Do you have missing teeth or need to have a tooth extracted? Dental implants are one of the most popular procedures in dentistry and the gold standard when it comes to replacing teeth. But how do you know if they’re right for you?

Dental implants truly can be life-changing. Not only do they restore your bite and smile, but they also help to preserve your oral health over time. However, they’re also a major commitment and investment. At Ormond Beach Periodontics, Dr. Beauchamp helps patients weigh the pros and cons of dental implants every day. We’ll share our knowledge with you below.

What Are Dental Implants?
Before deciding if implants are right for you, it’s important to understand how they work. Dental implants are prosthetic teeth that are securely attached to your jaw. Because they are permanently implanted into the bone and surrounded by gum tissue, they can look, feel, and behave like real teeth. Dental implants are made up of a titanium connector, an abutment, and a crown and each section is placed over the course of several weeks or months.

Dental implants have many benefits, but also a few drawbacks. It’s important to consider the full picture when making your decision.

Dental Implant Cons

When researching the advantages of dental implants, it’s wise to consider any potential downsides as well. Before pursuing implants, there are a couple of important considerations you should be aware of.

• Time Commitment – Dental implants usually are not a one-and-done type of procedure (unless you’re getting Teeth-In-A-Day). Instead, they’re a long-term commitment. Because it is an invasive procedure, several weeks or months are required between each stage of the process to allow for healing. The procedure can take even longer if your jaw is weak and you need a bone graph to support the implants. The time it takes to get dental implants varies by patient, but it’s usually a significant time commitment.
• The Cost – Dental implants can be very expensive. In many cases, they cost more than other teeth replacement options like dentures or bridges. Your insurance may cover all or a portion of the cost, so it’s important to check your policy. However, many patients find the cost to be well worth the investment. Make sure to talk to your periodontist about financing options or payment plans.
• Surgery Is Required – Implants are very safe, but they’re also a surgical procedure and there is always some level of risk involved during an invasive treatment. The good news is the entire procedure can be performed in your periodontist’s office. If you’re nervous about the thought of surgery, talk to your periodontist about sedation dentistry options that can help you feel calm before and during the procedures. The procedure is often performed while patients are under general anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure.

Dental Implant Pros
When deciding if implants are the right choice, consider that they have many benefits over other teeth replacement options.

• Comfort – After a few weeks, you probably won’t even realize you have dental implants. They feel like real teeth. You won’t have any problems eating or drinking your favorite foods, and you shouldn’t expect any long-term pain or discomfort. Implant crowns are made out of porcelain and zirconia, which feel similar to the enamel of natural teeth. Because they’re secured to the jaw, they feel strong and stable.
• Appearance – If you’re ready to have your smile back and regain your confidence, implants are a good choice. They look almost identical to real teeth — most people won’t be able to tell the difference. They’re also able to be customized to match the color of your healthy teeth.
• Durability – Implants are one of the most reliable tooth restoration options. They can last several decades when properly cared for. So long as you maintain good oral hygiene and avoid gum disease, your implants will last a long time. Most patients see their implants last anywhere from 10 to 30 years.
• Oral Health – Because implants attach directly to the jaw, they provide ongoing stimulation needed to keep the bone healthy. Other tooth restoration options like dentures or bridges can ultimately cause the jaw to atrophy over time. Implants can help keep your bones and teeth healthy for a long time.

Every patient’s circumstances are different, but in the majority of cases, we find that the pros usually outweigh the cons. The best way to determine if implants are right for you is to schedule your consultation with Dr. Beauchamp today. We’ll help you determine if you’re a candidate for dental implants and create a unique treatment plan just for you.