Dental Implants are a safe and effective method of replacing teeth which may be broken, infected, or missing.

A small titanium post is inserted into the jawbone, allowing the dentist to attach either a fixed bridge, single crown, or full or partial denture on top. This process ultimately results in new artificial teeth being completely fused into the rest of your smile, increasing both the functionality and aesthetic of your oral anatomy.

With such a significant procedure follows a myriad of questions and concerns such as best dental implant cost. Here are a few we commonly come across when discussing or performing the procedure among patients.

What’s The Process?

The procedure contains three main parts- the implant, the abutment, and the artificial tooth.

1. The aforementioned titanium implant is the first step. It contains threads similar to a screw, which allows it to permanently lock to your jawbone once drilled in.

2. The abutment follows afterwards. Screwed into the already established implant- it acts as a connector for the future artificial tooth and helps to reform your gums.

3. Lastly, the artificial tooth is set into place. Permanently joining your jaw and restoring the look and feel of your smile. The durable material of the new tooth will not decay over time, and with a 98% success rate, they should last a lifetime.

Will It Limit My Eating Habits?

Once fully healed, the implants become an integral part of your oral anatomy; both resembling and functioning virtually identical to natural teeth. Conveniently, you may eat whatever you normally would have prior to the procedure. Whether the food texture is crunchy or soft, the durability of your implants will prove resilient.

Please note, it’s crucial to avoid certain foods immediately after the procedure while your mouth recovers. For the first few days, it’s recommended to follow standard post operation policies like strictly consuming only soft substances such as smoothies, puree, and soups.

Am I Eligible?

It’s all dependent on the state of your overall health, endurance, and commitment to adopting the necessary habits which ensure the implants remain clean and healthy. There are a plethora of considerations that we focus on which will indicate if dental implants are the right fit for you. Most notably if you’re;

• Missing one or more teeth.
• Desperate to improve the way the smile looks and functions.
• Capable of committing to the process.
• Unwilling or unable to properly wear dentures.
• Clear of medical conditions which would impact the bone healing process.
• Not a smoker, or willing to quit.
• Possessing a developed jaw bone and healthy oral tissues.
• A candidate for a bone graft to secure the implant if you’re lacking sufficient bone.

What’s The Timeline?

The general rule is dental implants require patience. This elaborate process permanently alters your jawbone, and requires a few check-ins along the way. After the first step, most patients will require a subsequent healing period. The duration of which will be decided upon their condition; ensuring the surrounding gum line reintegrates and the implant correctly fuses with the jawbone.

Afterwards, patients will require follow-up appointments. Granting the dentist, the ability to ensure the implant procedure was successful and that the patient is maintaining their new implant properly. From start to finish, this procedure could take anywhere up to six months until total completion.

How Much Will This Cost Me?

Perhaps the most common question patients raise when considering a dental implant is the cost. A dental implant is no small feat, and pertaining to your specific needs, costs may vary. A consultation with a dental professional, where they may analyze your unique situation, is necessary to determine an accurate price tag.

Some of the following factors influencing the price of your implants include;

• The specific type of implant you require.
• The material of the replacement teeth.
• The quantity of teeth needed to be replaced.
• The area of the mouth.
• The state of your jawbone’s health.
• Do require further customization, or additional implants to support the teeth.

Lastly, your insurance policy plays the ultimate role in determining the true out of pocket costs for this procedure. However, even if your insurance coverage is insufficient for dental implants, you can always settle for a mini dental implant procedure.