Having good oral health contributes to having good overall health. Sometimes, patients experience tooth loss due to periodontal disease or injury. A missing tooth can not only make patients shy about their appearance, but it can also cause multiple oral health issues such as a misaligned bite, tooth decay, and bone deterioration. One of the most popular tooth replacement options is dental implants. At Flourish Family and General Dentistry, we are happy to provide our patients with dental implants in Indian Land.
Read on to find out if this procedure is right for your needs.
Pros of Dental Implants
Since dental implants are so carefully placed and secured, they tend to be much more durable and sturdier than dentures or other restorations such as bridgework.
Bridgework is reliant on the patient having strong and healthy natural surrounding teeth for support, whereas dental implants are placed directly into the patient’s jawbone. Dental implants also prevent damage to surrounding teeth and help avoid bone deterioration because they stimulate the jawbone and encourage growth.
A big benefit of choosing dental implants near you is their natural appearance. Since dental implants replace both the tooth and tooth root, they are placed directly against the gum, providing an extremely natural appearance.
Dental implants also function like real teeth, and you will be able to eat and speak with them in the same way you would with your natural teeth.
In a similar vein, dental implants also don’t require any special care beyond what you already do for your natural teeth. You will have to regularly brush and floss, but you won’t have to put in any extra work to maintain them, unlike a dental bridge or dentures. Dental implants are incredibly durable, and they can last for a lifetime with the proper oral hygiene routine.
Cons of Dental Implants
As with any surgery, there are some risks involved with getting dental implants. Getting a dental implant can risk infection in your gums. Bacteria can find their way to the implant site and cause an infection that, if left unchecked, can lead to bone loss.
If your dental implants extend into the sinus cavity, it can cause a higher risk of sinus infections or sinusitis. Another risk that comes with dental implants is the potential for nerve damage.
The process for getting dental implants is long and complicated. If your jawbone is weak or deteriorated, your dentist in Indian Land may have to perform a bone graft before implant surgery. There is a fair amount of healing time between each step of the implant process, and the entire procedure usually takes a few months to fully complete.
Dental implants are not always covered by dental insurance, so it is important to consider costs when deciding whether to get them. If the tooth replacement is due to serious oral health conditions, your insurance may be willing to cover the implants, but it is safe to assume that you will have to pay at least some out-of-pocket expenses when it comes to dental implants.
Consider Your Options
Although dental implants come with some risks, they are a popular, safe, and durable tooth replacement option that can greatly improve your quality of life. Dental implants are a long-term replacement option that provides patients with a strong and confident smile. If you are interested in learning more about dental implants, visit Flourish Family and General Dentistry. Our dentist near you is happy to address any questions or concerns you may have and get you started on your journey to a happy, healthy smile!