Are Dental Implants Right for You? Factors to Consider Before Choosing Implants

If you are missing teeth, you might be looking for ways to get your smile back. Dental implants could be a great solution for you to explore. They offer a long-term, natural-looking way to replace teeth. Before you decide, it is good to know the benefits, as well as the things you should consider.
 

What Are Dental Implants?

These are small posts made of a strong metal called titanium. They are placed into the jawbone during a simple surgery. They act as a new root for a missing tooth. When the implant heals and fuses with the bone, it gives a stable base for a new tooth. This new tooth can be a crown, a bridge, or a set of dentures.
 

Key Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants give you many advantages that make them a very popular choice for tooth replacement, including:

• Natural Look and Feel: Implants look and feel just like your natural teeth. They can help restore both how your smile looks and how it works. Once they are in place, they blend in with your existing teeth. You may even forget you have them.
• Better Comfort and Stability: Unlike dentures that you can take out, implants are fixed in your mouth. This means they will not slip or shift, which helps you feel more comfortable. They do not require any sticky adhesives.
• Improved Chewing Power: Implants give you back your ability to chew and speak with confidence. This can really improve your quality of life.
• Jawbone Health: Implants are very helpful for preserving bone density in your jaw. They stop the bone loss that often happens when you have a missing tooth. They work like a real tooth root to keep the bone strong.
• A Long-Lasting Answer: With good care, dental implants can last you a lifetime. This makes them a great value in the long run. They are a much more permanent choice than other options.

Things to Think About Before You Choose Implants

There are a few things you should consider before you make your decision.
 

• Your Overall Health

You need to be in good general health for the surgery to be successful. Conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and a poor immune system can affect how you heal. If you have any health conditions, it is important to talk about them with your dentist. They will help you decide if surgery is a good choice for you.
 

• Your Jawbone Density

For dental implants to work well, you need to have enough bone in your jaw. This bone needs to be able to support the implant. If you have lost bone because a tooth was missing, you may need a bone graft. This extra step can add to the time and cost of your treatment. However, it may be necessary to ensure the implant placement is a success.
 

• Your Age

There is no specific top age for getting dental implants. Adults who are still growing, usually under 18, may not be good candidates. This is because their jawbones are still developing. Most people who are over 18 are good candidates. You just need to make sure your jawbone has fully matured.
 

• Smoking and Mouth Care

Smoking can really affect your healing after surgery. It can also increase the risk of an implant failing. It is also good to have a solid daily mouth care routine. People who struggle to keep their teeth clean may not be good candidates for implants. If you smoke, your dentist may suggest alternative treatments for you.
 

• Cost and Insurance Coverage

Dental implants are a more expensive choice than traditional bridges or dentures. The cost can change based on how many implants you need and how complex the surgery is. Some insurance plans may pay for a part of the procedure. You should check with your insurance provider to understand the costs and payment choices.

For more on dental implants, visit Sequoia Station Dental Care at our Redwood City, California, office. Call (650) 305-3600 to book an appointment today.