Are Dental Implants Worth It?
Losing a tooth (or multiple teeth) can drastically alter your appearance, chewing function, and ability to speak. Dental implants are a popular replacement, but they’re usually more expensive than, say, dentures. The process is longer, too. Are they worth it?
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are made from a biocompatible post and an artificial tooth. The post is surgically implanted in your jaw. As you heal from surgery, the post fuses to the jawbone to replace your missing tooth root. An artificial tooth, called a dental crown, goes on top. While the exact timeline for the process varies, the average treatment time can be several months.
Dental Implant Benefits
- Permanent – Dental implants are the only permanent tooth replacement. After 15-20 years, we might need to replace the artificial tooth, but the biocompatible post in your jawbone (this is the actual implant) lasts your whole life.
- Jawbone Preservation – When you lose a tooth, your jawbone no longer receives the stimulation to grow that it used to get from chewing. Because dentures don’t replace the tooth root, you lose jawbone density over time. With implants, your jawbone is preserved!
- Simple Maintenance – Implants don’t require special care like dentures. You brush and floss as if they were your natural teeth. Regular trips to the dentist for professional cleanings and exams also protect the health of your gums. Healthy gums are essential to prevent dental implant failure.
Dental Implants in Monroe, WA
If you have healthy gums, good jawbone density, and are missing at least one tooth, you are likely a good candidate for dental implants! Because of the benefits, many patients say this natural-looking tooth replacement is worth the higher price tag and longer healing time.
If you have more questions about implants or our other dental services, or if you want to schedule an appointment, please contact us today!
August 30, 2021 2:43 am