There is a reason dentists do everything possible to save your natural teeth. They are designed to provide better long-term oral health than any other form of tooth replacement. Although dental implants remain superior to dental bridges and dentures because of their lifelike appearance and root-to-crown restoration, you should not view them as a viable alternative to natural teeth. Why? Keep reading to discover why keeping your regular smile is always a better option.
Aesthetic Improvements Can Be Made with Cosmetic Dentistry
If aesthetic imperfections are why you’re considering dental implants to replace your natural teeth, here is a better alternative: cosmetic dentistry.
Custom veneers, professional teeth whitening, and even metal-free dental crowns can be used to conceal flaws and reveal beautiful results. There is no need to extract and replace these teeth when an entire catalog of services is available to enhance your appearance.
Dental Implants Cost More Than Saving Vulnerable Teeth
Unless your dentist indicates that your teeth cannot be saved with root canal treatment and must be extracted, let them save your smile. Whether you are budget-conscious or not, you will pay significantly more for dental implants than if you allow your dentist to provide endodontic care.
The cost of extracting and replacing teeth with dental implants can add up quickly, and most insurance companies still do not cover this type of oral surgery. It does, however, provide partial coverage for root canals in most cases.
Proper Oral Hygiene Doesn’t Stop with Dental Implants
Some patients may assume that once dental implants are in place, they no longer need to worry about their oral health. This is untrue. Peri-implantitis is a type of gum disease that affects the soft oral tissues surrounding an implant and is a common cause of dental implant failure.
Proper oral hygiene habits must be practiced daily if real and artificial teeth are to remain in place. Just because dental implants cannot develop decay or cavities does not mean they cannot succumb to gum disease or damage. Wearing appropriate mouth protection is as essential as practicing regular brushing and flossing, and visiting your dentist for dental checkups and cleanings is still recommended.
Are dental implants a suitable option for replacing missing or extracted teeth? Yes. However, if your natural teeth are still healthy and firmly in place, don’t do anything to change them.
About the Author
Dr. Meredith Todd’s dental experience spans far and wide, including everything from obstructive sleep apnea treatment to dental implant placement. As a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, she regularly pursues educational courses to hone, refine, and expand her skills. She and her team at Harbor Dental Center offer start-to-finish dental implant treatment in-house for greater convenience. If you are without one or more teeth and want to replace them with longer-lasting prosthetics, contact us at (410) 228-5445 to schedule a consultation.