Pros and Cons of Dental Implants
Dental implants are one of the most popular dental restoration treatment options, as they help restore your beautiful, natural smile. However, just like any other oral procedure, dental implants have pros and cons.
In this article, our Point Pleasant dentist breaks them down so you can make the best decision for your oral health.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Dental Implants?
Knowing the pros and cons of dental implants can help you decide whether or not dental implants are right for you.
Pros of Dental Implants
There are many advantages to using dental implants, including:
Dental Implants Can Last a Lifetime
Dental implants can last a lifetime because they are made of titanium. They are resistant to corrosion and are biocompatible, meaning it’s easy for your body to get used to them after they’re installed.
Dental implants are the most permanent dental restoration option, so you won’t have to worry about going back for additional restorative dental work for the implant itself. However, the crown usually needs to be replaced every 15 years.
They Work Like Natural Teeth
Since the implant bonds to your bone, it acts like the root of a natural tooth. You won’t have to worry about taking dentures in and out or having to avoid specific foods.
Easy to Care for
Cleaning dental implants is a breeze. You can floss and brush the crown on the implant the same way as a regular tooth. We also recommend introducing a water flosser into your oral care routine to keep your new implants extra clean.
Cheaper in the Long Run
While dental implants are more expensive than other restorative dental procedures, they last the longest, giving you more value for your money. Other tooth replacement options don’t last as long, so you will have to replace them more often. This increases the amount of money you’ll pay over time.
Prevent Bone Loss
When a tooth is missing, the bone directly below it begins to decay. As a result, the surrounding teeth shift and become more susceptible to damage or falling out. Dental implants take the place of any missing teeth so your bone remains strong and supported.
Cons of Dental Implants
There are fewer cons of dental implants than pros, but you should be aware of them when deciding whether or not you want dental implants.
Dental Implants Won’t Work For Everyone
If you have low bone density, your jawbone may not be able to support an implant. Bone loss can be fixed with a bone graft, but little can be done to fortify brittle bones enough to support an implant.
It’s a Lengthy Process
From start to finish, the timeline for dental implant installation is around six to eight months. The majority of this time is spent allowing your bone to fuse to the implant — after dental implants are installed, they can take about six months to heal.
More Expensive Upfront
The cost of getting dental implants installed can easily be several thousand dollars. The price heavily depends on how much work will need to be done and how many implants you need.
However, in general, they are more expensive than other restorative dental procedures. That said, they will end up being more cost-effective in the long run because they can last a lifetime with proper care!
Crowns Will Need to Be Replaced
The lifespan of a dental crown that goes on the implant is about 15 years. This is longer than most other tooth replacement options, but it is worth mentioning that the crowns won’t last forever.
What Are the Risks to Dental Implants?
Even though about 500,000 dental implants are placed each year, there are still some risks.
- Infection – Sometimes, the site around dental implants can become infected. It is often an infection called peri-implantitis, which is essentially gum disease.
- Nerve Damage – Nerve damage can result from improperly placed implants or postoperative swelling pressing against a nerve. The latter is usually temporary, but it can have lasting effects.
- Sinus Problems – Sinus problems associated with dental implants are rare. They are caused by improper implant placement.
- Implant Failure – Dental implants can fail due to things like bone loss or infection. Although rare, your body may not bond to the implant at all if you have certain allergies prompting an immune response to the foreign object.
Are Dental Implants Right for You?
In most cases, dental implants are a great choice for tooth replacement.
However, it’s best to seek the help of an experienced dentist who can evaluate your oral health and dental needs.
Dental Implants In Point Pleasant, NJ
Our Point Pleasant dentist, Dr. Zicchino, has been installing dental implants for almost 20 years. If you’re looking for a replacement option for missing teeth, he can help you find the perfect solution.
Schedule a visit online or call us to start your journey to a healthier mouth and a complete smile!
About the Author
Dr. Joseph Zicchino provides a wide array of cosmetic dentistry services, including Invisalign® Clear Aligners, at his practice in Point Pleasant, NJ. He earned his dental degree from NYU Dental School and established Coastal Dental Group in 2004. For more information call (732) 714-1030 or to schedule an appointment!