It is common for people to think of dental implants as a leading treatment option when it comes to replacing a missing tooth or teeth. Dental implants provide a solution that closely resembles a real tooth and mimics its function, while also being designed to last for decades with proper maintenance. Like any oral surgery, however, dental implants have some disadvantages you should first want to think about before moving forward. Considering dental implants as a tooth replacement option and considering a dentist near you, may be helpful to understand the drawbacks of the implant procedure.
The Initial Cost Can Be High
The cost of dental implants is one of the more prevalent disadvantages. In the short term, they are more expensive than bridges or dentures. This is mainly due to the advanced surgery required, high-quality materials, and several required appointments. Though they are generally more cost-effective in the long run, the initial investment can be overwhelming for some patients.
Surgical Risks and Healing Time
Because having a dental implant is a surgical procedure, there are surgical risks including infection, nerve injury, or sinus issues (for upper jaw implants). Complications are unlikely, but do happen. Additionally, healing will take a few months while the implant integrates with your jawbone. Therefore, patients should expect a longer treatment timeframe than with dentures.
Not Suitable for Everyone
Implants may not be appropriate for every patient. Individuals who do not have enough bone density, those with untreated gum disease, or those with specific medical illnesses may require further procedures such as bone grafts prior to being an implant recipient. Smokers and uncontrolled diabetic patients also face increased risks of implant failure. A comprehensive assessment at a dental clinic in Cambie, can determine if implants are appropriate for you.
Longer Treatment Timeline
Dental implants are different from dentures and bridges, which can be fitted in a couple of hours. Because they are more complex, dental implants usually take several steps to complete. From the first visit to the time the crown is placed, the process may take weeks or months. Patients who are looking for something right away may not appreciate the wait time.
Possible Discomfort and Maintenance
Though most patients report only mild discomfort after surgery, the recovery phase may include swelling, bruising, or soreness. Additionally, while implants don’t require special cleaning like dentures, they still demand excellent oral hygiene and regular dental checkups to prevent peri-implantitis (a condition similar to gum disease around implants).
The Risk of Implant Failure
While the majority of our patients experience just mild discomfort following surgery, the recovery period may involve some swelling, bruising, or tenderness. Additionally, while you don’t need to clean your implants like you would dentures, they do require diligent oral hygiene and dental visits to prevent peri-implantitis (which is similar to gum disease that affects implants).
Making the Right Decision
Dental implants may be an excellent long-term investment into your teeth and self-esteem. Nevertheless, it is just as crucial to learn the drawbacks of dental implants as well as the benefits of dental implants. First of all, in case you are thinking about dental implants near you in Cambie, a professional dentalist is able to examine your particular requirements, and direct you through the procedure.
Conclusion
Despite the limitations that come with tooth implants, such as higher costs, surgical risks and increased surgical durations among others, they remain among the best looking and most reliable alternatives to missing teeth. In Cambie Broadway Dental, the dental staff is trained to assist patients on making the right decision concerning oral health. You might want to make an appointment, or to find an implant dentist, or simply to find a reliable dental home, we are going to assist you at each stage of the process.
