How Does Diabetes Increase My Risk of Gum Disease?
It’s no secret that diabetes affects your entire body, but did you know it can increase your risk of gum disease? Read on to learn how diabetes can lead to gum disease and how we can help.
Certain Medications Affect Success Rates of Dental Implants
Half a million people get dental implants in the U.S. every year, and the vast majority of these patients are rewarded with beautiful and functional replacement teeth. The long-term success of dental implants hinges on the extent of osseointegration, or how well the jaw bone fuses with the implant surface.
Many factors affect the success of dental implants, with more failures observed in patients with diabetes, and those who habitually grind their teeth. Now, a new body of research shows that certain common medications can also explain why some tooth implants attach properly, and others don’t. The study, performed by the McGill research team in Moncton, New Brunswick, followed 700 dental implant patients over an 8-year period. The results showed that some medications impede the integration of dental implants, whereas others help promote new bone growth and healing.
Medications help or impede dental implant success
The researchers believe their findings may not only help dental patients, but also individuals who are about to have hip or knee replacement surgery, because the same mechanisms at work within the body.
The team found that beta blockers, which are commonly prescribed to combat high blood pressure, were associated with a statistically lower failure rate of dental implants, while over-the-counter heartburn pills did the exact opposite. “Because some medications affect bone metabolism and the way that bone cells heal and multiply or die, they can have an important effect on the success of implants,” said Profesor Faleh Tamimi, the study’s lead author.
According to the results:
- Failure rates of dental implants in patients who took heartburn medication were 6.8 percent
- Failure rates of implants for patients not taking heartburn pills were 3.2 percent
- Dental implant failure rates for patients taking beta blockers was .6 percent
- Patients who were not on beta blockers had 4.1 percent failure rates with dental implants
Tamimi says that additional clinical trials and animal studies will be needed to determine appropriate dosages and time periods for avoiding or taking these medications.
Dental implants in New York City
Besides patient characteristics and medication usage, the surgeon’s level of skill also factors into the success rates of dental implants – which generally hovers between 95 and 98 percent. Dr. David Blaustein of Chelsea Dental Aesthetics has ample experience in restorative dentistry and uses the latest technology, equipment and methods for replacing damaged or missing teeth.
Dr. Blaustein is a Diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantlogists and has been practicing cosmetic dentistry in Manhattan for more than two decades. In his state-of-the-art dental office, Dr. Blaustein offers single and multiple tooth implants as well as the All on 6 procedure, otherwise known as “same day implants”.
If you’re interested in trading in your dentures or bridge work for beautiful, permanent replacement teeth, and would like a dental implant consultation, please call (347) 773-2679.
Resources:
- ScienceDaily, Why some dental implants work and others don’t https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/10/161025220345.htm
- Dentalimplantguide, Dental Implants Have Long-Term Success http://thedentalimplantguide.org/dental-implants/why-dental-implants/long-term-success/
You Might Also Enjoy...
Getting Started with Invisalign: Your Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re ready to straighten your teeth with clear braces but not sure where to start, we’ve got you covered. In this blog, we show you how to transform your smile with Invisalign® aligners.
I Brush and Floss Daily: Why Do I Need Professional Dental Cleanings?
If you brush your teeth twice daily and floss daily, you’re doing great! These are excellent ways to take care of your oral health. But you still need professional dental cleanings. Here’s why.
Why Does My Jaw Pop When I Chew?
You might not think about your jaw until it hurts, clicks, or pops. If you’re wondering why your jaw pops when you chew, read on to learn about the potential culprits and how we can help.
I Have Dental Phobia: Can You Help?
If your fear of the dentist is so great that you avoid seeing one even when you’re in pain, you have dental phobia. Don’t let extreme fear keep you from the dental care you need. Here’s how we can help.
Why Missing Teeth Are More Than an Aesthetic Issue
Are you concerned about the aesthetics of a missing tooth? Missing teeth pose cosmetic concerns but can also impact your oral and overall health. Read on to explore the implications of missing teeth and how you can address them.