Pros and Cons of Dental Implants — Here’s What You Should Know

It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of dental implants before getting dental implant surgery. While an implant is the most natural treatment option to replace a missing tooth, it’s not for everyone. We have compiled some of the advantages and disadvantages of implants to help you make an informed decision.

Pros of Dental Implants

While there are many treatment options for teeth replacement, several factors make dental implants stand out above the rest. Let’s take a closer look at the pros: 

Dental implants are the next best thing to natural teeth

Dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone. As a result, patients can chew, talk and smile as they usually would, without worrying about slippage. They are also supported with bone, providing a seamless blend for a natural smile. The result is an artificial tooth replacement that looks, feels, and functions like natural teeth.

Preserves the jawbone and facial contours

When a tooth is lost, the bone will progressively remodel and deteriorate. But with a dental implant, this is prevented as the bone cells are stimulated to support the implant. The implant acts as a tooth root, and the bone will regenerate around it, preserving its health and keeping it intact. And because the bones are well-supported, the natural contours of the face are maintained for a youthful appearance.

Low maintenance, easy to clean

A dental implant is a permanently fixed treatment. So, there is no need to worry about removing it for cleaning and adding an extra step to an oral hygiene routine. Simply treat the implant as a natural tooth with twice-daily brushing and flossing. And don’t forget to visit the dentist every six months for regular hygiene care and up-keep of the dental implant.

A dental implant outlasts other options

Aside from dental implants, other alternatives to tooth loss are a dental bridge or dentures. But, these deteriorate with wear and tear and will need eventual replacement. Patients can have a long-lasting, permanent smile with meticulously planned dental implant surgery. Find out which of these options is most appropriate by scheduling a free dental consultation near you.

Aside from the pros, it’s essential to know the cons of getting a dental implant. While the pros outweigh these, keeping them in mind can determine if the treatment is worth it for you. Some disadvantages to be aware of include:

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Cons of Dental Implants

Not everyone is a candidate

Before dental implant surgery, a dentist must assess both oral and general health. Generally, those with compromised conditions may not be considered a good candidate because of possible dental implant failure. This includes patients with uncontrolled systemic diseases or bone disorders and those who regularly smoke. To know if you are suitable for implants, visit a dentist that offers a free consultation for a comprehensive examination.

Getting a dental implant takes time

It will take roughly 4 to 6 months for the implants to integrate with the surrounding bone tissue. Integration is a vital step in the treatment that ensures a stable foundation for the dental crown, which will be attached later to complete the restoration. Otherwise, there is a risk of treatment failure.

There are risks

While implant dentistry boasts a high success rate, there are also chances for it to fail. Some of the complications you may encounter after the dental implant surgery are:

• Implant “reject”
• Infection
• Gum disease
• Nerve injury

Dental implants are expensive

The steep cost is perhaps the most significant disadvantage of implants and the main reason many patients shy away from the treatment.

If this is your biggest concern, our dentists can recommend other cost-effective alternatives such as bridges and dentures.

But it is always best to consult a dentist first to know the most suitable treatment.

Are Dental Implants Worth It?

Knowing the pros and cons of dental implants puts patients in a better position to decide if they are the most suitable treatment for their smile. But as a short answer, implants are undoubtedly worth it. The pros outweigh the cons in many ways and can improve the quality of life.

Discover High-Quality Implant Dentistry

Now that you have a better understanding of the pros and cons of dental implants, the next step is to get a free consultation at your local dental clinic. At Beyond 32 Dental, we have experienced dentists who will help with your decision. 

Call us today on (02) 9158 6334 to schedule your initial dental exam and kickstart your dental implant journey,

Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

References

PubMed – Bone loss and teeth
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15850992/

PubMed – The interplay between bone healing and remodelling around dental implants
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7063044/

PubMed – Dental implants and diabetes mellitus—a systematic review
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5005734/

PubMed – Smoking and dental implants: A systematic review and meta-analysis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25778741/

PubMed – A review of dental implants and infection
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19329223/

PubMed – Inferior Alveolar Nerve Injuries Following Implant Placement – Importance of Early Diagnosis and Treatment: a Systematic Review
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4306320/