Due to a number of reasons, many people lose some of their permanent teeth in their adulthood. Whether due to sports-related injuries or just less than ideal oral hygiene, losing some of your teeth can negatively impact your way of life. A few missing teeth can seriously alter your physical appearance and affect your bite, which can interfere with eating and speaking.
Fortunately, dental implants are available for those who want to restore their missing teeth. These can restore your smile and help your jaw recover from the negative impacts of decaying teeth. If you decide to get them, then you should speak to your local dentist, who can explain the advantages and disadvantages of getting implants in great detail.
In the interest of educating patients, here are four things to consider before getting dental implants.
1. The Pros and Cons
As mentioned above, getting dental implants can present excellent benefits for people who have lost one or more teeth. Compared to dentures, implants last longer and save you money over time. These are also easier to maintain and keeps your jawbone healthy.
One disadvantage of dental implants is that it needs surgery for placement because it is supposed to integrate with your bone. The procedure can be intensive and may require a long time to heal, as well!
2. The Cost
As mentioned above, dental implants will save you money over time compared to dentures because they require less upkeep. However, their initial high cost of the procedure turns many people off!
Depending on how long your actual procedure takes and the materials used, dental implants can cost anywhere from $2000 to $10,000. Before undergoing the procedure, ensure that you discuss the actual cost with your dentist.
3. The Usable Duration
Dental implants are designed to last for life. However, dental implants can last up to 25 years with proper care and maintenance in more practical terms.
Before undergoing the procedure, it’s best to have a clear discussion of how long your dentist can guarantee your implants’ longevity, subject to proper care. This way, you can make a more informed decision regarding dental implants, vis-a-vis the cost.
4. The Post-Treatment Care
Depending on your overall health, the dental implant procedure can take a few weeks to heal. On the day of the surgery, your dentist may prescribe chlorhexidine mouthwash for use four to five times a day, especially after meals.
To maintain your dental implants, you may need to make some lifestyle adjustments. If you want to recover quickly, you’ll have to let go of smoking. For one, nicotine reduces blood flow to the tissues, which will slow down the healing process and interfere with natural immune responses. As such, the presence of nicotine in your blood may cause your wounds not to heal properly, which can result in your implants failing over time.
Excessive alcohol consumption, a poor diet, and lack of dental care will likewise impede your healing process. Ensure that you are willing to undergo these lifestyle changes, at least while you’re recovering from surgery. Otherwise, you may run into complications, not to mention have your dental implants fail over time.
Conclusion
Getting dental implants is a big decision to make financially, physically, and mentally. Before scheduling your procedure, ensure that you have an exhaustive and informative conversation with your dentist. By preparing yourself with the information before you proceed, you can enter it with a clear mind and proper expectations to gun for the best results!
Are you looking to get dental implants from a reliable dentist near you? Dental House MI offers dental implants in Ypsilanti, MI. Our comprehensive dental services include fluoride treatments, root canals, dental implants, and more. We also provide oral cancer screenings and full-mouth reconstruction. Contact us today to make an appointment!