One of the worst consequences of having missing teeth is low self-esteem. People who don’t feel confident about how they look often struggle with having good, healthy relationships and are less likely to take risks, especially when it comes to job opportunities. Thankfully, modern dentistry has found incredible solutions for people suffering from tooth loss.
Modern restorative dental options include dental bridges, dentures, partial dentures, and dental implants. By far, the most highly recommended dental restoration is the dental implant. This small, screw-like rod “implants” into the jawbone, creating a strong and reliable bond.
Dental implants offer numerous advantages, but they don’t come without disadvantages—one being that not everyone meets the requirements for this innovative dental procedure. Continue reading to learn more about dental implants.
Advantages of Dental Implants
Having one or more missing teeth can lead to several oral and overall health issues, including:
- Decay
- Gum disease
- Jawbone atrophy
- Further tooth loss
- Poor nutrition
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- And more…
Dental implants solve most, if not all, of these issues. Other benefits of dental implants include:
- With proper oral health care, dental implants can last a lifetime.
- Like natural teeth, dental implants are anchored to the jawbone, making them much more stable than bridges and dentures.
- Healthier jawbone. The tooth roots and jawbone need each other to do their jobs well. Without a tooth root, the jawbone begins to deteriorate and may cause other teeth to fall out.
- Improved appearance. Jawbone atrophy leads to facial sagging that makes a person appear much older than they actually are.
- Dental implants don’t just connect to dental crowns, they can also be attached to bridges and dentures.
- No damage to neighboring teeth. Dental bridges require dentists to remove enamel from the patient’s healthy teeth so the bridge can be securely attached. Dental implants don’t require any alterations to healthy teeth.
Disadvantages of Dental Implants
The three major downsides to dental implants include:
- A longer treatment process
- The possibility of surgical complications and infection (though exceedingly rare)
- Not being a solution for everyone
Candidacy for Dental Implants
The only way to truly learn if you are a candidate for dental implants is to visit an experienced implant dentist. However, this list will give you an idea of what the dentist looks for.
Here are the qualifications for patients who want dental implants:
- Sufficient jawbone mass. For an implant to be successful, the bone must be dense enough to support it. For patients whose jawbone has deteriorated too much, the dentist or oral surgeon may recommend a bone grafting procedure.
- Healthy lifestyle habits. Tobacco use and overconsumption of alcohol have tremendous consequences on the body’s ability to heal by inhibiting blood flow, the ability to clot, and the immune system.
- A fully developed jawbone. The jawbone does not fully develop until a person is around 20 years old. Therefore, children and teens are not good candidates for this procedure.
- Good oral and overall health. Issues like gum disease, cavities, heart disease, and diabetes can negatively impact the surgical and healing process.
Dental Implants in Lombard, IL
Looking for an experienced dental implant dentist in Lombard, IL? Dr. Julie Glud at Dental Care of Lombard is here for you! Our team loves helping patients achieve optimal oral health through preventive and restorative care.
Contact us today at (630) 613-9760 to learn if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants.
