Dental implants are considered to be one of the best ways to replace the loss of a tooth. But many people wonder if they are right for them. Losing a tooth might interfere with your everyday activities like eating, talking, or even smiling. It can have a great impact on your mood and your confidence as well. It might lead to long-term damage if you do not treat it in time. Therefore, it is important to treat and replace dental issues when they happen.
A dental implant is a way to replace tooth roots with metal, screwlike posts and the missing teeth with artificial teeth. The replaced teeth work and function just like the real ones. It can help to restore your smile and put the discomfort to an end. This article discovers the reasons, risks, preparation, and pros and cons of dental implants.
Reasons for a dental implant
Dental implants are placed in your jawbone through surgery. The titanium present in the implant fuses with your jawbone to serve as the roots for a missing tooth. Many people doubt that the implants might slip from their jawbone, but that is not the case. They won’t slip or cause any bone damage. Moreover, artificial teeth do not decay as your real teeth can.
Here are some of the reasons why a dental implant can be the right choice for you:
- You have one or more missing teeth
- Your jawbone is fully grown
- The oral tissues and oral cavity are healthy
- You do not have any health conditions that can affect bone healing
- Dentures are not an option
- Presence of adequate bone in your body to secure the implants
- You have several months at hand to commit to the process
There are several types of dental implants. Based on your condition, your doctor will see the pros and cons of all on 4 dental implants, endosteal implants, or subperiosteal implants for you.
How to prepare for a dental implant?
The planning phase in any dental implant can involve two or many specialists. These involve:
- Oral Surgeon: A doctor who has a specialization in mouth-related health conditions
- Periodontist: A dentist who designs the artificial teeth
- Prosthodontist: A specialized dentist for treating the support of the teeth including bones and gums
- ENT specialist: For the health of your nose, ear and throat.
Dental implants come in one or more surgical procedures. The pros and cons of getting a dental implant through each method are different. To know what method best suits you, you have to undergo a thorough evaluation before the process finally begins. This might include a:
- Comprehensive Dental Exam:
In a comprehensive dental exam, you will have to get your x-ray done. Your doctor might suggest 3D images. Moreover, you will have to get the models of your teeth and jaw made.
- A look at your medical history
The doctor will then examine your medical conditions if any. He will also consider your medications, prescriptions, or the use of over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Doctors might suggest you take antibiotics before the surgery if you are a heart patient.
- The final root
Finally, if you are eligible for the dental implant, the doctors and dentists will prepare a treatment plan for you. It will be customized to your situation. The plan always takes into account the factors such as the condition of your jawbone, the health of your remaining teeth, and how many teeth you need to replace.
However, implants are a long-term solution, therefore you must weigh the pros and cons on dental implants for yourself.
Pros and cons of dental implants
No procedure fits everyone. Although there are some risks linked to dental implants, they are mild. Here are some pros and cons of tooth implants before going for the procedure:
Pros of dental implants
Dental Implants feel just like your natural teeth
Dental Implants look and feel like your natural teeth. Once you undergo the surgery, you will hardly be able to tell the difference. The replaced tooth is strongly anchored into your jaw, therefore it feels just as stable as your previously existing natural teeth. You can easily talk and eat as you would, normally.
Dental Implants are for long-term
Dental implants are a long-term solution. They usually last a lifetime. Although, you might feel a need to replace the crowns after every 10 to 15 years, if you take good care of them, the need will not arise.
After your surgery, try to stick to a healthy lifestyle, especially if you are an older adult. Your dental hygiene is important. Above all, avoid taking food high in sugar, fizzy drinks, or junk food. Drop smoking and brush your teeth twice a day.
A way to prevent further bone loss
A dental implant strengthens the rest of the teeth of the jaw bone. When one loses a tooth, the rest of the site around the missing tooth can break. This process is termed periodontitis. However, a dental implant can save you. It acts as a real tooth to make your teeth strong and prevent bone loss.
Cons of dental implants
Not everyone is eligible for a dental implant
There is a certain quota of dental implants, but not everyone can get them. The procedure involves anchoring the implant in your jawbone. If you have previously experienced significant bone loss, your dental implant may not be the right choice for you. Also, one must be in good physical health so that the jaw can easily repair.
The procedure requires patience, takes time
If you want something of a quick fix, a dental implant is not a suitable solution for you. Not only will you have to visit your dentist regularly, but it might also take several months to get used to.
Dental implants are not as affordable
Dental implants are not the cheapest way to repair tooth loss. They are good for the long term, but frequent visits to the dentist might cost you a lot along the way.
There are both pros and cons of dental implants. But, if you are a good candidate, they can be the best solution.
