Many experts consider dental implants the ideal way to rebuild smiles after tooth loss because, unlike dentures or bridges, they include a titanium rod that’s surgically placed in your jaw. Eventually, your bone fuses with this support pole, making it a permanent part of your mouth for a longer-lasting solution.
However, many patients wonder whether these restorations are worth the investment of time and resources. If you’re unfamiliar with this treatment, continue reading to learn 3 surprising facts that can help you make an informed decision regarding the future of your smile.
Fact #1: They Don’t Develop Decay
You might avoid scheduling your initial dental implant consultation if you’re worried that your restoration might develop cavities. After all, who wants to undergo surgery for a new tooth just for it to decay?
Thankfully, the materials your prosthetic are made from don’t develop caries. The biocompatible titanium rod fuses with your jawbone and is known for is resistance to corrosion. Meanwhile, the crown portion above your gumline is usually made from resilient ceramic that can be customized to look as lifelike as possible, but the inorganic material is less porous than enamel, and can’t get cavities.
That doesn’t mean your implant is invincible, though. You’ll need to continue brushing and flossing twice daily to avoid gum disease, decay, and other issues that can impact your oral health.
Fact #2: They’re Highly Successful
Are you hesitating to proceed with dental implants because you’re anxious about oral surgery or the recovery process afterward? It’s natural to feel nervous, but fortunately, dental implants have an incredibly high success rate of more than 90%, meaning that you’re not likely to experience any complications.
However, as with any surgery, there are some potential risks. You should follow your dentist’s post-op instructions carefully to recover as effectively as possible while avoiding adverse effects, such as infection.
Fact #3: They Can Save You Money Over Time
There are potentially several options that your dentist can use to restore your smile’s appearance and functionality after tooth loss. Although dental implants tend to cost more initially than dentures or bridges, did you know they can potentially save you money in the long run?
They tend to be more resilient and sustain fewer injuries than the alternatives, meaning you’re less likely to require costly repairs over time. Furthermore, there’s no need to invest in special products or accessories for them to be effective, like cleansing soaking solutions or adhesives to keep them in place.
If you still have unanswered questions about dental implants, your dentist is happy to provide as much information as you need during your consultation appointment!
Meet the Author
Dr. Russell O’Connell is passionate about helping families in Califon improve their daily lives by enhancing their oral health. He earned his dental degree from the University of New England College of Dental Medicine, and today, is committed to providing a comprehensive menu of top-quality services to meet all your needs at one convenient location. He has the in-depth training and state-of-the-art equipment to place and restore your implants in the office for a more streamlined experience. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (908) 832-2300.