What You Should Know About Dental Implants

Dental implants fall under the field of dentistry known as Dental Prostheses. Implants are necessary when a person is missing one or multiple teeth. Missing teeth can be detrimental to a person’s oral health since the area can become more susceptible to disease. A clinical exam and x-rays are necessary to determine whether or not dental implants are needed.

Dental implants look virtually identical to regular teeth. They are permanent and set into the patient’s bone. They help with jaw alignment and prevent infections of the gums or jawbone.

Dental implants are a positive solution for the negative consequences of losing teeth, such as inability to chew food, loose dentures and an aesthically unattractive smile.

On a related note, if you are looking for a career in the dental industry, read the requirements at How To Become a Dentist. This is not really a saturated field as many believe, as there are new technologies and innovations being done here, dental implant being one for example.

Cost of Dental Implants

Dental implants require time and attention to create. They can be quite costly, ranging in price from $1,250 to $3,000 per tooth. Bone regeneration and sinus elevation can incur additional costs.

Pros and Cons of Dental Implants

The main advantage of getting dental implants is that they are permanent. In the past, bridges were the only option for replacing missing teeth. However, they do not last as long and in many cases the surrounding teeth have to be altered in order to fit the bridge. Patients must keep in mind that dental implants require surgery. As with any surgery, there is a risk involved and surgery should not be taken lightly. The dental implantation process can be lengthy and often requires more than one visit to the dentist. There are varying degrees of discomfort involved with the surgery itself and in the recovery process. Keep in mind that in some cases, crowns need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years.

Replacing a missing tooth with a dental implant can greatly improve a person’s confidence and overall oral health. Anyone considering dental implants should research both the price and the prosthodontist. An informed patient will be able to select a dental specialist and price that they are comfortable with.