Health Conditions That Can Affect Your Dental Implant
Dental implants are a tooth replacement option that offers the look, feel, and function of a natural tooth. The implant process involves the surgical placement of a metal post into the jaw bone. A crown is then mounted on the implant. Dental implants are five times stronger than natural teeth and can last a lifetime if properly cared for. However, there are some medical conditions that can increase chances of dental implant problems.
Autoimmune Diseases
The very nature of an autoimmune disease is that a person’s own immune system is attacking and damaging the body. These types of diseases increase the probability of the body rejecting a dental implant. An autoimmune disease can also cause the body to heal at a slower rate, which can prevent the implant from fusing into the jaw bone. Patients who have an autoimmune disease have a greater risk of dental implant problems.
Types of autoimmune diseases include:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Lupus
- Multiple sclerosis
- Type 1 diabetes
- Celiac disease
Medical Treatments That Can Cause Problems
For some patients, a medical condition itself is not the problem, it’s the treatment that’s needed for that condition. That’s why it’s always important to discuss all medications (prescription and over-the-counter) you are taking with your oral surgeon prior to a dental implant procedure. If you already have a dental implant and are prescribed a new medication or treatment, let your medical doctor know you have a dental implant. Also let your oral surgeon know about the new medical treatment. That way any potential dental implant problems can be addressed.
Treatments that may cause problems with a dental implant include:
- Medications for osteoporosis
- Steroids
- Medications that cause dry mouth
- Radiation treatment for head and neck cancer
- Dermotherapy
- Heartburn medications
- Antidepressants
Smoking
While not a medical condition, smoking has a direct impact on a person’s overall health. For many oral surgeons, smokers are not even considered candidates for dental implant procedures because smokers have up to a 20% higher risk of dental implant failure.
Communicate With Your Doctors
It is vital that you let your oral surgeon know about all current and previous medical conditions you have had before undergoing a dental implant procedure.
“Communication is very important,” said Dr. Lybrand. “This will ensure that you are a good candidate with the greatest chance for success.”
To learn more about dental implants or schedule an appointment in Monroe or Mint Hill, call Union Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center at 704-291-7333.
