Are dental implants the right choice for me?

Are you thinking about dental implants as a potential solution for tooth replacement? Our dentists in Hamilton are here to provide you with a clear understanding of what dental implants are, as well as the benefits and drawbacks of this commonly used procedure.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants might be the right choice for you if you're looking for a permanent solution to replace missing teeth. The process involves inserting a small titanium rod into the jawbone, which serves as a replacement root for the artificial tooth.

Titanium is used because it can easily bond with bone, making for a secure and stable foundation. Once the implant is in place, we attach a dental crown to it, which looks just like a natural tooth. The result is a tooth replacement that looks and functions like the real thing.

What are the advantages of having dental implants?

Dental implants offer several advantages, including:

Versatility

Dental implants offer a versatile solution for replacing one tooth, multiple teeth, or all teeth in the upper or lower jaw. They can be combined with other treatments like bridges or dentures based on your unique needs and jaw bone density. Dental implants are favored by patients due to their numerous possible configurations.

Whether you need to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or all of your teeth in the upper or lower jaw, dental implants are a great option. The number of implants you require or can receive depends on your specific situation and jaw bone density. Dental implants are highly popular among patients because they offer various configuration possibilities.

Long Lasting

Taking good care of your dental implant is essential for its long-lasting durability. To ensure its longevity, it's crucial to follow a proper oral care routine at home and visit your dental office regularly for cleanings and exams.

Additionally, factors such as nutrition, genetics, and the development of dental diseases can also affect how long your dental implant will last.

Natural Look and Feel

Your dental implant, along with a bridge or crown, will resemble and work like your real tooth. Others won't be able to tell that you have artificial teeth, and you can continue eating, speaking, and functioning normally while maintaining a good quality of life.

Since dental implants don't have nerves, you won't experience any sensations directly from the implant. Rather, any sensations you feel will come from the surrounding soft tissue.

Once your implant has fully healed and you've adjusted to it, you'll likely notice minimal distinction between your implant and your natural teeth.

Easy to Care For

Just like bridges, crowns, or any other dental restoration, taking care of your dental implants is essential. You should brush and floss them thoroughly as you would with your natural teeth, and make sure your dentist checks them during your regular appointments.

What are potential disadvantages of dental implants?

Depending on the nature of your case, dental implants may not be for you. Here are some aspects of dental implants you may want to consider:

Lengthy Process

Dental implants appear and feel more natural than dental bridges, but the implant process is longer and more invasive.

The duration of the entire dental implant procedure varies from 2 to 9 months, depending on your treatment plan and specific case.

Cost

The cost of dental implants can differ depending on your dental concern and insurance coverage. Some insurance providers may cover a portion of the cost, while others may cover the entire expense. However, there are also some insurance companies that do not provide coverage for dental implant procedures. To determine if your insurance plan covers your treatment, it's best to check with your insurance provider.

Additional Procedures

In addition to the items above, you must have enough density in your jaw bone for a dental implant treatment to be a success. If you don't, you may still be a candidate for the procedure but would require a bone graft to transplant bone to your jaw to support the implant. This would make the process longer and more invasive.

How do I know whether dental implants or other options are right for me?

When it comes to tooth replacement options like dental implants, bridges, and other restorations, each has its own advantages. However, the ideal choice for you will vary based on your oral health requirements, financial situation, and other factors.

In the end, it's crucial to have a conversation with your dentist to determine the most suitable tooth replacement option for your specific case.

If you're considering dental implants as a replacement for your missing teeth and have some doubts, our dentists in Hamilton are here to assist you. Don't hesitate to reach out to us today.