Did you know that approximately 75 percent of children and nearly 100 percent of adults suffer from tooth decay at some point in their lives? Left untreated, they end up with missing or decaying teeth. Thankfully, dental implants can help restore the comfort and convenience they’ve been missing. Dental implants have provided a world of benefits to dental patients, but some are understandably hesitant about the procedure since it can be quite expensive. Here are five considerations to make see of dental implants are right for you.
- Factor in the Costs
While everyone should invest in improving their health without hesitation, some still get surprised at the cost of getting dental implants, which range from $800 to $6,000 per tooth. Be sure to check your dental insurance to see if it covers the costs of dental implants. It should also cover your payment plans or cash discounts, which would make the process much more affordable.
- Understand the Procedure
Getting dental implants involves a surgical procedure to remove your damaged teeth. If necessary, the dentist will begin preparing for jawbone grafting, taking a bit of bone and placing it in your jawbone. The dentist will also place dental implants according to the type that matches your teeth the most. You’ll need to wait a few months for the bone to grow and heal completely, requiring regular checkups to monitor its progress.
- Know the Benefits and Risks
Dental implants are meant to improve your quality of life, but they also come with risks like any surgery. If your oral surgeon or dentist does not follow proper protocol during the surgery, you’ll be at risk for an infection. Other reasons for infection include misalignment, bad oral hygiene, or an allergic reaction to the material used. The benefits of having dental implants include their durability, lasting for 25 years, looking and feeling like natural teeth, and strengthening your jawbone over time.
- Consult Your Dentist
To ensure you know everything there is to know about the procedure, be sure to speak with your dentist. Find out what your oral health issues are and how they might affect your dental implants. Your dentist will also recommend a dental implant that works best with your jawbone and mouth.
- Choose the Right Type
There are three types of dental implants available: endosteal, subperiosteal, and zygomatic. The endosteal technique is the safest method, but it also takes the longest to heal (around four to six months). The implants have placeholder posts that look like screws, which attach the implant to your jawbone. Secondly, the subperiosteal implant stays on top of your bone and under your gums. It uses a metal frame to go under the gum, carrying a post and false teeth on it. The healing process takes one to three months. Lastly, the zygomatic implant is the most complicated procedure as it will be set on your cheekbones instead of your gums or bone. It heals after two to four months and lasts up to 12 years.
Conclusion
Losing a tooth to tooth decay may seem like the end of a beautiful smile for many people, but the good news is that dental implants can give you a sturdy replacement that restores your ability to talk and chew. By considering these factors before pursuing the procedure, you’ll be more comfortable with your decision to get dental implants.
If you need a Raleigh emergency dentist, Dr. Mihirgir Bava and team in Raleigh, NC, are here to help! Please call 919-872-1700 for more information or to schedule a visit!