By Maylands Dental Centre 
Losing a tooth is never fun. Not only can it be painful and embarrassing but it interferes with chewing and speaking.
If you have missing teeth, dental implants are worth considering. Though they involve a greater upfront cost than other tooth replacement options, such as bridges and dentures, dental implants offer durability and improved function that can’t be found elsewhere. Despite the high cost, many people still opt for dental implants because of the benefits that they offer.
In this blog post, we’ll talk about the many aspects of dental implants so you can decide if they are worth their cost. Keep reading!
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What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are worth their weight in gold – quite literally. They are usually made out of titanium, a metal that is compatible with the human body. They are inserted into the jaw bone and eventually fuses with the bone tissue. This creates a strong and sturdy foundation for dental restoration work.
Each dental implant consists of three parts:
- The titanium post (which is inserted into the jaw bone) will serve as replacement tooth roots
- The abutment (which is attached to the post)
- The dental restoration or false teeth (which are attached to the abutment) could either be a crown, dental bridge, or dentures
There are four main types of dental implants:
- Single-Tooth Dental Implants: Single-tooth dental implants are used to replace a single missing tooth. The single implant is placed in the jawbone and left to heal for three to six months before the abutment and dental crown can be attached.
- Implant-Supported Bridges: Implant-supported bridges are used to replace multiple missing teeth. Unlike traditional bridges which are anchored to natural teeth, implant-supported bridges are attached to implants embedded in bone. This way, your natural teeth are preserved since there is no need to trim them.
- Implant-Supported Dentures: Implant-supported dentures are used to replace a full set of missing teeth. They provide a greater level of stability and comfort compared to traditional dentures. This is because they are fixed and completely supported by implants. They are made of teeth and need around 6-8 implants.
- All-on-Four Dental Implants: All-on-four dental implants are used to replace a full arch of teeth. The dental procedure requires four strategically placed implants in the jawbone, where they are allowed to fuse to the bone for 3-6 months following implant placement. After which, a full arch of prosthetic teeth (temporary dentures) will be attached.
You should consider dental implants if you are missing one or more teeth. They look and feel like real teeth and can help restore your smile to its former glory.
What Benefits Do Dental Implants Offer?
When considering dental implants, it’s important to weigh the benefits of dental implants against the cost. Dental implants are not cheap, but they offer several benefits that make them worth the investment. Here are six benefits of dental implants:
- Dental implants are long-lasting. Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime, unlike other treatment options, such as dentures, which need to be replaced every few years.
- Dental implants look and feel natural. Because they’re placed directly into your jawbone, they fuse with your natural bone and provide support for your artificial teeth just like the roots of your natural teeth.
- Dental implants don’t slip or move around as dentures can. This gives you the confidence to eat and speak without worrying about your teeth slipping out of place.
- Dental implants can help preserve your natural teeth. Unlike other tooth replacement options that rely on neighbouring or adjacent teeth for support, dental implants are placed directly into your jawbone, leaving your healthy natural teeth untouched.
- Dental implants can help prevent bone loss in your jaw. When you lose a tooth, the bone that supported that tooth starts to deteriorate. Dental implants stimulate bone growth and help prevent further bone loss in the jaw.
- Dental implants can improve your speech. Removable dentures can slip around in your mouth, causing you to mumble or slur your words. With dental implants, you’ll be able to speak clearly and without worry.
Many people are under the impression that dental implants are purely cosmetic. While it’s true that they can greatly improve the appearance of your smile, there are more benefits of dental implants that some people are unaware of.
How Much Does It Cost to Have Dental Implants?
Dental implants are not cheap. In fact, they are one of the most expensive tooth restoration options available. But while dental implants may have a higher initial cost than other tooth replacement options, their long-term benefits make them an excellent investment for many patients.
So, how much do dental implants cost? The answer depends on several factors, including the number of implants being placed and the type of implant being used.
Generally speaking, single-tooth implants can cost anywhere from $4,000 to $6,000. Implant-supported bridges tend to fall in the $6,300 to $9,500 range, while implant-supported dentures can cost between $15,000 and $18,000. All-on-Four implants typically start at around $16,000 but can go up to $42,000, depending on the case.
Many people are surprised to learn that they can use their health fund towards the cost of dental implants. In fact, most health funds offer some level of coverage for a dental implant procedure. However, it is important to check with your fund to see what is covered.
