Dental Implants: The Benefits, Risks and Cost
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that provide a permanent base for fixed or removable replacement teeth. They are a popular and effective way to replace missing teeth, and they can also support bridges, and dentures, and provide a more secure fit for orthodontic appliances. They are typically made of titanium and are surgically placed into the jawbone. Once they are in place, they can be used to support replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth.
Dental implants, the intraosseous part of the prosthesis made of titanium, which is used in the treatment of missing teeth and placed inside the jawbone.
The upper parts of the implant, prostheses, and missing teeth are returned to their places in the form of your old teeth, in a way that you can eat easily.
Dental Implants Types?
There are several types of dental implants, but the most common types are:
- Endosteal implants: These are the most common type of dental implant. They are typically made of titanium and are surgically placed directly into the jawbone. Once the bone has healed around the implant, an abutment (a small connector post) is placed on top of the implant, and a replacement tooth is then attached to the abutment.
- Subperiosteal implants: These are used for people who have minimal bone height. They are placed under the gum but on or above the jawbone.
- Zygomatic Implants: This type of implant is used for people with a severe lack of bone in the upper jaw. These are longer than traditional implants and anchored in the cheekbone.
- Mini Implants: These are smaller in diameter than traditional implants and are best suited for people with smaller jaws or for patients who need only a few teeth replaced.
- All-on-4 Dental Implants: This system uses four dental implants to support a full arch of replacement teeth.
The type of implant selected will depend on the individual’s specific needs and the condition of their jawbone.
The All-on-4 dental implant system is a treatment concept that uses just four dental implants to support an entire arch of replacement teeth, whether it’s the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both. It is designed for patients who have lost most or all of their teeth and is not a candidate for traditional implant treatment due to a lack of bone density or quality.
The All-on-4 dental implant system utilizes the available bone in the jaw by placing two of the implants at an angle, which allows for maximum stability and support with less bone. The angled placement also helps to distribute the forces of biting and chewing more evenly over the jawbone, which can help to preserve it.
The All-on-4 system can also provide a faster treatment time as it allows for immediate loading, which means that replacement teeth can be placed on the same day as the implant surgery, unlike traditional implant systems which require a healing period before the replacement teeth can be placed.
The All-on-4 system is a cost-effective solution for patients who need a full arch of replacement teeth and the cost of the procedure is usually less than traditional implant treatment.
It’s important to note that the success of the All-on-4 treatment depends on the patient’s overall health and the quality of their jawbone. It’s best to consult with an experienced implant dentist to determine whether this treatment option is appropriate for you.
Implant Treatment Process
Dental implant treatment typically involves several steps and can take several months to complete. The exact procedure will depend on the type of implant being used and the condition of the patient’s jawbone. However, a general overview of the process is as follows:
- Initial Consultation: The first step is to consult with an implant dentist to determine whether you are a good candidate for the treatment. Your dentist will examine your mouth, take x-rays and possibly a CT scan to determine the condition of your jawbone. If your jawbone is not thick enough or if you have a medical condition that could compromise the success of the implant, you may need a bone graft before the implant can be placed.
- Implant Placement Surgery: Once it is determined that you are a good candidate for the treatment, the next step is to place the implant. The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia, and in some cases, IV sedation may be used. The implant is inserted into the jawbone and then allowed to heal and integrate with the bone. This process can take several months.
- Abutment Placement: After the implant has healed and integrated with the bone, an abutment (a small connector post) is placed on top of the implant. The abutment serves as the attachment point for the replacement tooth.
- Placement of Replacement Tooth: Once the abutment is in place, the replacement tooth (crown) is made and attached to the abutment. The replacement tooth is customized to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth.
- Follow-up and Maintenance: After the implant treatment is complete, regular follow-up appointments are required to ensure the health of the implant. Good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, is essential to maintaining the health of the implant.
It’s important to note that the healing process and duration of the treatment vary depending on the individual’s case and the type of implant used. Some cases may require multiple surgical appointments and some may have an immediate load. It’s best to consult with an experienced implant dentist for more detailed information about the procedure.
What is the advantage of Implant Treatment?
The advantage of implant treatment over other treatments is that no damage is caused to the neighboring teeth while the missing teeth are placed in their places.
Dental implant treatment offers several advantages over traditional tooth replacement options, such as dentures or bridges. Some of the main advantages of implant treatment include:
- Improved appearance: Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth, and they can be customized to match the color, shape, and size of your existing teeth. This can help to improve the appearance of your smile and boost your self-confidence.
- Improved function: Implants function like natural teeth, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. They also help to preserve the structure of your jawbone, which can prevent further tooth loss and help maintain a youthful appearance.
- Durability: Dental implants are made of high-quality materials and are designed to last for many years. With proper care and maintenance, they can last a lifetime.
- Convenience: Unlike dentures, which need to be removed for cleaning and can be uncomfortable, dental implants are permanent and do not require any special care beyond regular brushing and flossing.
- Cost-effective: Dental implants can be a cost-effective solution in the long run, as they do not require any replacement or refitting like traditional tooth replacement options.
- Comfort and stability: Implants are anchored to the jawbone, they don’t move around or slip like dentures can, resulting in better comfort and stability.
It’s important to note that implant treatment may not be suitable for everyone, and the success of the treatment depends on the patient’s overall health and the condition of their jawbone. It’s best to consult with an experienced implant dentist to determine whether this treatment option is appropriate for you.
Who can be treated with Implant Treatment?
Implant treatment is applied to patients who have completed the age of 18 and whose maxillofacial development has been completed.
A detailed examination and x-ray are required before implant treatment.
If the patient’s jaw structure and bone level are determined and suitable for the implant, treatment is started.
In diabetes, blood values must be regulated before treatment.
In patients using blood thinners, the drug is discontinued on the days determined before the treatment, in consultation with their doctor.
How is Implant Treatment done?
In our patients, where the necessary examinations and tests are performed, implants are placed under local anesthesia with minimum pain and maximum comfort.
How To Calculate Dental Implant Cost?
Calculating the cost of a dental implant can be a bit complex, as it depends on several factors. However, here are some general guidelines to help you estimate the cost:
- Consultation fee: The first step in getting a dental implant is to schedule a consultation with a dentist or oral surgeon. This fee will vary depending on the practice and the location.
- Type of implant: Different types of dental implants are available, and the cost can vary depending on the material used and the brand.
- Additional procedures: Some patients may require additional procedures such as bone grafting or sinus lifts before the implant can be placed. These procedures can add to the overall cost.
- Number of implants: The cost of a single implant will be less than the cost of multiple implants.
- Location of practice: Dental implant costs can vary depending on the location of the practice, with prices being generally higher in urban areas.
- Experience of the dentist: The cost of a dental implant may also depend on the experience and qualifications of the dentist performing the procedure.
To get a more accurate estimate of the cost of a dental implant, it’s best to consult with a dentist or oral surgeon. They will be able to assess your individual needs and provide you with a detailed estimate of the cost.