Missing teeth are something that millions of Americans deal with. In fact, a startling 120 million Americans are missing at least one tooth. There are a variety of reasons for tooth loss, including illness, wear and tear, injury, or just dental decay. While losing a tooth is common, it can still have a major impact on your life. The good news is that there are various ways to restore missing teeth. While bridges and dentures are popular options, dental implants are considered to be the most natural tooth replacement option. Here are three things to be aware of.
How They Work
If you are considering a dental implant, the first thing that you should know is how they work. Dental implants are titanium screws or brackets that essentially act as replacement tooth roots. These implants are surgically affixed to your jaw and then a crown is affixed to the implant. These implants look and feel just like real teeth. If the underlying jawbone is weakened, a bone graft may be required before the implant can be put into place. If you are uncomfortable with surgery, dental implants may not be the best option for you.
The Cost
Of course with any dental procedure, cost will likely play a large role in your decision. Dental implants are often the priciest option available. Just one single implant costs on average between $2,400 and $3,000. If other procedures are required, such as bone grafts or extractions, the cost can be even greater. On average with other procedures added in, you can expect to pay between $4,000 and $10,000 for a single tooth implant. If you are unsure about the cost, getting an estimate from an implant dentist can help you be able to budget for this procedure.
They Take Time
From start to finish, having a dental implant put into place can be long process. In fact, it can take months before your new implant is in place. Preparing the jaw with bone grafts often requires weeks if not months of recovery. Letting the surrounding tissue heal after the implant has been put into place is also key and can take weeks or months. Often it will be a while before your artificial tooth, or crown, can be put into place.
Dental implants are a great option for those who are missing teeth. However, if you are considering an implant, there are a few things to be aware of. First, how they work is key. Dental implants do involve surgery and require healing time. Knowing how they work will help you determine whether or not they suit your needs. Costs can vary, but most implants cost thousands of dollars. They also take time. Putting in dental implants is a process that happens in steps over the course of months.
For more information, contact a company like Couchman Center For Complete Dentistry.
