WHAT ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS AND UNDERSTANDING THE COST OF IMPLANTS

Losing a tooth can hurt more than the appearance of your smile; it can also hurt your self-confidence. Luckily, there are many options for replacing the tooth, improving your smile, and boosting your self-esteem. Dentures, crowns, and implants are all popular choices, and each treatment has its advantages. However, many patients find that dental implants provide a solution that looks and functions exactly like the natural tooth, but they can be concerned about cost. Dr. Adnan Saleem in Carrollton, TX, discusses these concerns with his patients, along with discount options and other considerations.

WHAT ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS?

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed directly inside the jawbone. The bone will heal and grow around the metal root, and then an abutment is placed on the bone, and a crown is placed on top. The process requires healing time; therefore, it can take a few months to complete. During the waiting period, a temporary replacement will be used to provide support to the teeth and mouth.

CHOOSING BETWEEN PERMANENT OR REMOVABLE OPTIONS

Once the implant has healed and is ready for the artificial tooth, patients must decide between placing a permanent or removable dental crown. A removable piece is much like a traditional denture that is taken out when sleeping and brushing. This option is often chosen by patients who need to replace more than one missing tooth because it is less expensive than individual implants for multiple teeth. Patients who must only replace a single tooth, or those who are less concerned about cost, often choose fixed implants that are permanently secured.

UNDERSTANDING THE COST OF IMPLANTS

Dr. Saleem understands that concern over costs can keep patients from seeking out necessary replacement options. However, not getting a missing tooth replaced can lead to additional problems and more expense. For example, a missing tooth can cause the remaining teeth to shift and become misaligned, which can lead to pockets where food particles become trapped. Over time, this can cause cavities or gum disease, which can be costly to fix. Proper maintenance and prevention are nearly always more cost-effective than fixing problems at a later date.

For more information about dental implants, call the Hebron Smiles and Smilebliss Orthodontics office at (972) 388-3320.

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