Titanium Implants Side Effects and How to Minimize Your Risks? | Kirkland Premier Dentistry
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Titanium Implants Side Effects and How to Minimize Your Risks?

July 12, 2022

What is Titanium?

A popular choice for tooth restoration these days, Dental implants are mostly made of titanium.

A non-allergenic metal, Titanium is also biocompatible, which infers that it is not seen as a foreign invader and attacked by the immune system.

Having been used for several years now Titanium remains a popular material not only in implants but also in other medical devices, including heart valves, artificial hips, and bone screws.

The use of titanium for dental implants has many advantages including:

  • The ability to ossify allows the Titanium to integrate with the bone tissue or become part of the bone in a process called osseointegration.
  • Its quality of being extremely strong but still lighter than even gold alloys at the same time makes it an ideal choice for a comfortable and secure dental restoration.
  • Titanium processes a Low thermal conductivity which helps to decrease the risk of pain or irritation attributed to dramatic temperature changes.

The titanium dental implants have an extremely high success rate of about 95 percent and can remain intact for the rest of a patient’s life.

So, the dentists usually recommend getting a titanium implant if one is missing a tooth or two or needs to get a tooth extracted due to some reason like:

Titanium Dental implants are surgically fixed into the jawbone to completely replace a tooth unlike dental crowns that are placed on top of an existing tooth, The dentist then places a crown on top of the titanium implant.

Though designed to be permanent, one may sometimes have to replace the Titanium dental implants after several years. So titanium dental implants make the best option for permanent tooth restoration.

However, one can get some side effects with titanium implants in a few rare instances. 

It is natural for one to be concerned about the possible effect of the procedure on the rest of the mouth. However, some awareness and being well-informed can help you to minimize your risks.

Titanium Implant Procedure

The dental implant procedure consists of the following steps:

  • A thorough examination is performed by the dentist to determine if the person is an ideal candidate for implants. Some X-rays and imaging tests may also be performed.
  • The dentist inserts titanium implants into the jawbone to serve as a post for the dental crown that will finally be placed on top. This titanium post looks like a screw and fuses to the surrounding bone as the area heals in the course of the next few months. 
  • An abutment is then placed on top of the implant which not only helps to keep the implant securely in place but also serves as a base for the tooth crown.
  • Lastly, a crown is placed on top of the abutment. The crown looks and acts like a natural tooth, restoring the full function of the mouth.

However, an adequate amount of bone to support the implant in the area encompassing the extracted tooth and the absence of periodontal disease of the gum tissue are the prerequisites of the dental implant procedure

After the completion of the procedure, the instructions for the care and maintenance of the new implants are provided by the dental surgeon, which is almost similar to that of the natural teeth.

Usually, people resume their normal routine within two to three days of dental implant surgery.

Also Read: Is Molar Implant Right for You?

What are the Possible Complications & Risks Associated With Titanium Implants?

The titanium implants usually function extremely well even after many years of their placement. However, any surgical procedure still carries a chance of side effects.

Titanium may pose a risk of allergic reactions, though rarely so. Those with a history of allergies to metal should get themselves tested for the allergy before having this implant procedure. 

The other risks associated with titanium dental implant surgery, though extremely rare include:

  • Infection: Some patients may develop an infection at the site after the implant procedure. This is called peri-implantitis. The symptoms may include redness and tenderness in the gum tissue of the implant, and bleeding while brushing. People who smoke or have gum disease are more prone to this infection.
  • Injury: The titanium implant procedure may sometimes cause injury to the teeth, blood vessels and nerves. The symptoms may include pain, numbness or tingling in the teeth, gums, lips or chin after the procedure, due to the damage to the nerves or surrounding structures.
  • Sinus Issues: Problems related to the sinus may sometimes occur particularly after the implants have been placed in the upper jaw. The protruding of the implant post into the sinus cavities may cause this issue, leading to headaches and pain inside the cheekbones.

Mild discomfort, swelling of the gums and face and bruising of the skin and gums are normal after the implant surgery.

According to Dr. Gaurav Sharma at Kirkland Premier Dentistry, mild pain and slight bleeding at the implant site may also be experienced and is absolutely normal.

However, this discomfort or swelling should go away in a few days. You must see your dental surgeon immediately if this gets worse or unbearable.

It is imperative to mention here that these side effects are not common and are easily treatable.

Dr. Gaurav Sharma has extensive experience in the complexities of the bones, skin, muscles and nerves involved in the dental implant procedure.

He is also fully aware of the methods to minimize the likelihood of titanium implant side effects.

The efficient team at our office works with complete diligence to provide you with a bright, happy and healthy smile.

Can One have an MRI with Titanium Dental Implants?

Titanium implants pose no hindrance in getting an MRI. Though titanium is a metal, it’s not affected by MRIs.

However, it is always advisable to inform your medical provider about titanium implants, if any in your body before any MRI testing.

Takeaway

The most common type of dental implant, Titanium implants are much sought after due to their effectiveness, strength and durability. They can generally last a lifetime with proper care and regular cleanings.

However, some concern about their side effects is absolutely normal. Book an appointment with us to discuss any concerns about possible side effects related to titanium implant.

Dr. Gaurav Sharma firmly believes in discussing the pros and cons and any possible contraindications of the procedure beforehand with the patient.

At Kirkland Premier Dentistry, we have been building trust through our hard work and are constantly rewarded with the confident smiles of our patients. 

Book an appointment today at Kirkland Premier Dentistry.

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