Dental Implants: Purpose, Cost, and Expectations
Gaps from missing teeth aren’t just an unsightly aesthetic issue. Missing teeth cause a host of problems, from shifting teeth to gum disease and bone resorption. Replacing the tooth is crucial to prevent additional dental problems. Here, we explain the purpose, cost, and expectations of a dental implant as a permanent tooth replacement.
Dental implants for missing teeth
Whether you have lost a single tooth, several, or an entire arch, implants are a solution.
What are dental implants?
A dental implant is a post that fits in the jaw bone and replaces the tooth root. Once healed, it is a secure base to attach a dental restoration such as a crown, dental bridge, or denture.
Single dental implants replace individual teeth. They are topped with crowns to recreate the structure of the natural teeth. To replace an entire arch of teeth, four to six implants are placed and topped with a denture.
How much do dental implants cost in Locust, NC?
The total cost varies based on location, area of the mouth, number of implants, and type of crown or restoration. If procedures are needed to prepare the mouth for implant placement, an additional cost applies. These procedures may include tooth extractions or bone grafts. Bone grafts are necessary for patients who do not have adequate healthy jaw bone to affix the implant.
The average cost of a single tooth implant is $3,000 to $4,500. Full mouth dental implants cost $60,000 to $90,000. You may check with your dental insurance plan to determine if your insurance covers the procedure. For financial assistance, patients may ask about payment plans or third-party financing through CareCredit.
How long do teeth implants last?
Dental implants can last a lifetime, giving patients a permanent tooth replacement option. With proper care, including good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, implants are long-lasting. They are not subject to decay and have a high success rate.
While the implant itself may be permanent, the attached crown may wear down from regular use. The crown may need to be replaced after 15-20 years.
Benefits of dental implants
When it comes to tooth replacement, a dental implant has several advantages over other restorations. Some of the benefits of implants include the following:
Safe
Implants may be made of titanium or zirconium. Both are safe for patient use and integrate successfully with the gums.
Durable
Since it is secured in the jaw, an implant provides more security and stability than other restorations. Unlike traditional dentures, they are not removable and do not shift in the mouth. This means patients can enjoy their favorite foods without worries. Implants can withstand the biting force of healthy teeth.
Improved oral health
The dental implant procedure improves your oral health. With an implant in place, the adjacent teeth cannot shift. There is no gap for bacteria to collect and cause periodontal disease, and the bone remains healthy. With proper dental care, the implant and the mouth remain healthy.
Permanent
Implants are designed to be a one-and-done procedure. They are highly successful and easy to care for, making them a permanent replacement option.
Cost-effective
Although an implant may cost more initially, its long-lasting nature ensures it does not need to be replaced or repaired. Other restorations are less secure, more prone to damage, and need to be replaced. This means future dental work and additional costs to you.
Replace missing teeth with dental implants in Locust
Don’t let a missing tooth mar your smile! At Locust Family Dentistry, we offer dental implants in Locust, NC, to restore your smile. Our restorative dental services keep your mouth healthy and your smile bright!