There’s no understating the importance of a nice smile, not only can it can make you feel confident about yourself, but it can enhance your career! Nowadays, you have a variety of options for improving your smile. One of the most common options is dental implants. If you’ve been thinking about a new smile, you might be wondering if dental implants are right for you.
They are very common for people who are missing one or more teeth, but is there more to that? This guide will go through everything you need to know about dental implants so you can decide if they’re a good fit.
Let’s get started.
Dental implant surgery is a procedure that replaces tooth roots with screw-like posts made of metal. This replaces missing or damaged teeth with artificial ones that look and function like the real thing. Dental implants are a nice alternative to bridgework or dentures that don’t fit well.
Dental implants are a better option than bridges or dentures because they last longer, they’re more comfortable and they don’t damage your surrounding teeth. Implants also fit into your mouth similar to how your natural teeth would. Dentures tend to look more artificial.
So, how do you know if dental implants are right for you? In the vast majority of cases, anyone who has missing teeth or a missing tooth can benefit as long as your dental hygiene is ideal.
Dental implants are also a great option to replace ill-fitting dentures or to replace broken or damaged teeth. Dental implants might not be for you if you have any underlying or serious health problems. Be sure to talk to your dentist to see if you’re the right candidate.
There are two main types of dental implants:
Endosteal implants are placed in the jawbone. Typically they’re made of titanium and shaped like small screws, they’re the most common type of implant.
Subperiosteal implants are placed under the gum but on, or above, your jawbone. This is often used for patients who don’t have enough healthy natural jawbone and cannot undergo a bone augmentation surgery to rebuild it.
What if your jawbone isn’t able to support dental implants? Many techniques can be used to rebuild bone, provide a solid foundation for implant-supported teeth and renew your natural jawline.
Bone augmentation involves restoring bone in your jaw when it can’t support dental implants otherwise. This uses bone additives and growth factors to strengthen the bone.
Sinus lifts involve adding bone below the sinus in cases when the natural bone has deteriorated because of missing upper back teeth.
Then there’s bridge expansion; when your jaw isn’t wide enough to support dental implants, bone graft material can be added along the top of your jaw to widen it.
As you can see, if you want dental implants but feel like you don’t have the jaw to support them, there are several ways to ensure that you have the right foundation for a new smile.
Before you rush to make an appointment, it’s important you know what the dental implant procedure consists of. The traditional method requires two procedures, with a break of three to six months between each of them. That break allows you to heal.
Of course, the type of procedure you receive might vary from this. Each circumstance is different. Having an idea of what to expect will help better prepare you for consulting with your dentist.
As previously mentioned, each case is unique so there is no one-size-fits-all cost of dental implants. Generally, single dental implants cost about $1,500 to $2,000. This doesn’t mean per procedure but per implant.
You might only need one implant or if you are missing many teeth, several. There are also other costs involved. This includes the crown, the cost of tooth extraction, office visits as well as pre- and post-op care.
These costs can set you back between $1,500 to $2,800, so a single implant can be as much as $4,800. With that said, you can always do your research and find affordable dental implants. Many dentists offer financing options.
If you’re tired of feeling down about missing or damaged teeth, you should know that there are options to enhance your smile. One of those options is getting dental implants. Not only is the dental implant process smooth and minimally invasive, but it lasts for years.
Dental implants are a great alternative to bridges or dentures. So if you are looking for a new smile, that doesn’t look artificial and won’t damage surrounding teeth, consider looking into dental implants. You won’t be able to stop smiling!
Ready to take the first step to a radiant smile? Request an appointment with us today!
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