Can a Dental Implant Damage Other Teeth?

When you look at the numbers, dental implants are perhaps the safest tooth replacement option out there. They are successful 98% of the time and part of the reason is the thorough vetting process that goes into determining whether a patient truly is a good candidate for implants. 

Are implants really perfect? 

How Implants Can Help Your Oral Health 

Your teeth have to withstand a lot of force and pressure every day. They are able to do it because of how they are placed in your mouth - close one to another so they can work together. 

If one tooth is missing, an unequal amount of pressure will be transferred to the neighboring teeth, making them more likely to wear. The bone underneath is not stimulated anymore either and it's wasted away. 

And, because your teeth are meant to work together, they will try to compensate for that gap and shift their position. This will lead to alignment and biting issues in the long term. 

Fortunately, dental implants can prevent all of these issues. Because the implant is inserted into the jawbone it can withstand the same biting force as your natural teeth. At the same time, it's also stimulating the jawbone, preventing bone resorption. 

But, Can It Also Damage Other Teeth? 

If an implant is properly placed and well taken care of, then it shouldn't cause any damage to the neighboring teeth. However, there are instances where an implant could affect your overall oral health: 

  • Improper Placement: If the implant is not placed correctly, it could damage nerves, tissues, and nearby teeth. 
  • Peri-implantitis: This is an infection that attacks the gum and bone tissue around the implant. If left untreated, peri-implantitis can lead to bone loss, which can affect both the implant and nearby teeth. 
  • Poor Oral Hygiene: Needless to say, poor oral hygiene will affect your oral health with or without implants. Gum disease can lead to an infection, which can affect both your implant and natural teeth. 

Are Dental Implants A Good Option? 

Dental implants will have an effect on your natural teeth, but as you can see, it's mostly a positive one. All it takes is a) finding a skilled dentist and b) taking proper care of your oral health to enjoy the benefits implants can offer. 

The better question would be: 

Are implants right for me? 

Although an excellent tooth replacement option, it's not for everyone. 

That's why you should schedule an appointment with Del Mar Dental Studio and let Dr. Todd Pizzi take a look at your teeth and determine if dental implants can help restore your smile. 

You can book your appointment with us online or by calling (858) 755-0187. 

Allow yourself to smile confidently again. Visit us and we will find the right restoration treatment for you.

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