If you’ve heard of dental implants, then you probably know all about how fantastic they are when it comes to restoring lost teeth. Once they’ve been placed within a patient’s jawbone, they’re capable of fully restoring the look, feel, and functionality of a smile and offering unique, unparalleled benefits. But is it ever appropriate to replace healthy teeth with dental implants, or is it best to retain your natural teeth for as long as possible? Here’s what your dentist wants you to know.
Why Your Natural Teeth Are Best for Your Smile
Even though dental implants are considered the gold standard when it comes to replacing missing teeth, they still play second fiddle to your natural pearly whites. Your original teeth are by far the best tools at your disposal for biting and chewing, thanks to their durability and natural synergy with your other oral structures. The American Academy of Periodontology advises against the removal of healthy teeth in favor of dental implants. Plus, extracting teeth exposes you to certain risks including dry sockets and oral infection.
When Natural Teeth Should Be Removed
However, certain instances necessitate the removal of natural teeth, and several factors play a role in this decision. These factors can include severe bone loss resulting in loose teeth, fractured teeth that can’t be repaired, trauma resulting in lost teeth, or even the presence of gum disease that proves difficult to resolve. It’s important to note that dentists always prioritize the preservation of healthy teeth when possible, and if extraction is deemed necessary, your dentist will walk you through all of your tooth-replacement options, including dental implants for quality patients.
Why Repairing Teeth Is Preferable
It’s also worth noting that caring for your natural teeth is undeniably simpler than caring for replacement teeth, which is also why repairing your original pearly whites is preferable. Compromised teeth can easily be assisted with accessible and affordable treatments such as fillings, crowns, or even root canal therapy. Certain restorations, such as dentures, bridges, or even implants to a certain extent, also require varying degrees of specialized care.
When Dental Implants Are Necessary
Dental implants become necessary when patients already have missing teeth or are subject to oral health issues that warrant tooth extraction followed by replacement. However, they’re only suitable for those with adequate jawbone density and relatively healthy mouths; your dentist will be able to determine eligibility for implants during an initial consultation.
The bottom line is that as fantastic as dental implants are, they’re not always suited for everyone, nor are they intended to replace existing viable teeth. In any case, compromised or missing teeth need to be addressed promptly, so if you’re dealing with a particular issue, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist and inquire about implants.
About the Practice
Dr. Ben Sutter received his dental doctorate from the Rutgers School of Dental Medicine and has proudly served patients and families in Eugene, OR for several years! His practice is pleased to offer a wide range of treatments including tooth-restoration solutions like dental implants. If you have any questions about the article or would like to schedule a visit for you or a loved one, please contact Dr. Sutter through his practice’s website or over the phone for further assistance: (541) 515-7279.