5 Limitations You Should Know Before Getting Dental Implants

Advanced Family Dentistry | (909) 980-5558
Dr. Reza Parhizkar & Dr. Nouri

Limitations of Dental Implants

When you have lost one or multiple teeth, you have several options to rebuild your smile. Dental implants are the number one recommended solution because of their tooth-like properties. Unfortunately, dental implants have a few limitations you need to consider.

Actual Patient Before and After Results

Dental implants are the “gold standard” for teeth replacement, offering unmatched durability, function, and aesthetics. However, like any medical procedure, dental implants come with their own set of limitations. While implants provide life-changing benefits, understanding their challenges is just as important as celebrating their benefits.

These include:

They Need a Strong Bone:
A strong, healthy jawbone is essential for successful dental implants. Unfortunately, prolonged tooth loss, gum disease, or dental trauma can lead to jawbone deterioration. We often recommend bone grafting for patients with bone loss to restore the lost tissue and create a stable foundation for the implants. While effective, bone grafting adds to the overall cost and extends the treatment timeline.
Lengthy Healing Period:
If you need an instant solution for your missing teeth, dental implants aren’t a good fit. Typically, dental implants need 3-6 months to heal and integrate with the jawbone. Some patients may require a longer healing period, especially if bone grafting is necessary. While the process takes time, many patients find the wait worthwhile for the exceptional results. However, there are opportunities to place a dental implant and immediately load the implant with a temporary crown or bridge if certain conditions can be met. Dental implants are the next best thing to natural teeth, offering unparalleled stability, comfort, and aesthetics.
May Be More Costly:
Dental implants are more expensive than other teeth replacement options. This is due to the advanced technology, surgical expertise, and durable materials involved in the procedure. The good news is that dental insurance covers part of the implant cost. Even better, dental implants are more cost-effective over time. Unlike dentures or bridges, which may require frequent repairs or replacements, implants are designed to last for decades.
Implants Can Fail:
Although dental implants have an over 95% success rate, they can fail. Infection of the tissues around the implant (peri-implantitis) is the most common cause of implant failure. Implant infections occur because of poor oral hygiene and smoking, which are all within your control. Other rare causes of implant failure include poor placement, implant reaction, and poor bone quality.
Surgery Risk:
Placing implants involves surgical implantation. Although implant surgery isn’t a big deal, it involves a small risk, like any other surgical procedure. The risks for implant surgery include infection, nerve damage, prolonged bleeding, and delayed bone healing. A skilled dentist takes every precaution to ensure a smooth and successful procedure.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit Advanced Family Dentistry or call us at (909) 980-5558.