What are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a surgical fixture that is placed into the jawbone to fuse with the bone over the course of a few months. The implant acts as a replacement for the root of a missing tooth. Over time, the new “artificial tooth root” serves to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Having a dental implant successfully fused to the jawbone is the closest thing to mimicking a natural tooth because it has great stability and stands on its own without affecting the nearby teeth.
What is the Dental Implant Process?
The process of fusion between the dental implant and jawbone is called “osseointegration.” Most dental implants are made of titanium, which allows them to integrate with bone without being recognized as a foreign object in the body.
Dental Implant Mistakes
Unfortunately, problems with dental implants are a common occurrence. While implant failure is not always an indication of malpractice, when coupled with deviations from standard of care, it may be. Other cases of dental implant failure may be attributed to defectively designed implants.
Dental Implant Complications
- Severe pain
- Swelling
- Bleeding
- Gum disease
- Gum recession
- Tooth problems
- Bone loss (osteoporosis)
- Bone fractures
- Infections
- Implant failure
- The need for revision surgery
- And more
Dental Implant Failure
There are 4 basic categories of dental implant failure:
- Perforation of Body Cavities – Occurs when dental implants perforate the mandibular lingual space, nasal sinuses, or the nose. This causes discomfort and can lead to infection and other problems. Typically results from inadequate diagnostic procedures.
- Loose Implants – Implants can become loose when they are placed under load too soon, or if they are placed in bone that is inadequate with regards to volume or quality.
- Infection – Both perforation of body cavities and loose implants can result in persistent or recurring infection.
- Nerve Impairment – When a dental implant impinges on a nerve, it can result in persistent numbness, tingling, or pain.
Do I Have a Dental Implants Class Action Lawsuit?
The Class Action Litigation Group at our law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focus on the representation of plaintiffs in Dental Implants Lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new injury cases in all 50 states.
If you or a loved one was injured by defective dental implants, you should contact our law firm immediately. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a suit and we can help.