Do you need a dental implant? Whether due to a direct impact accident or as the result of decay, losing teeth can do more than leave a gap in your smile. Loss of teeth can lead to a number of other dental and overall health concerns. Dental implants offer you the ability to permanently replace those missing teeth.

There are several facts related to dental implants that can help patients who are considering them to make the best decision to meet their needs.

The cost of dental implants

The cost of any dental work is going to typically be the primary concern for most patients. Having great dental insurance coverage can certainly make a difference, and can help to cover some of the treatment costs, most patients do find that they are responsible for a large portion of the costs.

Prior to agreeing to any treatment plan, you’ll be given a complete breakdown of what costs you can expect for the entire procedure. Your insurance coverage will be defined, and the amount that you will be responsible for will be made clear. Implants can be expensive. There are however financing and other payment plan options that can put them in better reach.

Do you really need dental implants?

There are any number of reasons why you may think that the best course of action is to delay getting dental implants. Perhaps you don’t feel too badly about the gap in your smile? Implants do more than restore your smile. They help to keep healthy teeth from shifting, and help to avoid gum recession. Shifting teeth can press against otherwise healthy teeth, and lead to them moving or even cracking.

Delaying treatment today could lead to a number of more expensive treatments in your future.

What is involved with dental implants?

Dental implants are a permanent tooth replacement solution for missing teeth. They serve as artificial roots, and provide support for the prosthetic tooth or crown that will later be set in place.

The implant itself will be made from bio-compatible materials. This means that the body will not reject the materials, and could include titanium and bone-like ceramic materials. Once in place, during the healing process the bone in the jaw will fuse to the implants.

Does it take long to get dental implants?

The implant procedure itself should not take longer than 45 minutes, to an hour. Your dentist will place the implant and then send you home so that your jawbone can fuse to the artificial root. This healing process can take up to 2 months to complete. Once your gums have completely healed, and the implant has fused in placed, you’ll be fitted with your prosthetic tooth, or crown. The whole process should take just a few hours in the dental chair, and a few weeks of your time.

How long can implants last?

The implant itself is a permanent replacement root. Once it has fused into your jawbone it will not come loose. Your implant will last your lifetime, without issue. The crown itself can last just as long, with the right kind of care. It’s important to follow up with your dentist routinely for a checkup on your other healthy teeth, and to ensure that your implant is holding up. 

Are you ready to transform or restore your smile with dental implants?
Call Ideal Smiles Dental today at 718-535-1196 to make an appointment.

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Reference links:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dental_implant

https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/cosmetic-dentistry/implants/placing-dental-implants

https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/dental-implant-surgery/about/pac-20384622