Are Dental Implants a Viable Choice For You?

Are Dental Implants a Viable Choice For You? from Diamond Head Dental Care in Pearl City, HIIf you are missing one or more teeth, you may consider getting dental implants. Implants are a popular tooth replacement option, as they look and feel like natural teeth and, most enticing of all, have the potential to last for a lifetime. That said, though implants offer several benefits, they do come with a few drawbacks. Moreover, not every tooth loss patient is a candidate. Before you set your heart on dental implants, work with your dentist to ensure you are a viable candidate and to go over the pros and cons of the option.

Factors that affect a person’s candidacy for dental implants

Though most people make good candidates for dental implants, there are a few factors that may disqualify a person from receiving this innovative tooth replacement procedure. One of the most influential factors that determine candidacy is a person’s existing oral health and, more specifically, jawbone health.

Strong bone support is crucial for implant success. Implants rely on a healthy jawbone to provide robust and ongoing support in the years and decades following the procedure. If a jawbone is weak, the implants have nothing to “grab onto,” so to speak, and can quickly become loose and fall out. In addition to a healthy and strong jawbone, some other factors that may influence a person’s candidacy include gum health, the health of surrounding teeth, bone density, and oral hygiene habits. Dentists also recommend that patients drop unhealthy habits such as smoking and heavy drinking, as both may interfere with the implant healing process.

The pros and cons of dental implants

If you are a good candidate for dental implants, explore the pros and cons of the prosthetics before you begin the implantation process. Below is an overview of each.

Advantages of dental implants

Dental implants offer several advantages over other tooth replacement options. The top benefits of implants are as follows:

  • Improved speech
  • Improved appearance
  • Increased comfort
  • Heightened self-esteem
  • Better oral health
  • Longevity
  • Comfort while eating
  • Convenience

One of the biggest benefits of dental implants is their ability to improve your self-confidence. Because implants look and function just like natural teeth, and because they do not come with any of the drawbacks of dentures, many implant patients claim to feel better about themselves post-surgery.

Drawbacks of implants

Despite all the benefits that implants offer, the few drawbacks associated with them can and often do deter potential candidates. The biggest deterrents involve the time and monetary investment that the process requires.

Compared to other tooth replacement options, which often need replaced every few years and require substantial maintenance, implants can last for decades, if not your entire life, making them the most cost-effective tooth replacement option. However, the upfront investment is substantial and something that most insurance companies do not cover. For many people, cost is the number-one reason they decide against implants.

The time investment associated with the implant process is also substantial. The entire implant process occurs in several stages and can take anywhere from six months to a year to complete. During this time, patients will need to attend several appointments. Many individuals do not have time in their schedules to devote sufficient time to the implant process.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants in Pearl City, HI

Conclusion

Dental implants are a great tooth replacement option. However, to ensure they are right for you, discuss with your dentist your candidacy and the pros and cons of the procedure.

Request an appointment or call Diamond Head Dental Care at 808-214-9287 for an appointment in our Pearl City office.

Recent Posts

Can Dental Implants Replace Your Missing Tooth?

Dental implants are an option for people who need to replace one or more missing teeth. The process involves several steps during which a metal post is surgically mounted into the jaw. The replacement tooth or crown is then secured to the implant, holding the new tooth firmly in place.Missing teeth can have an adverse…

The FAQs Of Dental Implant Requirements

Dental implants are a way to replace a missing tooth in a way that looks and feels close to natural. Dental implant surgery is a multistep process, and it is important to know what to expect before you get started. You should speak with your dentist about whether implants are a good fit for you.…

4 Tips To Prepare For Getting Dental Implants

If you are missing teeth and are considering dental implants, there are a number of things you should know. Implants are a popular choice for replacement, but the process takes time to complete. You should make sure you are a good candidate and get all your questions answered before choosing the procedure.There are numerous options…

Recent Posts

Benefits Of Invisalign Clear Aligners

4 Benefits Of Invisalign Clear Aligners

Are you considering Invisalign® treatment? Read on to learn about some of the benefits of opting for this teeth-straightening treatment. According to the American Dental Association, teeth straightening is more than just for cosmetic purposes; it may help your overall oral health. While conventional metal braces are still widely used, modern technology has enabled the…

Common Reasons For Root Canal Therapy

Common Reasons For Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy may save damaged or infected teeth from extraction. Although it is often not the first treatment choice when there is a dental issue, it is necessary when other procedures would not be effective. There are several situations where patients may need this common dental treatment.Undergoing a root canal has the potential to…

Book Your Appointment Today!