Titanium alloy implants have been around since 1965 and have been the reigning supreme for implant material since, but like any other procedure ever, they do come with their risk of complications. Even with the highest-quality dental implants out there, there’s still the risk of infection around the site post-op. Thankfully with the advances in technology, oral surgeons are now learning how to implement antimicrobial coatings to the titanium implants that help keep the bad stuff out and keep your implants going strong after your operation. When you’re going to an oral surgeon in your area for new dental implants that fit well, you’ll want to add antimicrobial coatings to your list of things to discuss prior to your procedure—here’s why.
It Helps Stave Off Post-Op Infections
The best reason to ask about adding an antimicrobial coating when getting a tooth replacement is that it will help greatly prevent one of the biggest things you want to watch out for after your procedure: peri-implantitis. Peri-implantitis sets in when the soft tissue surrounding your newly-placed titanium tooth implant starts to break down due to infection. If left untreated, it can lead to implant failure, which is kind of the exact opposite of what you want to happen when you just went through all the steps to get an implant. It’s treated by giving the affected area a thorough, deep clean and following up treatment with antimicrobial therapy.
Having that antimicrobial coating on your basically perfect tooth implant right off the bat helps minimize the risk of peri-implantitis and any other infection settling in as the currently vulnerable area surrounding the implant heals.
They’re Simple and Effective
Implant coatings to help ward off bacteria are simple in concept and have been proven time and again to almost completely negate the chance of bacteria adhering on the implant surface. Well-made dental implants aren’t an oral surgery that doesn’t break the bank. Antimicrobial coatings can honestly be seen as securing the investment in your new, titanium chomper. Think about it like fluoride at your yearly teeth cleanings—it’s an extra charge, but it helps prevent tooth decay. You’re setting yourself up for success down the line so that you don’t end up owing a fortune when replacing an infected implant. Not to mention, any sort of tooth infection is downright one of the most uncomfortable things to endure. Getting that extra antimicrobial coating is one of the easiest ways to invest in your smile for years to come.
As you’re discussing your dental implant with your oral specialist, be sure to ask about antimicrobial coatings—you’ll be glad you did.
