If you ever have the bad luck of tooth loss as an adult, it is vital that the area of the mouth where the tooth/teeth used to be treated by a dental professional in order to prevent infection or other complications. While some patients who’ve suffered tooth loss will try treatments like bridges or dentures, the most effective and longest-lasting solution for tooth loss is dental implants.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a permanent solution for tooth loss in which artificial roots are surgically implanted into the jawbone at the site of a lost tooth and often covered with a porcelain crown to look and function exactly like natural teeth. Dental implants differ from other tooth replacement options because they not only replace the teeth but the roots as well.
With proper care and maintenance, a dental implant can be expected to last at least a decade, if not longer, without the need for retreatment.
Types of Dental Implants and the Factors that Determine Cost
Though dental implants are, as noted above, the most effective and longest-lasting solution for tooth loss, it’s important to note that all dental implants are not one and the same. As dental implants also tend to be pricier than other tooth replacement options, it’s important that any patient considering dental implants discuss available options with their dentist prior to treatment in order to ensure that the implants, both in terms of type and cost, are a good fit.
The most popular different types of dental implants include:
* Endosteal implants — The most common type of dental implants, which are typically made of titanium and placed in the jawbone.
* Subperiosteal implants — Implants used for patients with insufficient bone height in the jaw, which are placed under the gum tissue but above the jawbone.
* Zygomatic implants — Implants used for patients with severe bone loss in the upper jaw that are anchored in the cheekbone rather than the jawbone.
In addition to the type of implant required (endosteal implants tend to be less expensive than subperiosteal and zygomatic implants), the actual cost of dental implants will vary depending on a variety of factors such as:
* The number of implants needed
* Location in the mouth — implants placed in the front of the mouth are typically more expensive than those placed in the back
* The extent of necessary preparatory procedures — the need for extra procedures, such as bone grafting or sinus lifts, will increase the cost.
Insurance, Financing Options, and Cost-Saving Solutions for Dental Implants
As mentioned above, dental implants can be expensive relative to other tooth replacement solutions. On the bright side, patients have several insurance, financing, and cost-saving options available to them:
* Dental insurance — Some dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of dental implants. Patients should check with insurance plans to see if coverage for dental implants is included.
* Discount plans — Some dental discount plans offer reduced rates for dental implants. These plans work similarly to insurance, but instead of a monthly premium, the patient pays a single discounted fee at the time of service.
* Financing — Many dental offices offer financing options for patients who cannot afford upfront payment for implants. These options can include payment plans or financing through a third-party provider, like CareCredit.
* Negotiation — A dental office may offer a discount if you agree to have multiple implants placed or pay upfront.
* Dental schools — Dental schools often offer discounted rates for services, including implants. These treatments may take longer to complete as students perform the procedures under the supervision of licensed dentists.
As always, it’s vital that anyone who’s considering dental implants discuss all available options with their dentist and, if necessary, insurance provider before proceeding with treatment in order to determine the best option for their specific needs and budget.
Are Dental Implants Worth the Investment?
Though dental implants can require a significant investment of both time and money on the part of a patient, in most cases, patients find that they are, in fact, worth the investment. The primary reasons for this include the longevity of properly placed and cared-for implants (at least a decade, if not a good bit longer), the benefits to the jawbone of a replacement that so closely mimics natural teeth, the ability to bite, chew, speak, and smile with complete confidence, the convenience of care (implants don’t require special care beyond regular brushing and flossing).
Ultimately, the decision to invest in dental implants is a personal one. Patients should consider their circumstances, budget, and priorities and discuss all options with a dentist before deciding.
Dental Implants in Topeka, KS
If you’re in the Topeka, KS, area and think dental implants might be an appropriate solution for you, contact dentist Dr. Carrie Peterson and the team at Topeka Dentistry to schedule a consultation appointment.