The Advantages and Disadvantages of Dental Implants

Introduction to dental implants

Dental implants are artificial screws that act as tooth roots, surgically placed into the jawbone to support replacement teeth or dental prostheses, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. They are designed to mimic the function and appearance of natural teeth and provide a long-term solution for replacing missing teeth. Dental implant surgery involves preparation, understanding procedure expectations, and a recovery period to ensure successful integration with the jawbone.

Here’s how dental implants typically work:

Dental Implant Fixture

The dental implant itself is a small, titanium post that is surgically inserted into the jawbone beneath the gumline. Implant surgery involves thorough preparation, the surgical procedure itself, and a recovery period. Titanium is commonly used for dental implants because it is biocompatible and capable of fusing with the surrounding bone in a process called osseointegration.

Abutment

After a period of healing, during which osseointegration occurs and the implant fuses with the jawbone, a connector piece called an abutment is attached to the implant. The abutment protrudes above the gumline and serves as the attachment point for the replacement tooth or dental prosthesis.

Replacing Missing Teeth or Prosthesis

Once the abutment is in place, a custom-made replacement tooth, such as a crown, bridge, or denture, is securely attached to the abutment. The replacement tooth or prosthesis is designed to match the color, shape, and size of the surrounding natural teeth, resulting in a natural-looking smile.

Dental implants offer several advantages compared to other tooth replacement options, including:

Stability and Functionality

Tooth implants provide a stable and secure foundation for replacement teeth, allowing for improved chewing efficiency, speech clarity, and overall oral function.

Durability

With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last for many years or even a lifetime, making them a long-term solution for tooth replacement.

Preservation of Jawbone

Dental implants help preserve the jawbone by stimulating bone growth and preventing bone loss, which can occur following tooth loss.

Aesthetics

Dental implants closely resemble natural teeth in both appearance and function, resulting in a natural-looking smile.

Dental implants can be used to replace single missing teeth, multiple missing teeth, or even an entire arch of teeth, depending on the patient’s needs and circumstances. They are considered one of the most effective and reliable options for restoring oral health and function in individuals with missing teeth. Additionally, dental implants help maintain the integrity of the jawbone for the remaining teeth, preventing them from shifting and ensuring proper chewing function.

Dental Implant Options for Missing Teeth

Single tooth dental implant

A singular dental implant can replace a missing or failing tooth without altering adjacent healthy teeth. These implants, just like all of the other provide a fixed and natural look.

Multiple teeth dental implants

Multiple dental implants refer to the placement of several dental implants in the jawbone to support multiple individual replacement teeth, bridges, or other dental prostheses.

Implant-retained dentures  

Implant-retained dentures, also known as implant-supported dentures or overdentures, are a type of dental prosthesis that combines the stability and support of dental implants with the convenience and affordability of removable dentures. Unlike traditional dentures, which rely solely on suction or adhesives to stay in place, implant-retained dentures are anchored securely to dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone.

All-on-4 and All-on-6 Dental Implants

All on 4 or All on 6 dental implants are a great option for people who have problems with multiple teeth or are against wearing dentures. This procedure provides a full set of teeth that are a custom-made fixed replacement that are strategically placed into the upper and lower jaws.

The dental implant process for All-on-4 and All-on-6 may involve supplemental procedures such as tooth extraction, bone grafting, and sinus lift, which can affect the overall cost and duration of the treatment.

Dental Implant Surgery Timescale

Understanding the treatment timescale for dental implants can help you prepare for each stage of the process. The typical timeline for dental implant treatment includes:

Initial Consultation and Assessment

Duration: 1-2 weeks

Consultation: During your initial visit, your dentist will conduct a comprehensive oral examination, including X-rays and possibly a 3D scan, to assess your dental health and bone structure.

Treatment Plan: Based on the assessment, a personalised treatment plan will be created, detailing the number of implants needed, the type of dental implants, and any additional procedures required (such as bone grafting).

Preparatory Procedures (if needed)

Duration: 1-6 months

Bone Grafting: If you lack sufficient bone density to support the implants, a bone graft may be necessary. The healing time for bone grafting can range from 3 to 6 months.

Tooth Extractions: If there are any teeth that need to be removed before placing implants, extractions will be performed, and the site will need to heal for several weeks.

Implant Placement Surgery

Duration: 1 day (with a healing period of 3-6 months)

Surgical Procedure: The dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone under local anesthesia. This procedure typically takes a few hours, depending on the number of dental implants.

Healing Period: After implant placement, a healing period of 3 to 6 months is necessary for osseointegration, where the implants fuse with the jawbone. During this time, temporary restorations may be provided.

Abutment Placement

Duration: 1 day (with a healing period of 1-2 weeks)

Minor Surgery: Once osseointegration is complete, a minor surgery is performed to attach abutments to the implants. The abutments are connectors that hold the final restorations.

Healing Period: The gums will need to heal around the abutments for 1 to 2 weeks.

Prosthetic Attachment

Duration: 2-4 weeks

Impressions: Impressions of your mouth are taken to create custom-made crowns, bridges, or dentures. This process usually takes a couple of weeks.

Fitting and Adjustments: The custom-made prosthetics are fitted to the abutments. Your dentist will make any necessary adjustments to ensure a perfect fit and optimal comfort.

