Most people know that dental implants are the most realistic tooth replacement option available, but not everyone can have them. Payment plan providers and private health rebates can help bridge the gap if price is a factor, but the very nature of how a dental implant is inserted means they’re not for everyone. Find out what your alternative to dental implant surgery might be.
Are dentures the only alternative to dental implant surgery?
Dentures are probably not what you’re thinking. We all grew up with the vision of fake teeth in glasses of water, falling out when worn by characters on sitcoms and causing noticeable speech impediments.
Modern dentures don’t cause those same kinds of issues – and if they do, they have likely become damaged or broken so you need to come and see us immediately! In fact, Dentures look more realistic than ever, so they can be a great option if you are unable or unwilling to have dental implants.
Of course, where a dental implant will always win is that it’s permanently fixed in your mouth so eating, drinking, and brushing your teeth is just like normal. Dentures do still need to be removed and cared for carefully, but when in place they will generally look and perform like real teeth, you just have to be mindful of some of your food choices.
Are bridges a good alternative to dental implant surgery?
Unlike dental implants, bridges are not attached to the jawbone. They work by being fixed to your surrounding teeth to literally “bridge” the gap caused by damaged or missing teeth. In many ways, they look and function like a dental implant.
The reason they work so well as an alternative to dental implant surgery is because you don’t need strong or healthy bones to support dental bridges or crowns. You do need strong and healthy teeth in your mouth though, so they won’t necessarily be a viable option for everybody.
Unlike dental implants, bridges are generally completed within a couple of weeks.
Why do people need an alternative to dental implant surgery?
There are a number of reasons why people may not want, or be able to get, dental implants.
They include but are not limited to:
- Dental implant surgery costs: getting dental implants is one of the most expensive types of procedure you can have for your teeth and unfortunately, that can be a factor for some people.
- Dental implants have certain requirements to work. Before you can consider a dental implant, you need to have a healthy jaw that has finished growing. Dental implants have considerable healing involved so some pre-existing medical conditions may make the dental implant surgery too risky. If you have gum disease, you may not be a candidate for dental implants.
- Dental implant surgery takes a long time. Each procedure is fairly quick, but the actual healing process can take months which means it will be longer before your teeth are restored from both a cosmetic and functional perspective. It can take six months or more from start to finish for your dental implants to be completed.
Your dentist will discuss all of the potential risks, options, and considerations with you during your consultation.
Dental implants aren’t necessarily the best option or available for everybody, but it’s also better to make an informed decision with your dentist to make sure all factors unique to your individual health and circumstances can be considered.
Whether you already know you need an alternative to dental implant surgery or are just starting your restorative dental journey, the My Local Dentists Northmead team are looking forward to helping you. Make an appointment. Call us on (02) 9630 9996 to schedule a consultation today.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
Colgate – Living With Dentures When Younger
https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/dentures/living-with-dentures-when-youre-young
Forbes Health – How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
https://www.forbes.com/health/body/how-much-dental-implants-cost
Dental Implant | Health Direct
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/dental-implant#alternatives