Pros and Cons of Dental Implants
When someone suffers from adult tooth loss, dental implants are likely to be the recommended treatment. Dental implants fuse with the jaw bone and act as artificial tooth roots. Dental implants can support a wide range of dental restorations, including bridges, crowns, and dentures.
Dental implants have a proven record of success and offer numerous benefits that set them apart from other tooth loss treatments. However, as with any other dental procedure, it is good to consider the pros and cons of dental implants before committing to treatment. Dr. Danny O’Keefe, whose dental practice serves the Flowood, MS, area, helps patients understand the benefits and drawbacks of dental implants so they feel confident when proceeding with tooth loss treatment.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants rely on advanced dental technology to provide a replacement for missing teeth that is unlike any other dental restoration. Dental implants are surgically placed in the jaw where they fuse with bone tissues. Since implants become a part of the patient’s anatomy, they offer several benefits that are not provided by other missing teeth treatments, such as:
- Superior stability - Dental implants are the most stable anchors for dental restorations. Implant-supported restorations fit securely and will not slip, shift, or fall out of place. This allows our Flowood patients to eat the foods they desire and confidently perform all oral functions.
- Bone preservation - When a tooth is lost the roots of that tooth are lost as well. Without a root system, the jaw fails to get the stimulation it needs to regenerate healthy tissues, so bone loss eventually occurs. Dental implants continue to stimulate the jawbone to prevent future bone loss.
- Durability - Dental implants are more durable than other tooth loss treatments. With proper care, dental implants can last for a lifetime.
Drawbacks of Dental Implants
While dental implants can be extremely advantageous following tooth loss, there are some drawbacks that should be considered. Some of the cons of this treatment option include:
- Surgical procedure - Dental implants are placed directly into the jawbone, so patients must undergo an oral surgery procedure. This makes it a more invasive option than other tooth loss treatments.
- Length of treatment - Dental implant treatment takes place in three stages. The stages of treatment are spaced months apart so that patients have time to heal from each procedure before proceeding to the next. In all, it can take six months or more to complete dental implant treatment.
- Cost of treatment - Because dental implants require oral surgery and multiple procedures, the cost of treatment is higher than many other tooth loss replacements.
Weighing the Pros and Cons of Dental Implants
Deciding whether dental implants are the right choice for each patient is largely a personal decision. Dr. O’Keefe encourages his Flowood patients to weigh the pros and cons of dental implants before proceeding with treatment. Many determine that the extended length of treatment and extra costs of care are well worth the lifelong benefits that dental implants provide. For those who decide dental implants are not for them, there are other tooth loss treatments available.
Contact Us
If you want to rebuild your smile following tooth loss, Dr. Danny O’Keefe would be happy to provide you with more information about dental implants. To schedule an appointment at our dental practice, contact us online, or call (601) 936-2526.
