If you are missing one or more teeth, you are not alone. Nearly 120 million Americans are missing at least one tooth, and 36 million are missing all of their teeth. Dentures and bridges are two of the most common forms of tooth replacement, but many also choose to go with dental implants.
Dental implants are the most natural-looking and feeling tooth replacement option available. However, before you get dental implant surgery, there are a few things to know.
A Specialist Is Needed
The first thing that you should be aware of is that having dental implants put into place requires surgery. This means that an implant dental specialist will be needed to get this procedure.
Dental implant surgery typically requires two surgical procedures. The implant, which is made out of titanium, is surgically implanted into the jaw first. Once it has settled, a connector called an abutment is put into place.
Once that happens, the crown, or artificial tooth, can be put into place. Often, before the implant is surgically inserted, other surgical procedures, such as bone or tissue grafts, are needed.
The Cost
Another thing to discuss with the specialist is the cost. Dental implants can be pricey. Prices can be even higher if additional procedures are needed before the dental implants are put into place.
The average cost of a single dental implant is between $2,400 and $3,000. If additional procedures are required to prepare your jaw for the implants, costs will be even higher.
With additional procedures, you can end up paying between $4,000 and $10,000 per implant. Typically, dental insurance will not cover the cost of implants. However, your medical insurance may cover some of the surgical costs.
The Process Takes Time
It's also important to consider that the process of getting a dental implant can take some time. Your implant dental specialist will be able to give you an estimated timeline depending on your particular case.
On average, it takes six to nine months for the dental implant process. However, for complex cases, the entire process can take around a year. If bone grafting, tissue grafting, or other procedures are needed, it will take longer for the process to be completed.
Dental implants are the most natural-looking and feeling tooth replacement option. But, there are a few things to know. First, an implant dental specialist is needed for this procedure. Costs can vary, but typically, you will pay at least a few thousand for a single dental implant. The process also takes time. On average, it will take six to nine months before this procedure is complete.
Share1 September 2019
Do you have "bad teeth"? I do. Ever since I was a kid, every checkup turns up a number of issues ranging from cavities to dental fractures. It has always been frustrating to keep my smile in decent shape, which is one of the reasons I started focusing on understanding different dental problems. I wanted to know what I was getting into when I visited the doctor, so I began focusing on learning as much as I could. I wanted to create this blog all about dentistry so that other people could find out what to expect when they head to the dentist. Check it out!
