When it comes to dental health, there is no substitute for quality, including dental implants. As an increasingly popular choice for replacing missing teeth, they offer both aesthetic and functional benefits.
But are they worth the investment? The answer depends on your situation.
In this article, we’ll explore what sets dental implants apart from other solutions and discuss whether or not they are worth the cost.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small metal posts made of titanium or zirconia that are surgically placed on your jawbone to act as artificial roots for your replacement teeth. The implant is topped with a restoration, such as a crown, bridge, or denture, that mimics the look and function of natural teeth.
However, this procedure is not for everybody. There are qualifications that you need to meet, such as:
- Good overall oral health
- You must have healthy gums and enough bone to support the implant
- Not using tobacco products or can avoid or quit smoking
- No uncontrolled diabetes
- Have good oral habits
Talk to your family dentist (see family dentistry in Somerset if you’re from the area) about dental implants if you’re considering having them.
What Is the Process of Dental Implant Treatment?
Dental implant treatment involves several steps and requires multiple appointments with your dentist. Here’s what it looks like:
Step 1: Consultation and Treatment Planning
The first step in the process is a consultation with your dentist. During this stage, your dentist will evaluate your oral health and medical history to determine if tooth implants are the right tooth replacement option for you.
After evaluating your oral health, your dentist will create a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. It includes a detailed outline of the steps involved in the dental implant process, a timeline, and the expected costs.
Step 2: Tooth Extraction (if Necessary)
If you have a damaged or decayed tooth that needs removal, your dentist will perform a tooth extraction before moving forward with the implant process. This step is crucial to ensure that the gums and jawbone are healthy and ready for implant placement.
Step 3: Implant Placement
After tooth extraction, or if extraction isn’t necessary, the implant process begins with implant placement. During this step, your dentist surgically inserts the implant into your jawbone. The implant is biocompatible and fuses with the jawbone over time, providing a secure and long-lasting foundation for the replacement tooth.
After implant placement, a healing period of three to six months is necessary to allow the implant to fuse with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. During this time, temporary tooth replacements may be placed to prevent food from getting stuck in the area.
Step 4: Abutment Placement
Once the implant has fused with the jawbone, your dentist will place an abutment on top of it. The abutment connects the implant to the replacement tooth and is necessary for anchoring it.
Step 5: Replacement Teeth Placement
The final step is placing your artificial teeth—either a crown, bridge, or denture. This involves attaching the replacement tooth, which is custom-made to match your natural teeth’s size, shade, and shape. The dental crown is placed on the abutment to complete the implant process.
Due to the long dental implant treatment process, look for an experienced dentist to perform the procedure. Visit Platinum Dental Secaucus to learn more about how it works.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
- Improved aesthetics. Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth, but they can also help restore your facial structure, making them an excellent long-term investment in your appearance.
- Durability and reliability. Dental implants can last up to 25 years or more with proper care and maintenance.
- Improved oral health. Because the implant is securely anchored in your jawbone, it helps preserve the surrounding bone structure and prevent bone loss that can occur with other tooth replacement methods.
- Improved comfort. Dental implants are comfortable and stable, so you don’t have to worry about slippage or discomfort.
How Much Are Dental Implants?
In the United States, the average total price for a single dental implant costs between $3,000 and $4,500. This includes the procedures before, during, and after the dental implant. On the other hand, you may expect to pay a final price of around $60,000 to $90,000 if you need a mouthful of implants.
Are Dental Implants Worth Their Price?
Despite their high cost, dental implants offer numerous benefits that make them a worthwhile investment for many. They are durable, long-lasting, and effective at improving oral health, quality of life, and aesthetics.
However, whether they are worth their cost depends on each individual’s unique situation and oral health needs. Dental implants may not be the best tooth replacement option for some patients due to their high cost or medical conditions.
It’s best to consult your dentist so they can help you determine whether tooth implants are a worthwhile investment for your dental needs. They will evaluate your oral health and financial situation and recommend the best options to replace your missing teeth.
