If you have a missing tooth or teeth, it’s extremely important that you replace them. While there are a few options to choose from when it comes to the replacement of a tooth or teeth, one of the most popular is dental implants. But are these always the best option? Are there complications?
Below is more about dental implants, their advantages, and potential problems that may occur.
About Dental Implants
Dental implants are dental prosthetics that replace one or more missing teeth. They involve the implantation of a rod (often titanium) into the jawbone of a patient to hold a prosthetic tooth in place. While this is a strong and secure option, it isn’t the best for every patient. Other options may include a dental bridge or a denture.
What Are the Advantages of Dental Implants?
There are some outstanding benefits to dental implants that make them a fantastic choice for many patients. Some of the advantages of dental implants include:
- Prevents teeth from moving: Healthy teeth help to keep each other in place. What many people don’t know is, without supporting teeth, teeth can drift and crowd over time. Dental implants help to keep the surrounding teeth in place and prevent drifting.
- Beautiful appearance: Dental implants are a stunning replacement option, and the materials used can closely mimic your surrounding teeth. This means you can smile wide and with pride.
- Healthy jawbone: Did you know that your jawbone can deteriorate over time when you have missing teeth? Dental implants help to keep your jawbone healthy and prevent jawbone deterioration.
- Better bite strength: Having a missing tooth or missing teeth can make it difficult to bite and chew. Dental implants improve your bite strength—allowing you to eat your favorite foods again.
- Better oral health: As your teeth can shift over time with a gap in your smile, you may find it much more difficult to brush and floss properly. Dental implants ensure better oral health by keeping your teeth in place, making them easier to care for properly.
Dental Implant Problems
Once an implant is placed, there are some normal side effects that will occur initially. These include swelling, bleeding, and some minor pain. With that said, there are also more severe complications that may occur. These dental implant problems include:
- Tissue damage
- Nerve damage
- Implant rejection
- Gum recession
- A loose implant
- Sinus problems
Contact Us
If you have a missing tooth or multiple missing teeth, contact us today to set an appointment for a consultation and examination. Your dentist will look at your jawbone, gums, and surrounding teeth to determine the best course of action. If they decide you are a good candidate for dental implants, they will discuss the implant process in detail with you, along with any potential complications. From there, your dentist and you can make the decision as to whether or not dental implants are the right choice to meet your needs.
