Dental Implants: Benefits and Risks – Expert Opinion

Whether it’s a single dental implant or multiple implants, dental implants are one of the best options for tooth replacement today. Dr. Regina Kuningas-Ott, the head of HanzaDent Dentistry, explains the benefits and risks of dental implantation.

Dental implants are a popular and effective option for replacing missing teeth, offering both functional and aesthetic advantages. However, like any medical procedure, there are certain risks associated with them.

Benefits of Dental Implants:

1. Dental implants look and feel as natural as possible in the mouth. They mimic both the appearance and function of natural teeth.
2. Poorly fitting dentures can move in the mouth, causing phonetic issues or distorted speech. Dental implants allow you to speak without worrying about the teeth shifting, making it easier for people to understand you.
3. Unlike bridge prosthetics, which also replace missing teeth, dental implants do not require the grinding of adjacent teeth, preserving their integrity. This is the biggest advantage over bridge prosthetics, as the lifespan of any ground-down tooth decreases compared to an untouched, healthy tooth.
4. Dental implants are very durable and can last many years, in some cases even a lifetime, if well taken care of.
5. In many cases, removable dentures fit poorly. A dental implant is anchored to the bone, so there are no concerns about its stability. Dental implants can also be used as additional anchoring elements for removable dentures, eliminating the need for elements like denture adhesive to keep them secure.
6. In many cases, dental implants can be placed immediately after a tooth extraction. Often, a temporary crown is also placed right away. This way, the patient doesn’t have to be without a tooth. Dental implant placement is a complex procedure that requires thorough preparation and specialist experience to ensure the best results. Immediate implantation helps prevent bone loss in the jaw, which ensures better aesthetics and function for the patient in the future.

Every medical procedure, including dental implantation, has its own risks:

Surgical Risks:

Like any surgery, there are risks such as infection, bleeding, and nerve damage. The doctor evaluates these risks while planning the patient’s surgery, and everything is discussed to find the best solution for the patient.

1. Implant Failure: Although rare, dental implants can fail if they do not integrate with the bone after a few months. This can be caused by insufficient bone density, infection, or excessive stress on the implant.
2. Bone Loss: Over time, there may be some bone loss around dental implants, which can affect the implant’s stability. This is more likely in individuals with certain health conditions, such as periodontitis.
3. Gum Recession: In some cases, the gum tissue around the implant may recede, exposing the metal post and affecting the appearance of the implant.

Based on my experience, I can say that the benefits of dental implants far outweigh their possible risks. Today, dental implants are, in every sense, the best option for tooth replacement. Feel free to inquire about implant options with the dentists at HanzaDent!

Book a consultation today!