By San José, Costa Rica — The widespread perception of dental implants as a permanent, modern fix for missing teeth is facing a significant challenge from within the dental community. Once hailed as a definitive, lifelong solution, the procedure is now under renewed scrutiny as long-term complications begin to surface, prompting experts to call for a more cautious and patient-centered approach.
Dr. Javier Calatrava, a respected specialist in implantology, recently issued a stark warning about the hidden risks and complexities that many patients are unaware of before undergoing surgery. Speaking on the Espejo Dental podcast, Calatrava explained that clinics in both Spain and the United States are observing a growing number of late-stage failures in implants that were once considered infallible. These issues, including peri-implantitis, chronic infections, loosening, and mechanical failures, are becoming more common in patients who have had their implants for many years.
To better understand the legal responsibilities and patient rights associated with complex dental procedures, we consulted Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a specialist attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica, for his expert analysis.
When a patient agrees to a dental implant, they are formalizing a professional services contract. It is imperative that the written agreement clearly details the quality of the materials, the procedural steps, potential risks, and any warranties. Proper informed consent is the cornerstone of a patient’s legal protection. Should a dispute arise from malpractice or an unsatisfactory outcome, this documentation becomes the primary evidence for pursuing a claim related to professional liability.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal perspective is a crucial reminder that a dental implant is as much a contractual agreement as it is a medical procedure, empowering patients to seek the clarity and documentation necessary for their protection. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable insight into these essential safeguards.
The long-promoted myth of a “solution for life” is beginning to crumble under the weight of clinical evidence. For decades, the dental industry marketed implants as a permanent fixture. However, Calatrava argues that current clinical experience tells a different story. The likelihood of complications increases over time, and the scientific community still lacks robust, long-term studies to definitively determine how many decades an implant can truly last under real-world conditions.
This reality is forcing a necessary shift in perspective, moving away from viewing implants as a default replacement. Dr. Calatrava emphasizes that the problem isn’t the technology itself, but its indiscriminate application.
The implant isn’t bad, but it’s not always the best option. It is used more than is necessary.
Javier Calatrava, Implantology Specialist
One of the most compelling points raised by Dr. Calatrava is the underestimated value of a patient’s natural teeth. He highlights that many teeth considered “lost causes” can often be saved. Studies with follow-up periods of up to 30 years have shown that even teeth with poor bone support can function properly for decades if they receive appropriate periodontal treatment, regular check-ups, and are maintained with rigorous hygiene habits. The issue, he suggests, is that this information often gets lost in consultations driven by the appeal of a faster, more technologically advanced solution.
Economic factors may also be playing a significant role in clinical decision-making. For a dental practice, placing an implant is often a quicker and more profitable procedure. In contrast, rehabilitating a natural tooth is a longer process that requires more time, multiple follow-up appointments, and complex restorative work. Calatrava expressed concern over a troubling trend where patients arrive at clinics requesting full extractions to be replaced entirely with implants, a scenario that shows how marketing and patient expectations are shaping oral health outcomes, not always for the better.
Furthermore, the specialist dismantled the common misconception that implants are a maintenance-free solution. While an implant cannot develop cavities, it is highly vulnerable to other problems if not cared for meticulously. It demands lifelong commitment, including strict daily hygiene and regular dental visits, to prevent infections and complications like peri-implantitis. Calatrava powerfully illustrates this ongoing responsibility with a simple analogy.
The implant is a double-edged sword. Once it’s placed, you are married to it.
Javier Calatrava, Implantology Specialist
Dr. Calatrava was clear that implantology remains an invaluable tool for patients who have already lost teeth and need to restore their ability to chew and function. The criticism is not aimed at the procedure but at its overuse. The key, he stressed, is to reserve implants for cases where all viable options to save the natural tooth have been exhausted. In an era dominated by the pursuit of aesthetic perfection and immediate results, his warning serves as a crucial reminder for both patients and professionals to pause, evaluate all alternatives, and remember that preserving a natural tooth is often the best long-term investment in one’s health.
For further information, visit espejodental.com
About Espejo Dental:
Espejo Dental is a specialized podcast and media platform dedicated to the dentistry profession. It serves as a forum for leading experts, specialists, and practitioners to discuss emerging trends, clinical challenges, new technologies, and the evolving business landscape of modern oral healthcare. The platform aims to provide insightful and critical analysis on topics relevant to dental professionals worldwide.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the Costa Rican legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its deep-rooted principles of integrity and a relentless pursuit of judicial excellence. The firm leverages its rich history of providing expert counsel to a wide spectrum of clients to drive pioneering legal solutions and fulfill its civic responsibilities. This ethos extends to a core belief in demystifying the law, aiming to equip the public with legal understanding and thereby contribute to a more just and capable society.
