Dental implants are considered by many to be the pinnacle of replacement teeth because they provide so many unique advantages. They’re the only option that’s surgically placed into your jaw which allows it to function as a standalone structure. As a result, they’re more resilient than alternatives like dentures or dental bridges and come with fewer dietary restrictions. Plus, they have an incredibly high success rate of more than 95%.
With so many positive attributes, increasing numbers of patients have begun to wonder whether they can replace still-viable teeth with dental implants. If you’re curious, keep reading to find the answer!
Why Do People Want to Replace Their Teeth with Dental Implants?
While it’s possible to replace a healthy tooth with a dental implant, it’s not an ideal choice. Typically, your dentist only recommends extracting teeth when there’s no other recourse. Although restorations can be incredibly resilient, they’re not as comfortable or healthy for your mouth as your natural teeth. Why, then, are more people interested in removing teeth that are still alive and in decent condition to replace them with dental implants?
The reasons vary based on each person’s circumstances, but in some cases, it’s due to cosmetics. It’s natural to feel self-conscious about flawed teeth. If yours are chipped, cracked, worn down, or discolored then you might wonder if it’s easier to simply replace it than repair it.
In other instances, patients have damaged teeth that could be preserved with other treatments, like a root canal and dental crown, but aren’t given the option. There’s a concern that less-than-reputable providers may push more costly procedures for financial gain without fully informing the patient about other potential solutions.
When Are Dental Implants the Best Choice?
When it comes to your oral well-being, no replacement is as good for your mouth as the teeth you were born with. Plus, any surgical procedure comes with the risk of infection and dental implants are no exception. That’s why most providers take a conservative approach and only suggest extraction when it’s the best way to maintain your dental health.
For example, if you have tooth decay, typically a filling or root canal can repair the damage and preserve your tooth so that you can continue to use it. If the damage is too severe, however, it could put your jawbone and neighboring teeth at risk so pulling the tooth is the best way to keep your grin in good shape.
If you had a provider that recommended a dental implant but you’re not sure that it’s necessary, you can always get a second opinion. Find a dentist you can trust, and they’ll be able to let you know whether there are other treatment options you might try, first. Then you can move forward confidently knowing that you’re heading in the right direction!
About the Practice
At Attleboro Dental Group, you and your entire family benefit from a team of dentists who provide a full array of top-quality services under one roof, including dental implants. They’ll be with you for each step of the process, including the surgery, to minimize the need for outside referrals. They combine a compassionate approach with state-of-the-art equipment to enhance patient comfort and create more accurate results. Plus, they offer extended hours so that you can find an appointment time that works best for you. If you’re wondering whether dental implants are right for you, you’re welcome to request a consultation on the website or by calling (774) 331-0260.