If you have missing teeth, you may be considering availing of dental implant services. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed into your jawbone to support a crown, bridge, or denture. They can restore your smile, improve your chewing ability, and prevent bone loss. But before getting that you have to consider dental implants pros and cons. But are they right for you?
In this blog post, we will reveal the truth about the pros and cons of dental implants what is involved in dental implantation, and how to get dental implants with confidence at Luxury Dentistry.
Unveiling the Truth about Dental Implants: Pros and Cons
Dental implants are one of the most advanced and effective ways to replace missing teeth. However, they are not without drawbacks. Here are some of the pros and cons of dental implants that you should know before making a decision.
What is involved in dental implantation?
Dental implant surgery is a meticulous procedure necessitating thorough planning and groundwork. This method typically encompasses numerous phases, such as:
- A thorough dental examination and consultation with your dentist to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants. You may need to have X-rays, CT scans, or impressions taken to assess your oral health and bone quality.
- A treatment plan that outlines the number, type, and location of the implants, as well as the cost and timeline of the procedure.
- Surgery to place the implant posts into your jawbone. This may be done under local or general anesthesia, depending on your preference and medical condition. You may need to have one or more surgeries, depending on the complexity of your case.
- A healing period of several months, during which the implant posts fuse with your jawbone. During this time, you may need to wear a temporary denture or bridge to fill the gap in your smile.
- A restoration phase is where your dentist attaches the artificial teeth (crowns, bridges, or dentures) to the implant posts. This may require minor adjustments and follow-up visits to ensure a perfect fit and function.
Pros of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer many benefits over other tooth replacement options, such as:
- They look, feel, and function like natural teeth. Implants are designed to match the shape, size, and color of your existing teeth, giving you a natural and beautiful smile.
- They are durable and long-lasting. They are made of biocompatible materials, such as titanium or zirconia, that are resistant to decay and corrosion. With proper care and maintenance, they can last for decades or even a lifetime.
- They preserve your jawbone and facial structure. They stimulate your jawbone and prevent it from shrinking, which can cause sagging and premature aging. They also support your facial muscles and tissues, maintaining your facial contours and appearance.
- They improve your oral health and overall well-being. They allow you to eat a variety of foods, including hard and crunchy foods, without pain or discomfort. They also improve your speech, confidence, and self-esteem.
Dental Implants: Are they able to be taken out?
Dental implants are meant to be permanent and fixed in your mouth. However, in some rare cases, they may need to be removed due to infection, injury, or failure. This can happen if:
- The implant post does not integrate with your jawbone, causing it to become loose or unstable. This can be caused by poor surgical technique, low bone density, smoking, or systemic diseases.
- The implant crown, bridge, or denture breaks, cracks, or wears out. This can be caused by trauma, excessive biting force, or poor oral hygiene.
- The implant site becomes infected or inflamed, causing pain, swelling, or pus. This can be caused by bacteria, foreign bodies, or allergic reactions.
- If you experience any of these problems, you should contact your dentist as soon as possible. They will evaluate your situation and determine the best course of action. Depending on the severity of the problem, they may try to repair, replace, or remove the implants.
Cons of Dental Implants
Dental implants are not without disadvantages, such as:
- Dental implants are known for their high cost, which often prompts questions about why dental implants are so expensive. They may not be covered by your insurance, adding to the financial considerations. The expense of dental implants can fluctuate based on factors such as the number, type, and placement of the implants, in addition to the dentist’s fees and the materials chosen. In the US, the average price for a single implant hovers around $4,000, yet prices can range from $1,500 to $6,000 or even higher. Additional procedures like bone grafting, sinus lifting, or tooth extractions might be necessary, further elevating the overall cost. What’s more, the majority of dental insurance policies do not fully cover dental implants, resulting in a substantial out-of-pocket cost for patients.
- They require surgery and a long recovery time. Dental implantation is an invasive procedure that involves cutting, drilling, and stitching your gums and jawbone. This can cause pain, bleeding, bruising, swelling, and infection. You may need to take painkillers, antibiotics, and anti-inflammatory drugs to manage the symptoms. You may also need to follow a soft diet and avoid smoking, drinking, and strenuous activities for several weeks or months. The entire process of dental implantation can take anywhere from three to nine months, or even longer, depending on your healing and the complexity of your case.
- They have potential risks and complications. Dental implantation is generally safe and successful, with a success rate of over 95%. However, like any surgery, it carries some risks and complications, such as:
- Nerve damage, which can cause numbness, tingling, or pain in your lips, chin, tongue, or teeth.
- Sinus problems can occur if the implant post protrudes into your sinus cavity, causing congestion, pressure, or infection.
- Peri-implantitis, is a chronic inflammation of the gums and bone around the implant, leading to implant failure and bone loss.
- Implant fracture or failure can happen if the implant post or crown breaks or loosens due to trauma, infection, or poor quality.
Repercussions of Tooth Loss
Tooth loss is a common problem that affects millions of people around the world. Various factors, such as decay, gum disease, injury, or aging, can cause it. Tooth loss can have serious repercussions on your oral health and overall well-being, such as:
- Difficulty chewing and speaking: Missing teeth can make it hard to bite, chew, and digest food, affecting your nutrition and health. They can also affect your speech, making it difficult to pronounce certain words and sounds, affecting your communication and confidence.
- Bone loss and facial changes: Missing teeth can cause your jawbone to deteriorate, losing its shape and density. This can affect your facial structure, causing your cheeks to sink in, your lips to thin, and your chin to protrude. These changes can make you look older and less attractive, affecting your self-esteem and social life.
- Increased risk of dental problems: Missing teeth can create gaps and spaces in your mouth, where food particles and bacteria can accumulate. This can increase your risk of developing cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Moreover, missing teeth can cause your remaining teeth to shift, tilt, or drift, affecting your bite and alignment. This can lead to tooth wear, sensitivity, pain, and TMJ disorders.
Get Dental Implants with Confidence at Luxury Dentistry
If you are interested in dental implants, contact us today to schedule a consultation. We have a team of experienced and qualified dentists who can provide you with the best dental implant and other cosmetic dentistry services in New York City. We use the latest technology and techniques to ensure a safe, comfortable, and successful dental implantation. We also offer flexible payment plans and financing options to make dental implants affordable and accessible for everyone.
Don’t let missing teeth hold you back from living your best life. Get dental implants with confidence at Luxury Dentistry and enjoy a beautiful and healthy smile for years to come. Call us today at 212-759-7535 or visit our website at www.luxurydentistrynyc.com to book an appointment.
Dr. Steven Davidowitz, also known as “Dr. D” by his patients, is one of the Upper East Side of NYC Manhattan’s leading cosmetic dentists that specialize in designing and maintaining beautiful smiles.
