Permanent tooth loss can potentially detract from your daily quality of life, as tasks that were second nature, such as eating and speaking, suddenly become much more challenging.
Many dentists offer different treatment options to rebuild your smile, such as dentures, dental bridges, and dental implants. The latter tend to cost more initially, leading some patients to question whether they’re worth the price. Continue reading to learn more about what makes these restorations unique and why many experts consider them an excellent investment!
How Do Dental Implants Work?
Dentures rely on a firm suction against your gum tissues to remain in place, and dental bridges are cemented to healthy abutment teeth on each side of the gap in your grin. Meanwhile, dental implants are the only treatment that involves placing biocompatible support posts directly into your jaw.
Recovery can take 3 to 6+ months because that’s usually how long it takes your mouth to generate enough new bone to fuse with this rod, making it a permanent part of your mouth. Once you’ve recovered sufficiently, your dentist can provide a lifelike restoration, such as a dental crown, bridge, or dentures, depending on how many teeth were lost, that attaches to your implant(s).
What Are the Advantages of Dental Implants?
This treatment provides many benefits over the alternatives because of its unique placement. For instance, did you know that your jaw starts to degenerate after an adult tooth falls out? The root helps stimulate new bone growth each time you bite down, and when it goes missing, you can lose up to 20% of the surrounding bone density within 1 year. A weakening jaw increases the risk of additional tooth loss, and as the foundation of your mouth thins, you might notice changes to your facial structure.
For example, you could develop sunken cheeks or additional fine lines that make you look older than you feel. Only dental implants function more like natural teeth to help maintain your jawbone and protect your facial structure, simultaneously protecting and preserving your oral health and your appearance.
Are Dental Implants Worth the Cost?
Dental implants are the only replacement teeth that require oral surgery, so they tend to cost more up front than dentures or bridges. But they also offer unique advantages that can pay for themselves over time, reducing out-of-pocket expenses in the long run.
For instance, these restorations don’t usually require the same accessories, such as soaking solutions, cleaners, or adhesives, as the alternative solutions for tooth loss. Plus, they’re less likely to become destabilized or dislodged, reducing the need for complex, expensive repairs or replacements.
If you’re still unsure whether dental implants are right for you or have additional questions about the potential cost, you can learn more by scheduling a consultation with your dentist!
About the Practice
Patients at Sunrise Dental Center benefit from three dental experts who are passionate about helping them build the healthiest, most beautiful versions of their smiles. Dr. Song Ahn, Dr. Thomas Ahn, and Dr. Demi Tran share decades of combined experience, and today, they collaborate to provide a comprehensive menu of services, including start-to-finish dental implant procedures, to meet your unique needs under one roof. You can request an appointment on the website or contact the office at (713) 869-9973.
