Why you should think twice before getting Dental implants

Before you think about getting dental implants, you would ask people around you for their opinions, and the most of them would tell you about how implants are a permanent solution, best investment since they’re next best thing to natural teeth and so on, but the truth is that they’re not for everyone.

As an expert, we see the good, the bad and the ugly too when it comes to dental procedures and we think you must be aware of these sides too and make an informed decision.

Here’s why you should think twice before you choose dental implants .

Do you really need a dental implant, or are you looking for an instant replacement ? 

Because dental implants take several months to a year, you’ll have to through a process called osseointegration, which basically is fusion of the implants with your jawbone. 

The process of getting a dental implant begins with tooth extraction if it is required, then extracted tooth takes time to heal, then you’ll finally get an implant which will again take more time to heal and in the end you’ll finally get crown placement.

So the healing process takes a long time and you have to make sure that you don’t smoke since smoking increases the chances of infection due to reduced blood flow which makes healing slow, people with diabetes, autoimmune diseases, and osteoporosis might also face problems while healing and there is higher risk of implant failure.

And this entire process is a long time without a permanent tooth.

Cost, complications and health considerations of Dental implants 

Implants also require strong bone and healthy gums, so before you get an implant make sure you dont have any gum disease, if your jawbone is weak you might require a bone graft which will cost more and take up more time, and cost is not a joke when it comes to implants, a single implant costs from $3,000–$5,000, and full-mouth implants? Easily $20,000+. Even with insurance, out-of-pocket costs can be steep. And if complications arise, you may be looking at even more expenses.

90-95% times the implants are a success but there are failures and complications as well, and there are some risk we’d like you to consider – 

If you have unhealthy gums or weak bones there is risk of Peri Implantitis, a  serious gum infection that can cause bone loss and implant failure. Upper implants can sometimes push into the sinus cavity, leading to discomfort and sinus infections. If place too close to a nerve there is risk of nerve damage, so make sure you go to an expert and experienced dentist for such procedures

Implant Maintenance – 

Dental implants are not set it and forget it solution, unlike natural teeth, implants don’t have nerves or ligaments to help them adjust to bite pressure. This your oral hygiene should be your top priority, routine check-ups are essential so you don’t develop peri-implantitis so you dont end up getting implant removal surgery. 

Also avoid grinding or clenching your teeth can put extra stress on implants, leading to fractures or failure.

So, before going all-in on implants, consider other options:

• Dental bridges – Less invasive and often more affordable.
• Partial dentures – A quicker, non-surgical solution.
• Resin-bonded bridges – A great choice if you’re missing a front tooth.

Each has pros and cons  Dental Implants vs. Bridges: Which Is Right for You?, but they might be a better fit depending on your needs. 

Dental implants can be a fantastic solution, but they’re not for everyone. If you have health concerns, a tight budget, or just don’t want to deal with a long healing process, you might want to explore other options.