Dental implants are usually the best option for replacing unhealthy, damaged, or missing teeth. They are placed to support fake or artificial teeth or bridges, crowns, and dentures. This is usually meant for those with dental problems making it difficult to save natural teeth. The devices gained popularity in the 1970s. About 6% of people in the country have dental implants, and this number is expected to reach 23% in 3 years.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are implanted surgically into the jaw, helping restore the individual’s appearance or the ability to chew. The dental implant consists of the following parts:
- Implant body or fixture
- An abutment and an abutment fixation screw
- Crown
Types
Dental implants can be categorized as:
Zygomatic implants: The zygoma refers to the cheekbone. Zygomatic implants are used when a complete set of upper teeth is to be replaced and not individual teeth. It is a more cost-effective option, but there are more complications to consider. So, one should discuss the risks and benefits of these implants with their dentist.
All-on-4® implants: In this procedure, four standard implant posts are used to support a full-arch bridge. It is considered a quicker method that is also the most affordable option for replacing teeth. Here, the prosthetic bridge is heavier than natural teeth.
Mini and short implants: As the name signifies, these are the shorter or skinnier versions of standard implants. However, the success rate is not high for these prosthetics. But they may be used to deal with bone deficiency.
Cost
The cost of implants may vary according to the type and severity of dental issues. The following elements determine the cost:
- A comprehensive dental exam, including 3D imaging
- Extraction of damaged teeth, if required
- Installation of the implant
- Placing the abutment hardware
- Fabrication of the crown
- Placing the crown
The total cost per tooth replaced can be anywhere from $3,000 to $4500, and for the whole mouth, one may have to pay between $60,000 and $90,000. One can choose from dental implant packages that offer discounted procedures or additional services.
Procedure
The step-by-step procedure of dental Implant Surgery may be detailed below:
Dental exam: The first step is to thoroughly examine the teeth and check if the bones are strong enough to support the implant.
Removal of teeth: Then, the surgeon removes the teeth that need to be replaced.
Bone graft: The third step of dental implant treatment is bone grafting. Here, a bone is extracted from some other part of the body or from a donor and is added wherever it is needed.
Insertion of implant: The dentist drills into the jawbone and places the implant.
Addition of abutment: An abutment—the part which holds the crown in place—is added after two or three months when enough bone has grown and stabilized.
Crown insertion: The crown is inserted as the final step of surgery. The crown usually matches the color and size of other teeth.
Dental implants offer a wide range of benefits, like helping restore a full smile, improving chewing ability and speech, and offering convenience and durability. One should choose from the top dental implant clinics to get the best guidance.
