Advantages And Risks Of Dental Implants

There have been many advances in just about every industry in the past several years. Included in this are several advances in the dental industry. For those who need teeth replacement, there are several options available. Some of these options are tooth bonding, veneers, bridgework, and dental implants. This article discusses the advantages of and some of the risks involved with dental implants. 

Advantages:

• They are durable and built to last. Because of the way they are designed, made to eventually fuse with the jaw bone, dental implants can last for the remainder of the patient's life as long as they are properly taken care of. They are also more permanent than other options of teeth replacement.
• Dental implants look, feel, and function like real teeth. The implants are designed to look and function like real teeth. Unless the surrounding teeth are severely stained, they are hard to distinguish from the rest of the teeth.
• They help to protect the jaw bone. Teeth help support the jaw bone. When several teeth are missing for a length of time, the jaw bone can begin to deteriorate. Because implants fuse with the jaw bone, they will help to prevent the jaw bone from deteriorating. 
• Ease of speaking and eating may improve. When one has several teeth missing, this may cause issues with speaking and eating. Dentures can slip, causing issues in these areas as well. Because dental implants look and function like real teeth, they prevent these issues from happening. 
• The shape of the face may be protected. Teeth help to maintain the shape of the face. If several teeth are missing for a length of time, the face may begin to look sunken and sad. The implants will help support the cheeks, preventing this from happening.
• They help to protect the natural tooth enamel. With other forms of tooth replacement, the tooth enamel may need to be shaved away to allow room. Dental implants are made to fit the gaps of the teeth, so the natural tooth tissue is saved. 

Risks involved:

As with any surgical procedure, there are certain risks involved. Following is an explanation of these risks.

• The implant site may become infected. If the dentist's instructions are not followed carefully, the implant site may become infected, requiring antibiotics. 
• Nerves in and around the site may become damaged. If numbness, pain, or tingling occurs in around the implant site, it is important to inform the dentist immediately. 

It is important to brush the teeth and use mouthwash twice daily, as well as flossing the teeth once a day. For more information about caring for implants, contact a professional such as John V. DiGirolamo, D.D.S.

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