Your Swift Current Invisalign® Provider
If you are missing teeth then you may be considering dental implants as a tooth replacement option. Our Swift Current dentists share some pros and cons of dental implants and how to know if they are right for you.
Tooth Restorations: What are dental implants?
In order to restore your smile if you have missing teeth, your dentist will discuss tooth replacement options with you. A dental implant is one of these possibilities. The implant acts as the artificial tooth's root and is secured in position by a small titanium rod that is inserted into the patient's jaw bone.
The metal titanium has the ability to adhere to the bone. Titanium implants are strong, safe alternatives to dentures. After that, we cover the dental implant with a dental crown that imitates a natural tooth.
These two pieces work together to create fully functional tooth replacement.
Why might you pick dental implants over other tooth restorations?
Some of the potential advantages of dental implants include:
They can have different configurations.
Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or all teeth in the upper or lower jaw. We are able to utilize dental implants along with a number of other services.
The number of actual implants you need or can get will depend on your unique circumstances, requirements, and jaw bone density. Because they can be configured in a variety of ways, dental implants are a popular choice for many patients.
Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care.
If you take proper care of your dental implant, it can last a lifetime. A good at-home oral care routine is essential, as are regular visits to the dentist for cleanings and exams.
Nutrition, genetics, and the development of dental diseases can all have an impact on the longevity of your dental implant.
These dental restorations are natural looking.
As mentioned above, your dental implant, paired with a bridge or crown, will look and function just like your natural tooth.
No one should be able to tell you to have artificial teeth and that you can eat, speak, and function normally while enjoying a higher quality of life. You won't experience any sensitivity because the dental implant lacks nerves.
Instead, any feelings you have about your dental implant will come from the soft tissue surrounding the implant. After your implant has healed and you've gotten used to it, you'll probably notice very little difference between your implant and your natural teeth.
They are an easy-to-care-for option.
Dental implants, like bridges, crowns, and other restorations, can be cared for in the same way as natural teeth. Brushing and flossing will be required, and your dentist will need to check them during your regular exams.
When should you consider a different option?
Dental implants are not appropriate for everyone, and your dentist will evaluate your unique needs to ascertain whether they are a good fit for you. You might want to think about the following dental implant-related factors:
The process takes multiple steps and a long time.
While dental implants may look and feel somewhat more natural than dental bridges, receiving a dental implant can take a long time and requires an invasive procedure.
Depending on your treatment plan and your specific case, the entire dental implant procedure can take anywhere from 2 to 9 months to complete.
Dental Implants can be costly.
The price of dental implants may differ based on your insurance plan and particular dental condition. While some insurance companies cover a portion of the expense, others may pay the full cost of your implants, while still others might not cover anything at all.
You can speak with your insurance representative to determine whether or not your dental implant will be covered.
You may need to undergo multiple procedures.
A successful dental implant procedure also requires adequate jawbone density in addition to the aforementioned requirements. If not, you might still be a candidate for the procedure but would need to have bone grafted into your jaw to support the implant. As a result, the procedure would be more intrusive and time-consuming.
How will I know if dental implants are a good tooth replacement option for me?
While dental implants, bridges and other restorations all have their benefits, the right choice for you will depend on your oral health needs, budget and other factors.
Ultimately, you’ll need to discuss your case with your dentist to find out which tooth replacement option would work best for you.