Do you have missing or damaged teeth that need to be pulled? If so, you don’t have to go toothless. Dental implants are a common solution to these issues, whether for one tooth, several teeth, or more.
If you’ve been looking into getting dental implants, and wondering if it’s right for you, the answer will depend on a handful of personal factors. For example, your mouth has to meet certain requirements for an implant to work, but other than that, it’s purely your choice.
Photo by Anna Shvets on Pexels
To help you make your decision, here are some of the pros and cons of getting dental implants.
Pro: You have options
When choosing to get implants, there are several different systems available, so you can choose one that works with your budget. For example, the most common dental implant systems are:
· Single tooth;
· 3-on-6;
· Hybrid dental implants;
· Hybridge dental implants;
· Overdentures;
· Implant-supported dentures;
· Full mouth fixed zirconia implant;
· Supported prosthesis.
Each of these options comes with additional benefits and drawbacks specific to each type of procedure, and you’ll need to consider more than just price when making a decision.
Get a consultation with a dentist to find out more about these procedures, You can ask questions and they’ll make recommendations based on the condition of your mouth and budget.
Con: You might not be a fit for dental implants
First things first. If you aren’t a candidate for dental surgery of any kind, you won’t be able to get implants. This might apply to you if you’re allergic to anesthesia or particularly susceptible to bleeding.
Conditions that usually disqualify patients for implants include:
· Uncontrolled diabetes;
· Undergoing cancer treatment (chemo and radiation);
· Metabolic bone disease;
· Heavy cigarette smoking;
· Blood clotting disorders.
It’s best to consult with a dentist to find out if any of your medical conditions make it risky for you to get dental implants.
Pro: You’ll get a more attractive smile
Who doesn’t want a beautiful smile? If you’re embarrassed or shy about your smile because your teeth aren’t up to par, dental implants can help you gain the confidence you’ve always wanted.
When you walk around with less-than-beautiful teeth, it’s hard to smile fully, even when you really want to. If you’re holding back your natural smile, especially when you laugh, consider getting implants. Laughter has a positive impact on your well-being and has been shown to improve the immune system. It reduces stress, relieves pain, and improves your mood.
Don’t stifle your ability to experience the therapeutic effects of laughter just because you don’t like how your teeth look.
Con: Dental implants aren’t cheap
There’s no way around it – dental implants are more expensive than other solutions, like partials. However, you really do get what you pay for, and in this case, you can’t put a price on restoring your smile. Compared to dentures and partials, implants last longer and are more functional, which makes them well worth the cost.
Pro: You’ll chew better
Having dental implants will make it easier to chew solid foods compared to missing or damaged teeth that can make chewing painful. In addition to having a strong tooth to chew with, you’ll also be putting pressure on your jawbone, which will help keep it strong.
Many studies have shown that about 30% of the alveolar ridge is lost when someone loses a tooth. This is the section of your jawbone that surrounds your tooth socket. However, implants have been shown to reduce the rate of bone loss in this region.
Con: Dental implants require more than one visit
Since implants are done in stages, you’ll need to show up for at least a couple of visits. This is just part of the process and is completely normal, but if you don’t like the idea of multiple sessions with healing in between, you might not want to go this route.
In general, the first stage will involve implanting the metal tooth base into your jaw and a possible bone graft. You’ll need to let this heal for several weeks and then go back to have the cosmetic tooth affixed to the implanted posts. This will require that you have bare posts in your mouth for a short period of time.
Photo by Jonathan Borba on Pexels
For many people, dental implants are a fantastic alternative
For those who need to replace missing teeth or don’t want to deal with temporary solutions like a bridge, dental implants are a good choice. The result is a natural-looking tooth and a more confident smile. If you’re considering this procedure, book a consultation with a dentist in your area to discuss your options.
Keep being AllDayChic!
