Bad Breath: You Don't Have to Live with It

Losing a tooth – or several of them – can be a traumatizing experience, and not just aesthetically. It can also impact your daily life, confidence, and even your oral health. Thankfully, dental implants provide a solution that can restore your smile and your self-esteem and promote gum and bone health. But what exactly are dental implants? What are the benefits of getting them? And, most importantly, what can you expect from the procedure? Keep reading to find out all you need to know about dental implants.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are tooth root replacements made of titanium that are implanted into the jawbone to serve as a base for a replacement tooth. The implant itself is a small screw-shaped post, and the crown that is attached to it is made to look and function just like a natural tooth. Dental implants are considered one of the most durable and long-term solutions for missing teeth, as they can last for decades with the right care.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants come with many advantages. Firstly, they improve your dental health by providing a sturdy base for your replacement tooth that prevents bone and gum loss. Secondly, they look and feel more natural than other tooth replacement options, providing better aesthetics and making it simpler to eat and speak properly. Thirdly, dental implants can last for years, if not decades, and require no special maintenance other than routine oral hygiene.

What to Expect from the Procedure

Getting a dental implant requires a comprehensive process that generally includes several appointments over a few months. Usually, your dentist will start the process with a consultation where they'll assess your dental health and determine if dental implants are suitable for you. If you are, they will likely need to perform x-rays and scans of your teeth and jaw to strategically plan the placement of the implants in your jawbone. The next phase involves the implant placement, which is done under local anesthesia and involves a minor surgical procedure to install the implant. After the implant has been placed, it needs to heal and fuse with the jawbone for several weeks before attaching the crown or bridge. Finally, after the implant is fully healed, the dentist will attach the crown, and you’ll be ready to show off your new smile.

Costs of Dental Implants

Although dental implants may be pricier compared to dentures or bridges, they offer a superior and durable solution for missing teeth. The cost of dental implants varies based on factors such as the number of implants required, the location of the implant clinic, and the specialist performing the procedure. However, most insurance plans do not cover the costs of dental implants, so it’s important to research payment options before undergoing the procedure.

For more information about dental implants, reach out to a local clinic.