Despite the huge advancements in dental care and technology, many people still suffer from tooth loss. This is most commonly associated with tooth decay or injury. But, for many years, the only treatment available for tooth loss was either dentures or bridges – not dental implants. Some patients who needed emergency dental care were also restricted to these options when it came to tooth loss. Whilst both treatments provide some form of success, many dental patients reported issues. These include uncomfortable fittings or not sitting in the mouth properly.
Dental implants are metal fixtures that are surgically attached to your jawbone, just below the gums. Artificial teeth can be fitted to these fixtures. Over time, these implants become fixed to your bone, as the bone begins to fuse to the metal. This means that having dental implants provides you with much more stable support, which you can rely on whilst eating, drinking and speaking, unlike other traditional methods.
This is part of the reason why dental implants are becoming a much more popular treatment. Due to the surgical steps that need to be taken, this can often deter patients from making the choice for treatment. If you’re thinking about getting dental implants, then there are probably a lot of questions that you would like to ask or things you would like to know. With that in mind, here are 3 questions that you might have before getting dental implants.
Are dental implants safe?
Dentists have used dental implants for many years. The technology used for dental implants continues to advance. Dental implants are highly sophisticated devices that dentists have to be highly trained in order to fit. They are one of the most reliable ways to replace tooth loss. But, that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t come with some risks.
Around 98% of all dental implant treatments are successful. However, some patients do encounter some problems. These are often linked to improper care following the treatment, which can be avoided if you follow the recommended steps. Overall, the treatment for dental implants is very safe and is carried out by highly trained professionals.
Is getting dental implants painful?
Whilst some discomfort is to be expected, most patients who undergo dental implant treatment report that it was much less painful than they anticipated. As there is some surgical procedure involved with getting dental implants, you will be given a local anesthetic so that the area is completely numb during the procedure. This means that you will feel very minimal discomfort, if any.
The dentist carrying out the treatment is experienced, so they will use very gentle techniques in order to further reduce any discomfort. Once the procedure is done, you will be given some post-treatment instructions to follow. Following this guidance will also further reduce any discomfort. Your mouth and gums around the implant site might feel sore and tender for a few days after the procedure. This is often easily treated with hot or cold compresses and painkillers.
What are the positives and negatives?
All cosmetic and dental procedures come with their fair share of positives and negatives. In terms of dental implants, there are very few negatives. Similar to any surgical procedure, there is a chance of pain and inflammation following the procedure. There is also a risk of infection, however this is very rare.
Any negatives associated with dental implants are minor, so if they do occur, they can be easily treated with guidance from your dentist. They will be able to discuss how to manage these risks based on your specific situation. Prior to treatment, your dentist will carry out a full evaluation of your mouth and gum line in preparation for the implants. Some patients don’t have enough available bone for the implants to be secured to. This may mean that you need a gum and bone graft, which can increase your treatment time and also treatment cost.
There are, however, many upsides to getting dental implants. If you have suffered from the visible effects of tooth loss for many years, then getting dental implants can improve your appearance and boost your confidence. When properly looked after, they can last for years. You will no longer be restricted from eating certain foods and you can lead a full, active lifestyle.
If you’ve been considering getting dental implants, then arrange a consultation with your dentist, who will be able to discuss your options and plan out your treatment. Whether you choose all on 4 dental implants or traditional methods, your dentist will be better placed to help you decide and answer any questions or worries you may have.
