Dental Implants: The Best Solution for Missing Teeth

Written by Precision Dental Team     January 25, 2024 23:17

People who are missing teeth may be wondering what to do in order to restore their smile. While there are several options available, dental implants are often regarded as the top choice. For optimal results, it's recommended to seek out experienced dentists who prioritize the quality of care and final outcomes, like Precision Family Dental & Specialty. This article will delve into the specifics of dental implants, including why they're an excellent option for those with missing teeth, and what the associated costs may be.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed in the jawbone to replace missing teeth. They are made of biocompatible materials, which allow them to fuse with the jawbone and provide a stable foundation for artificial materials to be attached, such as crowns or bridges.

Implants consist of three main components: the implant itself, the abutment, and the prosthetic tooth or teeth. The implant itself is a small screw-shaped post that is placed into the jawbone, where it fuses with the bone through a process called osseointegration. The abutment is a connector that attaches to the implant and protrudes through the gum line, providing a base for the prosthetic tooth or teeth to be attached.

Dental implants are considered a popular and effective option for replacing missing teeth because they offer several benefits, including improved appearance, enhanced chewing and speech ability, increased comfort, and durability. Additionally, dental implants can help prevent bone loss in the jaw, which can sometimes occur when teeth are missing.

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Why Are Dental Implants the Best Option?

There are several reasons why dental implants are considered the best option for tooth replacement, the primary one being that they look and feel like natural teeth. They're also long-lasting, and with proper care, they can last a lifetime. Finally, they improve your chewing and speech ability and can prevent bone loss in the jaw that can occur when teeth are missing.

What are the Best Dental Implants?

There are several types of dental implants available today, and the best type for you will depend on your individual needs and circumstances. The most common types of dental implants include:

1. Endosteal implants - These are the most common type of dental implant and are made of titanium. They are placed into the jawbone which is ideal for patients with sufficient jawbone density.
2. All-on-4 implants - This is a technique that uses just four implants to support a full arch of teeth. This is ideal for patients who are missing all or most of their teeth.

The best dental implants for you will depend on several factors, including the location and number of missing teeth, the condition of your jawbone, and your budget. Your dentist can help you determine which type of implant is the best option for your individual needs.

Finding The Best Dental Implants Near Me

If you're considering dental implants, it's important to find not only a qualified and experienced dentist who can perform the procedure but a dentist who takes into consideration your comfort level. We pride ourselves on utilizing specialists, and placing cases and procedures in the hands of those proven to deliver the highest quality outcomes in particular procedures. Most of our dentists have achieved distinction in their field and/or are specialists, and they also have a strong ability to relate to patients with a great chairside manner.

Are dental implants the best option for me?

Dental implants are widely considered to be the best option for replacing missing teeth. However, there are some factors to consider before deciding if they’re for you. For example, if you have severe gum disease or other oral health issues, dental implants may not be recommended. In this case, your dentist may suggest dentures, bridges, or several other common options. There is always a way to get your mouth healthy and restore your smile!

Dental Implant Cost

The cost of dental implants varies depending on several factors, such as the number of teeth being replaced and the type of implant used. Insurance coverage for dental implants can greatly affect their affordability. It is advisable to consult with your insurance provider to determine the extent of coverage for dental implants, as certain plans may partially or fully cover the cost, making the procedure more accessible and cost-effective. We always go over all of the options with patients in advance, including payment plans. Implants are considered the highest quality option for missing teeth, despite their higher up-front cost. In the long-run, they statistically pay for themselves as they cannot get cavities, and take much more pressure to fracture than natural teeth. 

Dental Implant Procedure: What to Expect

The dental implant procedure typically involves several steps, which can take one or two days at Precision Cosmetic Dentistry, depending on what you prefer. First, a dental implant is placed into the jawbone during a surgical procedure. After the implant has fused with the bone, an abutment is attached to the implant, which serves as a connector for the prosthetic tooth. Finally, a crown or bridge is attached to the abutment to replace the missing tooth or teeth. Unlike bridges, which require altering adjacent healthy teeth, dental implants are a standalone solution that involves placing a screw in the jaw bone and inserting the implant through an incision in the gum.

Can You Get Dental Implants the Same Day?

For some patients, same-day dental implants may be a great option. With this technique, the implant and prosthetic teeth are placed in a single visit, which means fewer trips for the patient. Our practice places implants for full arch "same-day" teeth or "next day teeth" which gives patients two options, depending on preference.

How Do Same Day Dental Implants Work?

For "same day teeth", the natural teeth are extracted, implants are placed and screwed in all in one day. The whole procedure takes approximately 5–6 hours. As an alternative, "next day teeth" allows for two shorter office visits instead, with the caveat that you will spend one night without teeth. Patients who prefer to have dental implants on the same day just need to be aware of the long day. Most patients end up choosing "next day teeth" but everyone's needs are unique.

Who is Eligible For Same-Day Dental Implants?

The only way to know if same-day implants are a good option for you is to discuss it with your dentist. Precision Cosmetic Dentistry offers free initial exams and consultations to help you get the care you need. During your visit, if dental implants are recommended, we will go over all the details for next-day or same-day implants, what to expect, and the final cost.