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Considering dental implants as a tooth replacement option? Our Victoria dentists explain exactly what they are, and the advantages and disadvantages of this common procedure.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants permanently replace missing teeth. Held in place with a tiny titanium rod implanted into the patient’s jaw bone, the implant serves as the root of the artificial tooth.
Titanium is used because it has the ability to bond with the bone. Titanium implants are extremely strong and secure tooth replacements. The dental implant is then capped with a dental crown that looks like a natural tooth.
Together, the implant and the cap look and function just like your natural tooth.
What are the advantages of having dental implants?
Dental implants offer several advantages, including:
Versatility
Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or all teeth in the upper or lower jaw. We can combine implants with other treatment options such as a bridge or denture.
Your specific case and requirements, as well as the density of your jaw bone, will determine the number of actual implants you require/can obtain. Because of their numerous configuration options, dental implants are a popular choice for many patients.
Long Lasting
Provided you properly care for your dental implant, it can last a lifetime. A proper at-home oral care routine is a must, as are regular visits to your dental office for cleanings and exams.
Other factors including nutrition, genetics or the development of dental diseases can also impact the longevity of your dental implant.
Natural Look and Feel
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 you should be able to eat, speak, and function normally while enjoying a higher quality of life. You will not feel any sensations because there are no nerves in a dental implant.
Instead, any feelings you experience related to your dental implant will actually come from the soft tissue around the implant. After your implant has healed and you’ve gotten used to it, you most likely will notice very little difference between your implant and your natural teeth.
Easy to Care For
Dental implants, like bridges, crowns, and other restorations, can be cared for in the same way that natural teeth are. Brushing and flossing will be necessary, and your dentist will need to check them during your regular exams.
What are the potential disadvantages of dental implants?
Depending on the nature of your case, dental implants may not be for you. Here are some aspects of dental implants you may want to consider:
Lengthy Process
While dental implants may look and feel somewhat more natural than dental bridges, the dental implant process is lengthier and more invasive.
Depending on your treatment plan and your specific case, the entire dental implant procedure can take anywhere from 2 to 9 months to complete.
Cost
The cost of dental implants can vary depending on your insurance coverage and your specific dental issue. While some insurance companies pay a portion of the cost, others may cover the entire cost of your implants, and still others may not pay at all.
Check with your insurance provider to learn whether your insurance plan will cover your treatment.
Additional Procedures
Aside from the items listed above, you must have sufficient density in your jawbone for dental implant treatment to be successful. If you do not, you may still be a candidate for the procedure, but you will need a bone graft to support the implant. This would make the procedure more time-consuming and invasive.
How do I know whether dental implants or other options are right 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.