The Pros and Cons of Dental Implants
If you have missing teeth, you have probably been informed about the potential issues
that can arise. Missing teeth not only affect your appearance, they also put
your gums and other teeth at risk for bacterial infection. In the past, this was typically
treated by using bridges or dentures, which were prone to moving around in the mouth.
Today, dental implants have revolutionized the way that we approach tooth loss and
have made it a much less serious problem.
That said, there are still some disadvantages to consider when thinking about dental
implants. Let’s look at some of the pros and cons associated with them.
Pro: Dental implants look and feel completely natural
Dental implants are the most comfortable and realistic option available today. Once they
are fitted, you can hardly tell the difference between the replacement teeth and your real
teeth. The implant is anchored tightly to the jaw to ensure that there won’t be any issues
of slippage. You will be able to smile, drink beverages, and eat the foods you want with
total confidence.
Con: Surgery is required
It might come as no surprise that the reason dental implants resemble teeth so well is
because of the surgery involved. First, local anesthesia is administered. Then, a drill is
used to dig down into the jawbone, anchoring the implant below the gum line (and
replacing the root). If you are put off by the idea of surgery, although safe and fast, you
should speak with your dentist.
Pro: They last a long time
Unlike dentures and other replacement options, dental implants don’t require nearly as
much restoration or upkeep. Thus, you can save yourself a lot of time and discomfort by
taking this route, giving yourself greater peace of mind. The materials used in implants
(usually ceramic or titanium) are strong and bio-compatible, so the likelihood of damage
or allergic reactions is greatly reduced.
Con: Lengthy recovery period
While it is true that dental implants can last for years, their convenience and long-term
durability comes with an initial physical cost. After undergoing the procedure, the
recovery period typically takes several months. Pain medication is often recommended,
as the mouth tends to be sore. A change in diet and quitting smoking (if applicable) are
also prescribed during this healing period.
Pro: Dental Implants prevent bone loss
The roots of our teeth promote the strengthening of the jaw bone. Losing a tooth can
cause the bone in the surrounding area to break down and disintegrate. This process is
known as periodontitis.
Dental implants are anchored directly to the jaw, just like a real tooth. The screw thread
of the implant works just like the root of a real tooth. Thus, the jaw bone remains strong
and bone loss is prevented.
Con: Cost
While the convenience and longevity of dental implants make them a top choice for
those seeking to replace missing teeth, it is worth mentioning that it is a more expensive
option. Like any other dental procedure, getting dental implants is costly, and the financial impact should be taken into account.
What is the takeaway?
Dental implants are a versatile and long-lasting solution for tooth loss but come with
some drawbacks you should be aware of before embarking on your procedure journey.
Issues such as cost and recovery time should be factored into your final decision.
Discuss your options with your dentist today to discover if dental implants may be ideal for you.
