Today, you can’t go long without hearing wonderful things about dental implants. While the media is filled with people singing the praises of implants, you might wonder about the few negative things that you hear. Wondering what is the downside of dental implants is natural. After all, the many positive things people say might make this tooth replacement option seem too good to be true. The truth is that there are a few downsides to getting implants. However, each one also tends to come with upsides that make them worth it in the end. Learning about tooth implant pros and cons puts you in the right position to make informed decisions about your oral health.
What Are the Differences Between Dentures Vs Implants?
Before we dive into the pros and cons of dental implants, it helps to fully understand how they differ from dentures. Traditional dentures fit on top of your gums. Typically, they’ll cover a full arch along the top or bottom of your mouth. Some people wear dentures on both arches. Dentures are typically removable. This means that you’ll take them out at night and for regular cleanings. A well-fitted set of dentures is held in your mouth by the natural shape of your mouth and saliva. Some people use special adhesives for additional security. Partial sets of dentures might also be held in your mouth by a clasp that attaches to your other teeth.
Dental implants are placed beneath your gum line. There, the posts are able to fuse with the existing jawbone. On top of the gum line, you’ll see a crown. This is simply a replacement tooth that your dentist carefully shapes to fit the appearance of the rest of your teeth. Once placed, implants are not removable. You’ll brush and floss them much like you do your natural teeth. For most people the biggest factor in their decision of whether dentures vs implants are better is that they prefer that implants don’t move around.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Dental Implants?
When you meet with the best dental implants specialist in Los Angles, you’ll talk about the various pros and cons of full dental implants. As you do, keep in mind that what you consider a benefit versus a downside can vary according to your overall health, desire for a perfect smile and general comfort with dentistry. Dr. Delaram Hanookai will take their time to make sure that you fully understand what to expect before, during and after the procedure. For now, reading through this list of tooth implant pros and cons will empower you to ask questions during your initial consultation.
Pro: A Dental Implant Can Last a Lifetime
Longevity is one of the biggest benefits of dental implants. A fully-healed dental implant can potentially last for the rest of your life. Since it is fused to your jawbone, it can’t fall out and get broken. Implants are also unable to decay like a natural tooth.
Con: The Visible Crown Can Sometimes Wear Out
One of the cons of dental implants is that the portion of the tooth that is above the gum line can break. The material used to make dental implants is very strong. However, you could break one if you eat extremely hard foods or experience an impact to your mouth. People who play sports will still need to wear a mouthguard to protect their new teeth.
Pro: Implants Function Like Natural Teeth
When you look for dental implants near by, you may be embarrassed by missing teeth. You might also be frustrated by being unable to eat your favorite things. At Southland Dental Care, you’ll find that the implants we place feel similar to your natural teeth. After your healing time is complete, you will likely not even notice a difference in how your new teeth function as you eat and speak.
Con: They Require Enough Jaw Bone to Support Them
The question of what is the downside of dental implants frequently comes down to this one issue. A good c