Conditions That Can Affect Your Dental Implant Success Rate
ShareThe great news about dental implants is that they carry a high success rate for most patients (up to 98% or better). This is reassuring to hear if you are thinking about getting dental implants but are worried that they won't take. But while most people who get dental implants are able to enjoy them for many years with regular care, there is still that small percentage who end up having to have their implants removed or redone in order to get the best results. If you are concerned about having successful dental implant surgery, it's important to know the complications and conditions that can attribute to a lower success rate. Here are a few common factors that can affect your dental implant success rate.
Smoking
Smoking up to and after having a dental implant procedure done can increase your risk of infection and slow healing time. Smokers also are more prone to unhealthy gum tissue and gum disease, which can make the success rate of a dental implant go down. If you do smoke, now is an excellent time to stop: smokers experience a nearly 16% failure rate in dental implants.
Diabetes
Diabetics have a higher risk of cavities and gum disease than other individuals simply because their high blood sugar content affects their oral health on a regular basis. If you do have diabetes, you need to understand that you are at an increased risk for dental problems, even if you floss and brush your teeth regularly. This can make the success rate of your dental implants a bit harder if you don't have optimum oral health. Talk to your dentist about the risk factors associated with dental implants when you have diabetes, and make sure you are cleared for gum disease to ensure healthier gum tissue prior to getting the dental implant procedure done. Your dentist can also talk to you about ways you can keep your teeth healthier after having the procedure done to keep plaque and bacteria at bay.
Low bone mass
Low bone mass in your jaw can put your new teeth at risk of becoming loose or falling out. If you have low bone mass due to previous injury, vitamin deficiency, or a medical condition, your dentist may suggest doing a bone graft prior to having your dental implant done. This can help increase bone density to help keep your new teeth in place. Your dentist will discover your bone mass condition as they do pre-surgery X-rays, and they will discuss your risk factors and possible treatment then.
You will most likely have an excellent experience getting dental implants done, but if you are worried about the procedure, it's important to know the common conditions that can cause your implants to fail. Talk to a dentist, such as those at Fayetteville Family Dentistry, about all your concerns so you can have a positive experience.