Dental implants are a perfect solution for people suffering from tooth loss. If done correctly, a dental implant can replace natural teeth effectively. This is why most quality dental clinics like Do Good Dental rates it above most tooth replacement methods.
Like most things in life, no matter how good something is, there is always a downside. Although most of its downsides are pretty negligible, it is good to learn about them before opting for dental implants.
Listed below are some of the downside of opting for dental implants.
Your Dental Insurance Does Not cover you
A major downside of a dental implant is that often, your dental insurance does not cover the cost attached to it. The main reason for this is that dental implant is considered a form of cosmetic surgery. Insurance companies generally don’t cover the cost of cosmetics surgeries.
However, your insurance plan might cover some other restorative procedures attached to dental implants, such as dentures, bridges, etc. So make sure to check in with them.
Loss of Bone
A significant downside you may need to consider before opting for an implant is loss of bone. Losing bone around an implant is quite common. However, if the bone loss is too much and it is starting to affect your face structure, your dental implant will be replaced, or another alternative explored. To avoid this, you must make sure a qualified dental specialist fixes your dental implants. Professionals take their time to plan for the surgery and ensure that it is well installed.
High Cost of Implant
Another major downside of detail implants is that they are costly. Although dental implants are one of the best tooth treatments available, they are not the most affordable. The cost of implants varies depending on if it is a full mouth implant or a single tooth. A single tooth can cost you a few bucks, while full teeth may cost thousands of dollars. To know how much your implant will cost, it’s best to book a consultation with an experienced dentist.
Some dental clinics also offer payment plans for dental implants. This way, people who can’t afford to pay for their dental implant at once can easily spread the cost over a set period.
Surgery is Involved
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Dental implantation is considered a form of surgery. As such, the procedure is accompanied by all the risks associated with undergoing a surgical procedure. Some of these risks include; infection, tooth and nerve damage, jaw fracture, bleeding, delayed bone healing, etc. On average, complications associated with surgery during implant are about 5 to 10%. If you are ready to accommodate this risk, then you can get on with your dental implant.
Need to Replace Restoration
Dental implants are known to last for years, but restorations attached to them do not. A major disadvantage of implants is the need to replace restoration regularly. Replacement of restorations may be very costly. For instance, a single crown can cost up to $1000. Imagine having more than one to replace.
Dental bridges and dentures are less expensive. Still, the cost can add up over time.
To avoid having to replace your restorations often, it is best to follow a strict maintenance culture. Ways to prevent damage include; regular and careful brushing and wearing of night and mouthguard when necessary.
Long Healing Period
Dental Implant takes a very long time to heal. The healing period can be from 3 to 18 months, depending on a lot of factors. Dental implantation is not always straightforward. It involves a series of steps and minor procedures. To start with, the jaw is checked to confirm if there is enough bone mass or not. If an additional bone mass is needed, a bone graft is done. Teeth extraction is also done if needed.
Implants can only be placed once the surgery has healed up. After the implant is placed, there is another waiting period for bone to grow around the implant before restorations are placed. If you are the type who lacks patience, you should consider dental implants.
There’s a Chance of Failure
For every implant performed on a patient, the chance of failure is about 10%. This is why most experienced dentists make sure to qualify a patient before suggesting implants. Not everyone is a good candidate for dental implants. It is the job of your dentist to check if the implant is right for you.