If you have missing teeth, you might be considering getting a bridge or even dentures. But have you given some serious thought to dental implants? This restorative dentistry procedure has the potential to save your smile, and it can last much longer than dentures or a bridge. Let’s talk more about how this remarkable treatment may be able to help you.
Dental Implants: The Basics
The most common type of dental implant is called an endosteal implant, which is a small titanium post that an oral surgeon places in the jaw. As you heal from the surgery, your body bonds with the implant through a process known as osseointegration. The result is that the implant begins to act similarly to a natural tooth root, providing the strongest base possible for the artificial tooth (or teeth) that will go on top of the implants.
Many dentists are strong advocates of implants because they can last for a lifetime, they look very natural, and they’re easy to care for. The best part is that because they act like tooth roots, they can prevent the bone loss in the jaw that often comes with missing teeth. Studies show that 25% of bone width is lost the first year after tooth loss without replacement. As it loses width, it also loses height. This makes it critical to replace your missing tooth as soon as possible. In the end , this will save you money and psychological stress over your tooth loss.
Replace One Tooth or All of Them
Whether you have one missing tooth or many, implants could be right for you. Your dentist can place one implant to support a single artificial tooth. However, if you have several teeth missing in a row, an implant-supported bridge, with two implants that support multiple teeth, may be your best option. If you are missing an entire row of teeth, your dentist will decide how best to place the implants so your new smile has the support it needs.
During your consultation, your dentist will examine your mouth and talk to you about your implant options. They’ll design a treatment plan and let you know all the details about the exciting journey ahead of you.
The Cost of Implants
The cost of treatment varies from case to case and depends on a couple of factors, including:
- The amount of preliminary work you need. Some patients need extractions or a bone graft before their mouth is ready for implants.
- The number of implants you’re getting.
As you consider your tooth replacement options, it is important to note the long-term value provided by dental implant treatment. These include the way implants preserve bone, their potential to last a lifetime, and ease of oral hygiene. In other words, you can clean them like a natural tooth. Over the course of a lifetime , you very well may save money in replacement costs as compared to bridges and partial dentures. All of these qualities make dental implants a worthwhile investment.
Dental insurance typically doesn’t cover implants, but it may help you pay for some of the preliminary work. You can also talk to your dentist about arranging a payment plan so you can fit your restored smile into your budget.
Dental implants are the best way to save your smile! Why not schedule a consultation with your dentist who services Sterling and surrounding areas to learn more?
About the Dentist
Dr. Robert Bryce is your local implant expert. He has undergone extensive training so he is qualified to be with you through every stage of your journey to gaining a restored smile. If you would like to talk to him about implants, please contact us at 571-223-6221.