Depression & Failure of Dental Implants

Depression & Failure of Dental Implants

Dental Implants

Depression is a common ailment that many people suffer with today. There are many means and methods for treating depression, one of those is the prescription of SSRI medication. SSRI stands for selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. The goal of these medications is to increase concentrations of serotonin in the brain.

What does this have to do with dentistry? The International and American Associations for Dental Research have put together a study suggesting a link between SSRI usage and an increased rate of dental implant failure. The study was initiated due to the fact that SSRIs reduce bone formation. For those not on SSRIs, the failure rate was 4.6% versus 10.6% for those who were using SSRIs.

It is important to be careful what medications you take especially when considering invasive medical procedures like dental implants. Always divulge all important aspects of your health and lifestyle to your dental physician before undergoing these procedures.

To discuss dental implants and any other dental services contact Prescott Dentistry today!

Image used under creative commons license – commercial use (12/14/2014) Victor (Flickr)