Dental implants have made the quality of life better for many people. While there are many benefits associated with dental implants, it is important to think about all the possibilities before agreeing to the procedure. If you are considering the possibility of receiving some sort of dental implant, here are a few things to keep in mind.
It is very unusual for an implant dentist to agree to perform the procedure unless there are compelling reasons to do so. Some circumstances are obviously legitimate, such as when reconstructive surgery after an accident is needed. Dental solutions of this type are also viable options when implants are needed to replace sections of teeth that are decayed or broken. Before beginning to consider any other factor, it is imperative to meet with an implant dentistry professional and determine if you are a likely candidate.
While meeting with the professional, the condition of your gums and bone structure will be evaluated. This is important, as the dental implant must have a solid structure to adhere to in order for the procedure to be a success. If the oral surgeon is not satisfied that you have the level of oral health required, it would be better to look into other dental options.
Once you are declared a viable candidate for a dental implant, the next step is to educate yourself on what to expect. In general, oral surgeons insist that all dental implant candidates be apprised of both the benefits and risks of receiving a dental implant. This is so the candidate will be able to make a decision based on hard facts rather than be led only by the desire to improve appearance or eliminate the need to use dentures.
The benefits are many, including enhanced appearance, improved speech, and less trouble eating. At the same time, there are risks, including infection, accidental perforation of the sinuses, and nerve damage. There are other possible dental implant complications as well, such as an adverse reaction to the anesthetic, abnormal swelling or recurring pain after the implants are installed.
There is also the matter of the cost of dental implants. Often, the procedure can be a costly one. Insurance may or may not cover the expense, depending on the reasons for the implant surgery. Checking the terms of your health coverage will give you some idea of how much you can reasonably expect your policy to cover, if any. If you will have to pay for the procedure out of pocket, it may be worth your time to consider alternatives that are more affordable.
When it comes to dental procedures of any type, there is no one right answer. But before jumping into the idea of implants, make sure you are a viable candidate and that you know exactly what is involved in the actual surgery as well as what to expect afterward. Finally, make sure you can reasonably afford the surgery before committing to anything. In the end, only you can decide if getting implants will make life better.
