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Should I Update My Dental Implants?

Posted by writeradmin

I have had my current dental implants since the late 1990s. There are two of them on my lower arch. I keep reading about the updates in the dental implants technology and materials and have lately been wondering if I should update mine for the newer materials, such as zirconia rather than titanium. What do you think?

Pricilla

Dear Pricilla,

Diagram of three phases of a dental implant: separate compoonent, implant screw in the bone, and the crown attached

It is wonderful that you keep up with the developments in the dental field. That combined with how long your dental implants are lasting tells me you take very good care of your smile. Do the developments that have taken place in recent years warrant you updating your current dental implants, though?

Replacing a dental implant is not as simple as taking out the old ones and switching them with the new ones. When the older implants are removed, some bone structure will go with them. This means you will need to have some bone grafting done in order to place the new dental implants. Then, once that has had time to heal, it will be another surgery to get the new implants followed by another period of healing while osseointegration takes place. Only then, will the implant crown be able to be placed. That is a LOT to go through when you have solid, functional dental implants.

Zirconia is tempting for many people because we love the idea of metal-free dental implants. I’m not saying don’t switch out. That, of course, is up to you. However, I would say that there is no evidence that the zirconia is either superior or inferior to the implants you currently have so it may not be worth the unnecessary surgery.

What to Look for With Dental Implant Failure

When you would want to take action is when the implants seem to be nearing the end of their life. Here are some things you can keep an eye out for when it comes to failing implants:

  • Discomfort and difficulty biting and chewing. This may signify a developing infection.
  • Pain and discomfort around the implant.
  • The implant shifting or feeling “loose”.
  • Gingival recession around the implant.
  • Swollen, inflamed gum tissue around the area.

If any of these symptoms occur I would consult with your implant dentist and evaluate whether it is time for a replacement.

This blog is brought to you by Moline Dentist Dr. Thomas Goebel.