The Pros and Cons of Dental Implants
19 June 2023With over 27 million people in the UK missing at least one tooth, a number of dental options have emerged over the years in regards to restoring teeth. Dental implants have gained significant popularity as a long lasting solution known for their natural appearance and durability. However, like any dental procedure, it’s important to consider both the advantages and disadvantages before making a decision. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of dental implants to help you make the most informed choice in restoring your brighter and whiter smile.
Pros of Dental Implants
Enhanced appearance, comfort, speech and self esteem
Dental implants are designed to mimic the look and feel of natural teeth. They provide a seamless and aesthetically pleasing result, as the artificial tooth is custom-made to match the colour, shape, and size of your existing teeth. With implants, you can regain confidence in your smile and enjoy improved speech and chewing ability.
Durability & Longevity
Implants are made of biocompatible materials, such as titanium, which fuse with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration. This creates a strong foundation for the artificial tooth, ensuring long-term stability and reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Implants are designed to be a long-term even permanent solution depending on your age. If well maintained by regular dental check-ups and oral health routine, you can expect implants to last around 15 years.
Preservation of Jawbone and Facial Structure
When a tooth is lost, the underlying jawbone can deteriorate over time due to lack of stimulation. Dental implants stimulate bone growth and prevent bone loss, preserving the natural contours of your face and preventing the sunken appearance that can occur with missing teeth.
Improved Oral Health
Unlike some other tooth replacement options, such as dental bridges, dental implants do not require alteration or support from adjacent teeth. This means that the integrity of neighbouring teeth remains intact, promoting better oral health and reducing the risk of decay or damage to healthy teeth. Dental implants also prevent food residue or drinks from directly sticking to broken teeth. Of course, this still means that you should schedule at least one visit to your dentist every 6 months to ensure that your implant still fits well and to check on the rest of your oral health.
You can replace as many teeth as you need to
As opposed to other dental treatments that may only cater for one or two affected teeth, implants can be created to accommodate any number of missing teeth. They are a great alternative to dentures as you can replace just one tooth or a full arch. you can have All-on-4, a revolutionary implant procedure that allows you to have a new set of teeth fixed on a minimal number of implants.
At Pateley Bridge Dental Practice, we use the Nobel Biocare implant system. This system is recognised as one of the leading dental implant systems globally. The system’s success is built on over 60 years of experience stemming from the pioneer of dental implants – Per-Ingvar Branemark.
Cons of Dental Implants
Lengthy Process to Fully Heal
The dental implant process typically involves multiple stages, including initial consultation, extraction (if necessary), bone grafting (if required), temporary crown placement, and implant installation. The entire process can take a number of appointments, depending on each individual patient. In terms of recovery time, it all depends on the nature of the surgery, and its complexity. For some, it may take as little as 4-6 weeks or osseointegration to occur, for others it might be closer to around 12 weeks.
Surgery is involved
Implant placement does involve a surgical procedure that requires anaesthesia. While it is generally safe, there can be associated risks, such as infection, bleeding, or damage to surrounding oral structures. However, these risks are minimal when performed by an experienced and qualified dental professional. If you have a preference to avoid surgery, dental implants may not be for you.
Cost
Dental implants are a significant investment, and the cost can vary depending on factors such as the number of implants required, additional procedures like bone grafting, and location. While they may have a higher upfront cost compared to other tooth replacement options, the long-term benefits and durability often outweigh the initial expense.
Restoration on the crowns can wear out
Whilst many dental implants can last forever if properly cared for, the restoration of crown teeth of a dental implant can be damaged if you do not maintain a good oral hygiene routine. If you are a smoker, it would be advised to quit in order to preserve your dental implants as much as possible. Regular dental visits of once every 6 months or more if your dentist recommends is also advised.
Dental implants offer a range of benefits, including improved aesthetics, functionality, and long-term durability. They can significantly enhance your oral health and restore your confidence in your smile.
To determine if dental implants are the right option for you, consult with an experienced dentist who can assess your individual case and discuss the pros and cons in detail. They will guide you through the process, addressing any concerns you may have and helping you achieve a healthy smile that can last a lifetime. If you are looking for a professional dentist in Pateley Bridge and Nidderdale, we are here to help. You can contact us here or ring us today on 01423 712799.