A dental implant is a restorative dental solution that offers a wide range of benefits. A dental implant requires surgical intervention. During the surgical procedure, the dentist installs a screw-like biocompatible material made of titanium into the jaw bone or the skull bone. The installation location depends on whether the patient has lost a tooth or teeth in the lower or upper jaw. Once the dental material has been installed in the bone of the skull or jaw, the component is allowed to heal before a dental prosthesis is added on. A dental prosthesis may be a dental crown, denture, bridge, orthodontic anchor, or facial prosthesis.
My Dental Home, Dr. Kevin Brown & Associates notes that dental implants offer several benefits. Patients who undergo the procedure will enjoy a feel and look similar to their natural teeth. There are no special dental care needs with dental implants, and the patient can enjoy the installation for years to come. However, the disadvantages of the procedure aren’t discussed as much as its advantages. Below are some of the disadvantages to consider before opting for a dental implant procedure.
Dental Implants Are Costly
When undergoing any procedure, the very first line of consideration is the cost. You want to ensure that you can afford the procedure. However, for dental implants, the procedure can be expensive. Dental implants are more expensive when compared to other restorative procedures like dental bridges and dentures. People who have lost several teeth can spend tens of thousands on dental implants, while a single implant can set you back a few thousand dollars.
Before deciding on getting dental implants, you should first speak to your dentist on whether the procedure is right for you and the possibility of additional procedures. In some cases, patients whose jawbones have shrunk may need to undergo an additional procedure like bone grafting, which may cost more money. Ask to know the cost estimate of your dental implant from your dentistbefore making a decision.
Dental Implants Are Not Covered Under Dental Insurance
Having found that dental implants can be expensive, you may think your dental insurance will provide the needed support for the procedure. You couldn’t be more wrong. In most cases, you will find that your dental insurance coverage does not extend to dental implants. This means that all of the costs incurred will be out of pocket.
Being a surgical procedure, there is also a 5 to 10 percent chance of complication. Complications may be in the form of infections, delayed bone healing, damage to surrounding teeth, nerve damage, jaw fractures, prolonged bleeding and blood loss, and more. Treating these complications will set you back a few more thousands of dollars, depending on its extent.
A Restoration Replacement May Be Necessary
Dental implants are mostly touted to last a lifetime. However, the restorations layered on top of the implants may require replacement in 10 to 15 years, depending on use. Getting a replacement can be costly. A single dental crown can set you back as much as $1,000. If you have multiple dental crowns in your mouth, you may easily face a substantial amount in replacement cost. In contrast, other dental restoration options like dental bridges and dentures cost a lot less. Being made from porcelain, dentures, and bridges may last a lifetime if properly cared for. With either option, you can significantly cut back on recurrent replacement costs.
Bone Loss Is a Possibility
While dental implants are credited to restore bone function and keep the jaw stimulated, jaw bone loss is still possible. You should consider this one major disadvantage before making a final decision. Some patients lose bone around their implants, bringing them back to the earlier problem that caused them to choose the procedure.
It is important to note that such bone loss happens over the years and depends on the patient. If too much bone is lost, the patient may be required to undergo yet another procedure to replace the dental implant. When this happens, patients must seek out experienced dentists to get the job done.
Healing Time Can Be Lengthy
Dental implants require surgery. The surgical procedure may leave a wound that may take time to heal. Healing time depends on several factors, including the immune system of the patient. Patients who do not heal fast may face the chance of complications arising due to infections. In general, healing time may take anywhere between 3 to 18 months.