What you Need to Know about Dental Implants: advantages and disadvantages

dental implants advantages and disadvantages

If you have a missing tooth or need a tooth replaced, dental plants are a great way to get a permanent replacement.  If you find dental implants as an appealing option the first step is a visit to a dental professional who is specifically trained in restorative dentistry and oral surgery. The dentist will do an oral examination and address factors that may need to be taken into consideration before undergoing an implant procedure. The main cause of tooth loss is gingivitis also known as gum disease and tooth decay.

Dental implants are not right for everyone and the dentist will evaluate the condition of your jawbone to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. Before deciding to get a dental implant there are certain things you need to know about the procedure and the advantages and disadvantages of dental implants.

If you are a good candidate for an implant procedure implants provide many advantages that dentures or crowns don’t. Advantages include:

  • Improved appearance
  • Clearer speech
  • Convenience
  • Durability
  • Easier eating
  • Improved comfort
  • Improved confidence
  • Improved oral health

Unlike removable dentures, dental implants are fused with the jawbone making them permanent and the implants look and feel like real teeth. Dental implants can help restore confidence and self esteem and with proper care implants can last a lifetime.

Dental implants eliminate many of the problems associated with dentures. There is no need to worry about dental implants slipping within the mouth affecting the clarity of speech or your ability to eat your favorite foods, including corn on the cob that is a common problem with dentures. And the permanence of dental implants eliminates the need for adhesives and the pain associated with ill-fitting dentures or the irritation that dentures may cause.

Dental implants don’t affect surrounding teeth like a bridge and implants allow easier flossing improving your overall oral hygiene.

While dental implants provide many advantages there are also drawbacks too. Disadvantages associated with dental implants include:

  • Cost
  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Nerve damage
  • Pain and swelling
  • Rejection of the implant

Dental implants are expensive and may not be covered by insurance. Check with your insurance carrier to find out if you are covered for implants

Because dental implants are a surgical procedure there are risks associated with them. Surgery can cause pain and swelling as well as a chance of bleeding. Infection is another risk associated with dental implant surgery.

Occasionally the jawbone may not accept the implant. Implant rejection is rare but it is another risk associated with the surgery.

The dentist will evaluate your oral health as well as your medical condition to determine if you have any conditions that may prevent you from getting dental implants. Conditions that may prevent you from being a good candidate for implants include:

  • Alcoholism
  • Cancer
  • Radiation treatments to jaw
  • Severe or uncontrolled gingivitis
  • Smoking
  • Uncontrolled diabetes

If the dentist determines you are a good candidate for the procedure an individualized treatment plan will be developed for you. The dedicated dental professionals at Smiles Dentistry will help you decide if dental implants are right for you. Call 416-588-8004 today to make an appointment for your evaluation.

Share: