Advantages of implants

The clearest benefit is the aesthetic consideration. Because implants are designed to take on the appearance of your natural teeth they are completely unnoticeable to anyone else. They fuse with your bone structure, meaning they are a permanent fixture. One aspect of dentures that consistently grates with wearers is the discomfort. Poorly-fitting dentures can slip, leading to embarrassment, especially when this affects speech.

Implants make it far easier to chew food compared to dentures. Because implants fuse with your own teeth, you are able to eat all your favourite foods, no matter how chewy or crunchy, without suffering any adverse issues or pain.

Implants will last for a long time – with sufficient care, there is no reason why you would ever need implants replaced at all. The sheer reliability of implants is really what puts them head and shoulders over dentures. They are a permanent solution with no need to ever remove them or to use adhesives to keep them in place. Because of this they really improve self-esteem.

Another huge advantage is in oral health. Unlike a tooth-supported bridge, inserting implants doesn’t require other teeth to be reduced. This ensures more of your own teeth remain intact, with benefits to your long-term dental health. Implants allow far greater access to your teeth when it comes to brushing and flossing.

The rates of success with implants do vary, depending on the location within the jaw. Overall, the success rate is at least 97%.

Criteria for dental implants

As long as you are in general good health with regard to routine dental surgery, you will qualify for dental implants.

You need to have good, healthy gums and enough bone to form the foundation for the procedure. Good oral hygiene and a regime of regular dental visits are also recommended. If you fall into higher risk categories – if you suffer from diabetes or heart disease, or are a heavy smoker – you will need to be assessed individually. The same goes for anyone who has had radiation treatment to the head or neck area. Your dentist will always be able to advise you about the best course of action.

What type of implant treatments are available?