There are numerous advantages and disadvantages to dental implants. The most notable benefits are that they last a long time, function like natural teeth, and appear natural.
What is the greatest disadvantage? Even with dental insurance, only some of your treatment expenses will likely be covered.
However, dental implants are generally regarded as the most effective method for replacing missing teeth, and you must have missing teeth replaced, as failure to do so can result in various health-related issues.
How do Dental Implants Work?
Dental implants are a tooth replacement option. They consist of a post implanted into the jaw, an abutment that screws into the post, and a crown connected to the abutment. The crown is the only visible portion of the implant and is designed to resemble a natural tooth.
Because they behave similarly to natural teeth, dental implants are the most effective method for replacing missing teeth. This means you can chew and appreciate food just as you would with natural teeth; no one can tell the difference visually.
And most significantly, they address the difficulties faced by people with missing teeth. When a tooth is absent, the root of the tooth cannot nourish and stabilize the surrounding jawbone.
The result is a loss of density and structure in the jaw. This can negatively affect the adjacent teeth and weaken and sag the facial muscles.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Dental Implants
Dental implants have advantages and disadvantages, as with any tooth replacement method. Let us examine these in greater detail now.
Positive Aspects of Dental Implants
- Ability to perform effectively
Dental implants function identically to natural teeth. People with dentures, a less expensive but arguably inferior option for tooth replacement, may experience slippage or discomfort.
This can lead to difficulties with communication and chewing. If you have dentures, you may need to modify your diet to include softer foods.
However, with dental implants, you can expect to continue your normal routine without worrying about an implant sliding. You must take special care of your implants, including brushing and flossing as you would with natural teeth.
- Sustained effectiveness
The post of a dental implant is designed to last a lifetime, so with appropriate care, you will only need implant surgery once. Due to daily wear and tear, the crown typically lasts between 10 and 15 years before it must be replaced. If you take exceptional care of your implant, your crown may have a prolonged lifespan.
- Physical appearance
Dental implants appear identical to natural teeth. The only visible component of an implant is the crown. This is typically made of porcelain and is customized to match the color, size, and shape of the rest of your teeth. No one can detect that you have an implant if it is crafted properly.
- Good health
Compared to other alternatives for tooth replacement, dental implants offer several health benefits:
- Diet: When even a single tooth is missing, it can be difficult to chew food, modifying your diet and contributing to the decline of your overall health and well-being. You may find yourself opting for milder, less nutritious foods. With dental implants, you can eat healthily and mastic normally.
- Bone wellness: Tooth roots stimulate the jawbone and assist it in preserving its shape and that of your face. Dental implants perform the same function, preventing bone loss and facial sagging.
- Gum disease: When a tooth is missing, the gums begin to recede, increasing the risk for gum disease. This produces a pocket in which microorganisms can flourish. Dental implants can reduce your risk of gum disease as long as you maintain excellent oral hygiene with flossing and brushing.
Some individuals with missing teeth may feel self-conscious about their appearance, speech, and eating habits. Dental implants allow you to perform these activities ordinarily without the slipping or clicking that can occur with dentures. This can restore your self- esteem and alleviate your anxiety.
Negative Aspects of Dental Implants
While the benefits of dental implants are extensive, there are also some drawbacks to consider before undergoing this procedure. Now let us learn more about them:
- Cost
Dental implants are the costliest method for replacing absent teeth. A single implant may cost between $1,500 and $6,500.
There are ways to reduce the cost of a complete mouth of dental implants, such as opting for all-on-4 dental implants or all-on-x dental implants, which typically require four posts per arch placement.
- The Eligibility Criteria
Not everyone is qualified for dental implants. When teeth are absent for an extended period, the jawbone structure weakens and deteriorates. If too much of your jawbone is missing, it may not be sufficient to support an implant. Or, if you have receding gums, the implant may become visible, and it may be too late for dental implants.
However, some solutions, such as bone grafts and implants, are inserted into the cheekbone rather than the jaw.
- Extra Treatment
Before receiving dental implants, you must be in good health. This may involve receiving a jawbone transplant to reinforce deteriorated bone or gum grafts to treat gum disease-induced pockets. Depending on your dentist and treatment plan, these expenses may be in addition to the implant costs.
- Operative Procedures
Dental implants necessitate surgery, which may be frightening in and of itself, but there is also a lengthy recovery period. If you require a bone graft or a sinus lift, the entire procedure of getting implants could take more than a year, depending on how much time you need to recover from each additional treatment.
Are Dental Implants Cost-Effective?
Dental implants are worth the investment considering the benefits to your health and self-esteem. However, the high price can make them prohibitive for many patients.
Additionally, they are only worthwhile if you are committed to taking excellent care of them. Otherwise, complications may develop, and implant removal may be necessary.
If you cannot afford dental implants, it is still essential to replace your teeth, and dentures or a bridge are preferable to nothing.
The Conclusion
Like any other tooth-replacement option, dental implants have both advantages and disadvantages. The most significant benefits of implants are that they help maintain a healthy jawbone, prevent facial muscles from sagging inward, and allow you to speak and eat normally.
In addition, the screws are designed to last forever! Dental implants are prohibitively expensive and can necessitate extensive surgery and recovery time.
Discuss the total costs with your affordable dentist in Houston; they can help determine if this is the best treatment option.
