What Are Dental Implants?

Dentures can be the best solution for someone who has failing teeth because of their gum or overall health. While they can be great for many people they tend to look fake, rarely fit perfectly and can affect the way that the person speaks and eats. A small change in weight can affect how the dentures fit in the mouth and may make them almost unbearable. Another option is the dental implant which can be used to replace a single tooth to a whole mouthful.

The Basics of Dental Implants

A dental implant starts with a titanium screw inserted into the jawbone. Eventually, the bone will grow up and around the screw making it the perfect anchor for a tooth or a denture plate. The newest technique for these implants is called all-on-4 where full dentures are placed by using four dental implant screws to attach the plates. The four screws are inserted on the top and bottom, front and back for the most security.

Related: Nevada Oral and Facial Surgery

The Cost of Dental Implants

As you can imagine, the cost of dental implants is not cheap. Insurance may cover some of the cost of this procedure, but that depends on the type of coverage that you have. Overall the cost can range between $3,000 and $4,500. Actual final cost may also depend on the number of visits you need between consultation and final placement, the type of anesthesia you need and the materials used for the actual dentures. In most cases, the screws will be titanium.

Source: American Academy of Implant Dentistry

You should also count for time off of work during your recovery period. You may be advised to rest for a few days to a week or longer depending on how quickly you heal and how extensive the preparation work needed to be. You will be restricted from some activities until the healing is well underway.

Dental Implant Materials

The majority of dental implants will either be acrylic or porcelain. Porcelain is far more expensive, but the dentures last longer and have the most realistic appearance. You will receive information on keeping your new “teeth” looking white and bright for as long as possible.

Related: Tooth Wisdom

You should also account for time off of work during your recovery period. You may be advised to rest for a few days to a week or longer depending on how quickly you heal and how extensive the preparation work needed to be. You will be restricted from some activities until the healing is well underway.

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