The Benefits and Drawbacks of Dental Implants Explained

Posted by Gale Freeman on December 15th, 2022

Reports show that more than three million Americans now have dental implants, and the number will continue to grow in the coming years. Dental implants have grown to become a leading method of replacing missing and damaged teeth. Considering their growing popularity, many people are thinking of getting them at this point. Of course, understanding their benefits and drawbacks before jumping headlong into the procedure is advised.

Looking at the Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants available from Elite Smiles offer numerous advantages. They provide a permanent replacement for missing teeth as opposed to temporary solutions like dentures. They last a long time as well. The metal rods inserted into the jawbones are strong and durable enough to never need replacing. Some people find that the crowns need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years, though.

Additionally, dental implants prevent many of the problems that tend to come with missing teeth. Those can include difficulty eating, jawbone deterioration, and a loss of self-confidence among others. Dental implants require the same types of care as natural teeth, too. That means no frustrating, time-consuming measures are needed to keep them in good condition.

Understanding the Drawbacks of Dental Implants

Despite all their advantages, dental implants have a few drawbacks. For one, putting implants into place is an invasive procedure. Incisions must be made in the gums, and holes must be drilled into the jawbones to place the implants. Some people require bone grafts and other preparations before having implants put in as well. At the same time, the procedure can initially cause a certain amount of pain, discomfort, swelling, and bleeding.

One of the most significant disadvantages of dental implants is the length of the implantation procedure. From start to finish, the process can take anywhere from a few months to several. This depends on a range of factors, such as the condition of the jawbones going into the procedure and how quickly a patient heals after the fact.

Making the Right Decision

Most people who have implants insist that the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. Still, it's important to understand both sides of the situation before deciding if implants are the right choice. For further details, contact us to schedule an exam and consultation. Dental implants aren't an option for everyone, but they're the best solution for many people who have missing and damaged teeth. Dentists help patients determine whether they're the right choice on an individual basis.