The popularity of dental implants has tremendously increased especially among individuals looking to replace lost Dentals. You need to go for a professional like St Albans dentist. Women and men pondering about dental implants, here are the advantages and disadvantages to assist you in making your decision.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant replaces the root of a tooth, typically made of titanium. It’s also a tooth bridge that can be attached to the jaw bone through surgery. With time, the implant integrates into the bone and enables strong support for a prosthetic tooth.
Pros of Dental Implants
1. Natural Look and Feel
- Implants replace the lost tooth more satisfactorily than any other solution since they are designed to resemble your natural teeth and also function in the same way. Once integrated with the bone after several months, they become permanent and non-removable.
- Due to its artificial appearance, no one notices the implant and therefore, all together it boosts self-esteem and chances to face the world.
2. Long-lasting Solution
- With the right maintenance, dental implants are strong and can last a person’s lifetime. Unlike dentures which sometimes have to be altered or replaced, implants are made to last their whole life and make a one-off investment.
- This is particularly appealing to many patients since it implies that they will not need to replace them frequently and will not need to go to the clinic frequently.
3. Improved Oral Health
- When you have a dental implant, the teeth beside it do not need to be altered as is the case with dental bridges which require preparing the adjacent teeth in most cases.
- They also assist with jawbone stimulation and maintenance so patients are at a lower risk of losing bone tissue that is prevalent with lack of teeth.
4. Better Functionality
- Dental implants allow full chewing ability, so you can eat almost anything without pain or worry.
- Unlike removable dentures that can slip and hinder chewing ability, implants are fixed in place and allow you to speak and eat without concerns.
5. Easy Maintenance
- Taking care of dental implants is as easy as taking care of natural teeth. All it takes to maintain their right condition is routine brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist.
- They will not need any particular cleaning products, and will not need to be taken out making them a great choice for lots of people.
Cons of Dental Implants
1. Cost
- According to most patients, the cost of dental implants is one of the key intersection points during the treatment. Implants tend to be much costlier in initial costs relative to cheaper alternatives like bridges or dentures.
- Though such implants can last over a lifetime, the cost barrier becomes a big concern for some patients especially in those scenarios, their insurer does not provide any coverage.
2. Surgical Procedure Required
- As this procedure is surgical, it comes with some associated risks. Pain, infection, nerve damage, and sinus problems (especially with upper jaw implants) are some complications that may occur.
- Moreover, the operations may demand numerous appointments as well as resting time that may not be pleasant for certain patients.
3. Time Commitment
- The placement of dental implants requires time and patience. Usually, several months are required for proper fusion of the implant with the bone after it has been inserted before a crown can be placed.
- This timeframe can be frustrating for patients looking for some urgent relief for their edentulous areas
4. Not Suitable for Everyone
- In rare cases, some factors like jaw bone density might make dental procedures such as dental implants a little more difficult. If there isn’t sufficient bone tissue, a bone graft might be useful in this case, which increases the cost and the invasiveness of the procedure.
- For some patients such as those who have uncontrolled diabetes or are smokers, dental implants might not be the best option due to the higher risk of complications.
Are Dental Implants Worth It?
The decision of getting dental implants is a personal one that depends on various factors including the budget, individual needs and health. For numerous patients, dental implants do indeed provide a good investment because they have a realistic appearance, last for a long period of time, and are convenient.
However, it is important to evaluate the positive aspects and those which are negative especially in terms of the financial resources and effort to be put in.
