Advantages and Disadvantages of Dental Implants

Advantages and Disadvantages of Dental Implants

  • Posted: Jul 10, 2016

Dental implants are an appealing option to replace missing teeth or for replacing a damaged tooth. Not all patients are good candidates for dental implants nor is it a solution for all situations. Before considering this procedure, you must review the pros and cons of dental implants to make the best decision for yourself.

What are the Advantages of Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a replacement for missing teeth, when taken care of properly, will last many years. This procedure have been used for the past fifty years; recent advancements in the procedure have made it a relatively common dental procedure.

Pros

  • People experiencing daily pain while eating or speaking may find permanent relief with dental implants.
  • Replace a single tooth without affecting the neighboring teeth
  • Dental implants are a separate artificial tooth and as strong as natural teeth
  • They will last for many years
  • They can be used to replace the teeth in one jaw with a procedure called “All on Four.”

Dental implants are a good solution for missing teeth but the procedure is not a good fit for everyone or every dental situation. Talk to your dentist to find out if you are a good candidate for a dental implant procedure.

What are the Disadvantages of Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a natural looking replacement for teeth but it is an expensive procedure that is not always covered by insurance. A single implant could cost approximately twice as much as a fixed bridge does to replace the tooth.

Cons

Complications are rare but the implant procedure does pose risks that you need to be aware of. Some of the potential risks are:

  • pain and swelling
  • bleeding due to surgery
  • damage to nerves in surrounding muscles or sinus cavity
  • infection
  • jawbone rejection of implant
  • implants require multiple time consuming dental appointments

Certain medical conditions may prevent a successful implant procedure. Discuss the possible consequences of a dental implant procedure if you have uncontrolled diabetes, cancer, have had radiation treatments on the jaw, uncontrolled gum disease, alcoholism, or if you are a smoker.

Conclusion

Advancements in dental implants have made the procedure an incredibly natural looking solution for missing teeth. However, not every patient is a good candidate for the procedure. Your dentists have the knowledge and experience to help you make an educated decision.