Are Dental Implants Right for You? Pros, Cons, and What to Expect

If you’ve lost a tooth or two, you’re in good company. Estimates reveal that around 178 million Americans are missing at least one tooth and 40 million have lost all of their teeth. Fortunately, missing teeth can be replaced with dental implants, the closest alternative to natural teeth that dentistry offers.

This article explores the pros and cons of dental implants to help you make an informed decision. Although of course,  you should always consult with your dentist.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are small titanium or zirconia posts that are placed into the jawbone to provide a stable base to attach crowns, bridges, or dentures. Unlike other forms of tooth replacement, they fuse with the surrounding bone to become a permanent fixture in the mouth.

So, let’s take a look at some of the advantages you can enjoy with dental implants.

Benefits of Dental Implants

#1 Natural look and feel

Dental implants are designed to mimic natural teeth and they do so perfectly. Because they fit into the jawbone as opposed to resting on the bony ridge of the jaw, they look natural and stay in place when you’re eating, talking, and smiling. Topped with an exquisite crown matched to your surrounding teeth, no one will be able to tell the difference.

#2 Durability

With care, a dental implant itself can last a lifetime, although about 50-80% of crowns may need replacing within 15-20 years. Studies show that dental implants have a success rate of around 97.5% at 10 years although many last far longer.  The key to longevity is consistent diligent oral care and regular dental checkups.

#3 Prevents bone loss

When a tooth is lost, the bone holding it in place is resorbed by the body because of disuse. This resorption can cause the facial structures to sag giving a hollow look that can make you look older than your years. Because a dental implant acts as an artificial tooth root, it continues to stimulate the bone, keeping it intact, maintaining facial contours and ensuring the long-term health of surrounding teeth.

#4 Protects the bite

When a tooth is lost it causes the adjacent teeth to shift in an attempt to close the gap. This can lead to misalignment of the bite which, in turn, can create problems like chips, uneven wear, cracks, pain when chewing and joint issues. A dental implant fills the gap, stops other teeth from moving, and keeps the bite stable.

#5 Improves oral health

A gap in the smile caused by a missing tooth traps food particles and attracts bacteria. This raises your risk for new cavities and decay in the adjacent teeth. By permanently filling the space with an implant it eliminates areas where debris can hide and bacteria can grow more rapidly, making it easier to clean and floss your teeth and maintain a good level of oral hygiene.

#6 Easy to maintain

Because implants act like real teeth all it takes to care for them is daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups. No nasty adhesives or soaking required!

The Drawbacks of Dental Implants

While implants offer some amazing benefits, it’s important to consider their downsides.

#1 Cost

Dental implants are a significant investment costing an average of  $3,000 and $4,500 each from start to finish. However, when you weigh up the durability and benefits of implants and consider that bridges and dentures need replacing every so often, in the long term implants can be cost-effective.

#2 Surgery is required

Getting a dental implant means undergoing surgery which carries potential risks like nerve damage, sinus problems and infection. Although these complications are rare, to minimize risks be sure to choose an experienced implant dentist.

#3 Healing time

Following surgery, it can take 3 to 6 months for the implant to fuse with the bone in a process known as osseointegration. The wait can be frustrating and requires patience and adherence to aftercare guidelines. However, most patients say it’s worth it.

#4 Not suitable for everyone

Aside from being unable to undergo surgery, other conditions that could prevent a person from getting a dental implant include:

• active gum disease
• insufficient jawbone density,
• bruxism
• certain pre-existing medical conditions like diabetes, autoimmune disease and rheumatoid arthritis
• smoking

although every case is treated on its individual merits.

What to expect during the implant procedure

Here is a brief step-by-step guide:

1. Initial consultation – Involves dental exam, various X-rays and scans and a review of your medical history to determine if you are a suitable candidate.
2. Preparatory work (if needed) – This could be gum disease treatment or bone grafting.
3. Implant placement – Surgery to place the implant into the jawbone and performed under a local anesthetic, with sedation if requested.
4. Healing period - Osseointegration, where the implant fuses with the jawbone, takes several months. During this time, you’ll follow a soft-food diet and maintain excellent oral hygiene.
5. Placement of abutment and crown – After the implant has successfully fused with the jawbone, a small connector piece called an abutment is secured to it. A custom-made crown designed to match the shape, color and size of your existing teeth is attached to blend seamlessly into your smile.

Are dental implants right for you?

Dental implants are a fantastic solution for many people, but they’re not a one-size-fits-all option. You may be a good candidate for dental implants if:

• You are missing one or more teeth
• Your jawbone is healthy, or you’re prepared to undergo bone grafting
• You’re committed to maintaining good oral hygiene
• You’re a non-smoker or prepared to give up the habit for several months, or for good.

On the other hand, if you have untreated health conditions or are looking for a faster, cheaper solution to tooth loss, your dentist might recommend alternatives like dentures or bridges.

Want to know more?

Are you considering dental implants and want to know if they’re right for you? Why not schedule a free implant consultation where we can answer your questions, assess your suitability and recommend your best treatment options