Having a dental implant placed by one of our Shelby Township dentists not only restores your oral health, but also helps you smile with confidence. If you’ve recently lost a tooth, you may be a candidate for the dental implant procedure.
We can perform a thorough oral examination and sit down with you to discuss your . We want you to have all the information you need prior to making a decision. It is your smile after all and you deserve to look radiant!
Here’s what you need to know about the pros and cons of dental implants.
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a made out of titanium that resembles a metal screw. Our dentists will surgically embed the implant into your jawbone for added stability. After the implant fuses to your jawbone, our dentists will place an abutment (connector piece) and dental crown over top to complete the restoration.
Together, the implant, abutment, and crown give you the strength and appearance of a natural tooth. That means no diet restrictions and no extra maintenance beyond regular brushing or flossing.
Pros of Dental Implants
Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth because they’re firmly bonded to your jawbone. This means that you won’t have to worry about having them adjusted or using adhesives like you might with dentures.
Patients who wear dentures may discreetly bite down and swallow when they feel their dentures slip in public. Those with dental implants, however, don’t have to deal with this hassle. Instead, the dental implants provide a solid foundation for the crown over top.
Another benefit of dental implants is that you can continue eating your favorite foods. This means that you won’t have to avoid foods that are difficult and/or painful to chew. For example, patients with extreme jawbone deterioration may feel pain or discomfort while wearing their dentures.
While this may seem counterintuitive, dental implants are also less invasive than other tooth replacement options. This is because we don’t have to alter your adjacent teeth to place a dental implant, as shown in the diagram below.
A dental bridge, on the other hand, would require that our dentists file down the adjacent teeth to make room. This is because a dental bridge consists of a prosthetic tooth anchored by crowns on adjacent teeth or implants, as shown in the diagram below.
Cons of Dental Implants
While dental implants are long-lasting and great for replacing missing teeth, there are a few drawbacks to consider. For instance, some patients may not appreciate the price tag as implants are more expensive than other restorative options.
The tradeoff is that dental implants are an investment and built to last decades with proper care. It is important that you practice good oral hygiene at home and continue seeing our dentists for routine teeth cleanings. Otherwise, your dental implants may prematurely fail.
Another “con” of dental implants is that you need sufficient bone density in your jaw to be a candidate in the first place. This may not be possible if you’re facing the later stages of bone loss in your jaw. However, when applicable, a bone graft can be performed by an oral surgeon to replenish the area where the implant is going.
Lastly, it generally takes several months for a dental implant to fuse to your jawbone and fully heal. This is a process called osseointegration and unfortunately, it can’t be rushed.
Learn More About Dental Implants
Wondering if you’re a candidate for dental implants? The only way to know for sure is to request a consultation with one of our dental implant dentists in Shelby Charter Township, MI. Together we’ll help you explore your tooth replacement options so you can achieve your smile goals. Call the dental office of Jeffrey T. Baker DDS at (586) 992-9222 today to request an appointment.
This blog post has been updated.
