Can My Teeth Shift After Getting Dental Implants?

If you’re interested in getting dental implants in East Amherst, NY, and have been reading about the procedure, you. might have come across something rather strange.

Many people swear their teeth have shifted after getting these artificial teeth. But is there any truth to this claim? Will implants cause tooth shifting and maybe some future misalignment issues?

Here’s the breakdown:

Dental Implants and Tooth Shifting: Just a Feeling

Dental implants won’t cause your teeth to shift, but you will most likely feel like they do.

Here’s what’s happening:

Your teeth have gotten used to having an empty space between them for a while, so when the implant (specifically, the dental crown) is added, you’ll feel a bit of tightness at first. This sensation usually goes away in 1-2 days, and you may think your teeth moved to “make room” for the new crown.

But it’s not a movement per se. Your teeth have simply gotten used to the new implant. This feeling isn’t usually as strong for patients who get an extraction+implant procedure, but those with long-term missing teeth are more likely to feel like their teeth move after implants.

Sometimes, Teeth Can Indeed Shift After Dental Implants

There is a small chance of teeth shifting after the implant surgery. This occurs because of a condition called peri-implantitis, an infection that affects the dental implant and can spread to the surrounding teeth, weakening them, and causing shifting.

If you notice your teeth are loose or moving days or even weeks after getting an implant, you need to reach out to your dentist as soon as possible for treatment.

Luckily, peri-implantitis and other dental implant complications are incredibly rare. Dental implants have a 98% success rate, thanks to the thorough screening patients go through before getting the procedure.

Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a great tooth replacement option for many patients, but they’re not for everyone.

Here are a few factors your dentist will look into before clearing you for the surgery:

• Having enough bone density
• Having healthy bone
• Having healthy gums
• No titanium allergy
• No underlying dental issues
• No illnesses or treatments that could affect healing (such as diabetes, chemotherapy, chronic arthritis, etc.)

Sometimes patients can still get dental implants even if they don’t meet all the above criteria. Additional treatments could help prepare your body for implants, such as a bone graft to restore density or periodontal care to heal gums.

Come Find Out If Implants Are Right for You

Want to know if dental implants can restore your smile? See Dr. Bridget Sweeney for a short consultation to find out! This way, you can get a personalized restoration plan to help you get a happy and healthy smile.

Start by scheduling a visit to The Ivory Dental Co. online, or call us at (716) 221-0042 to learn more.