Dental Implants Pros and Cons

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When you have a missing tooth, one option is a dental implant. In this procedure, a titanium rod is placed into your jawbone as a substitute for the root of a tooth. A tooth is then fit above it. According to Dentistry, there are a number of advantages and disadvantages to dental implants. You must consider all of these factors when deciding whether they are right for you.
Pros
You will have the functionality of that tooth
It can be difficult to chew and eat properly when missing teeth. A dental implant can allow you to have the functionality of that tooth. Some feel like the original tooth is back. You can usually eat like normal.
It can be more convenient than dentures
You may feel that an implant is more convenient than dentures. You do not need to worry about taking them out and cleaning them. They may also fit better than dentures as well. They typically stay in very well.
It can have a more realistic look and feel
Most patients do not want others to see missing teeth. An implant can give you the look of a full set of teeth. It may look and feel more realistic than other dental solutions like dentures.
It can solve other issues in your mouth
Depending on your particular case, a dental implant may help with other teeth. For instance, if you are missing one of your teeth on the bottom of your mouth, the tooth above it may not meet anything anymore. Because of that, that tooth may continue to grow down. Eventually that tooth could have a problem when it gets too long. A dental implant can prevent that.
Cons
They are expensive
Dental implants are among the most expensive types of dental work Oftentimes they cost thousands of dollars. They may or may not be covered by insurance. Some people simply cannot afford them.
The procedure can be long and painful
Getting an implant is not an easy procedure. Those afraid of major dental work may not want to go through such a procedure. The recovery can be painful as well.
They can break
One problem that can occur with dental implants is that they can break. This is more likely to occur if the dentist made a mistake in putting them in.
Infections are possible
Although not likely, infections can be a problem with dental implants. They typically occur soon after the implant, but can happen at any time. This is more likely to happen in people with certain risk factors such as a smoker or person that does not practice good dental hygiene.
They may not look as good
Although dental implants look better than some types of dental work, they may not look as good as others. For instance, a bridge may look more realistic for the front teeth because a metal collar may be visible on the implant.
A dental implant is an excellent option for a number of dental patients with missing teeth. Potential patients should speak to their dentists to find out if they are good candidates for this procedure.