Millions of fellow Americans suffer from tooth loss each year. For quite a while, dentures and bridges were the only solutions to this problem. Unfortunately, they were accompanied by discomfort, inconvenience, and poor oral health. However, we are now provided with a more efficient solution to all our tooth-loss problems — dental implants. But what are dental implants? This article gives you insights into dental implants.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are replacement teeth fixed permanently to match your original teeth’ look and feel. Unlike dentures and bridges, implants are sturdy and independent. It is usually done to replace broken, fallen, or missing teeth. Most of the implants used are made of titanium. This embeds into the bone without the body recognizing it as a foreign object.
What are the different types?
There are three types of dental implant procedures.
- Endosteal
Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implants. In this type, an implant that acts as an artificial root is set into your jawbone to support a new tooth. - Subperiosteal
These implants are placed on the bone but below the jaw. This procedure is generally used if a person does not have enough jawbone or doesn’t want to undergo immense surgery. - Zygomatic
This is the least common type of implant. In this procedure, the implant is positioned in a person’s cheekbone. This type involves a complicated approach and is recommended if a person lacks enough jawbone to carry out endosteal.
What is the procedure?
- First, you will meet your dental professional, who will help determine whether you qualify for a dental implant. If not, a custom plan is generally created. If required, the doctor will schedule a tooth removal procedure, followed by surgery.
- A doctor will place a screw-like post into your jawbone during the surgery. This procedure will not hurt as one will be under anesthesia. This procedure will take up to three months to heal.
- After determining if the area has healed and the implant has been fitted successfully, a custom-made crown is placed on your implant.
How much does it cost?
As general health and dental insurance do not cover dental implants, one must pay for the entire procedure. The cost can vary depending on where you live and who the professional is. It ranges from $3,000 to $4,500 for a single dental implant.
What are the advantages?
Dental implants possess many health and personal benefits, including the following.
- Better oral health
With implants, you can care for your teeth by brushing and leading to better oral hygiene. - Improved comfort speech
Unlike dentures, dental implants are steady, permanent, and more comfortable. It also helps you eliminate fumbling and improper speech caused by poorly fitted dentures. - Better eating
Dentures may make chewing difficult. On the other hand, implants are permanent and strong, allowing you to eat all your favorite foods confidently. - Improved appearance and self-confidence
Dental implants look just like your natural teeth. It helps you smile and talk better, thus enhancing confidence for many.
Are there any complications?
Like any other surgery, a dental implant, too, can cause complications and pose certain risks. Nonetheless, the problems that generally occur are quickly resolved. Possible intricacies include the risk of infections at the implant spot, damaged nerves, natural teeth, or blood vessels, and sinuses, pain or numbness in the teeth, gums, and chin.
Top 3 dental centers
Mayo clinic dentistry
The dentists at Mayo clinic have a lot of experience in dental implants. You are thus ensured to be well taken care of here. They are also equipped with the latest technology and equipment to provide you with the best.
Malo Smile
Malo Smile clinic ensures certified and award-winning dentists handle your dental implant procedures. With extensive training, research, and high-quality equipment, they can provide their patients with the care they deserve.
Newton dental group
The Newton dental group has treated broken teeth of people belonging to different age groups. Their experience level and ability to solve dental problems make them one of the country’s best dental centers in the country.