The use of dental implants is currently one of the hottest topics in dentistry. Certainly, the field of dental implants has undergone a revolution. If you are thinking about getting dental implants to replace missing teeth, you need to be informed. Before scheduling surgery, your dentist carefully weighs the benefits and drawbacks of dental implants.
The best long-term method for replacing missing teeth is dental implants, according to a growing body of research. Both benefits and drawbacks can be associated with surgery, though.
Table of Contents
Pros of Dental Implants
They Look and Feel Like Natural Teeth
The appearance of dental implants is similar to natural teeth. The difference between your replacement tooth and your natural teeth won’t even be noticeable once your implant has been fitted. Additionally, implants will feel the same as your natural teeth. The implants will feel just as sturdy as your natural teeth because they are anchored to your jaw.
You Can Eat and Chew With Ease
When eating and chewing, implants will feel exactly like your natural teeth, unlike dentures. You can eat whatever you want after the dental implant procedure is finished! You can eat and drink without worrying whether you prefer chewy foods, crunchy snacks, or hot or cold beverages; just be careful not to consume too many sugary treats.
Dental Implants Can Last a Lifetime
An effective method of replacing missing teeth is with implants. If you take care of the implants, they can last a lifetime with only the crowns needing replacement every 10 to 15 years.
They’re Easy to Take Care Of
With daily brushing and flossing, routine dental exams, and a nutritious diet, you should take care of your implants just as you would your natural teeth.
They Prevent Bone Loss
Like your natural teeth, dental implants are anchored into your jaw. Dental implants preserve the strength of your jaw bone and prevent bone loss because the implant’s screw thread functions as a natural tooth’s root.
Implant Dentistry is Cost-Effective
Although dental implants aren’t the most affordable option for replacing missing teeth, they are very cost-effective as a long-term, even permanent, solution.
Once your implants have been fitted, you won’t have to pay for them again, at least not for a very long time.
For many years of comfort and confidence, there is only one upfront cost. You’ll quickly forget that you ever had a missing tooth.
Cons of Dental Implants
You Have to Meet a Set of Requirements
You must first satisfy a number of requirements before undergoing dental implant surgery. Since the procedure entails securing the implant to your jaw bone, if you’ve lost a lot of bone as a result of tooth loss, the dental implant may not be successful. Furthermore, for your jaw bone to fully heal, you must be in good health.
The Cost of the Procedure
Dental implants are the best long-term solution for tooth loss, but they are not always the most economical. For the comfort, confidence, and natural feel they provide you with, dental implants are, however, well worth the cost.
The Procedure Can Be Lengthy
It may take several months to complete dental implants, which is not a quick fix. An already-damaged tooth needs to be removed before being replaced. After that, in order to place the implant anchor, your dentist must first prepare the tooth site. Several months will pass after the anchor has been installed while it heals and the surrounding bone grows. Placing the artificial tooth is the last step of the process.
Dental Implants Can Fail
Most patients won’t have any problems because the failure rate for dental implants is the lowest it’s ever been. Although only 5-10% of patients will have dental implant failure, patients should be aware of the possibility.
Failure can be brought on by gum disease, a lack of jawbone, or other illnesses like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, but it can also be brought on by poor dental hygiene or smoking.
During your initial consultation, your dentist will determine whether implants are the best choice for you in order to reduce the chance of implant failure. In the event that an implant does not work, it can be removed, and you can try again in three months.
Unsuitable for Some Patients
Although dental implants are the best option for restoring your smile, some patients are not candidates. Patients with autoimmune diseases, diabetes, leukemia, and some types of blood disorders have a lower chance of successful implantation because their bodies mistake the implant post for a foreign object and reject it.,/
Patients who have active gum disease, low jawbone density, or both will require treatment prior to implant placement. Flap surgery, a sinus lift, and bone grafts can all help get your mouth ready for implantation. However, the cost and length of treatment are increased by these procedures.
Are Dental Implants Right for Me?
Whether dental implants are right for you depends on your personal preferences. Your dentist will make sure you are aware of all your tooth replacement options so you can make the best choice. Alternatives to dental implants include:
• Dental bridges are prosthetic teeth or teeth that can be used to fill gaps in your smile. Depending on where they are placed in the mouth, crowns or clasps are used to secure the bridge to the neighboring teeth.
• Dentures are removable false teeth that can be removed to replace one tooth, several teeth, or all of your upper or lower teeth. Dentures are custom fitted by a dentist and should be cleaned every day.
During your initial implant consultation, you can learn everything there is to know about dental implants and other tooth replacement procedures.
Summary: A Fantastic Option
As you can see, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. For those who are missing teeth, dental implants have been demonstrated to be a fantastic option. Dental implants are a fantastic way to achieve our constant goal of making our patients feel and look fantastic.
