When people go to a skilled and trusted dental practice to replace their missing teeth with dental implants in Denver, NC, their new teeth will give them reliable and predictable results.
While dental implants are a safe and predictable treatment, some patients wonder if complications like sinus problems, infections, or nerve damage can occur. In rare cases, issues such as sinus infections after upper dental implants, implant infections, or implant placement into the sinus cavity may develop. Knowing the risks and symptoms helps patients seek treatment early.
Ready to learn about the types of complications that can occur with dental implant placements? Continue reading to learn about the complications that can occur when dental implants are surgically placed in a patient’s jawbone.
The Complications That Can Occur When Dental Implants In Denver, NC Are Placed
Even with careful planning and advanced technology, dental implant placement can sometimes lead to complications. These issues are rare but important to understand so patients know what symptoms to look out for and when to seek treatment. The most common complications include sinus problems, infections, and nerve-related issues.
Sinus Damage:
Sinus damage is a possible complication that can occur when dental implants are placed, especially when dental implants are placed in the upper jaw. Sinus damage can happen in the upper jaw with dental implant placements because the upper jawbone lies close to the sinus cavities, and improperly placed implants can puncture or press against these cavities.
Sinus damage can lead to sinus pain, pressure, and in some cases, chronic sinus infections. People might not notice their sinus damage complications immediately, but it can cause significant discomfort and complications over time.
Can Upper Dental Implants Cause Sinus Problems?
When implants are placed in the upper jaw, they sit close to the sinus cavities. If the implant is positioned too high, it may press against or puncture the sinus membrane. This can lead to sinus pressure, discomfort, and in some cases, chronic sinus infections.
What Happens if an Implant Goes Into the Sinus?
In rare situations, a dental implant may extend into the sinus cavity. This can cause ongoing sinus pain, congestion, and recurring infections. If this occurs, revision surgery may be needed to remove or reposition the implant.
Can a Sinus Infection Cause Dental Implant Pain?
Sometimes the problem is not the implant itself, but the sinus. A sinus infection can create pain and pressure that radiates to the implant area. Patients often confuse this discomfort with implant failure, but in many cases treating the sinus infection resolves the issue.
Infections:
Infections are another significant complication that can occur following a dental implant placement surgery. These infections, known as peri-implantitis, occur around the dental implant placement site and are primarily caused by bacteria present during or after the dental implant procedure. Poor oral hygiene, smoking, and pre-existing medical conditions, such as diabetes, can increase the risk of dental implant patient’s developing an infection
Dental implant infection symptoms may include swelling, redness, pain at the dental implant site, and sometimes, pus discharge. If not treated promptly, infections can lead to bone loss around the dental implant, jeopardizing its stability and potentially requiring its removal.
Nerve Damage:
Nerve damage is a critical concern when dental implants are surgically placed in a patient’s jawbone, particularly if a dental implant is placed too close to a nerve in the jaw. This proximity of the dental implant post to the nerve can lead to numbness, pain, or a tingling sensation in the chin, lips, gums, or even the face.
While nerve-related problems are less common than sinus or infection complications, they remain a possible outcome of improper implant placement. These nerve damage symptoms might be temporary for some patients, but for others, they could become a long-term or permanent complication. Precision in planning the placement of dental implants is crucial to avoid such adverse outcomes.
Long-Term Effects and Treatment of Dental Implant Complications
When complications are left untreated, they can sometimes lead to long-term side effects. While these cases are rare, understanding them helps patients take action early.
Sinus Lift Long-Term Side Effects
A sinus lift procedure may be recommended when the upper jaw does not have enough bone height to support implants. While most patients heal without issues, possible long-term side effects can include chronic sinus pressure, congestion, or difficulty with sinus drainage. Choosing an experienced dentist minimizes these risks and ensures a successful outcome.
Long-Term Effects of Untreated Infections
An infection from dental implants, if ignored, can cause progressive bone loss around the implant site. This weakens the jawbone, compromises nearby teeth, and often results in implant failure. Early treatment is essential to preserve oral health and protect surrounding bone.
Lasting Nerve Issues
Nerve-related complications may become permanent if not addressed. Persistent tingling, numbness, or pain in the lips, chin, or gums can affect daily comfort and quality of life. Prompt evaluation after noticing unusual sensations helps reduce the chance of long-term damage.
Treatment of Dental Implant Complications
Most dental implant complications can be treated successfully when identified early. Treatments may include antibiotics for infections, surgical correction for implants that intrude into the sinus, or bone grafting procedures to restore lost bone. For nerve-related symptoms, evaluation and monitoring help determine the safest course of care.
By addressing problems promptly and maintaining regular follow-up visits, patients reduce the risk of long-term side effects and enjoy the lasting benefits of dental implants.
See Us Now So We Can Expertly Place Your Dental Implants In Denver, NC
If you are concerned about dental implant complications such as sinus issues or infections, our team in Denver, NC can evaluate and provide safe, effective treatment. When you come to our quality practice for a dental implant placement surgery, we use the latest techniques and technologies to make sure your procedure outcomes are successful.
Why wait to transform the look, function, and health of your smile with us? Get in contact with our doctors, Dr. Frank Avason, and our exceptional team at our dental practice to schedule an appointment today!
