What To Know Before Getting Dental Implants? Discover the Pros & Cons

Dental Implant Pros

They are comfortable and secure

Dental implants are a popular option for tooth replacement because they are comfortable and secure. Unlike dentures, which can slip and cause discomfort, implants are permanently fixed because they are anchored to the jawbone. This means you can eat and speak without worry. Furthermore, a dental implant is strong and durable, so you don’t have to worry about breaking it.

They prevent bone loss

One of the most significant benefits of a dental implant is that it helps to prevent bone loss. When a tooth is lost, the bone that supports that tooth begins to deteriorate. This can eventually lead to a change in the shape of the face and can cause the teeth to become loose. 

Dental implants help to prevent this by providing a new, artificial root for the tooth that stimulates the bone in the same way as a natural tooth root does. Therefore, implants contribute to oral health by stimulating the generation of new cells in the jawbone.

They are a long-term solution

Dental implants are a long-term solution for missing teeth. They are placed in the jawbone to support a dental prosthesis, such as a crown, bridge, or denture. Implants are made of titanium, a biocompatible metal renowned for its strength and durability—and readily accepted by the body. Additionally, unlike natural teeth, they do not decay. 

However, this does not mean you can neglect them. With good care, a dental implant can last decades, if not a lifetime.

They are easy to care for

Dental implants are easy to maintain and do not need any special care and attention. You can brush and floss them just like natural teeth as part of your twice-daily teeth cleaning routine. Just be sure to supplement this with regular visits to the dentist for check-ups as often as recommended.

They look, act and feel just like natural teeth

Most people cannot tell you have a dental implant as their appearance is very natural. They provide an excellent cosmetic result that can be colour-matched to your other teeth, ensuring your smile remains as beautiful as ever.

Dental implants allow you to eat whatever foods you like without fear of them becoming loose. They blend so seamlessly with your other teeth that you may forget you even have an implant! Click here to get more information.

But, what to know before getting dental implants—the disadvantages!

Dental Implant Cons

Not everyone is suitable

Dental implants are an excellent solution for many missing teeth, but they are not suitable for everyone. Several factors must be considered before deciding if implants are the right solution for you, but getting a free consultation at your local dental clinic is crucial to finding out more.

• You need to have enough bone to support the implant. You may need a bone graft if you do not have enough bone.
• You must have healthy gums and teeth. If you have active periodontal disease or tooth decay, you must have them treated before getting dental implants. 
• You will need to be willing to commit to taking care of your implants. This means regular brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist for regular check-ups. If you are not ready to commit to taking care of your implants, they are not likely to be successful.
• Smokers are generally not good candidates for implants. Smoking increases the risk of dental implant failure as smokers are more likely to develop infections around their implants. Additionally, the healing process after implant surgery is often slower for smokers. So, if you’re a smoker, you may want to quit if you want dental implants.
• Chronic diseases can significantly impact a person’s ability to get dental implants. Diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer can all adversely affect the success of implants. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional beforehand to ensure that the procedure is right for you.

It is a multi-stage procedure

The procedure for dental implants is not a quick fix and involves three stages taking place over at least 4 months, but in some cases, up to a year. So, you must be patient. The stages include:

• Planning and consultation
• Dental implant surgery
• Attachment of artificial tooth

What to know before getting dental implants?

If you’re ready to learn more about dental implants, get in touch with a dentist offering free consultation appointments. Call us on (02) 9158 6334 today.

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

References

Colgate: Bone resorption: why it happens and what to do next
https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/mouth-and-teeth-anatomy/bone-resorption-why-it-happens-and-what-to-do-next

Healthline: What you need to know about a dental bone graft
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-bone-graft#:~:text=A%20dental%20bone%20graft%20is,synthetic%20bone%20material%20is%20used.

Mayo Clinic: Periodontitis
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/periodontitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354473