Tooth loss is a well-known issue that people face, and it occurs due to gum diseases, accidents, failed root canals, and decay. In the past, fixed bridgework and dentures were the only options to fill the gaps and restore your teeth, but now a dental implant can take their place. Implants are also popular because of their natural look.
When you lose your tooth, the alveolar bone of the jaw which supports the implant, starts to deteriorate. If most of the teeth are missing, this can affect the structure of the face, including joints, jaws, and muscles. The remaining teeth also get infected and suffer from problems such as shifting of teeth and biting issues. You may also face difficulty in chewing, which leads to less intake of nutrition. And this is why it is crucial to replace your infected and damaged teeth as soon as possible.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is an alternative for the root canal. It is more effective and has fewer possibilities for failure. Dental implants give you a confident wide smile and also help you in chewing and biting food properly.
The material used for dental implants ranges from titanium alloy to ceramic. Once the dental implant integrates or fuses to the bone, you and your dentist can discuss the various restorative options.
Depending on your medical history and sensitivities, you and your doctor can discuss which is the best option and material for you.
Root Canal or Dental Implant?
When a tooth's pulp or nerve gets infected, you and your dentist have to choose between root canal and dental implant surgery to save the tooth.
A dentist focuses on various factors before making a decision. These include the condition and amount of the remaining tooth in your mouth, whether you have an infection in your teeth or surrounding, checking the existence of the periodontal disease, and checking the strength of your supporting bone.
Pros of Dental Implants
There are multiple reasons that you should choose dental implants over other treatments. They have the advantage of restoring missing teeth without having to file down the adjacent teeth, thus ruining them.
With an implant supported crown, the patient is able to floss in between the implant and the natural teeth, much like a real tooth. It is a much more natural replacement option for decayed, abscessed, or missing teeth.
Implants used to secure loose dentures can be a life-changer! Very often, patients are unable to wear lower dentures without movement. This can cause awkward social situations and difficulty eating.
Dental implants can help secure the denture; consequently, improving their quality of life. Overall, dental implants are a very natural option to improve the quality of life when replacing missing teeth and securing dentures.
The Cons of Dental Implants
Dental implants are unfortunately viewed as "elective" by most insurance companies and not covered. Cost can be a prohibitive factor.
Lengthy Process
Dental implants take a longer time than other treatments. You have to wait for six months so that your implant gets integrated with the jawbone. This procedure has long and many steps. The procedure is not best for people who want immediate results.
Chances of Infection
With all surgical procedures, there is a change of infection and rejection.
Additional Procedures
Some patients need other procedures before dental implant surgery. For example, a person who does not have a bone to support the dental implant will need a bone graft. Some people also require a sinus lift. These additional procedures or treatments increase the implant procedure time, as well as the cost of the treatment.
Cost
You have to consider the price before having the treatment. The cost depends on your implant treatment. Dental implants cost more compared to other treatments.
Final Thoughts on Choosing a Dental Implant
Dental implants are a proven, effective, and natural alternative to replacing natural teeth. Compared to removable options, dental implants are the "gold standard" in dental restoration. From missing individual teeth, to fixating full dentures, there are many conditions dental implant surgery can treat.
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