Are Dental Implants the Best Solution?

Between natural wear, accidental chipping or cracking, and the impact of dental decay, at some point you may find yourself searching for a restorative treatment option. Thanks to innovations in the realm of restorative dentistry, advanced treatment options are now available and applicable to various instances of dental damage.

In particular, advances in implant dentistry have made dental implants and implant-supported restorations more readily available for a variety of patient needs. However, as implant-based treatments can require a more extensive overall treatment plan, it is important that patients thoroughly weigh their options prior to committing to a certain procedure. Some of these factors include:

Condition of the Smile
Implants are ideal in cases where the dentition is at risk of further damage without a substitute tooth. For example, in cases of a failed root canal, replacing the continuously infected tooth with an implant can help eliminate recurrent infection. However, in some cases patients may not require such extensive care. For instance, in cases where the tooth can be saved, a crown or filling may be the most effective method of preserving the natural tooth.

Impact on the Smile

The impact of care on the rest of the smile is another important factor to consider. Depending on the condition that has caused the tooth damage and the extent of overall smile damage, implants can be used to comprehensive improve overall oral health. For example, in cases where the underlying bone has deteriorated due to periodontal disease, implants can be used to reinforce jaw strength and stimulate healthy bone regeneration.

Cost of Care
This goes beyond initial cost to include long-term maintenance and a patient’s future restorative needs. While traditional restorations like dentures and bridges may come with limited initial costs, the long-term financial obligations of replacing these options can quickly add up. Additionally, as these treatments often fail to provide a long-term solution to missing teeth, traditional restorations can lead to more extensive damage over time, ultimately requiring more extensive and expensive care down the road. As dental implants are permanent restorative solutions, patients do not need to worry about future maintenance or replacement costs.

At Amy Berhanu-Demissie, DDS, we believe that effective, successful dentistry comes down to providing patients with the information they need to make educated decisions about their smile. For individuals considering dental implants as a long-term solution to missing or damaged teeth, visit our San Bernardino or Banning location today.