How Do You Know If Dental Implants Are Right For You?
You’ve been thinking about getting dental implants in Chicago, but aren’t sure if they’re the best option for you. Dental implants can be a great solution for replacing missing teeth, but like any medical procedure, they aren’t right for everyone. Here’s how you can determine if dental implants are a good fit for your needs.
Considering Your Specific Case
The first thing to think about is your individual case. Why are you missing the tooth or teeth in question? Is it due to an injury, decay or some other reason? Your dentist will want to examine your mouth and overall dental health to see if implants are feasible.
Certain pre-existing conditions like chronic illnesses or smoking can affect the success rate of implants. Talk to your dentist about your history and let them advise you on your candidacy.
Understanding Success Rates
Dental implant success rates are typically very high, around 95% for the dental implant itself and 90% for the crown attached to the implant. However, some factors can bring those percentages down, like poor bone density in the implant site or improper oral hygiene during healing.
Again, your dentist will be able to look at your specific case and give their professional opinion on your probability of success. If the rate is lower for you, you may want to consider another tooth replacement option.
Considering Your Lifestyle
Your daily habits and lifestyle will also play a role in whether dental implants are right for you. Success often depends on a commitment to oral hygiene and care of the implant. Smokers tend to have lower success rates than non-smokers.
If unwilling or unable to follow proper maintenance of the implant, you may want to discuss with your dentist other tooth replacement options that may be more realistic for your lifestyle.
Evaluating the Costs
The cost of dental implants depends on many factors, but they are often more expensive upfront than other tooth replacement options. However, they can end up costing less overall since they last longer than other options like dentures and don’t require replacement as frequently.
Check with your dental insurance to see what they cover. Ask your dentist for an estimate of the total costs including the procedure(s), implant parts like the posts and crowns, and any follow-up visits or X-rays. Make sure you can fit the costs within your budget.
Considering the Time Commitment
Getting dental implants takes time. There are often several procedures required, spanning weeks or months from when the implant post is placed until the artificial crown is attached. Healing time in between procedures is important to ensure the implant integrates with your jaw bone.
Are you able to make the necessary number of visits during this period? Coordinate with your dentist, so you fully understand the time investment before committing.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Ultimately the decision depends on weighing the advantages of dental implants compared to the potential risks or disadvantages for your situation. On the pro side, implants can restore full tooth functionality and provide a permanent solution for tooth loss.
But the insertion procedure itself can be more invasive than other options like dental bridges. Consider the benefits and drawbacks as they pertain to you. Discuss all aspects with your dentist to make the right choice.
Your dental health is worth taking the time to consider carefully. Weigh all the factors to determine if dental implants in Chicago will benefit you most. And as always, make sure you get trusted guidance from the dental professionals who know your case best. Taking a thoughtful approach will lead you to smile-worthy results.
