Dental implants can be a long-term and cost-effective method of replacing missing teeth, but they can be expensive. InHarmony Dental Care discusses a portion of the costs associated with dental implants in this blog post.
Why Choose Dental Implants
There are numerous advantages to replacing missing teeth. When teeth are missing, speaking and chewing can become more difficult. They may also cause neighbouring teeth to shift out of position, contributing to facial collapse caused by jaw bone loss. Another thing to consider is how to improve the appearance of your smile.
When considering your options for replacing a missing tooth or missing teeth, you may wish to see if you are a good candidate for dental implants. However, the cost can be an important factor when making decisions for your dental treatment.
One of the reasons dental implants typically come with a higher price tag is that they can be long-lasting. With proper care, dental implants can last 25 years or more.
What are the cost considerations of dental implants?
Dental implant prices are primarily influenced by the dentist's training and experience, the quality of the implant-making materials, surgical procedures, and the custom fabrication process needed for implantation.
A technician creates the artificial abutment and artificial crown, the two major components of your dental implant. This premium material is pricey because it must withstand years of consistent use and wear. Your new prosthetic tooth, abutment, and root should all fit and function perfectly in your smile.
Your dentist will examine your mouth and take X-rays prior to starting your dental implant procedure to determine how the implant should be made and attached. Usually, the price of these diagnostic procedures is covered by the overall price of your implants.
The Dental Implant Procedure
Dental implant surgery is typically divided into two stages. Your dentist will first insert an artificial tooth root (a tiny titanium screw) just below the gum line to replace the missing tooth's root. The "root" will eventually connect to your jawbone as it heals.
Before moving on to the next step, your mouth must heal for 3 to 6 months after implant surgery. The abutment and restoration (artificial tooth) can be added once you've finished healing.
This abutment, which is typically made of titanium or ceramic material, connects and secures the restoration of the dental implant. The abutment is then attached to the restoration.
Additional Treatments
Some dental patients may require extra attention to prepare their mouths for implant surgery and ensure a successful outcome. Several hygiene procedures and, in some cases, a bone graft are required to prepare the jawbone for the implant.
The dentists at InHarmony Dental Care try to make sure that patients get the most value out of their investment in dental implants. Ask us what steps you should take to make sure your dental implant is successful.