Everything You Need to Know About Dental Implants
Dental implants are one of the most effective and long-lasting methods when replacing one or more teeth in the arch. They are also known to be one of the most expensive dental procedures, requiring multiple appointments, various temporary restorations, consultations with several specialists and months of recovery time. The thought of surgically placing a titanium implant into the jaw (or rather, the alveolar ridge) may be intimidating for some patients but it doesn’t have to be! Doing your due diligence and researching the extent of the procedure, including the healing process, cost and the final result, can help you decide whether or not dental implants are the right choice for you!
Dental Implants
Do I need a dental Implant?
Patients will often seek this procedure when suffering from some sort of trauma to the oral cavity, such as periodontal or gum disease, an injury resulting in lost bone and/or tooth structure or even tooth decay.
Are dental implants worth it?
Dental implants are considered a long-term solution for missing teeth. Unlike dentures, implants are non-removable and do not require regular maintenance, such as realignments or adjustments. Dentures may be cost effective, but they require regular visits to the dentist (or denturist) and constant cleaning. There is also the lingering fear that your denture appliance will fall out of your mouth during the most inappropriate times, should your denture adhesive fail you. Implants are a more comfortable, permanent solution which enhances both chewing and speech functions.
How much does a dental implant cost?
Undergoing a dental implant surgery is an investment into your oral health. Cost varies wildly, depending on your location and the materials used, but usually ranges between $1500-$2000 per implant. This price does not include the cost of the crown, implant parts, X-rays, multiple office visits, bone grafting, tooth pulling or root canals. When all is said and done, a dental implant can cost upwards of $8000, with the average cost being about $3000-$4500.
The implant crown cost is usually billed by the dental laboratory and is entirely dependant on the type of implant brand used, the alloy (gold or non-precious metal), crown substructure material (Zirconia or metal), and whether the crown is replacing an anterior (front) or posterior (back) tooth.
Anterior teeth are oftentimes more expensive, as additional artistic care needs to be demonstrated due to the tooth’s highly visible location in the mouth. Multiple implants will require multiple crowns, or even a bridge, which will obviously be more expensive. A bone graft and a root canal are also often required before an implant can be placed successfully which are factors to consider before going through with the procedure.
Dental insurance will usually cover some of the cost of the dental implant procedure, so it would be wise to contact your private insurance for more details before paying the dental office out of pocket.
What expect after having dental implants?
After the surgery is complete, it takes the patient an average of six to eight months for the gum tissue to heal fully. After the appointment, some pain, swelling, bleeding, and bruising is to be expected, which is usually maintained with regular ibuprofen.
Multiple visits with the dentist for check-ups are necessary throughout the year. During these visits, the dentist will perform different tasks at different appointments, such as removing sutures, cleaning and inspecting the site for infection, and (finally) inserting the crown. Once the crown is inserted, the patient must floss and brush the area as per usual, making sure to seek out medical attention should they experience any pain, discomfort or sensitivity in that general region.
Dental implants, although costly and time consuming, are an excellent permanent dental solution for the replacement of missing tooth structure. An investment into your smile is truly an investment into not only your overall appearance, but your mental health too!
Let’s get started. Request An Appointment for Dental Implants
Dr. Rahaf Suede, DDS at Great Lakes Smiles Dental is trusted by many patients in Plymouth and surrounding areas for comprehensive dental care. She is recognized for her high quality dental treatment and patient satisfaction. Contact her now for an appointment Call (734) 459-9360
