Dental implants have revolutionized the field of dentistry, providing individuals with a reliable solution to replace missing teeth. However, like any medical procedure, the success and long-term stability of dental implants depend upon the proper placement and adequate post-operative care. Improper dental implant placement can lead to a range of complications and pose significant risks to the patient’s oral health. Since there are dangers associated with improper dental implant placement, it is important to seek out a Board-Certified Dental Implant Expert Specialist to avoid jaw deformity and dental implant failure. Comprehensive treatment planning by a Dental Implant Specialist is essential to delivering a lasting result that you can count on to the horizon of your life.
1. Infection and Dental Implant Failure:
Improper dental implant placement increases the risk of bacterial infection, leading to dental implant failure. When dental implants are not placed in optimal positions, adequate osseointegration—the fusion of the dental implant with the jawbone—may not occur. This can create gaps between the dental implant and surrounding bone, providing a space for harmful bacteria to thrive. Without proper integration, the implant may eventually become loose or fail altogether due to a lack of stability. Such failures not only lead to complications with jaw bone and soft tissue loss, but the resulting deformities also require costly corrective procedures.
2. Nerve Damage and Sensory Impairment:
An inexperienced dentist who is self-trained and “does dental implants” may accidentally damage neighboring nerves during the dental implant placement procedure. The nerves in the jaw are responsible for providing sensory information to the teeth, gums, lips, and chin. In cases of improper dental implant placement, the surrounding nerves could be affected, resulting in altered or diminished sensation in these areas. Nerve damage can cause various issues, such as pain, tingling, numbness, and even difficulty in speaking or eating properly. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be required to repair the damaged nerves. Always seek out an expertly trained Board-Certified Dental Implant Specialist to avoid this type of injury.
3. Sinus Problems and Nasal Perforation:
In the upper jaw, dental implants are in close proximity to the maxillary sinus—located above the upper back teeth. A poorly placed dental implant can impinge on the sinus cavity, leading to sinus issues such as sinusitis or chronic sinus infections. Moreover, a dental implant placed too far upward in the front part of the jaw can result in nasal perforation, where the dental implant breaches the floor of the nose and protrudes into the nasal cavity. These complications can cause sinus and nasal congestion, pain, infection, and even require the removal of the dental implant. Be certain of the experience, skills and capabilities of your dental implant surgeon. Seek out a Board-Certified Dental Implant Expert to avoid these types of complications.
4. Bite Misalignment and Jaw Joint Disorders:
Proper dental implant placement is crucial for maintaining the occlusion—the way the upper and lower teeth come together. If a dental implant is positioned incorrectly, it can disrupt the natural bite alignment, creating problems with chewing, speaking, and jaw movement. Bite misalignment can lead to excessive wear on teeth, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, muscle strain, headaches, and facial pain. Achieving harmony between the implant and the natural dentition is critical for a functional bite and long-term oral health. Make sure your dental implant surgeon is a Certified TMJ Expert to avoid bite and TMJ complications.
5. Esthetic Issues:
One of the primary goals of dental implants is to restore a patient’s smile and boost their confidence. However, improper implant placement can result in esthetic issues, such as an imbalance between implant-supported teeth and the natural dentition. Misaligned implants, implants too close to each other and/or improperly fabricated crowns can cause discrepancies in tooth size, shape, shade, and angulation, leading to an esthetically displeasing smile and bony deformity. Correcting such issues often requires extensive and costly surgical and restorative procedures and sometimes dental implant removal.
6: Travelling Patients:
California is in close proximity to Mexico where many U.S. patients seek dental implant treatment for lower cost by travelling over the border and offshore to places like Mexico, Costa Rica, etc. for dental work. When these patients land up in my practice with dental implant dentistry gone wrong, I reassure them that the damage and poor quality of care can be rectified. The reason for outsourcing this care is virtually always cost savings. You simply don’t know the dangers involved and it often backfires. Patients who have gone this route end up paying significantly more to repair and replace the shoddy dental implant dentistry performed by poorly trained foreign “dentists”, than they would have otherwise if they sought out a Dental Implant Expert in this country. Given the rampant crime and risks for Americans crossing the border, I further caution you against taking this route for dental implant treatment.
Conclusions
The dangers of improper dental implant placement cannot be overstated. From infection and dental implant failure to nerve damage and esthetic issues, patients face multiple risks when implants are not positioned correctly. It is crucial to stress the significance of engaging a skilled Board-Certified Dental Implant Expert who possesses extensive training and experience in dental implantology.
Furthermore, comprehensive treatment planning, including thorough evaluations, 3D imaging, and mock-up models, helps reduce the possibility of placement errors. Patients should be proactive in their dental health by actively participating in the treatment decision-making process. This includes seeking second opinions, asking relevant questions, and ensuring thorough consultations with their dentist. By prioritizing proper dental implant placement, patients can increase the likelihood of long-term success, enjoy functional teeth, and maintain a healthy and beautiful smile.