Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth with artificial teeth that look and function much like the real thing.
With an implant the root or roots of the teeth or tooth have been extracted (or the tooth was developmentally absent) and the root of the tooth is effectively replaced with a metal screw inserted directly into the jawbone. This relies upon successful biointegration of the implant into the surrounding bone (known as osseointegration).
There is also a major cost differential with implant surgery usually involving several appointments usually spread out over a period of 3-9 months and the implants and other fixtures typically being quite expensive and the procedure quite involved.
"Implants are made of biologically compatible materials which have undergone extensive testing over a period of several years. Since these materials are largely metals such as titanium, and have never been living tissue, there is no likelihood of causing an antigen-antibody response which could cause rejection similar to that which sometime occurs with heart and kidney transplants."-American Academy of Implant Prosthodontists
The PROs of Dental Implants
There are numerous benefits of dental implants, these include:
Aesthetics – One of the biggest benefits of opting for dental implants, as compared todentures or dental bridges, is the aesthetic benefits. When dental implants are completed, they look and feel as natural as real teeth, creating beautiful smiles.
Functionality – Dental implant procedures restore proper oral functioning. By replacing missing or badly damaged teeth, normal chewing and bite can be re-established. This keeps surrounding teeth, gums and jaw functioning in a healthy manner.
Comfort – Since dental implants feel just like natural teeth, they are typically more comfortable in your mouth than other options, especially removable dentures.
Options – There are many options to consider if you decide to have implants. For one, you can decide what type of restoration is attached to the implants. Dental crowns (single teeth) are the most common restoration to be attached to dental implants, but other options arebridges and dentures. In the case of bridges and dentures, the implant is used to secure one or both sides of the restoration so it is permanently attached in the mouth. You can also select between traditional dental implant procedures, which may require a number of office visits with time needed between visits for healing, or quicker implant options, such as the All-on-Four procedure.
Permanence – Dental implant procedures result in permanent or semi-permanent restorations. Once the procedure is completed, the tooth is affixed permanently to a post implanted in the jaw and does not typically get loose or have to be removed.
The CONs of Dental Implants
As with any procedure, there are also a few drawbacks to consider. These include:
Cost – The biggest drawback for many patients is the cost. Because dental implants are a surgical procedure, the cost is typically higher than most other dental options. For this reason, some people will only consider implants as their last choice option.
Lack of Bone – Not every patient is a candidate for dental implant procedures. Before a dentist or oral surgeon agrees to perform the procedure, it is important to make sure that there is sufficient underlying bone structure to securely hold the implant. For those with limited healthy bone, however, there are options for how the implants are secured that may still make this procedure a viable option.
Time – Dental implant procedures typically require multiple visits and it can take a long time from the initial visit until the permanent restoration is secured to allow for the implant to securely attach to the bone and for the surrounding tissue and gums to heal. During the healing process, a temporary restoration is attached to the implant.
Discomfort – This procedure can result in some minor discomfort. During the procedure, the patient should experience little to no pain if anesthesia or another pain blocking technique is used. There will be minor pain and swelling as the implant initially heals, however.