What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a type of artificial teeth that are placed directly into the jaw bone to mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth. Dental implants are placed by an oral surgeon or similar dental professional, and are considered a true long-term tooth replacement option. They are used as replacements for natural teeth and can be treated in the same way.
From brushing and flossing to chewing and biting, dental implants are invaluable interventions following tooth loss or extraction.
Construction and Materials
Dental implants are made up of a metal post constructed from titanium and a crown made from porcelain or composite material. Dental implant success rates are extremely high, as they are able to effectively adhere to the bone. With proper oral hygiene, tooth implants can mitigate bone loss and provide the same function and appearance to artificial teeth as natural teeth.
Alternative to Traditional Tooth Replacement
Dental implants are considered an alternative to dentures and bridges because they effectively supplant the need for these standard tooth replacement options. Although there are different types of dental implants, they all share one important feature: the presence of a titanium post and an artificial tooth or series of teeth being held in place at the implant site.
The Ins and Outs of Implants
Although implant procedures may seem complicated, the process is fairly straightforward. Before dental implant surgery, your surgeon will take a mold of your jaw and teeth to make sure you have adequate bone tissue. From there, the area must be prepared, and any remaining teeth must be extracted. At the conclusion of the initial evaluation and preparation appointments, an implant can be placed.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
The exact price of dental implants varies from city to city and provider to provider. Typically, dental patients can expect to pay between $3,000 and $5,000 for a single implant and $40,000-$90,000 for a full set of implants. Costs can extend from there, however, should you require bone grafts or other surgical procedures prior to your implant placement.
What Are the Downsides to Dental Implants?
Dental implants are not suitable for everyone, nor are they affordable options for all dental patients in need of artificial teeth. Although they are a highly effective treatment option for people who have lost teeth or had teeth extracted, there are several requirements that must be met prior to surgery, including the condition of your jawbone.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
Dental implants are valuable dental interventions because they are durable, long-lasting, and they mimic both the appearance and ability of natural teeth. Because dental implants can be cleaned and used in the exact same way as natural teeth, dental implants can help maintain oral health and are excellent interventions to prevent bone loss and maintain the overall structure of your teeth and jaw.
Who Is Not Suitable for Dental Implants?
People who have experienced a great deal of bone loss are not candidates for dental implants. Individuals with diminished oral health are also not candidates for dental implants, as it is a surgical procedure that requires the ability to heal quickly and efficiently. Chronic diseases such as diabetes can negatively impact healing efforts, and illnesses such as cancer can increase the risk of implant rejection. Smoking and gum disease can also negatively impact your ability to heal following implant surgery and may make you an unlikely candidate for the procedure.
Who Is Best Suited for Implants?
People with controlled or well-managed chronic diseases, such as gum disease and diabetes are likely to be well-suited for implant surgery. Individuals with pristine oral hygiene practices are also likely to experience positive results from dental implant surgery. The most significant requirement for dental implants is the presence of adequate bone tissue. Without enough bone tissue to anchor the implant, implant surgery will not take, and the attempt to fuse will be rejected.
What Do You Do If You Can’t Afford Implants?
Although dental implants are extremely valuable, they are not inexpensive. Not all dental insurance companies will cover extensive oral surgery, including dental implants. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to make dental implants more affordable, should you require this intervention.
Replacing Teeth Slowly
Dental implants do not all have to be placed at once. Placing a single implant or a single side at a time can eliminate some of the stressors related to paying for dental implants. Your dentist can help you develop a treatment plan to accommodate a slower pace for implant placement. This can mean staggering extractions and implant placement or simply focusing on one area of the mouth at a time.
Using Dentures and Bridges While Saving
Dentures and bridges can be placed in the interim if you are not able to afford dental implants or your insurance company does not cover implant placement. Dentures and bridges can temporarily replace natural teeth instead of dental implants at a much lower price point. Dentures are the cheapest of the options, while bridges are often on par with dental implants but may be more likely to be covered by dental insurance.
Payment Plans and Discount Programs
Many dental offices provide payment plan options and discount programs that can significantly ease the financial burden of dental implant placement. From credit card-like interest rates and structures to in-house discount programs, there are plenty of ways to take advantage of discounts and payment plans to make sure you receive the best dental care possible.
Dental Implants in Pineville, NC
If you are looking into dental implants in Pineville, NC, reach out to our team! We recognize how valuable natural teeth are to maintain your oral health and appearance, and dental implants are among the most valuable innovations currently available in dentistry.
