Dental Implants: Types, Advantages, Risks, Cost

If you’re missing one or more teeth, among the most effective dental solutions is a dental implant, which will allow you to replace the missing tooth with a permanent artificial tooth. Before you schedule an appointment for dental implants, it’s important that you understand the various types of dental implants and the costs associated with this treatment method.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are considered to be the roots of artificial teeth. In most cases, these implants are made from a durable titanium metal. When you obtain an implant, it will be sent through the gums and into the jawbone, which ensures that it remains in place. Before the artificial tooth is connected to the implant, the jawbone will fuse with the implant over a period of six months or so.

Keep in mind that a separate abutment is placed directly on top of the implant in order to accommodate the crown or artificial tooth. If you need to obtain replacement teeth, dental implants are considered to be the strongest solutions for providing the necessary support. If this treatment is performed by a reputable and experienced dentist, it should be completed without any issues and is believed to be among the safest dental treatments available.

Types of Dental Implants

There are two primary types of dental implants that you could select for your missing teeth, which include endosteal implants and subperiosteal implants. An endosteal implant is one that’s connected to the jawbone through a surgical procedure. The area will then be given a lengthy period of time to heal, after which a second procedure will be administered to position a post on the initial implant. An artificial tooth can then be connected to the post. It’s also possible for several of these teeth to be provided via a denture or bridge.

The other type of dental implant is a subperiosteal implant, which is comprised of a metallic frame that’s connected to the jawbone right below the gum tissue. When the gums heal properly, the frame will become fused with the jawbone. The posts that are connected to the frame will jut out from the gums. The artificial teeth will then be placed on the posts. Both of these implant options will provide you with a secure fit for your artificial teeth.

Main Benefits of Dental Implants

There are many fantastic benefits that you’ll be provided with when you obtain dental implants for your missing teeth. For one, you will benefit from an improved appearance since you will no longer have a gap in your teeth. Dental implants also allow for enhanced speech when compared to other teeth-replacement options. For instance, dentures that don’t fit well can slip and cause you to slur or mumble your words. These implants are permanently affixed to their position and cannot slip, which means that your speech shouldn’t be negatively affected.

Most individuals who obtain dental implants also feel more confident since they have a full smile. Dental implants are considered by many individuals to be much more comfortable than dentures. Since dental implants are secure, eating and chewing will be easy in comparison to what it’s like to eat with dentures. Some additional advantages of dental implants include better oral health, high durability, and convenience. While dentures need to be removed and cleansed every day, you can brush your teeth with ease when wearing dental implants.

Risks of Treatment

Since surgery is necessary for the placement of dental implants, there are some inherent risks that you should be aware of. However, this treatment is among the safest procedures available, which means that the complications are unlikely. Likely the most common complication is the development of an infection at the site of the implant, which could be dangerous if not tended to immediately.

It’s also possible that the surrounding teeth or blood vessels could become damaged or injured, which is uncommon unless the treatment is being administered by an inexperienced dentist. In rare cases, the implant may be rejected by your body. In the event that the dental implants are incorrectly placed within your jaw, you may experience some sinus problems. While these risks and complications can be frustrating to deal with, they are all treatable, which should lessen your concern about obtaining this treatment.

Costs Associated with Dental Implants

The costs of dental implants can differ depending on the dental practice you go to and the type of dental implant you obtain. It’s estimated that the total cost of a dental implant to replace a single tooth is anywhere from $3,000-$5,000. Keep in mind that these costs include the implant, abutment, and artificial tooth. If the costs for dental implants seem high, it’s important to understand that most dental practices offer various payment methods for you to consider.

For instance, many of these practices will include financing options that allow you to obtain a loan for the costs. Once you receive the loan, you’ll simply need to pay it back via low monthly payments. Make sure that you inquire about the costs with the dental practices that you’re considering obtaining the treatment from. It’s highly recommended that you obtain 3-4 quotes from prospective dentists before you schedule the treatment. Doing so may be able to help you save a significant sum of money on the treatment in question.