You have probably heard some good things about dental implants. For example, they are incredibly strong, they cannot get cavities, and they have the potential to last a lifetime! Indeed, they are amazing! But does that mean you should be eager to replace your existing natural teeth with dental implants? Not necessarily. This blog post explains what you should know before you commit to anything.
You Should Keep Your Natural Teeth if Possible
Dental implants are an excellent form of tooth replacement, but they are still not quite as good as natural teeth. For example, they are not as strong as healthy natural teeth. Plus, they do not have any nerves that allow you to feel temperatures and sensations. Additionally, their restorations (crowns, bridges, and dentures) do not respond to whitening treatments.
Perhaps most important, placing dental implants requires a surgical procedure. While the surgery tends to be safe and is consistently successful, it still carries some minor risks. Avoiding invasive procedures can minimize your discomfort and help you to stay as healthy as possible.
Even if your teeth are not as healthy as they could be, you may still be able to keep them. Things like discoloration, misalignment, and most cases of decay are usually reparable without resorting to extractions.
When Should You Get Dental Implants to Replace Natural Teeth?
Of course, if you still have your natural teeth, you should not attempt to keep them at any cost. There are some situations in which it is best to get teeth extracted and replace them with dental implants. You might consider doing so if:
- Advanced gum disease has caused your teeth to become very loose.
- One or more of your teeth has large spots of decay that cannot be restored with a filling or crown.
- A tooth had a root canal in the past, but now the root canal is failing.
- A tooth is badly fractured.
Consult with Your Dentist to Learn More
Any responsible dentist will not recommend the removal and replacement of your natural teeth unless they truly believe that it is the best decision for your oral and overall health. After a thorough examination, they can talk to you about your treatment options and help you understand the best way to move forward.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Karl Anderson is an experienced dentist who is proud to serve the Rapid City, SD, community. Under his leadership, our team provides a range of restorative and preventive procedures. If you are curious about how we may be able to repair your natural teeth or possibly even replace them, we would be happy to answer your questions. Contact Anderson Dental at 605-721-1219.