve or tissue-related issues. Injury to the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) in the lower jaw can be especially concerning. Symptoms of an IAN injury may include:
- Persistent numbness affects the side of the implant, including the lower lip and chin.
- Persistent pain or discomfort.
- Tickling, tingling, or burning sensations in the gums and skin.
Less Common Issues After Dental Implant Surgery
Apart from more common complications, dental implant surgery (DIS) may lead to less frequent problems, such as sinus issues, damage from excessive force, and long-term issues like peri-implantitis and implant rejection.
Sinus Issues
Implants in the upper jaw can sometimes reach into the sinuses, which might cause sinusitis or sinus inflammation.
Symptoms of sinusitis can include:
- Pain, tenderness, or swelling around the cheeks, eyes, or forehead.
- Green or yellow nasal mucus.
- Nasal congestion.
- Decreased sense of smell.
- Sinus headaches.
- Toothache.
- Bad breath.
- Fever.
Prompt evaluation by a healthcare provider or dentist is crucial for managing sinus-related symptoms.
Damage from Excessive Force
Similar to natural teeth, dental implants can crack or loosen due to excessive force or impact.
Some individuals may unknowingly exert excessive force on their dental implants, such as teeth grinding or bruxism during sleep. Using a mouthguard can help protect both the implant and natural teeth from damage caused by such habits.
Long-term Issues
Peri-implantitis is a gum disease that results in bone loss around the implant due to chronic inflammation.
Symptoms of peri-implantitis include bleeding or swelling around the dental implant site. This condition can take several years to develop and become symptomatic.
While rare, there is also a possibility of the body rejecting a dental implant, especially if there is a sensitivity to the materials used. Metal sensitivity testing is recommended before receiving implants made from titanium or other metals to mitigate this risk.
Conclusion
Can a dental implant make you sick? The chances of a dental implant making you sick are extremely low when the procedure is performed by skilled professionals and proper aftercare is followed. Remember, maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are key to ensuring the success and longevity of your dental implants.
Ready to explore dental implants further or address any concerns?
Contact All About Smiles, Canton, MI, for expert dental care. New patients can book an appointment online or call us at (734) 531-7638. Existing patients can reach us at (734) 981-1199.
FAQ
While rare, infections can occur around dental implants. Proper oral hygiene and follow-up care reduce this risk significantly.
With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, although the crown may need replacement every 10-15 years.
Implant rejection is rare but possible, especially for individuals with metal sensitivities. Pre-implant evaluations and testing help mitigate this risk.
