144 Missing Teeth – Dental Implant Years After Extraction? (5 of 5)
Dental implants are an incredibly popular tooth-replacement treatment options. While a missing tooth is a serious issue, some patients neglect to treat the issue in a timely manner. Patients who have had a missing tooth for years, can even qualify as a candidate for implants. In order to support the implant, the patient must have a healthy jawbone and otherwise good oral health. In some cases, the patient may need to undergo bone grafting prior to receiving the implant if their jawbone cannot provide the necessary support.
Most general dentists who have completed the necessary training can place a dental implant. Some dentists, however, may be overwhelmed with the upfront costs and training associated with the procedure. Some of the costs associated with implants can include training, equipment, and technology.
Dental implants are quite expensive as they involve a surgical component. Patients sometimes have a difficult time locating a dentist who is qualified and can offer dental implants at a reasonable cost. While implants are expensive upfront, they are an investment and help patients restore the appearance and function of their smile. High costs associated with dental implants can unfortunately prohibit some patients from pursuing this treatment option.
Patients may be under the impression that they need to work with an implant specialist, however, this is not the case. A general dentist may also assume that patients would prefer to work with specialists, which often times is not the case. A vast majority of general dentists throughout the world are qualified to offer dental implants to patients. In the U.S., however, only 10-15% of general dentists can perform the procedure. Any dentist with the right training, equipment, and technology can perform the procedure. A qualified general dentist is perfectly capable of safely and successfully completing the placement of dental implants.
An individual dental implant costs about $1,000 to $3,000. The abutment and crown typically cost between $500 and $3,000, making the overall cost for a dental implant $1,500 to $6,000 per tooth. The cost of the procedure can vary based on factors including the dentist performing the procedure, geographic region, type of implant, and how complex the procedure is.
Dental implants are the best treatment option for the replacement of missing teeth. Implants provide patients with a solution that allows their prosthetic tooth to look and function similar to the natural teeth. Implants have an incredibly high success rate of over 90%, however, there can be complications. The most common complication is a risk of infection. Signs of an infection include persistent bleeding which does not improve or becomes worse, a fever, and pain or swelling at the implant site.
Patients who experience any of these symptoms should contact the dentist right away. Prompt attention is needed in order to preserve the implant and avoid further damage. Infection can actually occur weeks or even months following the implant procedure.
Implants are typically made from titanium, which is incredibly hard. Titanium is actually stronger than the natural teeth. While implants are incredibly strong, they can still be damaged or have issues. It is important for patients to practice good oral hygiene and make regular visits to the dentist. These routine visits help to detect any issues right away before they become worse or compromise the implant.
Dental implants are an incredibly reliable tooth-replacement option and implant failure is quite rare. When patients have any issues with their implant, it is important to follow up with the dentist immediately.