Thinking about dental implants but worried about the price? You’re not alone. While dental implants may be considered a big investment, they offer life-changing benefits that other tooth replacement options like dentures and bridges simply can’t match. In this post, we’ll break down the real costs of dental implants, what factors influence pricing, and why they may be more affordable in the long run than you think!
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO RECEIVE IMPLANTS?
Whether you’ve recently had a tooth extraction or have been missing teeth for many years, you may be a candidate to receive dental implants. A dental implant is a titanium structure that is attached to the jaw bone to support a replacement tooth. Implants are a fixed, long-term alternative to removable dentures. If you have one or more missing or failing teeth, you may be a candidate for dental implants in Charlotte, NC.
The average dental implant cost varies depending on your specific case. Several factors are considered when determining the cost of your dental implant tooth restoration. The most common factors include:
- Number of implants needed, from a single implant to a full arch restoration
- Complexity of your implant procedure, including tooth extraction and bone grafting needs
- Type of implants selected and the materials used
- Sedation and anesthesia options that you choose
- Dental insurance coverage
To find out how much your dental implant treatment will cost, we recommend coming in for a dental implant consultation. One of our oral surgeons will explain your options for tooth replacement and create a treatment plan that feels right for you. At that time, based on your treatment needs, we can discuss the costs and financing options that are available to make dental implants affordable for you.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF CHOOSING DENTAL IMPLANTS IN CHARLOTTE, NC?
Implants can aid you by:
- Increasing your ability to chew food properly by restoring your bite surface and strength
- Eliminating the hassle and pain of dealing with missing teeth or dentures
- Improving your self-esteem and confidence with a smile that looks and feels just like natural teeth
- Saving you money by cutting out the long-term recurring costs that accompany other treatment options
- Lasting a lifetime with proper care
ARE THERE ANY DISADVANTAGES TO IMPLANTS?
While dental implants are an excellent long-term solution for missing teeth, they do have some potential disadvantages. Dental implant placement is a minor surgical procedure, and there are always risks and mild discomfort associated with dental surgical procedures. Implant surgery is a relatively simple procedure that involves little pain or discomfort for the patient. In general, if a patient can tolerate a tooth extraction, implants shouldn’t cause a problem, and anesthesia and sedation options are available to make the procedures as comfortable as possible. Also, when a qualified oral surgeon properly places high-quality implants, there is a very low risk of side effects or complications, with a high implant success rate. Oral surgeons have the specialized education, training, and experience with the complexities of the bone, gums, skin, muscles, and nerves involved in dental implant surgery to ensure you get the best possible results. So despite these risks, dental implants remain the best option for many due to their durability, natural feel, and ability to preserve jawbone and oral health.
WHAT TYPES OF IMPLANTS ARE AVAILABLE?
There are two main types of implants available to patients today.
- Endosteal implants, which are small, screw-shaped devices that are attached to the jawbone. This is the most common type of implant.
- Zygomatic implants, which are a restorative solution for patients with severe upper jaw bone loss. Zygomatic implants have longer posts and are inserted into the zygomatic bone (cheek bone) for support.
One major advantage that dental implants have over other forms of tooth replacement is their versatility. Your oral surgeon will evaluate your specific needs and customize the dental implant treatment accordingly. At Carolinas Center for Oral and Facial Surgery, we offer many types of dental implant procedures to meet the unique needs of every patient. These include:
- Single Dental Implants. If you’re missing a single tooth, your surgeon can insert a single implant in its place. This can be performed as often as necessary throughout the mouth.
- Implant-Supported Bridges. For multiple missing teeth that are next to another, implant supported bridges offer a fixed replacement series without impacting the surrounding teeth.
- Immediate Implants. Your surgeon can place a dental implant post into the empty socket at the same time as a tooth extraction, saving you time and money.
- Full-Arch Restoration. When you need a full mouth of teeth replaced, we can place only a few dental implant posts and attach a full arch fixed prosthesis. This eliminates the need for traditional dentures.
HOW DO DENTAL IMPLANT COSTS COMPARE TO THE COST OF GOING WITHOUT IMPLANTS?
You have many options to consider when replacing one or more teeth. Removable dentures or traditional bridges and partials often cost less upfront, but these options do not prevent jaw bone loss. You must replace dentures every few years, while your dental implant is designed to last long term. Dentures and partials often require special glues, pastes, and rinses to keep them clean, while your dental implant requires the same care as a natural tooth—regular brushing and flossing.
If you do not restore a missing tooth with a dental implant, you risk jaw bone deterioration over time due to lack of stimulation. In addition to changing your facial appearance and profile, treatment for severe jaw bone loss can be costly and require lengthy treatment and recovery times. Dental implants are the only replacement solution that provides the jaw bone with the stimulation it needs to keep it strong and healthy. By choosing dental implants or implant-based solutions, you protect your future oral health.
Gaps in teeth and missing teeth can trap food and bacteria, increasing your risk of decay and gum disease. Additionally, when you leave an infected tooth or teeth untreated, the infection can progress to oral disease or spread to other teeth and gums. Untreated infections can cause advanced tooth decay, periodontal disease, and infections that can spread throughout the body.
OUR ORAL SURGEONS ARE HERE TO HELP
If you’re considering dental implants and would like more information about dental implant procedures, please contact one of our convenient locations in North Carolina and South Carolina. Our highly qualified and experienced oral surgeons will help guide your through the dental implant process to a beautiful, healthy smile.
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