Are Dental Implants Right For Me?

Dental implants are a popular choice for people who are missing one or more teeth. They offer a number of benefits over other tooth replacement options, such as dentures or bridges. If you are considering dental implants, you might need a little help to decide if they are the right choice for you.

In this guide, we'll explain what a dental implant is and when this treatment option would be used. We'll then share some key questions you should ask yourself before choosing this treatment plan. And if you're ready to take the first step to a stunning new smile, you can book a free consultation with our dental implant team.

What are dental implants?

A dental implant is a small titanium post that is inserted into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth. Dental implants are a popular choice for people who are missing one or more teeth because they offer a number of benefits over other tooth replacement options, such as dentures or bridges. A single dental implant can be used to support one or more teeth, or you could have multiple dental implants to support an entire arch restoration.

Dental implants use your jawbone to support the restoration, so the result is an artificial tooth that looks and feels just like the real thing. The dental implant should last a lifetime with the correct care, but the crown, bridge and denture may need to be repaired or replaced after around ten years.

When should dental implants be used?

Dental implants are most commonly used to support a single tooth, but they can also be used to support a dental bridge or denture. If you are considering dental implants, your dentist will assess whether this is the best treatment option for you based on the following factors

• The health of your gums - You must have healthy gums to be able to have dental implants, as gum disease would put you at a higher risk of the implant failing.

• The density of your jawbone - A good dental implant needs to be securely anchored in the bone, so if your jawbone is not dense enough, you may not be suitable for this treatment

• Your overall health - If you have a chronic health condition, such as diabetes, it's important to speak to your dentist about whether dental implants are the right choice for you.

What are the benefits of dental implants?

There are so many benefits of dental implants over leaving a gap in your smile or choosing a bridge or denture. The main benefits of dental implants are:

• They look, feel and function like natural teeth. This means you can eat all of your favourite foods without worrying.

• They do not require special care, so you can brush and floss them just like your regular teeth

• They are a long-term solution. With the correct care, they should last a lifetime.

• They help to preserve your jawbone, which can help to prevent the sunken appearance that can happen with tooth loss.

What are the risks associated with dental implants?

As with any medical procedure, there are always risks associated with dental implants. The most common complication is an infection at the implant site. This can usually be treated with antibiotics, but in some cases, the implant may need to be removed.

Other risks include damage to surrounding teeth and nerve damage. There is also the risk of damage to the sinuses if longer dental implants are used. And finally, you may also require a bone graft to increase bone density before placing the implant, and this procedure carries its own set of risks.

Questions to ask before getting a dental implant

If you are considering dental implants, there are a few key questions you should ask yourself before going ahead.

• Can you afford the treatment? Dental implants are more expensive than a bridge or denture, so consider if you have the budget for this treatment. We offer interest-free financing to help you spread the cost of your treatment.

• Are you prepared for the treatment process? Dental implants require a minor surgical procedure to place the implant in your jawbone. The healing process can take up to several months, so you need to be prepared for this.

• Do you have enough time for the treatment process? In addition to the surgery and healing time, you will also need to visit the dentist multiple times to check how the implant is healing. If you might struggle to make the time, a dental bridge might be better suited to your schedule as this can be completed in just two visits.

Next steps

Ready to take the next step? If you are considering dental implants, book a consultation with our implant dentist today. During your consultation, we will assess whether this treatment is right for you and answer any questions you may have.