The Pros And Cons Of Dental Implants

Anyone searching for a means to replace a missing tooth, or worse, several missing teeth, has several options available to them. Some the cheaper options include dentures and crowns, and at the other end of the price range there is dental implants. With them costing a considerable amount per tooth, they can be beyond the budget of many people, but if they are a financially viable option for you, then they are certainly worth considering

To help you with that consideration, we have outlined several pros and cons of dental implants. As with any dental procedure or tooth replacement option, dental implants have advantages and disadvantages, so it is important that you consider both the good and the bad before you decide if dental implants are the best choice for you.

Pros Of Dental Implants

They Are The Most Durable And Longest Lasting Option

Probably the main reason why dental implants are so popular is that, once fitted, the person who has them is unlikely to need any further treatment for years. Dental implants provide a durable and strong replacement for missing teeth, and they can last as long as 20 years if cared for properly.

They Are Extremely Comfortable

Compared to other tooth replacement options, dental implants have none of the issues regarding discomfort that they may have. They do not move, they are fixed, and you also do not have the risk of them ever falling out of your mouth, which cannot be said about dentures.

They Support Your Overall Oral Health

With dental implants replacing missing teeth it helps to promote the health of the teeth either side of that gap. Dental implants also help the bone tissue to become revitalised around the area of the missing tooth.

They Can Restore Speech To Normal

Having teeth missing or having tooth replacement solutions like a bridge or denture in your mouth, can all feel unnatural, and it can also impact your speech. This is often due to your tongue moving and positioning itself in ways that are not conducive to normal speech. All of these problems are resolved by dental implants being fitted.

They Can Boost Your Self-Confidence

Having one or more teeth missing, especially within their smile, can make some people unduly shy. In addition there are those who become extremely self-conscious about wearing dentures, for example. With dental implants a smile is restored to its former beauty and there is nothing awkward or embarrassing about having dental impacts.

Cons Of Dental Implants

The Cost Is High

Undoubtedly the biggest drawback of dental implants is their cost. Whilst they are certainly worth it over the period of time they will remain in place, their high upfront cost often puts them beyond the financial reach of many people who would undoubtedly benefit from them.

There Is A Risk Of Infection

Where the base for each dental implant is inserted through the gum and into the jawbone, there is a risk of infection. The practitioner will obviously take all necessary steps to avoid this, but they cannot eliminate the risk entirely.

Nerve Damage Can Occur

With that same process of the dental implants titanium base being fixed to the jawbone, the need to cut through the gum and drilling into that bone matter can cause some nerve damage. This can lead to numbness being felt around that area, and on occasion, in some other areas of our face, due to the fact that our nerves all link to others.

Not Everyone Is Suitable For Dental Implants

There are individuals, that, for one or more reasons are not suitable for dental implants. This includes those whose jawbone is not strong enough, those with oral health issues such as gum disease or those who have a medical condition that compromises their immune system.