What To Know Before Getting Dental Implants

Missing teeth can have a major impact on your self esteem. Not only can losing a tooth or teeth have an impact on your appearance, it can also make eating and speaking difficult in certain instances. The good news is that there are ways to restore your smile back to it's original appearance. When it comes to tooth replacement, there are various options to choose from. While dentures and bridges are what you may think of when it comes to tooth replacement, dental implants are another option to consider. Here's what to know before getting a dental implant.

How They Work

Dental implants are the most natural tooth replacement option available. They look and feel like natural teeth and do not put pressure on the surrounding teeth like bridges can. However, before you decide on implants, it's important to be aware of how the process works. Dental implants are posts or brackets typically made out of titanium that are surgically implanted into your jaw in order to act as replacement tooth roots. A replacement tooth, or crown, is then attached to the implant. Before getting a dental implant your jawbone and gums need to be healthy enough to support it. Often additional procedures such as bone grafting are needed.

The Cost

Another thing to consider before getting dental implants, especially if you need multiple implants, is the cost. The cost of dental implant services varies depending on your dentist, your overall dental health, whether or not additional procedures are needed, and depending on how many implants are needed. On average a single dental implant costs between $2,400 and $3,000. However, if bone grafts, tissue grafts, extractions, or other additional procedures are needed, the total cost for a single dental implant is likely to be between $4,000 and $10,000.

The Process Takes Time

If you are looking for immediate tooth replacement, dental implants may not be the best option for your needs. Once the implant is put into place, you will need to heal before the replacement tooth is added. Multiple procedures may be needed before your implants are in place. The entire procedure can take as little as a few months to over one year. The more complex your situation is, the longer it will take for the full implantation process to be completed.

Dental implants look and feel just like real teeth and are a great option for many who are missing teeth. However, there are a few things to consider before seeking out dental implant services. First, it's important to note that it is a surgical procedure. If you do not want surgery, implants may not be the best option for you. Costs can vary, but implants are typically pricey. The entire process can also take months and in some cases upwards of a year to be completed.


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