Titanium plates can cause bone demineralization through stress shielding but I wouldn't think degradation. They don't osseointegrate as well as bone so eventually they may dislodge but I wouldn't think of resorption. They can become infected at any time, same issues with TJR and plates. They do break down slowly and you find traces around the body but it's thought to be harmless. I'd guess you'd probably feel them with pressure and temperature changes. Overall I'd say it's a good material to have in your body but bone grafts would be preferable if possible. They tend not to take well in that location unfortunately.