Final Restoration Placement

Duration: 1 day

Final Attachment: The permanent crowns, bridges, or dentures are securely attached to the abutments. This step marks the completion of the dental implant process.

Total Treatment Timescale

The entire process for dental implant treatment typically spans from 5 to 10 months, depending on individual circumstances such as the need for preparatory procedures like bone grafting and the healing capacity of the patient.

The dental implant treatment process involves several stages, each critical to ensuring the success and longevity of the implants. While the entire process can take several months, the result is a permanent, stable, and natural-looking solution for missing teeth. Consult with your dentist to understand your specific treatment plan and timeline, and take the first step towards restoring your smile with dental implants.

Advantages of Dental Implants

Improved Oral Health: Dental implants help maintain oral health by preventing bone loss and preserving adjacent teeth.‍

Natural Look and Feel: Dental implants provide a natural-looking and feeling solution for replacing missing teeth, enhancing your smile and confidence.

Enhanced Chewing Function: With the stability of dental implants, you can enjoy improved chewing function and eat your favorite foods without restrictions.‍

Long-Term Durability: Dental implants are a long-term solution for tooth replacement, offering durability and reliability that can last a lifetime with proper care.‍

Preservation of Jawbone: By stimulating bone growth, dental implants help preserve the jawbone structure and prevent deterioration over time.‍

Comfort and Convenience: Unlike removable dentures, dental implants are fixed in place, offering comfort, stability, and convenience in daily activities.‍

Improved Speech: Dental implants provide a secure foundation for replacement teeth, allowing for clearer speech and pronunciation.

No Impact on Adjacent Teeth: Dental implants do not require altering adjacent teeth, preserving their natural structure and integrity.‍

Versatility: Dental implants can replace single teeth, multiple teeth, or even an entire arch, providing versatile solutions for various dental needs.‍

Enhanced Quality of Life: With dental implants, you'll enjoy improved oral function, restored confidence, and a better overall quality of life.

These benefits highlight why dental implants are a preferred choice for restoring missing teeth and enhancing oral health.

Disadvantages of Dental Implants

While dental implants offer numerous advantages, there are also some potential disadvantages and considerations to be aware of:

Surgical Procedure: Dental implant placement involves oral surgery, which carries inherent risks such as infection, nerve damage, and bleeding. Patients with certain medical conditions or compromised immune systems may have an increased risk of complications.

Time and Healing: The process of osseointegration, during which the implant fuses with the jawbone, can take several months to complete. Patients may need to wait for the implant to fully integrate before receiving the final restoration, requiring patience and commitment to the treatment process.

Cost: Dental implant cost in the UK is higher than some countries and can be more expensive than alternative tooth replacement options such as bridges or dentures. While they offer long-term benefits and durability, the initial cost may be prohibitive for some patients. Dental insurance may cover part or all of the cost of dental implants in certain cases, such as when the implants are used to replace a tooth lost due to an injury or disease. Dental insurance may also cover related procedures like CT scans and extractions in such cases, but is unlikely to cover an elective dental implant procedure.

Bone Density and Volume: Adequate bone density and volume are essential for successful implant placement. Patients with insufficient bone may require additional procedures such as bone grafting to augment the jawbone, increasing treatment complexity and cost.

Implant Failure: While uncommon, dental implant surgery failure can occur due to factors such as poor osseointegration, infection, or peri-implantitis (inflammation around the implant). Implant failure may require implant removal and revision surgery, adding to the overall treatment burden and cost.

Maintenance Requirements: While dental implants are durable and resistant to decay, they still require regular oral hygiene maintenance, including brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups. Neglecting proper oral care can increase the risk of complications such as peri-implantitis and implant failure.

Not Suitable for Everyone: Certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders, may affect the success of dental implant treatment. Smokers may also have a higher risk of implant failure and complications due to impaired healing. Chronic health conditions can increase the risk of dental implant failure, making individuals with such conditions less ideal candidates for dental implants.

Sinus and Nerve Interference: Implants placed in the upper jaw may protrude into the sinus cavity, requiring careful assessment and potential sinus lift surgery. Implants placed near nerves in the lower jaw carry a risk of nerve damage, which can result in numbness or tingling in the chin, lips, or tongue.

Patients that Recommend Zental for Dental Implants

Suzanna had a complex, dental implant procedure with a UK dentist in 2019. Sadly, her experience was traumatic and the result she was promised fell dramatically short of her expectations. She decided to visit Zental in London and met with the highly skilled and award winning team led by Dr Ihsaan Al-Hadad. Suzanna shares her brave story and explains why she continues to Trust in Calm with Zental.

Conclusion  

In conclusion, while dental implants offer significant benefits for restoring oral function and aesthetics, it is essential to discuss the potential risks and disadvantages with your dentist or oral surgeon to make an informed decision about treatment. Factors such as overall health, bone density, and treatment goals should be carefully considered to determine the most suitable tooth replacement option for each individual. Remember, a healthy smile is not just about aesthetics; it's a crucial component of overall health and well-being. At Zental, we take a holistic approach to your smile and can offer dental implants or an alternative solution depending on your needs. Book a consultation now!

Alternatively learn more about dental implants, visit our treatment section.