Researchers at McGill University in Montreal have been looking into the way that existing bone accepts dental implants. Implants are placed into the jawbone, actually fusing to the bone to create a strong base, resulting in a replacement tooth that feels and looks natural.
The first part of the study found that beta blockers, drugs which many people take to control hypertension, increase the success rate of dental implants. These results confirm previous reports that beta blockers increase bone formation. If you are currently taking these drugs, it is nice to know that it positively affects dental implant success rate.
On the other hand, heartburn treatment, over-the-counter medication taken by millions, is a medication that can negatively impact your healing. McGill professor Faleh Tamimi, states, “Scientists already knew that drugs for heartburn reduce calcium absorption in bones and generally increase the risk of bone fractures.” Based upon this knowledge, they wanted to look at how heartburn medications affected implants and bone healing. They found higher rates of failure among those who were using these medications.
Further research is necessary to determine dosages or time periods that people should take or avoid these medications. Taking drugs to help with medical problems is part of modern day life today, and as doctors, we know it is important to be aware of current research and how drug interactions can affect our patients.