Are permanent dental implants right for me? Benefits and risks
Discover if dental implants suit you by exploring their benefits, risks, and candidacy requirements.

When considering permanent dental implants, it’s essential to weigh several factors to determine if they suit your needs. Dental implants offer a long-term solution to missing teeth and can significantly impact your oral health and quality of life.
This guide will walk you through the key benefits and potential risks of permanent dental implants, helping you make an informed decision.

Benefits of permanent dental implants
Permanent dental implants provide numerous advantages over other tooth replacement options. Here's why they might be the right choice for you:
Improved chewing ability
One of the benefits of dental implants is the significant enhancement in chewing efficiency. Unlike removable dentures, implants function like natural teeth, allowing you to enjoy your favorite foods without worry. This improved function can lead to better nutrition and overall health.
Improved talking ability
Missing teeth can affect your ability to form words correctly, leading to speech difficulties. Dental implants help restore your speech by providing a stable foundation for your mouth's movements, allowing you to communicate clearly and confidently.
Bone loss protection
A unique advantage of dental implants is their ability to prevent bone loss. When a tooth is lost, the jawbone can begin to deteriorate over time. Implants stimulate the bone, much like natural tooth roots, helping to maintain bone density and facial structure.
Better aesthetic appearance
Dental implants are designed to blend seamlessly with any remaining, natural teeth, offering a visually appealing solution to tooth loss. They restore your smile and help to boost your self-esteem, making you feel more confident in social and professional settings.
Improved overall oral health
Unlike traditional bridges or partial dentures, which may require grinding down adjacent healthy teeth, implants do not affect neighboring teeth. This preservation of natural teeth structure contributes to long-term oral health.

Risks of permanent dental implants
While dental implants offer many benefits, it’s good to be aware of the minimal risks. Potential yet rare complications could include infection, sinus damage, and nerve injury. However, with modern techniques and skilled practitioners, the risk of such issues is generally minimal. Regular follow-ups and maintaining good oral hygiene can further mitigate these risks.
Eligibility criteria for permanent dental implants
Dental implants are an excellent option for many individuals, particularly those with one or more missing teeth. However, certain criteria must be met to ensure a successful outcome.
Candidates should have a sufficient jawbone density and good oral health to support the implant. Non-smokers and individuals free from chronic diseases like diabetes are typically ideal candidates. However, each case is unique, so it’s crucial to consult with your Aspen Dental provider to assess your specific situation.

Should I get permanent implants?
Deciding between permanent dental implants and other alternatives, like dentures, depends on your individual circumstances and preferences. Implants are a more permanent, stable solution, offering superior function and aesthetics. However, they require a more significant upfront investment and a more involved surgical procedure.
Dentures, on the other hand, are less invasive and more affordable initially but may require ongoing maintenance and adjustments. Your lifestyle, budget, and health considerations will play a pivotal role in this decision.
Permanent dental implants FAQs
How long do permanent dental implants last?
With proper care and maintenance, permanent dental implants can last a lifetime. The implant itself, made of titanium, integrates with the jawbone, providing a durable and stable foundation.
Is it better to get permanent dental implants or dentures?
The choice between implants and dentures depends on various factors, including your oral health, lifestyle and budget. Implants offer a more natural look and feel, improved function, and long-term benefits, while dentures are more affordable and less invasive initially.
Consulting with your dentist at Aspen Dental can help you determine the best option for you.
Can permanent dental implants get cavities?
Dental implants themselves cannot develop cavities. However, the surrounding gum tissue can still be susceptible to periodontal disease if not properly cared for. Maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing and dental check-ups, is essential to keep your implants and gums healthy.
Can your mouth reject a dental implant?
Rejection of a dental implant is rare, as titanium is biocompatible and integrates well with the jawbone and has a 98% success rate. However, some factors, such as infection, insufficient bone density or excessive stress on the implant, can lead to implant failure. Your dentist will evaluate your condition to minimize these risks.

Dental implants with Aspen Dental
Permanent dental implants offer significant advantages, including enhanced chewing and speaking abilities, bone loss prevention, improved aesthetics and overall oral health benefits. However, it's important to consider the potential risks, such as infection, sinus damage, and nerve injury.
Consult with your Aspen Dental care team to see whether dental implants are the right choice for you. Schedule today.
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