Pros and Cons of Dental Implants

Dentists have been placing dental implants for many years. They are a safe, reliable way to replace missing teeth. While dental implants are an excellent alternative for many people, they may not be the best option for everyone.

Dental implants have many benefits, but they also have some drawbacks. This article will explore the pros and cons of dental implants so that you can decide if they are right for you.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a common and effective procedure that replaces missing teeth. They are made of titanium, which is a strong and biocompatible material.

The tooth implant is placed in the jaw bone, and over time it fuses with the bone to create a strong foundation for the dental prosthetic. Once the implant has healed, the prosthetic, which can be a crown, denture, or bridge, is attached to it.

Dental implants are strong and durable, and the replacement tooth functions and feels like natural teeth. It is also easy to care for—you brush and floss them just like you would your regular teeth.

What Are The Advantages Of Dental Implants?

Dental implants have become a popular treatment because of their many benefits. Compared to other options, they are surgically implanted into the jawbone, offering stability. Some of the aesthetic and functional advantages of dental implants include:

• Improved appearance and function:
  Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth. They are also designed to fuse with the bone, providing a level of stability that is incomparable with traditional dental prosthetics.
• Improved speech:
  A significant advantage of implants is that they allow you to speak without the worry that your dental prosthetic will slip or move. This can be helpful for people who have trouble pronouncing words due to missing teeth.
• Improved comfort:
  Unlike poor-fitting dentures that can rub and irritate the gums, implants are secure and stable. This lessens the chances of pain, gum inflammation, sores, infection, and other problems.
• Improved self-esteem:
  Dental implants fill in the gaps and can give you back your smile to help you feel better about yourself. This can be helpful for people who have lost teeth due to injury, disease or any other cause.
• Improved chewing function:
  For people who have trouble eating due to missing teeth, implants allow you to chew your food more efficiently than with traditional dentures.
• Improved oral health:
  Dental implants can help preserve your remaining healthy teeth by evenly distributing the chewing force that would otherwise be too much for them. The empty socket left behind by a missing tooth can accumulate bacterial plaque, leading to gum disease or tooth decay. Implants help to prevent this as well.
• Prevent bone loss:
  By providing stimulation to the bone, dental implants can help to prevent bone loss in the jaw. This keeps the bone from shrinking, which causes the face to sag in patients without teeth.
• They are long-lasting:
  Implants are designed to last many years with proper care. This can be a major advantage over traditional dentures, which have a shorter lifespan and need to be replaced more often.

While implants offer many advantages, there are also some disadvantages that you should be aware of before making a decision.

What Are The Disadvantages Of Dental Implants?

Dental implants may be an excellent tooth replacement option, but as with any treatment, there are also disadvantages to consider, including:

• They require surgery:
  The dental implant procedure requires surgery, which carries some risks and potential complications. These include infection, bleeding, or damage to the neighbouring teeth.

  Some cases may require additional surgical procedures such as bone grafting or bone augmentation, especially if you don’t have enough adequate bone. A bone graft surgery is a more invasive procedure that requires a longer recovery time.

• They may not be right for everyone:
  Dental implants may not be an option for people with certain medical conditions that impair healing, such as diabetes or heart disease, or for those who smoke.
• They are a more expensive option:
  Dental implants are typically more expensive than other tooth replacement options, such as dentures or bridges. The cost may vary depending on several factors, which include the type and number of dental implants.
• The whole process can take several months:
  After your surgical procedure, it can take up to six months for your implants to fuse with your jawbone. This process is called osseointegration, and it is crucial for your implants’ success.

What Are The Different Types Of Dental Implants?

There are three main types of dental implants depending on their placement in the bone:

Endosteal Implants

Endosteal dental implants are the most common type. They are placed into the jawbone and are typically made of titanium or another biocompatible metal. Once the implant has fused with the jawbone, a post is attached to it. The post protrudes from the gums and supports a dental prosthetic, such as a crown, bridge, or denture.

This type of implant is best for patients with a healthy jawbone that can support the implant. However, patients who have lost a significant amount of bone due to tooth loss or injury may not be candidates for this type of implant.

