What are the Benefits and Drawbacks of Dental Implants?

What are the Benefits and Drawbacks of Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a reliable way to restore the appearance of your smile, particularly after you have lost a tooth or needed to have one extracted.

In this guide, we will look over some of the benefits and drawbacks to getting a dental implant – and what type of things you need to consider when thinking about getting dental implants.

The Benefits to Getting Dental Implants

Longevity

Dental implants are designed to be a lasting solution to missing teeth. The procedure has been refined since its inception, and as technological advances in modern dentistry have been made. This means dental implants can now offer a lifetime of smiles for those that take great care of their dental health following the procedure. As with many other types of dental treatments, regularly keeping up with your dental appointments and hygiene schedules are essential to maintaining the longevity of the procedure.

Aesthetics

Many modern dental implants are made up of a zirconia material, though you could opt for a gold alloy or ceramic material such as porcelain. Zirconia is the most frequently used due to its natural appearance combined with lasting strength, whilst porcelain may not last as long – but can offer more realistic looking outcomes.

Functionality

Many people opting to have dental implants do so for the improved functionality this option offers them. In comparison to other ways to replace or restore teeth, dental implants are anchored into the jawbone. This means they are unable to become easily dislodged or slip out of place – unlike other options such as dentures, where this is a frequent issue. Those who may have concerns about speaking, eating or chewing following a denture may be better suited to have a dental implant procedure.

Knowing the dental implant can’t physically ‘fail’ can reassure many of our patients – this is one of the reasons it’s now such a popular choice.

Simple Aftercare

Implants are specially designed to be lasting solutions that complement the structure and function of your natural teeth. Similarly, you should look after them just as well as you do with your own natural teeth.

This means brushing twice daily and flossing, as well as using mouthwash. Your dental implants will last better the more you care for them. Your dentist may have their own set of recommended tips when it comes to aftercare, so don’t hesitate to ask them for ideas.

It is also worth noting that following your procedure, you should be aware of any changes to the healing process or concerns that do arise. Make sure you take your dentist’s emergency number and that you know what to do if things aren’t healing as planned.

The usual aftercare tips following a dental implant are:

• Avoid hot food and drinks – the area around the implant will be highly sensitive.
• Do not eat until your anaesthetic has worn off – this helps avoid accidental damage to the soft tissues as you bite, as well as any burns.
• Avoid rigorous exercise such as going to the gym. Walking is fine, but too much physical activity could cause issues with the healing process.
• Take over the counter pain relief to combat any issues with pain. If you are in significant pain, get in touch with your dentist or doctor.
• Be aware of signs of infection developing and report these to your dentist immediately.
• Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water. This can help with the healing process, as can ensuring you keep up with a healthy and nutritious diet!
• Rinsing your mouth with lukewarm salt water can help with the healing process, and to flush out any unwanted bacteria.
• Ice packs may help minimise swelling.

The Drawbacks to Getting Dental Implants

Cost

Due to the many complexities involved with fitting dental implants, the level of expertise required is very high. The fitting of any dental implant comes with multiple steps, therefore requiring more time than a simple procedure would. The application of the titanium ‘root’ into the jawbone is actually also considered a surgical procedure, meaning more precautions must be taken than with other types of dental treatments.

Dental implants can be costly, but they make up for this when we do consider all the advantages described in the above section. If you are concerned about the costs involved with getting dental implants, don’t be afraid to discuss this with your dentist. Many dental surgeries now offer financing options so you can spread the cost over a number of months or years. At Ringway Dental, we offer 0% interest-free dental implant financing for those who are eligible.

Not Suitable for Everyone

Dental implants, despite their many advantages, are unfortunately not suitable for all patients. There can be a number of reasons your dentist will say you should look into alternative options. For example, healthy gums are necessary for a dental implant to be a reasonable procedure to consider. This is because concerns such as gum disease mean the underlying structural support required for the implant will not always be there.

This doesn’t mean that if you have had gum disease you can’t have dental implants. Many people that have undergone successful treatment for gum disease can and do get implants! The best tip we have is simply to ask your dentist – they’re the expert in what they can and cannot achieve.

Your dentist will be able to recommend some alternative options if they determine dental implants aren’t the most suitable choice. They should also be upfront and honest about discussing the most successful treatment route with you. If you do have questions, don’t hesitate to ask during your consultation appointment!

Some medical conditions might not be best suited for dental implants, such as diabetes. If you also have habits such as smoking, you may find problems with your implants healing. It’s always worth discussing your medical health with your doctor and dental professional before seeking treatment.

Dental Implants by Ringway Dental

As we’ve discussed, dental implants offer an array of advantages when it comes to considering the functionality and overall appearance of restoring a smile. If you’re interested in finding out more about our dental implant procedure, call our team on 0161 437 2029.

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