missing teeth (2)

If you’re considering dental implants for replacing one or more of your missing teeth, you most likely have some questions. Are they suitable treatment for you? Are dental implants costly? Are you a proper candidate? Will they provide a natural appearance? 

To help you gain more knowledge and answer these questions, there are the eight most amazing advantages of dental implants listed below. 

1. Dental implants look like real teeth
When a dental crown is attached to your dental implant, the result is perfectly natural. Because the dental crown is flush with your gums, not a single person will be able to tell which teeth are natural and which are artificial.

2. Dental implants function like real teeth
One of the most significant advantages of dental implants is that they function and feel just like real teeth, offering strength and durability unmatched by alternative restorations. Your artificial tooth is stable because the dental implant is securely anchored into your jawbone, much like the roots of your real teeth.

3. Dental implants can prevent jawbone deterioration
One of the adverse consequences of losing a tooth is that the underlying jawbone will eventually begin to deteriorate. That’s because there’s no longer a root to promote bone ossification and strengthening. A dental implant encourages new bone development in your jawbone through a process known as osseointegration. This will help in the prevention of future jawbone deterioration.

4. Dental implants preserve your face
Jawbone deterioration can give the lower part of your face a sunken, aged appearance, which can ultimately affect the shape of your entire face. Dental implants can help retain the structure of your face by keeping your jawbone robust.

5. Dental implants are cost-effective
When you compare the lifetime costs of dental implants to the costs of other restorations that may need to be regularly adjusted or replaced, you'll notice that they're surprisingly affordable. Your dentist will assists you in preventing future problems once your mouth is orally fit and your implants have been safely implanted.

6. Dental implants have no food restrictions
One of the most common complaints about tooth loss or dentures is that people have to change their diets because their bite is weak or because their dentures don't stay in place well enough to allow the consumption of foods like apples or steak. Luckily, you can eat and drink normally once your dental implants have stabilized.

7. Dental implants are easy to maintain
Dental implants are simple to care for because they require the same daily brushing and flossing as your real teeth. Also, they need routine dental checkups and hygienist sessions. Many individuals believe that because their implants aren’t manufactured from biological materials, they don’t require cleaning. However, this is not the case. Dental implants, just like real teeth, can attract plaque and tartar, gum disease, and infections if not properly cared for.

8. Dental implants offer predictable outcomes
A dental implant's success is determined by its placement in your mouth and the amount of the jawbone that supports it. Smoking, for instance, can have an impact on whether an implant works properly or fails. In general, dental implants have a success rate of 98%. This means that they provide expected results and are appropriate for different people. 

The bottom line
If you think that dental implants are the right solution for your problem, consider visiting an experienced dental specialist to determine if you’re truly a suitable candidate. Remember that tooth loss is a dangerous problem that can result in facial changes, decreased quality of life, and even complete tooth loss if left untreated. 

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If you have a missing tooth or need to have a tooth removed, a dental implant is one replacement option. A dental implant can replace one tooth, two or more teeth, or serve as an anchor for a bridge or dentures. Dental implants are the best quality tooth replacement option, but they come at a price.

How much do dental implants cost in Middlesex County, MA and the surrounding area? It depends on a number of factors. Here’s an overview of what you can expect for a dental implant quote and what contributes to the cost.

What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth and root system. A titanium post is placed in the jaw bone to serve as the anchor for a porcelain crown. It looks and functions as closely as possible to a natural tooth and can last for a lifetime.

Average Cost of a Dental Implant
One dental implant to replace one tooth can cost between $3,000 and $4,500. Depending on where you go, you could get a slightly higher or slightly lower quote. Many different factors affect the cost of a dental implant, and the price may not be the same for every patient.

Factors that Contribute to the Cost of Dental Implants
The price of a dental implant may vary depending on the following factors:

  • Location of the missing tooth. Where the dental implant will be placed in your mouth is a factor in the cost. The easier it is to access, the lower the price may be. On the other hand, if the tooth is a highly visible front tooth, it may cost more to ensure it looks natural.
  • Preparatory procedures. Before a dental implant can be placed, there must be sufficient bone density in the jaw to support it. If there isn’t, which is likely if the tooth has been missing for a while, a bone graft procedure may need to be performed first. A bone graft involves surgically placing a bone graft on top of the existing jaw bone under the gums to fortify it and encourage regeneration. This adds to the total cost of a dental implant.
  • The quality of the materials. Most dental implants and the abutment / connection post are made of titanium, with a porcelain crown. These are considered to be the best quality materials for dental implants. Anything less may come at a lower cost, but may not last as long or look as natural.
  • The location of your dentist’s office. The geographic location of your dental office plays a part in the cost of a dental implant. The cost of living in an area affects all kinds of services, and dental care is included.
  • Your dentist’s level of experience. The more experienced your dentist is at placing dental implants, the higher the cost may be. With experience comes a better reputation, a wider base of patients, and the ability to charge more for their expertise.

Does Insurance Cover Dental Implants?
In most cases dental insurance will not cover dental implants. Insurance providers consider dental implants to be a cosmetic procedure, even though they serve a dental health purpose. In some cases medical insurance will cover just the implant root when there is a medical need for it. Insurance providers also tend to cover the least expensive option rather than what is best for the patient.

How to Make Dental Implants More Affordable
If a dental implant is in your best interest, it is worth the cost. Financing is one way to make the cost of dental implants more affordable, allowing you to make affordable monthly payments. CareCredit and other credit options are available to help you pay for medical costs not covered by your insurance.

Periodontal Associates Specializes in Dental Implant Placement
If you’re looking for an experienced periodontist to place your dental implant, contact Periodontal Associates. Our skilled surgical specialists have over 30 years of experience placing Dental implants and performing other dental procedures. You can rest assured that we have your best interest in mind when it comes to your dental health.

Call 508-875-6185 today to schedule a consultation at our Framingham office or 617-964-6185 for our Newton Centre office. You can also request an appointment at your convenience. We look forward to providing you with top quality periodontal services.

www.periodontal.com

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