Millions of people choose dental implants every year to restore their smiles after tooth loss, but it’s important to do your research. One of the first questions many patients ask is, “Are dental implants safe?” It’s not unreasonable—in fact, it shows that they’re truly thinking about every aspect of their decision before making it. The truth is, despite requiring a surgical procedure, implants are one of the safest dental procedures available. Here’s what you should know about their success and their risks.
How Safe Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are made from a sterilized, medical-grade titanium, which is a biocompatible material—meaning it isn’t often rejected by your body. Over time, the fixture fuses with your jawbone through a process called osseointegration, creating a strong anchor point for your new tooth and preventing the bone deterioration that often follows tooth loss.
All this is to say that the success rate for dental implants is typically very high—often around 95% or more when placed by an experienced dentist. However, like any procedure, there are some risks, like infection, allergic reaction, and implant failure, that you should be aware of.
What Can Affect Dental Implant Safety?
While implants are safe for most patients, there are factors that can increase your risk of complications, such as:
- Smoking and Vaping: Nicotine restricts blood flow, making it harder for your jawbone and gums to heal.
- Uncontrolled Diabetes: Slower healing times can increase the risk of infection.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Bacteria around the implant can lead to peri-implantitis, a gum infection similar to periodontitis that leads to implant failure.
- Bone Loss: If your jawbone isn’t dense enough, a bone graft may be needed first to ensure stability. Otherwise, the implant may not fuse properly and fail.
How Dentists Keep the Process Safe
Modern implant surgery is precise and goes through rigorous planning and phased procedures to ensure you’re protected at every step.
- First, at your consultation, your dentist will assess your mouth to identify and address risks before treatment begins.
- Then, digital imaging allows them to map your jawbone with perfect clarity, ensuring exact placement and reducing complications.
- Finally, after placement, your dentist will give you detailed aftercare instructions to help your mouth heal properly.
This process has been refined over decades, ensuring a safe and comfortable process for replacing missing teeth.
When done right, dental implants protect your oral health and give you back the full function of your smile. With a skilled dentist and good daily care, they’re an incredibly safe, long-term investment in your confidence and your health.
About the Author
Dr. Fred Fox has always been a forward-thinker, which is a skill he finds particularly helpful during treatment planning. If you’re frustrated with the stains tarnishing your smile, Dr. Fox won’t just consider your immediate needs, but also how he can help you feel satisfied with your teeth for years to come. To schedule your cosmetic dentistry consultation with Dr. Fox, contact his office at 904-595-9005.