Should I Get a Dental Implant? Reasons Why You Need An Implant

• Have one or more missing teeth
• Are in relatively good physical health
• Have a jawbone that has reached full maturity – typically someone over the age of 18
• Have adequate bone to secure the dental implant or implants into, or 
• Can undergo a bone graft

The long answer is that there is a lot more to it than a simple yes or no solution. Here are some of the reasons why people convince themselves not to get dental implants. 

Reason #1 – Getting dental implants at my age? I’m way too old!

Some people are under the illusion that age is a barrier to getting dental implants. While it certainly is for children – the jaw needs to be fully formed before undergoing dental implant surgery, there is no upper age limit for adults. 

There is no reason why anyone at any age should lose their ability to smile or have to put up with problematic dentures. Here at DDSS/DDII, we regularly place dental implants into the mouths of healthy patients in their 70’s and 80’s. These people then go on to lead transformed lives. Just because we’re getting older doesn’t mean that it’s a rite of passage to lose teeth. 

Reason #2 – I don’t deserve to undergo dental implant surgery

Believe it or not, we hear this one a lot. We regularly see patients with multiple missing teeth who have told us they don’t ‘deserve’ dental implants because they haven’t looked after their teeth in the past. That’s a lot to take on board.

The truth is, there are lots of reasons why people lose teeth. Sometimes is purely a matter of genetics. Other factors might be down to conditions or illnesses such as cancer or diabetes, drug use, or even exposure to abuse. And, yes, we may well forget to brush and floss from time to time too. 

The truth is that getting dental implants isn’t an entitlement. There is no divine right to dental implant surgery, nor do you need to remain in a whole world of tooth problems because you’ve neglected your teeth in the past.

Getting dental implants should be a choice for every adult. 

Of course, getting dental implants does require some level of commitment and cost, but how about letting us decide whether you are a good candidate? 

Reason #3 – I’m afraid of dental implant surgery

When people answer the question, “should I get a dental implant?’” with a resounding yes, it’s usually flowed up with “but I’m also afraid of undertaking dental implant surgery.”

Understandably, people are typically afraid of what they don’t know and let’s face it, having a metal post thrust into your jaw doesn’t sound like it’s all too pleasant. 

With the advancements in technology like computer-guided flapless surgery, dental implant surgery for most patients is quick and comfortable. Add to this the latest sedation dentistry techniques, and getting dental implants is no worse than undergoing a common or garden tooth extraction.     

The team here at DDSS/DDII are all highly experienced implant dentists. We want to reassure people that we’ve placed hundreds of implants into patient’s mouths using the latest techniques. 

Most people are amazed at how ‘easy’ dental implant surgery is. Moreover, because we also practice the flapless surgery technique, recovery is pretty quick too.

If you are nervous about getting dental implants or, indeed, any aspect of dental implant surgery, come and talk to us. While we won’t coerce you in any way, it may give you a new perspective or angle when answering the question, “should I get a dental implant?”  

Our dentists will give you a breakdown of the dental implants procedure and what you can and should expect, leaving you in no doubt. 

They say that the best way to overcome fear is knowledge, and it’s certainly true when it comes to undertaking dental implant surgery. 

Reason #4 – I can’t afford dental implants

And, there it is!

The stumbling block to getting dental implants for most people is the cost.

Initially, dental implant surgery is expensive when you compare it to other missing tooth replacement options. However, when you look at the bigger picture, implants are a cost-effective way of 

• Restoring your smile with natural-looking hassle-free teeth
• Allowing you to eat what you like without restriction and
• Giving you a renewed quality of life and self-confidence

Moreover, dental implants can last for many years, so chances are, you’ll only ever need a one-time investment.

If that doesn’t convince you that getting dental implants is worth it, consider the fact that many dental clinics offer payment plans allowing patients to pay for their treatment in monthly instalments. 

You get the dental implants you need or want without it costing you the earth. 

So there you have it!

Hopefully, this post has given you more confidence to make the right decision when answering the question “should I get a dental implant?” but if you need further advice or assistance in your decision-making process.  Schedule an appointment with the team at DDSS/DDII. 

We can talk you through your options and give you a custom breakdown of costs so that you can make the right, fully-informed decision. Call us today on (02) 8294 5812 for a consultation.

Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.