Are Dental Implants Safe?

Are Dental Implants Safe?

Tooth loss can affect your self-esteem, speech, your ability to chew and can cause the remaining teeth to shift. These are all serious issues; therefore, you should have your tooth loss treated as soon as possible. There are a couple of options for treating tooth loss, and dental implants in Bridgewater, NJ, are the most convenient option and provide a more natural look. Dr. Nathan Steele is an expert in dental implants and can treat your tooth loss.

If you want dental implants but aren't sure how safe they are, read on.

Are Dental Implants Safe?

If you are worried about the safety of dental implants in Bridgewater, NJ, you shouldn't be. When you understand a bit about the procedure, you will realize how safe they are.

  • Consultation: Before you get dental implants, you will need a consultation. Your dentist will take x-rays of your jawbone to ensure there is enough bone and it is strong enough to hold the implant in place. The consultation is essential in determining whether you are a safe candidate for dental implants.

  • Local anesthetic: Your dentist will use a local anesthetic so you won't feel anything when the implant is placed in your jawbone. You won't be under general anesthesia; therefore, there is no risk of complications.

  • The procedure is done over time: The dental implant process is slow to ensure safety and proper healing. When the implant is placed, your dentist will wait a few months for the area to heal and for the implant to fuse into the bone. If an infection occurs while the site is healing, it can be treated. Your dentist won't move on to the next step until they are sure there is no risk for infection and the implant has fully integrated with the jawbone.

Who Shouldn't Get Dental Implants?

Although dental implants in Bridgewater, NJ, are safe for most people, they are unsafe for some, and an alternate treatment will be necessary. 

If you are a smoker and don't plan to quit, or don't think you can, dental implants are a bad idea. Cigarette smoke burns the oral tissue in your mouth and can cause damage or block your salivary glands. These issues can result in gum disease that can weaken the gums and bones necessary to support your implants. Finally, if you have a sensitivity to nickel, lead, zinc, or copper, dental implants won't be safe and you will need to go with another treatment option.

If you decide dental implants are the best way to treat your tooth loss, Dr. Steele will perform a consultation in his Bridgewater, NJ office to ensure you are a good candidate and then start the process. To schedule an appointment, call us at (908) 526-2113.

Contact Us

Nathan C. Steele, DMD

(908) 526-2113

Bridgewater, NJ Dentist
Nathan C. Steele, DMD, PA

17 Monroe Street
Bridgewater, NJ 08807
908-526-2113
908-526-2337 fax
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