What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are false teeth screwed directly into the jaw. Although dentures have existed as long as missing teeth have existed, dental implants are a relatively new tooth replacement option. Implants are made up of two parts: a titanium screw that is implanted directly into the jaw bone and a false tooth connected to the top of that titanium screw.
Dental Implant Procedure
The implant procedure will differ from person to person. In some cases, an implant screw and crown can be placed on the same day. In others, an implant screw is placed first, allowed to heal, and a permanent crown is placed after healing has taken place.
Implant Materials
Implants are made using a specific type of metal, titanium, and a crown is made of either a composite material or porcelain. Titanium is selected because it is a biocompatible metal. Once it has been placed into the jawbone, bone can actually grow up and around the screw to firmly hold the prosthetic tooth in place and successfully mimic the appearance of natural teeth.
Implant Costs
Implants are designed to replace the tooth root after tooth loss and are one of the most effective and long-lasting permanent solutions to losing a tooth. Consequently, their cost is much higher than that of more traditional tooth replacement options. A single implant typically costs between $3,000 and $5,000. A full set of implants used to replace all of the teeth in the mouth and prevent bone loss can run anywhere from $35,000 to $90,000.
While these costs may seem steep up front, the success rate of dental implants makes the investment worth it for many patients. Cared for properly, the crown can last ten years, fifteen years, and even longer, without the risk of gum disease frequently associated with dental bridges.
Top 6 Benefits of Dental Implants
While many are quick to point out the cost of dental implants, their advantages are substantial. From not disturbing the surrounding teeth to allowing people to smile with confidence, dental implants are rapidly becoming the preferred solution to replace natural teeth.
Longevity
Dental implants are currently the longest-lasting means of replacing lost or extracted teeth. This is because the titanium implant that is fused into the bone can last for decades without any issue, provided that oral hygiene is maintained. The longevity of dental implants makes them an ideal solution for anyone who has adequate bone tissue and is in search of a tooth replacement technique that improves the function and appearance of teeth.
Ease of Use
Unlike dentures, implants are placed directly into the jaw and cannot be removed. This means that you do not need to worry about denture relining, or removing teeth to clean them. Unlike bridges, implants are placed directly into the jaw, which means they are easy to brush and floss and do not run the same risk of gum disease and tooth decay. For all intents and purposes, an implant is a natural tooth.
Aesthetic Appeal
Dental implants are virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth. They are designed to perfectly match the tooth or teeth being replaced. Many people prefer dental implants because you cannot see a false gum line that you might see with dentures or the presence of a crown that you might see with a dental bridge. Dental implants provide functional improvement but are also known to offer the best possible aesthetics for replacing teeth.
Bone Loss Prevention
Dental implants are the only tooth replacement solution that effectively prevents bone loss. When teeth are lost or removed, the root of the tooth is lost from its place in the jaw bone. The loss of roots eventually leads to the degeneration of bone. Bone loss leads to the appearance of collapsed or receding gums and dramatically changes the structure of an individual’s face. Implants can help reduce changes to the structure of the face and restore confidence.
Comfort
One of the most significant concerns following tooth loss or extraction is comfort. Many people are worried about losing the ability to chew comfortably or speak without revealing the presence of a tooth replacement device. Implants circumvent these concerns by almost perfectly approximating a natural tooth or teeth.
Oral Health Support
Oral health is typically considered a substantial pro of dental implants because dental implants allow dental patients to brush and floss their teeth normally, consume a diverse array of foods, and conduct their lives as though they did not lose a tooth at all. People who do not have the oral health necessary to support dental implants often take time to improve the state of their health to eventually move on to implants.
Dental Implants in Charlotte, Matthews, and Wesley Chapel, NC
Dental implants are among the greatest innovations currently being utilized in dentistry. While they may not have yet reached a “mainstream” status in terms of how commonly they are placed, many dentists are happy to provide tooth extraction or tooth loss patients with implants to improve confidence and quality of life. Our office currently offers consultations for and placements of dental implants in Charlotte, Matthews, and Wesley Chapel, NC. Reach out to our dental team today to learn more and determine your candidacy for dental implants!
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