The Whole Tooth and Nothing But the Tooth

When it comes to tooth replacement, dental implants appear and function just like natural teeth. They are an excellent option for those who want something permanent. Bridges and dentures have to be removed for cleaning and at night and do not offer any support for the underlying jawbone. There are plenty of reasons why you may prefer dental implants over other types of tooth replacement. If you want to go through with the dental implant process, here are three things that you need to know about this procedure.

It's Not Quick

The first thing that you should know if you are considering dental implants is that they require patience. Your exact treatment plan will depend on your dental implant provider and your needs. Dental implants require multiple steps, and healing time is necessary for each procedure. The entire process will take several months. First, the implant must be surgically inserted into the jaw. Another procedure adds a connector or abutment. Finally, the crown is put into place, and the process is complete. 

It's an Investment

Another thing to keep in mind if you want dental implants is how much they cost. Your dental implant provider will be able to give you an estimate of how much the procedure will cost before the process begins. The upfront cost is much higher than other types of tooth replacement. However, dental implants can last a lifetime, making them very cost-effective over time. Dental implants typically cost between $3,000 and $4,500 per implant. However, if you require bone or tissue grafting before the procedure, it will add thousands to your total costs. 

You Might Be a Good Candidate

The good news is that for most people, dental implants are incredibly successful, and they have no issues with this tooth replacement option. However, it is estimated that between five and ten percent of dental implants will fail. There are a few factors that could indicate that implants won't work for you, so you might need to reconsider if you have gum disease, are a smoker or tobacco user, have osteoporosis, are diabetic, or have arthritis. Poor oral hygiene is also something that can lead to implant failure. 

If you are thinking about dental implants, there are a few things to keep in mind before the procedure. Contact local dental clinics to learn whether you can qualify for dental implants and how much the procedure will cost.