Dental implant surgery is considered an elective procedure. Because of this, some health funds will only cover a portion of the cost. Still, others may cover the entire amount. If you are considering dental implants, check with your health fund to see if they can help you offset the cost of tooth implants.
What Makes Dental Implants Costly?
Dental implants are an excellent long-term investment in your oral health. However, the initial cost of dental implants can be prohibitive for some patients.
Dental implants are costly because:
- This type of dental surgery is a complex, invasive procedure that requires both surgical and restorative skills
- The materials used for the implant, abutment, and restoration are expensive
- The surgical procedure includes multiple visits to the dentist
- The implants require a lengthy healing period before being able to support a restoration
Several factors affect the cost of dental implants, including:
- The type of implant
- The number of implants needed
- The complexity of the procedure
- The experience of the dental surgeon. Skilled dentists usually charge more.
- The need for additional procedures. Bone grafts, sinus lifts, gum grafts, or a tooth extraction will incur additional costs.
- Geographical location
Dental implant surgery can be costly, but there are ways to offset the cost. Insurance coverage, payment plans, and dental savings plans are available to help make dental implants more affordable. Ask your dentist about cost during the initial consultation.
What are the Advantages of Implants Over Traditional Dental Bridges and Dentures?
Dental implants offer many advantages over traditional dental bridges and conventional dentures, making them a worthwhile investment for your oral health. Here are five reasons why dental implants may be the right choice for you:
- Dental implants are more natural looking and feeling than dental bridges or dentures.
- Dental implants are more durable than dental bridges or dentures.
- Dental implants are easier to care for than dental bridges or dentures.
- Dental implants preserve healthy tooth structures better than dental bridges or dentures.
- Dental implants offer better value for money than dental bridges or dentures in the long run.
Are Dental Implants Worth It?
Dental implants are slowly but surely becoming the go-to choice for people with missing teeth, but the initial cost can be a deterrent for some patients. Despite this, dental implants are generally considered worth the investment due to their longevity and durability. With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime.
Final Thoughts
It has been established that dental implants are a major investment, both financially and in terms of the time and commitment required for successful dental treatment. So, are dental implants worth it?
Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this. The decision of whether or not to get teeth implants is a personal one that depends on many factors, including your oral health, budget, and preferences.
However, many patients find that the benefits far outweigh the high dental implant costs. Dental implants can give patients a renewed sense of confidence and self-esteem and improve their dental health. These reasons make dental implants worth the investment for patients seeking to improve their oral health and quality of life.
At Maylands Dental Centre, we offer dental implants as part of our comprehensive range of services. If you’re interested in learning more about implant treatment or would like to book an appointment, please visit our website or call us today. Visit our dental clinic, and we look forward to helping you achieve your smile goals!
Frequently Asked questions
Dental implants are an ideal solution for patients who have suffered from tooth loss due to disease, trauma, or decay. People with damaged teeth can also benefit from teeth implants. They are also viable replacement options for bridges and dentures that need to be replaced.
Dental implants can support an entire arch of teeth. That means whether you’re missing one tooth, several teeth or all of your teeth, dental implants can give you the dental restoration you need for a beautiful smile.
For many people, travelling overseas to get dental implants may come to mind. This is because of the lower cost of dental implants in other countries.
However, most reputable dental implant clinics in Australia offer competitive prices and payment plans for their services while providing high-quality care. Plus, there are usually payment options available to help make implants even more accessible for patients.
Dental implants have a high success rate, and maintaining them is not difficult. However, there are a few things you need to do to keep your implants healthy and strong. Here are five tips for caring for your implants:
- Provide daily care by brushing using a soft-bristled toothbrush and flossing your teeth twice a day, just as you would with natural teeth. Good oral hygiene will help remove plaque and bacteria from around the implant and prevent gum or periodontal disease.
- Avoid hard, sticky, and crunchy food, as this can damage the implants and lead to implant failure.
- Avoid using tobacco products, as they can cause damage to the implant and increase the risk of infection.
- See an experienced dentist for regular cleanings and checkups. They will be able to monitor the health of your implant and spot any problems early on.
- Be aware of grinding or clenching. If you grind or clench your teeth, this can put unnecessary stress on your implants and cause damage over time. If you have this problem, talk to your dentist about getting a night guard to protect your teeth while you sleep.
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