Subperiosteal Implants

Subperiosteal dental implants are placed under the gum but on top of the jawbone. They are typically used for people with weakened jawbones or those who cannot tolerate traditional endosteal dental implants. They can also be considered for those who cannot undergo bone grafting.

Zygomatic Implants

Zygomatic dental implants are placed in the cheekbone rather than the jawbone. They are typically used for people with insufficient bone in their upper jaw to support endosteal dental implants. Zygomatic dental implants can be placed in a single surgery with endosteal dental implants, or they can be placed in a separate surgery.

Are Implants As Strong As Natural Teeth?

Many assume that implants match the strength of natural teeth, but that’s not always the case. It depends on the implant material, the placement of the implant, and how well the implant is cared for.

Generally speaking, dental implants are made from titanium, a very strong and stable metal. They are less likely to break or become damaged. This is because dental implants are designed to fuse with the bone in your jaw, creating a solid foundation.

However, if an implant is not placed properly, it can loosen and eventually fall out. But even if an implant is placed correctly, it must be brushed and flossed, just like natural teeth. If it isn’t, bacteria can build up around the implant and cause dental problems.

So while dental implants can be strong, they’re not necessarily stronger than natural teeth. It’s important to consult with a qualified dental professional to make sure that they are right for you.

What Is The Success Rate Of Dental Implants?

A growing number of Australians are opting for dental implants due to their high success rate.

One study showed that the success rate of dental implants was more than 97%. This means that out of every 100 dental implant patients, 97 of them have had successful implant therapy.

However, as with anything in life, it’s best to manage expectations. When it comes to dental implants, there is still a risk of failure.

Can Dental Implants Fail?

Dental implants, like any other dental procedure, are not without risk. One of the most common complications associated with it is implant failure. This occurs when the implant fails to fuse with the surrounding bone or when the implant becomes faulty over time. While dental implants have a high success rate, they are not perfect.

Some signs of implant failure that you should watch out for include:

• The implant may become loose. This can cause pain and make it difficult to chew.
• The tissue around the implant may become swollen or red, indicating infection.
• You may notice changes in your biting or chewing pattern.
• You may have persistent pain in your jaw or around the implant site.

If you experience any of these signs, you must see your dentist immediately so you can be diagnosed and managed. The earlier these are addressed, the better the chance that your implants can be saved.

Are Dental Implants Painful?

Some people worry that the implant surgery will be painful. The procedure is typically not painful because you will be given anaesthesia. Most people report only mild discomfort during the surgery. However, it is important to note that everyone has different pain thresholds, and some people may find the procedure more painful than others.

The area around the dental implant may be sore for a few days, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. There are a few rare cases in which dental implants fail to fuse properly with the bone, causing pain. This complication is rare and can usually be resolved with additional surgery. Overall, dental implants are a safe and effective way to restore your smile.

How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?

The average cost of a dental implant is $2,600 to $5,600. This cost can vary depending on the type of implant, the number of implants needed, and the location of the dental practice.

In some cases, dental insurance may cover part of the cost of dental implants. However, it is important to check with your insurance provider before scheduling an appointment to determine whether this procedure is covered under your plan.

It is highly recommended that you contact a dental clinic for a more accurate cost. For many people, the cost of dental implants is worth the long-term benefits they provide.

Are Dental Implants Worth It?

Dental implants are considered to be cost-effective for many people. They are a long-term option for missing teeth and can give you back your smile. They are also strong, durable, function and feel like natural teeth.

Dental implants are an excellent investment, and they can last decades or longer with proper care. When you compare the cost of dental implants to the cost of other dental prosthetics, dental implants are often more affordable in the long run. So, if you are considering dental implants, they may be worth it for you.

Final Thoughts

If you are considering dental implants, be sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully. Implants are a big investment, but they offer many advantages over other options.

At Maylands Dental Centre, we can help you make the ideal choice for tooth replacement according to your needs. We offer a variety of dental services, including implant placement surgery, and we would be happy to discuss your options with you. Call us today at (08) 9370 5464 or book an appointment online to get started on improving your smile!