Pros and Cons of Dental Implants: Are They Really Worth It?

Dental implants are a popular solution to missing teeth, but they’re not right for everyone. We’ll examine the benefits and drawbacks of dental implants in this article so you can decide if they are the best option for you.

On the plus side, dental implants are a permanent solution to missing teeth. They’re also natural-looking and feel just like your own teeth. In addition, dental implants can help to preserve the bone in your jaw and prevent your remaining teeth from shifting.

However, it would help if you also considered some of its disadvantages. Dental implants are major surgery, and there is a risk of complications such as infection. In addition, dental implants can be expensive, and they’re not covered by insurance.

What are dental implants?

A dental implant, often made of titanium, is a small post that takes the place of the tooth’s root. An abutment, fitted on top of the dental implant or built into it, connects the prosthetic tooth to the real one. The crown, a false tooth that resembles normal teeth, completes the whole structure.

Dental implants have been successfully performed for more than 30 years. They are the most durable dental prosthetics currently on the market. Even better, they let the replacement teeth feel, seem, and work much like natural teeth.

When done by a qualified and experienced dentist, the operation is one of the safest and most dependable.

The Pros of Dental Implants

Here are the advantages of dental implants:

They look like natural teeth in both appearance and texture.

Dental implants resemble natural teeth in appearance. Once your implant has been installed, you will not be able to identify the difference between your natural teeth and your replacement teeth. Additionally, implants will feel just as solid as your natural teeth since they are attached to your jaw.

You can easily chew and eat.

When eating and chewing, implants won’t be any different from your natural teeth compared to dentures. You can eat whatever you want after the dental implant operation is finished. You can eat and drink whatever you want, whether you prefer chewy foods, crunchy nibbles, or hot or cold beverages. However, don’t eat too many sugary treats.

Dental implants may be permanent.

A durable tooth replacement option is an implant. With adequate care, the implants can last a long time. However, you may need to replace the crown every 10 to 15 years.

They require little maintenance.

You should maintain a balanced diet, routine dental checkups, and daily brushing and flossing of your implants. Just like how you care for your natural teeth.

They stop bone loss.

Much like your natural teeth, dental implants are fixed into your jaw. Dental implants preserve the strength of your jawbone and prevent bone loss since the implant’s screw thread functions as a natural tooth’s root.

The Cons of Dental Implants

Similar to any other dental procedure, dental implants have some drawbacks too. However, they are not serious. Here are some of its disadvantages:

You must fulfill several prerequisites.

You have to meet certain conditions to undergo dental implant surgery. If you’ve lost a lot of bone because of tooth loss, the dental implant may not be successful because the treatment includes securing the implant to your jawbone. For your jawbone to mend, you must also be in good health.

The cost of the dental procedure.

Dental implants are the most long-term, cost-effective approach to replacing missing teeth but are not necessarily the most economical. Dental implants are well worth the cost for the comfort, confidence, and natural feel they provide you with.

The process can take a while.

Dental implants require several months to finish and are not a quick fix. A damaged tooth that needs to be replaced must first be taken out. The tooth site will then need to be cleaned and ready for your dentist to place the implant anchor. You have to wait a few months after the anchor has been installed for it to mend and for the underlying bone to develop. The placement of the artificial tooth is the last step of the process.

Conditions to Qualify for Dental Implants

While dental implant procedure is long and costly, it has numerous benefits over other tooth restoration procedures or replacement options. For those who were asking if dental implants are worth the cost, here are some conditions to fulfill so that it can be a good fit:

Missing Teeth: Dental implants will provide a natural-looking and functioning smile if you have a missing tooth or a tooth that needs to be removed. It is a permanent and reliable solution.

Enough Bone to Hold the Implant: Although you would require a bone graft procedure and more surgery/healing time if you have lost some of your jawbone, implants would still be an option.

You are not a Heavy Smoker and in Good Health: Not everyone qualifies for dental implants. People who are heavy smokers or have chronic illnesses are treated case-to-case basis. It is advisable to consult with an implant dentist if it is an appropriate choice.

Are dental implants worth it?

The question, “Are dental implants worth it?” cannot be answered without mentioning the cost. The price of dental implants deters some individuals from receiving them. Though initially pricier than dentures or dental bridges, implants are significantly more cost-effective because of their longevity.

Most people will find dental implants a worthwhile investment of time and money as it has many benefits and will impact more than one area of your life.

Cosmetically, dental implants will preserve the health of your jawbone, preventing bone resorption and changes to your face. You’ll also be able to care for your remaining teeth more easily as they won’t shift to fill the gaps left by missing teeth.

The confidence and self-esteem that come with restoring your perfect smile are invaluable, as is the ability to speak and eat normally. Furthermore, the chance of dental implant failure is very low, with a 96% success rate. With such good odds, you can feel confident that your investment won’t go to waste.

Conclusion

A dental implant can last a lifetime provided it is properly maintained, in contrast to dentures and dental bridges, which often need to be replaced numerous times depending on the patient’s age. It might be the more financially sensible choice if you can afford to spend money on them immediately. You can also inquire about flexible payment options at your neighborhood dentist’s office.

About the author

Dr. Megan Peterson Boyle is dedicated to delivering the best possible patient care. She is a leader in the field of cosmetic dentistry and full mouth rehabilitation in Scottsdale. She understands the anxiety related to dental care and has made it her goal to deliver treatment in a relaxing environment. Outside of the practice she enjoys spending time with her husband Garrett and their three young children. She loves any time spent outdoors, cooking, exercising, and any do-it-yourself project!