They look, function, and feel like healthy, natural teeth. Implants have been traditionally expensive, but recent advancements in technology have brought down the costs.
If you have recently discovered that you may need dental implants, or if you are researching whether or not dental implants are right for you then you have come to the right place. We have put together a small library of information and resources to help you learn about implants and how they work. If you would like to book a consultation with a dentist, click here and we can start preparing you for your brand new smile.
Dental implants are permanent replacements for missing teeth. They look, function, and feel like healthy, natural teeth. Most patients can have their tooth 2-3 months after beginning the planning stage of their implant. For most of us we can’t grow new teeth (however they are researching the possibility), so we get implants. Sometimes, people take implants to the extreme.
Q. What are the steps involved?
- Planning and CT scan to accurately measure bone availability.
- Surgical placement of implant. Wait 2-4 months for implant to heal.
- Preparation of gum tissue and fabrication of the crown. (May be done at future date if patient wants to wait)
Q. Are implants expensive?
Implants are more affordable than ever. Although initial cost is more expensive than a 3-unit bridge, there is a significant savings in the long term since implants usually last a lifetime.
3 Unit Bridge
Advantages
- slightly less expensive
- restores chewing function
- acceptable esthetics
Disadvantages
- grinding down of healthy teeth
- bone resorption causes a gap between tooth and gum over time.
- limited life span (70% success over 10 years)
Single-Tooth Implant
Advantages
- preserves healthy teeth – no grinding of adjacent teeth required
- implant will preserve bone integrity over time
- better esthetics
- long term success – often for life (>98% success of implant over 10 years)
Disadvantages
- slightly higher cost than a bridge
Additional Resources
Learn more about dental implants by reading these dental case studies:
- Arguments For Dental Implants
- Interview: Common Questions About Dental Implants
- Immediate Implant Upper Left Bicuspid
- Immediate Extraction and Implant Placement Tooth Non-recoverable
- Immediate Implant (35-bicuspid) at 3 Months
- Implant Crown Placed On 35 Site
- Vertical Sinus Lift and Implant
- Implant Healing Cap 2 Week Followup