Is there a downside to dental implants?

The risks and complications you are taking for dental implants include infection, damage to other teeth, delayed bone healing, nerve damage, prolonged bleeding, jaw fractures and more . If you are willing to take these risks, dental implants might be right for you.

When are dental implants not a good idea?

If you regularly or subconsciously grind teeth, have uncontrolled diabetes, gum disease or jaw irradiation following a cancer diagnosis , these situations don't bode well for dental implants. Essentially, these conditions must first be dealt with or controlled to ensure the best possible outcome for implant restoration.

What percentage of people have problems with dental implants?

Dental implants have a high success rate, but some people experience dental implant failure. It's estimated that about 5 to 10 percent of dental implants fail, either shortly after a procedure or months or years later.

What they don t tell you about implants?

One common misunderstanding about dental implants is the belief that they must replace all of your teeth. While this might apply to patients with extensive tooth damage or loss, many individuals only need one or a few dental implants. There's no requirement to replace your healthy teeth .

What is the most common problem with dental implants?

Infection. An infection at the implant site is the most common complication of DIS. Treatment for an infection depends on the severity and location of the infection.

Is it better to keep your teeth or get implants?

While modern dental bridges, implants and crowns are better and more effective than ever, they're never going to be as good as your natural teeth. Dental implants, while practical, should always be a last resort.

Should an 80 year old get dental implants?

You may wonder whether dental implants work just as well for older patients as they do for younger ones. Luckily, dental implants are just as effective and long-lasting in older age . Dental implants often change older people's lives for the better, giving them improved physical health and more confidence.

Which oral site has the highest implant failure rate?

Several studies have tried to compare implant failure rates regarding implant insertion region of the jaw. Studies have reported that implants fail in the maxilla more than the mandible 9 - 13 . Furthermore, the maxillary anterior region exhibited the highest rate of implant failure.

Are most people happy with dental implants?

A study published in the International Journal of Implant Dentistry found 99% of patients reported satisfaction with implants at the five-year mark . There have also been improvements in overall treatment time for dental implants.

Can dental implants cause problems years later?

It isn't uncommon for peri-implantitis to cause implant failure 14 years after initial placement. Therefore, if you want to look after your tooth implants long-term, commitment to a lifetime of good oral care is essential. Applying too much or improper force is another common reason dental implants fail.

What is the con of dental implants?

Like with any surgery, there are risks involved. Although the implant is secured to the bone, there is a risk for infection in your gums . Bacteria can get into the implant site and cause peri-implantitis, an infection that can lead to bone loss.

Are Dental Implants Worth It? Pros & Cons (2024)

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Dental implants are worth it if you need to replace a missing tooth. They can improve quality of life and are both durable and convenient

What are the pros of dental implants?

Appearance: Implants serve a cosmetic purpose by looking like your natural teeth.
Speech: Dentures can slip from the teeth sockets and cause you to slur or mumble. Since dental implants are fused to your bone, you don’t have to worry about this problem.
Eating: When dentures are poorly fitted, chewing can be difficult. Since implants work like your own teeth, you can eat normally.
Self-esteem: If you are missing a tooth, it can prevent you from smiling in public. Implants can give you confidence in your smile.
Durability: When cared for properly, dental implants can last for years and don’t require much maintenance other than practicing good oral hygiene.
Convenience: Since permanent dental implants don’t need to be removed or kept in place with adhesives, they are more convenient than dentures.
Safety: In most cases, the procedure is safe and relatively painless. Some people may experience mild discomfort and irritation in the gums after the surgery, which appropriate medications can help with.

Who can get dental implants?

Most healthy people are eligible for dental implant surgery. Requirements include:

Healthy gums with enough bone to hold the implant
Good oral hygiene
No comorbidities such as uncontrolled diabetes or hypertension
No heavy smoking

In the past, people with diabetes were recommended not to get dental implants. However, current guidelines state that those whose blood sugar levels are under control can undergo the procedure.

Before making a decision regarding implants, you should consult your dentist.

How are dental implants done?

Dental implant surgery is a complex procedure that involves a team of skilled dental surgeons. Treatment plans are tailored to the needs of each patient.

A titanium root implant is prepared and placed in the tooth socket. The gums surrounding the new root heal after 12 weeks and secure it in place.
After this, a connecting post called an abutment is attached to the root. This anchors the new tooth to the root.
An artificial tooth that resembles the original tooth is fixed to the root.

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References

Image Source: iStock Images

WebMD. Dental Implants. https://webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-implants

Are Dental Implants Worth It? Pros & Cons (2024)

What are the pros of dental implants?

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How are dental implants done?

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