Depression Drugs (SSRIs) Linked to Dental Implant Failure

The Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI) drugs are known to be the most widely used for depression. In a new study by the International and American Associations for Dental Research it has shown that SSRIs can reduce bone formation and lead to an increased risk of bone fracture. The study looked specifically at osseointegration implants and the risk of failures.

The study was conducted on patients with dental implants from January 2007 to January 2013. A total of 916 dental implants in 490 patients were explored with 94 implants on 51 patients using SSRIs. The specific data analysis used generalized estimation equations models and Kaplain-Meier analysis. After 3 to 67 months of follow-up, 38 dental implants failed and 784 were successful in those without SSRIs and 10 dental implants failed an 84 were successful in SSRI users.

When compared with those who did not use SSRIs, those who did use SSRIs had an increased risk of dental implant failure (HR=2.31 P <0.01). The failure rates for dental implants were 4.6% for those who did not use SSRIs and 10.6% for those who did use SSRIs. In addition, the study showed that smoking habits, small implant diameters (<=4mm), and bone augmentation all were statistically significantly associated with a higher risk of implant failure.

There was an issue with the study in that drug compliance dose and treatment period could not be obtained for all of the patients. Even so, the treatment of SSRIs is associated with an increased failure risk of dental implants. Hence, it is important for anyone who has dental implants to understand the implications that SSRI’s can have when being treated for depression. Other medications besides SSRIs can be used to treat depression.

Furthermore, than are other ways to treat depression besides prescription medication. You could try to eat healthier, get more exercise, and get more sleep. If you suffer from a lot of negative thoughts and negative self talk you may benefit from working with a mental health counselor and learning more how they can help. You can also try supplements to help with depression such as  St John’s-wort.

Source: X. Wu and et al. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors and the Risk of Osseointegrated Implant Failure: A Cohort Study. Journal of Dental Research, 2014.

1 thought on “Depression Drugs (SSRIs) Linked to Dental Implant Failure”

  1. Before getting something like dental implants put in, it’s important to consider all the risk factors. The solution is to research all the options thoroughly before deciding on your approach. Be sure to tell your dentist about any medications you’re on before undergoing a dental procedure, just to be safe.

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