What Is The Most Common Complication Of Implant-Supported Fixed Dental Prosthesis?

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Implant-Supported Dentures

Dental implants are one of the most effective solutions for missing teeth. They act as support crowns for fixed dental prostheses such as crowns or bridges to help in the restoration of your smile and ability to chew food. Additionally, implant supported dentures in St. Albert provide a stable and comfortable alternative to traditional dentures. Although implants can be very successful, they still carry some possible complications. By understanding common complications, you can better care for your implants and maintain good oral health.

What is an Implant-Supported Fixed Dental Prosthesis?

An implant-supported fixed dental prosthesis is a dental appliance anchored to the jawbone using implants. These fixtures act as false tooth roots to give a solid base for the crowns, bridges, or dentures. It is mainly used for patients with missing teeth. This treatment option is popular for people with missing teeth because it looks, feels, and works like natural teeth.

The Most Common Complication: Screw Loosening or Fracture

The most common issue with implant-supported prostheses is the loosening or fracture of screws that hold the prosthesis to the implant. These tiny screws connect the dental prosthesis to the implant post, and any problem with them can affect the stability of the prosthesis.

Why Do Screws Loosen or Break?

Several factors can contribute to this problem:

  • Excessive Bite Force: Biting or chewing too hard can put a strain on the screws.
  • Poor Fit: If there is a poor fit from the prosthesis, it may affect the screws, as a lot of pressure is exerted on them.
  • Material Fatigue: Often use of the screws may cause them to wear down over time.
  • Oral Habits: Grinding your teeth (bruxism) can increase the risk of screw damage.

How is This Complication Fixed?

Dentists can remove the loose or broken screws and fix them with new ones. At times they may also rebalance or change the prosthesis to increase the comfort level. A professional dental examination is needed in order to detect such problems and treat them on time, especially for patients who wear implant supported dentures. Keeping up with your dental visits ensures that any problems with your implants or dentures are detected early, before becoming more complicated.

Other Potential Complications

While screw issues are the most common, other complications can occur, including:

  • Peri-implantitis: This form of infection involves the surrounding tissue of the implant, causing various issues such as inflammation, resulting in bone loss and eventual implant failure in case of complications.
  • Prosthesis Fracture: The artificial teeth or bridge can crack or break under too much stress.
  • Bone Loss: Over time the jawbone that holds the implant in place may shrink, especially if the implant has not been properly cared for.

How to Prevent Complications?

For those who want to avoid problems related to implants, the following measures must be taken:

  • Brush and Floss Daily: For cleaning your teeth and implants you should use a soft-bristle toothbrush and implant-friendly floss.
  • Avoid Hard Foods: Consuming hard items such as ice or nuts puts pressure on screws as well as on prostheses.
  • Wear a Night Guard: For instance, if you have a habit of grinding your teeth, then you need to use a custom night guard to cover your implants.
  • Schedule Regular Dental Visits: Routine checkups allow your dentist near you to monitor your implants and address minor issues before they become serious.

Key Takeaway

Implant-supported fixed dental prostheses are without a doubt one of the best solutions to missing teeth. They, however, need to be maintained properly. The aspects of loosening screws or fractures that tend to be the most common complication can also be dealt with if one visits to the dentist in time. If one strives to have good oral hygiene and regularly sees a dentist, their implants will remain intact for many years and enjoy a beautiful smile for years to come.

Restore Your Function and Beauty of Missing Tooth With Implant!

At Jensen Lakes Dental, we understand how important it is to restore your smile and confidence. Our team of dentist St. Albert replacing missing teeth with implant-supported solutions that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. We focus on your comfort and use advanced techniques to ensure long-lasting results.

Ready to bring back your smile? Visit Jensen Lakes Dental today and let us help you regain your dental health!