The Benefits of Dental Implants

 

As with any restorative dental treatment, implants can offer many benefits which make it a worthwhile investment. Over time, teeth will deteriorate if not maintained correctly and even with regular brushing there may be occasions where older teeth or weaker teeth may need treatment. Sometimes there are unavoidable circumstances which require something to be done and dental implants are an effective way of maintaining your smile and giving you the opportunity to keep your oral health in check.

Just some of the benefits include:

  • Longevity
  • Prevent Bone Loss
  • Prevents Gum Disease
  • Improved Speech
  • Improved Oral Health
  • Convenient
  • Aesthetically pleasing and natural
  • Supports your facial structure
  • Easy maintenance

 

Longevity and Key Advantages

Dental Implants are long-lasting and potentially could last a lifetime, due to the material used (it’s non-toxic to the body). Usually made from Titanium Alloy this means that there is no risk of allergic reactions as there are no known cases of aversions to this material in dental procedures.

With longevity and durability, dental implants are perfect for preventing bone loss. As you lose a tooth, the area surrounding that tooth can deteriorate because there is no stimulation or root for strengthening the bone. This weakening eventually causes bone loss within the jaw bone which can cause significant problems. Dental implants offer a solution to “fill” that space and continue encouraging bone strength. Whereas dentures can rub against the bone and wear it away, implants will replace the root and again, increase stimulation and act as a replacement tooth effectively.

 

Positive Side Effects of Implant Procedure

Implants behave like natural teeth and because of this provide natural chewing actions as well as allowing normal brushing, flossing and eating. As mentioned, they also offer stimulation for bone strength.

They also offer a way to prevent gum disease by filling that space which will have ordinarily collected debris and food particles, eventually leading to bacteria and infection. They will also help your facial structure and prevent “sagging”, which can occur slightly when losing teeth. It helps to keep the shape of your mouth and maintain healthy oral conditions.

 

Implants vs Dentures: Which should I choose and why?

 

Dentures

When you lose teeth it can leave an unsightly gap in your mouth. Obviously over time, if you had a few of these it could lower your confidence and literally affect your smile. However, in the past there has been a popular treatment to “filling” in these gaps. Although dentures are one solution, they are not the recommended option. As a set of false teeth, they use an adhesive to keep them in place and prevent slippage. Generally, dentures are only considered if you have lost a lot of teeth but partial dentures are available if you have a few left.

Ultimately, dentures are great for completing your smile and to have the appearance of a full set of teeth and they are significantly more advanced now and in most cases, aesthetically, customers report that most people can’t tell that dentures are being worn. They are still a viable solution for many, particularly as they are cheaper than dental implants but they do have to be replaced. This is where dental implants come in.

 

Dental Implants in Comparison

Surgically fitted into your jaw, dental implants provide a natural-looking solution for missing teeth and although they are more expensive than dentures, they offer durability, comfort and they also help support bone growth in the jaw as they help stimulate the surrounding bone. It’s likely that with maintenance and regular care, your dental implants could last a lifetime, offering a long term solution and a natural alternative.

Dental Implants are also more cost effective in the long run. Although they are more expensive than dentures, they are significantly more durable than dentures. You must also consider the ongoing cost of cleaning dentures, with adhesive, replacements and any necessary repairs. The starting upfront cost of dental implants may be worth it financially when weighing up the costs overall.

One of the biggest downsides to dentures is the fact that they tend to cover the roof of the mouth which can interfere with taste and eating. Dental implants are individual replacements and therefore can act independently and don’t affect the mouth in this way.

 

Dental Implants FAQs

 

How long do dental implants last?

Implants are more durable and hard wearing than dentures and with care and maintenance could last a lifetime.

 

How do implants prevent bone loss?

When you lose a tooth it creates a cavity for bacteria and infection to occur. Although dentures can help fill the gap with a false set, they can actually accelerate the loss of bone. Dental implants will replace the root and promote natural stimulation for bone growth, as well as give a natural looking replacement.

 

Can dental implants be cleaned normally?

Yes. Implants can be cleaned and flossed regularly without any concern of movement or damage. They are fitted as a replacement for the missing tooth and they are secure, safe and durable.

 

Will dental implants affect my eating?

No. Dental implants should offer a natural experience and you can feel confident eating hot or cold food and chew normally, without fear of slippage or movement.

 

How do I qualify for dental implants?

Generally, if you have missing teeth or teeth that are decaying or broken, you can consider implants. They usually are not covered by insurance plans but this will be individual to each case. Most patients can now have dental implants, depending on any health limitations which can be discussed with your dentist. Normally, patients should have enough bone to hold the implants securely and a decent level of gum health.

 

Are Dental Implant procedures painful?

Anaesthetic is used normally to reduce any pain but most patients report that there is little pain during the treatment. Soreness is usual following the treatment and so you can keep this discomfort in check with paracetamol and other pain medication.

 

Is there a risk that Dental Implants will be rejected by the body?

It’s unlikely that your body will reject the implants and although it cannot be guaranteed, there is no reason to think it would be. Tissue matching and blood types are not a conditional element when performing an implant and so although this is a surgical treatment, technically, there is no known risk of rejection related to overall health. The only time an implant may not be possible is if there are circumstances regarding the gum health and pre-existing  dental issues.

 

How long does it take to have dental implants fitted?

There are stages to the implant procedure purely because this is a long term solution for missing teeth and a natural option for promoting bone growth. Placement requires anaesthesia as the implant is placed for a period of time to integrate with the bone. This process is called osseointegration and this bonds the jawbone to the implant. This can take up to 6 months and once the implant has bonded you may wish to consult a dental hygienist on how to maintain them and clean them. Restorative work can be performed if necessary, such as crowns or bridge fittings.