Your Meteghan SureSmile Provider
If you're considering dental implants to replace your missing teeth, you may be wondering what the pros and cons are of this tooth replacement option. Our Meteghan dentists explain what they are, and the advantages and disadvantages of this common procedure.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are a permanent solution to replacing missing teeth. Held in place with a tiny titanium rod implanted into the patient’s jaw bone, the implant serves as the root of the artificial tooth.
Titanium is used because this type of metal can bond with bone. Titanium implants are very stable, secure tooth replacements. We then cap the dental implant with a dental crown, which looks like a natural tooth.
Together, the implant and the cap provide the look and function of a natural tooth.
What are the advantages of having dental implants?
For many people, dental implants are an ideal tooth replacement option offering a number of advantages, including:
Versatility
Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or all teeth in the upper or lower jaw. We can combine implants with other treatment options such as a bridge or denture.
Your specific case and requirements, in addition to the density of your jaw bone, will determine the number of actual implants you need/can get. Dental implants are a popular option for many patients as they have many potential configurations.
Longevity
Provided you properly care for your dental implant, it can last a lifetime. A proper at-home oral care routine is a must, as are regular visits to your dental office for cleanings and exams.
Factors such as nutrition, genetics or the development of dental diseases can also play a role in the longevity of your dental implant.
Natural Look and Feel
As mentioned above, your dental implant, paired with a bridge or crown, will look and function just like your natural tooth.
No one should be able to tell that you have artificial teeth, and you will be able to eat, speak and function as you did before while enjoying a good quality of life. Since there are no nerves in a dental implant, you will not feel sensations.
Instead, any feelings you experience related to your dental implant will actually come from the soft tissue around the implant. After your implant has healed and you’ve gotten used to it, you most likely will notice very little difference between your implant and your natural teeth.
Easy to Care For
Similar to bridges, crowns or other restorations, you can care for your dental implants jus like your natural teeth. They’ll need thorough brushing and flossing, and your dentist will need to check them during your regular exams.
What are the potential disadvantages of dental implants?
Depending on your unique oral health needs, dental implants may not be a suitable tooth replacement option for you. Below are some important aspects of dental implants you may want to consider:
The Process Can Be Lengthy
While dental implants may look and feel somewhat more natural than dental bridges, the dental implant process is lengthier, and more invasive than other options.
Depending on your treatment plan and your specific needs, the entire dental implant procedure can take 9 months or longer to complete.
Dental Implants Can Be More Expensive Than Other Options
Depending on your insurance coverage and your specific dental issue, the cost of dental implants can vary. While some insurance companies pay part of the cost, others may cover the entire cost of your implants and still others may not pay for any part of it.
Check with your insurance provider to learn whether your insurance plan will cover your treatment.
Additional Procedures May Be Required
In addition to the items above, you must have enough density in your jaw bone for a dental implant treatment to be a success. If your jawbone is thin or weak, you may still be a candidate for the procedure but would likely require a bone graft to strengthen your jaw in order to support the implant. This would make the implant process longer and more invasive.
How do I know whether dental implants or other options are right for me?
While dental implants, bridges and other restorations all have their benefits, the right choice for you will depend on your oral health needs, budget and other factors.
Your dentist will work with you to decide on the best tooth replacement option to meet your needs, and answer all of your questions at each step along the way.