Thinking of getting dental implants as a tooth replacement option? Our dentists in Winnipeg explain exactly what they are, and the advantages and disadvantages of this common procedure.
What are dental implants?
We can permanently replace missing teeth with dental implants. Held in place with a tiny titanium rod implanted into the patient's jaw bone, this implant serves as the root for the artificial tooth.
Titanium is the material of choice since this type of metal can bond with bone. Titanium implants are very secure, stable tooth replacements. The dental implant is then capped with a dental crown, which looks similar to a natural tooth.
Together, the implant and the cap look and function just like your natural tooth.
What are the advantages of having dental implants?
Among the many advantages dental implants offer include:
Versatility
Whether you need to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth or all teeth in the upper or lower jaw, implants may be a great choice. We are able to combine implants with other treatment options such as a denture or bridge.
Depending on the density of your jaw bone and your specific case and needs, the number of actual implants you require will vary. Dental implants are a popular option for many patients as they have many potential configurations.
Long Lasting
Provided your dental implant is properly cared for, it may last you a lifetime. It's essential to maintain a proper at-home oral care routine and visit your dental office regularly for cleanings and exams.
Other factors including genetics, development of dental diseases and nutrition can also impact your dental implant's longevity.
Natural Look and Feel
As mentioned above, your dental implant, paired with a bridge or crown, will look and function just like your natural tooth.
No one should be able to tell that you have artificial teeth, and you can eat, speak and function as you did before while enjoying quality of life. Since there are no nerves in a dental implant, you will not feel sensations.
Instead, any feelings you experience related to your dental implant will actually come from the soft tissue around the implant. After your implant has healed and you’ve gotten used to it, you most likely will notice very little difference between your implant and your natural teeth.
Easy to Care For
Similar to bridges, crowns or other restorations, you can care for your dental implants jus like your natural teeth. They’ll need thorough brushing and flossing, and your dentist will need to check them during your regular exams.
What are potential disadvantages of dental implants?
Depending on the nature of your case, dental implants may not be for you. Here are some aspects of dental implants you may want to consider:
Lengthy Process
While dental implants may look and feel somewhat more natural than dental bridges, the dental implant process is a lengthier, and more invasive.
Depending on your treatment plan and your specific case, the entire dental implant procedure can take anywhere from 2 to 9 months to complete.
Cost
Depending on your insurance coverage and your specific dental issue, the cost of dental implants can vary. While some insurance companies pay part of the cost, others may cover the entire cost of your implants and still others may not pay for any part of it.
Check with your insurance provider to learn whether your insurance plan will cover your treatment.
Additional Procedures
In addition to the items above, you must have enough density in your jaw bone for a dental implant treatment to be a success. If you don’t, you may still be a candidate for the procedure but would require a bone graft to transplant bone to your jaw to support the implant. This would make the process longer and more invasive.
How do I know whether dental implants or other options are right for me?
While dental implants, bridges and other restorations all have their benefits, the right choice for you will depend on your oral health needs, budget and other factors.
Ultimately, you’ll need to discuss your case with your dentist to find out which tooth replacement option would work best for you.