Dental implants are used to replace lost natural teeth and are a complex form of cosmetic dentistry and oral surgery. The most pressing concern for many patients is cost but other factors, such as tooth location and the level of reconstructive work, should be considered. Here are six things that everyone should know about implants.
What is the General Cost for Dental Implants?
The cost of implants can vary by among dentists and surgeons, ranging from $800 to $5,000. Those who live in bigger cities or more affluent areas can expect to pay more, and the price can rise considerably for those who are in need of multiple implants. Most dental insurance plans will only cover 50%, making it worthwhile to create a payment schedule with the dentist office you choose.
What Makes Dental Implants Cost More?
While most implant procedures are handled by a single dentist and location, however, there may be situations that require consultation with another specialist, which, in turn, incur extra lab fees or need extensive restoration. All of these will factor into the overall cost of your dental implants.
What Happens During the Procedure?
In the first phase, the cosmetic dentist or oral surgeon will numb the area and open the gum at the site of the implant. The area will then be drilled to create space for the implant, which is inserted afterward. The gum is stitched up and the patient will need time to heal before receiving the prosthetic tooth.
Is There Any Pain Involved with the Procedure?
Many patients fear pain and will avoid dental procedures because of it. An implant procedure can be uncomfortable, but does not cause large amounts of pain and the use of local anesthetics or other forms of sedation dentistry. After the first phase, it is normal to experience soreness and bruising of the gums and face. Most patients are prescribed a form of pain killer, such as codeine and hydrocodone, to control this, while others may only need extra strength Motrin. **DISCLAIMER: ALL PATIENTS ARE DIFFERENT AND THE DENTIST WILL PRESCRIBE WHAT IS BEST FOR THE SITUATION. OUR CONTENT HERE IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT TO BE EXPECTED FROM YOUR DENTIST AS THEY KNOW THE PROPER COURSE OF TREATMENT AND RELIEF TO PROVIDE.**
How Much of My Time Needs to be Invested?
After the implant is placed, you should expect to invest several months for the implant to merge with the jawbone, which is a process called osseointegration. Once this completes, the prosthetic tooth is placed in the implant and other reconstructive work can be done.
How Do I Choose the Right Cosmetic Dentist or Oral Surgeon?
In most cases, a patient’s family dentist can make a referral in the case of cosmetic dentistry work, if not already performed in their office. If this is not possible, asking friends and family or going online can yield positive results. Always choose a board-certified surgeon or cosmetic dentist called an Implantologist, with extensive experience in implants procedures and knowledge.
Patients who are interested in an implant procedure should visit our South Park dentist for a consultation and further information.