Are you considering dental implants to replace your missing teeth? Today, our dentists at Harbourside Dental in North Sydney provide a detailed overview of the pros and cons of this popular procedure.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are a long-term solution for replacing missing teeth. They involve a small titanium rod implanted in the jaw bone, acting as an artificial tooth root. The use of titanium allows the implant to bond with the bone, ensuring stability and security.
To complete the implant, a dental crown is placed on top, resembling a natural tooth. In combination, the implant and crown closely resemble and function like a natural tooth.
What are the advantages of having dental implants?
Dental implants come with various benefits, such as:
Versatility
Dental implants are versatile and can replace one tooth, several teeth, or all the teeth in your upper or lower jaw. They can be combined with other treatments like bridges or dentures.
The number of implants you'll need depends on your unique situation and jaw bone density. Dental implants are popular because they offer various options that can cater to different patients' needs.
Long Lasting
To ensure your dental implant lasts a lifetime, it's important to take good care of it. This involves maintaining a proper at-home oral care routine and scheduling regular cleanings and oral exams at your dental office.
Keep in mind that factors such as nutrition, genetics, and the development of dental diseases can also affect how long your dental implant will last.
Natural Look & Feel
Your dental implant, along with a bridge or crown, will resemble and work much the same as a real tooth. In fact, it will be difficult for others to tell that you have artificial teeth, and you can continue eating, speaking, and living normally without discomfort.
The implant itself doesn't have nerves, so you won't feel any sensations from the dental implant itself. Any sensations you do experience will come from the surrounding soft tissue. Once your implant has healed and you've had an opportunity to become accustomed to it, you'll probably notice little to no difference between your implant and your natural teeth.
Easy to Care For
Just like your natural teeth, dental implants require the same care as bridges, crowns, or other restorations. To keep them in good condition, you should brush and floss them diligently, and make sure your dentist checks them during your regular exams.
What are the potential disadvantages of dental implants?
Depending on the specifics of your smile needs, dental implants might not be a suitable tooth replacement option for you. Take a look at these factors regarding dental implants that could be helpful for your decision-making process:
Lengthy Process
Dental implants appear and feel more natural compared to dental bridges. However, it's important to note that the process of getting dental implants is longer and more involved. The duration of the entire procedure can vary between 2 to 9 months, depending on your treatment plan and individual circumstances.
Cost
The cost of dental implants can differ based on insurance coverage and your specific oral health needs. Some insurance companies provide coverage for a portion of the cost, some may cover the entire cost, and others provide no coverage for dental implants. To know if your insurance plan will cover your treatment, it's best to contact your insurance provider.
Additional Procedures
It is crucial to have sufficient jaw bone density in order to ensure successful dental implant treatment. If your jaw bone lacks density, you may still qualify for the procedure, but your treatment will likely involve the additional step of bone grafting. This involves transplanting bone to your jaw in order to provide support for the implant. However, please note that this would extend the process and make it more invasive.
How do I know whether dental implants or other options are right for me?
When considering tooth replacements such as dental implants, bridges, and other restorations, the choice that suits you depends on your oral health needs, budget, and various factors. It's important to consult your dentist to determine the most suitable tooth replacement option for your specific situation.