Patients that need to replace missing teeth have a great option with same day dental implants. Advances in dental technology and techniques allow many dentists the ability to place and restore implants at the same appointment, making it a very efficient treatment process. Dental implants can be used to restore one missing tooth or multiple missing teeth, even an entire arch.
For an implant to be successful, it is important that the implant is stable and does not move while it integrates with the jawbone. Even the slightest movement could interfere with this process but with same-day implants, the implant is secured in place by the restoration, ensuring no movement during integration. As with any treatment, there are advantages as well as disadvantages. Here, we will review the pros and cons of same day dental implants.
Advantages of Same-Day Dental Implants
The biggest benefit of same-day dental implants is that the treatment allows patients to have implants placed and receive their new teeth all at once. Patients do not have to wear an uncomfortable temporary denture while their implants heal and are still able to speak and eat without inhibition. The techniques used for same-day dental implants have been thoroughly tested and do not compromise the long-term success of the implants. Same-day dental implants are highly successful for patients that follow directions and can last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance.
Disadvantages of Same-Day Dental Implants
Adhering to a modified diet can be difficult for some patients. Same-day dental implant treatment does not bypass the need for the implants to integrate with the bone and cannot be rushed. This means patients need to stick to a softer diet, avoiding very hard or crunchy foods for up to 6 months after surgery. Compliance to a soft foods diet is vital to ensure the implants do not move during the healing time and are able to integrate fully with the jaw bone. Failure to do so may result in the implants moving, increasing risk of implant failure.
The restoration that is placed the same day will be temporary, worn while the implants heal and integrate. The temporary restoration may not look as aesthetically pleasing as your final restoration but it is important to make use of a temporary to get used to your new teeth! After the implants are healed, the final restoration can be placed.
Missing teeth can be a source of anxiety for patients so knowing that you have the option of same-day implants can be a great comfort. Implant placement surgery is the same process whether the restoration is placed on the same day or not. Same-day dental implant treatment is not for everyone but is a great option for those who are a candidate for implants and are interested in immediate placement of their dental prosthesis. Your dentist will be able to refer you to a specialist for same-day dental implants who will be able to discuss the process and help you decide if it is the right path of treatment.