Do you have gaps in your smile or teeth that need to be extracted? Dentists recommend filling gaps between teeth to prevent the surrounding teeth from shifting position and avoid problems with eating and speech. One of the most popular ways to replace a tooth is using a dental implant.
Dental implants can replace as many teeth as you need, and they have many advantages, but it's important to get a balanced overview so you can make fully informed decisions. Read this guide to the pros and cons of dental implants for different circumstances.
Advantages of dental implants
Implants have a number of benefits over a bridge or dentures, depending on your goals from the treatment. Five major pros of dental implants are:
- Permanent tooth replacement: Although the replacement teeth attached to implants are subject to wear and tear, and may need to be replaced after a number of years, the underlying implants are extremely durable and will usually last a lifetime with proper care.
- Look and feel natural: An implant replaces the supporting tooth root beneath the gum as well as the crown above. Many people with implants also find that eating and speaking feel more natural, the replacement tooth having comparable strength and stability to a healthy natural tooth.
- Prevent bone loss: By bonding with the jaw, a dental implant supports the bone and can stimulate new tissue growth. This can make bone loss and deterioration less likely than with a bridge or dentures.
- Eat what you want: A replacement tooth supported by a dental implant won't shift or dislodge like dentures can, so you won't have to give up your favourite foods.
- Easy to look after: Unlike dentures, there are no special care requirements for a dental implant. Your dentist will simply advise that you follow good oral hygiene as normal.
Disadvantages of dental implants
When you're learning the facts about implants, it's important to recognise the possible downsides too. Reasons why you might prefer an alternative to implants include:
- Not suitable for everyone: Smoking and oral health problems such as gum disease can increase the risk of implant failure. If you have a small jaw, you may still be able to have implants if you choose to have a procedure such as a bone graft or sinus lift to increase the density of your jawbone.
- Multiple appointments: The dental implant procedure typically involves a series of appointments that can take place over a period up to six months.
- Cost more than the alternatives: Dental implants cost more than a bridge or dentures up front, although the ongoing costs can be less.
- Require surgery: Placing an implant involves a series of minor operations on the gum and jaw, so if you don't like the idea of surgery, dental implants might not be for you.
- Risk of complications: Dental implants have a high success rate, but any surgical procedure involves risks. Your dentist will make sure you understand what these are before making your decision.
Book a consultation for dental implants in Brisbane
To find out more about dental implants or start planning your treatment, call our dentists in Everton Park on (07) 3355 1422 or our Mitchelton practice on (07) 3354 3341, or book a consultation today.