Are dental implants the right choice for me?

If you have damaged or missing teeth, you might be looking for a tooth replacement option. Today, our Vernon dentists discuss how to find out if dental implants are the right tooth replacement option for you.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are a type of restorative tooth replacement that can replace one or more missing teeth. Implants are held in place indefinitely by a small titanium screw implanted into the patient's jawbone. This implant integrates with the jaw bone and functions as a natural tooth root.

Titanium is used because it has the ability to bond with bone. Titanium implants are extremely strong and secure tooth replacements. The dental implant is then capped with a dental crown that mimics the appearance of a natural tooth. The implant and cap look and function exactly like your natural tooth.

Advantages of Having Dental Implants

Natural Look & Feel

As previously mentioned, your dental implant, paired with a bridge or crown, will look and function just like your natural tooth.

There are no nerves in the implant, so you will not feel it. Implants are meant to look as natural as possible so they do not appear artificial or function improperly.

Instead, any feelings you have about your dental implant will come from the soft tissue surrounding the implant. After your implant has healed and you've gotten used to it, you'll probably notice very little difference between your implant and your natural teeth.

Versatility

Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or all teeth in the upper or lower jaw. We can combine implants with other treatment options such as a bridge or denture.

The number of actual implants you require/can get will be determined by your specific case and requirements, as well as the density of your jaw bone. Dental implants are a popular treatment option for many patients due to their numerous configuration options.

Long Lasting

In the right hands, dental implants can last a lifetime. Both a reliable at-home oral care regimen and regular trips to your dentist for cleanings and exams are essential.

Other factors including nutrition, genetics or the development of dental diseases can also impact the longevity of your dental implant.

Easy to Care For

You can take care of your dental implants in the same way that you would take care of bridges, crowns, or other restorations. Your dentist will need to check them during your routine exams, and they'll need to be thoroughly brushed and flossed.

Potential Disadvantages of Dental Implants

Dental implants may not be appropriate for you, depending on the specifics of your situation. Consider the following dental implant-related factors:

Lengthy Process

While dental implants may look and feel somewhat more natural than dental bridges, the dental implant process is lengthier and more invasive.

The entire dental implant procedure can take anywhere from 2 to 9 months to complete, depending on your treatment plan and specific case.

Cost

The cost of dental implants varies and can be quite high depending on your insurance coverage and your specific dental issue. While some insurance companies cover a portion of the cost, others may cover the entire cost of your implants, and still others may not cover any portion of it.

Check with your insurance provider to learn whether your insurance plan will cover your treatment.

How to Tell If Dental Implants Are Right for You

All restoration options, including implants and bridges, have advantages. Your oral health needs and budget are also important considerations when deciding on the best option to replace missing or damaged teeth.

Ultimately, you’ll need to discuss your case with your dentist to find out which tooth replacement option would work best for you.