Thinking of getting dental implants but worried about the cost and risks?
With so many options out there, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons.
What are the Pros and Cons of Dental Implants?
Pros of dental implants are:
• Look and function like natural teeth
• Long-lasting solution
• Prevent bone loss
• Maintain facial structure
Cons of dental implants are:
- Require multiple visits
- May be more costly
- Surgical procedure with potential risks
- Not suitable for everyone
- Outcome depends on dentist’s skill
Advantages of dental Implants
Dental implants are a long-term solution for missing teeth, with a 95.5% survival rate after 10 years (1).
Implant dentistry offers significant advantages, such as restoring functionality and preventing bone loss.
That’s why they are a popular option for people who want to replace missing teeth.
Long-term benefits
Dental implants can last for many years; some studies show up to 97.2% after 10 years (3).
They closely mimic the aesthetics and functionality of a natural tooth, making them a cost-effective solution in the long run as they reduce the need for future dental work.
Natural Look and Feel
Natural teeth dental implants are designed to closely mimic the appearance and feel of real teeth.
They are made to match the shape and colour of the surrounding teeth so they are almost invisible.
In fact, a study found the aesthetic outcomes of dental implants were satisfactory, with a mean pink esthetic score of 8.4 (3).
Oral Health
Dental implants can also improve overall oral health.
By replacing missing teeth, bone loss dental implants play a crucial role in preventing bone loss that can occur following tooth loss.
They anchor into the jaw, maintaining the strength of the jawbone and reducing the risk of bone resorption, particularly in the critical period after a tooth is lost.
In fact, a study found dental implants can reduce the risk of peri-implantitis by 20% compared to other tooth replacement options (1).
Risks & Disadvantages of Dental Implants
While dental implants are a great solution for missing teeth, there are also some downsides to consider.
One significant concern is gum disease, which can lead to complications such as implant failure.
High Cost
Dental implants are expensive, with prices ranging from €500 to €2,000 per implant (6).
That’s a big financial burden for some people, especially if they need to replace multiple teeth.
Dental Implant Surgery Risks and Complications
As with any surgery, there are risks and complications with dental implants, which involve a series of minor operations on the gums and jaw.
These can include bleeding, swelling, and pain, as well as more serious complications such as nerve damage or implant failure (4).
In fact, a study found the risk of peri-implantitis was higher for bone-level implants, with a prevalence of 10-15% (5).
Long Recovery Time
The recovery time for dental implant surgery can be long; some people take several months to fully recover (2).
That’s a big inconvenience for some people, especially if they need to take time off work or other activities.
| Risk/Complication | Prevalence |
|---|---|
| Peri-implantitis | 20-50% |
| Bleeding and swelling | Common |
| Nerve damage | Rare |
| Implant failure | Rare |
Are Dental Implants Worth It?
Dental implants are a big investment, with prices ranging from €500 to €2,000 per implant (6).
A dental implant serves as a stable and strong replacement tooth, providing a natural appearance and feel compared to regular teeth.
But for many people, the benefits far outweigh the cost.
However, before making this investment, it’s important to know who can get dental implants and if you’re a suitable candidate for the procedure
Cost vs Benefits
When deciding if dental implants are worth it, you need to weigh the cost and benefits.
While the initial cost of dental implants may seem high, they can last for many years, so they are cost-effective in the long run.
In fact, a study found the survival rate of dental implants was 95–100% after 10 years (5).
Other Options
You also need to consider other options to dental implants, such as dentures or bridges.
A missing tooth can lead to potential bone loss and shifting of adjacent teeth, which can affect jawbone health and facial structure.
While these options may be cheaper upfront, they may not give you the same comfort, convenience and aesthetic appeal as dental implants.
In fact, a study found that 90% of dental implant patients were satisfied with their implants, compared to 50% of denture patients (6).
Final Thoughts
In the end, it all depends on individual circumstances and priorities.
By weighing the cost and benefits, considering other options and making an informed decision, you can decide if dental implants are for you.
Conclusion & Key-Takeaways
Key-Takeaways:
Dental implants are a long-term solution for missing teeth, with a 95.5% survival rate after 10 years (1).
Peri-implant mucositis is a common condition that can occur around dental implants, with a prevalence of 20–50% of dental implant patients (4).
Soft tissue-level implants have a higher survival rate than bone-level implants, with a 5–10% higher survival rate (5).
Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining the health and longevity of dental implants, similar to natural teeth.
Conclusion:
Dental implants can be a big solution for missing teeth, but you need to weigh the pros and cons first.
By reading the key points, the FAQ and understanding the risks and benefits, you can make an informed decision about whether dental implants are for you.
FAQ
References
(1) Esposito M, Ardebili Y, Worthington HV. Interventions for replacing missing teeth: different types of dental implants. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2014;(7):CD003815.
Article: Interventions for replacing missing teeth: different types of dental implants
(2) French D, Larjava H, Ofec R. Retrospective cohort study of 4591 Straumann implants in private practice setting with up to 10-year follow-up. Part 1: Multivariate survival analysis. Clin Oral Implants Res. 2015;26(11):1345-1354.
(3) Gotfredsen K. A 10-year prospective study of single tooth implants placed in the anterior maxilla. Clin Implant Dent Relat Res. 2012;14(1):80-87.
Article: A 10-year prospective study of single tooth implants placed in the anterior maxilla
(4) Heitz-Mayfield LJ, Salvi GE. Peri-implant mucositis. J Periodontol. 2018;89(Suppl 1):S257-S266.
Article: Peri-implant mucositis
(5) Lago L, da Silva L, Fernández-Formoso N, Rilo B. Systematic assessment of soft tissue level and bone level dental implants. J Clin Exp Dent. 2023;15(9):e945-e953.
Article: Systematic assessment of soft tissue level and bone level dental implant
(6) FDA. Dental Implants: What You Should Know. FDA; 2021.
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