Exploring the Pros and Cons of Dental Implants

If your natural teeth have been damaged by gum disease, accidents, sports injuries or just the rigors of daily life, you may think that a full set of dentures is your only option. You may be picturing yourself at the dentist’s office, having your teeth extracted and learning to wear an uncomfortable and unnatural-looking dental plate.

It is true that just a generation ago, dentures were pretty much the only option. When the natural teeth became too damaged to be saved, dentists would carefully fit their patients with a set of dentures, and over time, those patients learned to live with their dental appliances.

These days, things are much different, and dentures are no longer the only, or the best, option. Whether your tooth loss is the result of gum disease, illness or accident, dental implants could be a much better alternative to old school dentures.

If you are tired of the way you look and seeking a fresh start for your appearance, dentures may not be the only option. You owe it to yourself to check out the potential advantages of dental implants. Here is a quick rundown of the pros and cons of dental implants.

The advantages of dental implants are many. Here are just a few of the potential benefits patients can derive from a quality set of dental implants.

  • Targeted help for damaged teeth — Unlike dentures, dental implants can be easily targeted to the most damaged teeth. Your dentist can replace severely damaged teeth with quality implants while working to save the surrounding teeth.
  • A more natural look — While the quality of dentures has improved over the years; most still lack the look of natural teeth. As a result, many denture wearers are reluctant to smile or laugh for fear others will know their teeth are not genuine.
  • Greater strength – Dental implants are designed for strength and durability, and modern implants are far stronger than even the best set of dentures.

It is important to consider the potential downsides of dental implants as well as the advantages. Dental implants are not the right choice for everyone, and some patients with severely damaged teeth may still opt for dentures. Here are a few drawbacks to consider before agreeing to dental implants.

  • Possible infections – Getting dental implants is very safe, but as with any minor surgery, there is always the risk of infection. Your dentist should talk to you about potential infection risks, and will probably prescribe a post-implant course of antibiotics.
  • Not a quick fix – Your implants may look great once they are in place, but implants are not a quick fix. Getting dental implants will require several visits to the dentist, making the process more time-consuming than a traditional denture fitting.
  • Cost – Dental implants are not cheap, and the cost can be much higher than even the best set of dentures. Many dentists provide financing to make implants more affordable, so be sure to ask about your options before the work begins.
  • Additional work may be required – Patients who opt for dental implants may need additional dental work down the road. That work may be needed to stabilize surrounding teeth, treat existing gum disease and watch for possible signs of infection.

If you are ready to fix your smile and replace your damaged or missing teeth, you might want to look at dental implants before settling for a set of dentures. The technology behind dental implants continues to improve, and these smile-saving devices can restore the natural look you have been missing all these years. If you are in the market for a full set fo dental implants, to take your smile back, contact your dentist today!