Tooth loss is more common than many people realise, and it can affect much more than just your smile. Missing teeth may cause difficulty when eating or speaking, lead to jawbone shrinkage over time, and impact your self-confidence. It will also affect your nutrition due to lowered mastication efficiency. If you’re considering your options, dental implants are often regarded as one of the most reliable and long-term solutions for replacing missing teeth.
But is this the right choice for you?
In this post, we will explain how dental implants work, explain the procedure, and discuss who is a suitable candidate. We will also compare implants to other treatment options, such as bridges and dentures, so you can make a fully informed decision.
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone. This post acts as an artificial tooth root. Once it has fused with the bone—a process called osseointegration—a custom-made crown is attached to restore the visible part of the tooth.
Implants can be used to replace a single missing tooth, multiple teeth, or even all teeth with implant-supported dentures or bridges.
When Should Missing Teeth Be Replaced?
Tooth replacement isn’t just a cosmetic procedure. Even though some people may not feel bothered by a missing tooth, especially if they are at the back of the mouth, the impact on oral health can be significant.
Leaving gaps in your smile can lead to:
- Shifting of neighbouring teeth
- Chewing difficulties or changes in your bite
- Bone loss in the jaw
- Speech problems
- Increased risk of gum disease and tooth decay
Replacing missing teeth helps maintain proper function, keeps your bite aligned, and supports the surrounding bone and gum tissue.
If you’re unsure whether to take action, our previous article on Fixing Missing Teeth explains why it’s worth addressing tooth loss promptly.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
Dental implants are often described as the closest alternative to natural teeth. Once fully healed, they will feel stable and allow you to chew, speak, and smile confidently.
Some of the key benefits include:
- Long lifespan: Implants can last for decades with proper care.
- Bone preservation: The implant stimulates the jawbone, helping to prevent bone loss.
- No damage to neighbouring teeth: Unlike bridges, implants don’t require the filing down of adjacent teeth.
- Improved comfort: Implants are fixed in place and feel more natural than removable dentures.
- Better appearance: The crown is custom-made to match the shape and colour of the neighbouring teeth.
Who Is a Suitable Candidate for Dental Implants?
Not everyone is immediately suitable for dental implants; however, many patients can become candidates with proper preparation. You may be a good fit if you:
- Have one or more teeth missing.
- Have healthy gums
- Have enough bone density in your jaw (or are willing to undergo bone grafting)
- Do not smoke or are willing to stop smoking during healing
- Are in good overall health
Patients with gum disease or medical conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes may need extra care before implant placement. A comprehensive consultation and imaging will help ascertain whether implants are a viable option.
What Is the Procedure Like?
Before explaining the procedure, you need to understand the structure of a dental implant. An implant comprises three parts – the titanium post, the abutment, and the crown The process typically involves several stages, which are spread over a few months:
- Assessment and Planning: The dentist will perform a complete examination, including scans or X-rays, to check your bone health and design the implant treatment plan.
- Implant Placement: The titanium post is surgically inserted into the jawbone under local anaesthetic. Healing typically takes between 3 and 6 months.
- Abutment and Crown Placement: Once the implant is integrated with the bone, a small connector (called an abutment) is attached. Finally, a crown is placed atop the abutment to complete the restoration.
During the healing period, a temporary crown or denture may be provided to maintain appearance and function.
Are There Any Risks or Disadvantages?
Like it is with any surgical procedure, dental implants too, carry some risks. These include infection, nerve damage, or issues with the implant not bonding to the bone. However, with careful planning and good oral hygiene, most patients experience successful outcomes.
Some potential drawbacks include:
- Cost: Implants are typically more expensive compared to other options.
- Time: Treatment can take several months to finish.
- Surgery required: Minor oral surgery is necessary, which may not be suitable for all patients.
For people seeking a faster or less invasive option, treatments like bridges or dentures may be more suitable. Our article on Dental Implants explains some of these alternatives in more detail.
How Do Implants Compare to Bridges and Dentures?
| Feature | Dental Implants | Bridges | Dentures |
|---|---|---|---|
| Longevity | 15+ years (often lifelong) | 10–15 years | 5–8 years |
| Bone preservation | Yes | No | No |
| Removable | No | No | Yes |
| Impact on adjacent teeth | None | Requires support from nearby teeth | None |
| Appearance | Very natural | Natural | Can look less natural |
| Maintenance | Similar to natural teeth | Requires floss threaders | Must be removed and cleaned daily |
What Does Aftercare Involve?
After your implant is placed, it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene and schedule and attend follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing. Long-term success depends on:
- Brushing twice daily and cleaning between your teeth
- Regular dental check-ups and professional cleaning.
- Avoiding smoking, especially during the healing period
- Limiting hard or sticky foods that may damage the crown
Your dentist may also recommend using a water flosser or interdental brushes around the implant area.
Speak to the Experts at Bundall Dental and Implants
If you’re still confused about whether to replace your missing teeth with dental implants, Bundall Dental and Implants can help. Our experienced team will assess your needs, explain your options clearly, and guide you through every step of the process.
We offer a range of tooth replacement solutions, including implants, bridges, crowns, and dentures, and we focus on providing long-lasting care tailored to you.
Book a consultation today to see whether dental implants are right for you.
