Patient Info
Dental Implants
Cosmetic Dentistry
General Dentistry
Dental implants are a popular method for replacing missing teeth. In fact, according to the American Dental Association, approximately 5 million implants are placed each year in the United States. There are two types of dental implants: traditional and mini. A traditional implant consists of three pieces, while a mini implant is slightly smaller and only has two pieces. Both types have an implant screw that is inserted into the jawbone.
However, while this is an effective dental restoration, the one thing that patients often overlook is the risk. One of the major risks involved in dental implant surgery, while rare, is nerve damage.
Dr. Byron Scott and the team at Springhill Dental Center understand that you may have some concerns. We want you to be aware of the risk of neurological problems with dental implants. Here’s what you need to know.
Yes, dental implants can cause neurological problems. However, this complication is rare and can be prevented by working with a dentist that has experience and expertise with dental implant placement.
While rare, there are a few complications that can occur with dental implant surgery, including:
The most common complication associated with dental implant surgery is infection at the surgical site. Treatment depends on the location and severity of the infection. Infection in the gum may need antibiotics and a gum graft. If the infection is in the bone, the implant and surrounding bone may need to be removed followed by a bone and soft tissue graft.
Some patients experience gum recession near the implant, which can cause pain and inflammation. In order to prevent implant failure, it’s important to receive prompt treatment.
During the weeks following implant surgery, the jawbone will begin to heal around and fuse with the implant. This is known as osseointegration and is critical for long-term success. This may take several months, depending on your body’s ability to heal.
If osseointegration does not occur, the implant may need to be removed. Once the area has healed, the dentist may try to reattempt the procedure.
In some cases, the implant may be placed too close to a nerve, which can cause neurological symptoms including tingling, pain, and/or numbness. Short-term symptoms are common- but in the case of significant nerve damage, the symptoms may be long-term.
Nerve/tissue problems need to be immediately addressed, as injury to the inferior alveolar nerve can be serious. Possible symptoms include persistent numbness, pain, or discomfort near the implant or a tingling, burning, or tickling sensation in the gums and skin near the implant.
The most common neurological symptoms associated with dental implant placement include:
Nerve damage occurring during surgical procedures is referred to as peripheral nerve injury. The nerve may be damaged or severed completely. In most cases, nerve damage will heal on its own over time. However, if a nerve is severed, the issue is much more serious.
There are several ways that a nerve may be injured during and after dental implant surgery. The injury may be caused during the surgical procedure, usually when the dentist drills too deep into the lower jaw, hitting the inferior alveolar nerve. This is a major injury that can be painful. Prompt treatment is critical, but if the nerve is significantly damaged or severed, the injury may not be reversible.
Another potential cause of nerve injury is compression of the nerve. This may be due to the implant itself putting pressure on the nerve or by bruising and swelling putting pressure on the nerve. These injuries typically resolve over time as the bruising and swelling subside.
There are some things that can be done to prevent nerve damage during implant placement. Dr. Scott is the first dentist in the area to offer dental implants and he uses advanced technology to protect his patients from this complication. He has the most training and experience, as well as compassion for his patients. He uses 3D surgical planning, which encompasses surgical guides and photographic treatment and imaging to ensure the most precise placement.
Dr. Scott has been serving the residents of Mobile, Alabama since 1977. He takes time with each of his patients to ensure that they fully understand their condition and the procedures they require. He has experience and expertise in a variety of dental procedures and can help you get the smile you’ve always wanted.
Our office is located on Springhill Avenue in Mobile, AL. Our office hours are Tuesday through Thursday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. If you are missing one or more teeth, schedule your consultation today. Dr. Scott can help you determine if dental implants are right for you.
My visit was incredible. I had my “All on Four” appliances cleaned, and it was a painless and thorough experience. Dr. Scott and all his staff are very friendly. During the cleaning, Mary was gentle and let me know everything she was doing and how it would feel. She gave me tips on how to clean my implants/appliances better and gave me a small brush to do the underside more effectively. Dr. Scott and Mary suggest cleanings take place every 3 months so I will be back in December.
Dr. Byron Scott is a highly-trained and accomplished dentist. He attended The University of Alabama School of Dentistry and subsequently completed numerous Advanced Studies and Trainings. Dr. Scott is Board-Certified by The Academy of General Dentistry and has earned Mastership status (MAGD), an honor shared by only 1% of dentists. He has numerous memberships and associations, including Diplomate status with The American Board of Oral Implantology (D-ABOI) and The International Congress of Oral Implantologists (D-ICOI). Overall, Dr. Scott has dedicated his life and career to helping patients improve their oral health through expert dentistry. His goal is to help each patient keep their smile healthy, attractive, and comfortable for the duration of their lifetime.
