Dental implants are an ideal treatment option for individuals who are missing one or more teeth. They are often chosen over other treatment alternatives. That said, dental implants are definitely an investment. Today, our Surrey and Langley dentist explains cost considerations.
When it comes to treatment options for missing teeth, dental implants are ideal for those who are good candidates. Of course, cost will factor into any decision and dental implants require a significant investment on both you and your dentist's parts. You may wonder why dental implants cost significantly more than other treatment options. Today, we will explain cost factors for this treatment option.
Your dentist's experience and skills, the quality of material that goes into creating the implant, the custom fabrication process and surgeries needed for implantation are main elements reflected in the cost of dental implants.
Both parts of your dental implant — the artificial tooth and artificial crown — are fabricated by an experienced dentist in Surrey or Langley, or a technician. Because the high-quality material has to stand up to daily use and wear for years, it's not inexpensive. The new artificial tooth root and crown will function much like a natural tooth root, and so will be made precisely to fit your smile.
Since it takes many years of skill and education for your dentist to become qualified to fit patients with dental implants and perform the surgical procedure safely, so their schooling is also reflected in the cost.
The Dental Implants Procedure
Before your surgery, your dentist will carefully examine your mouth and take X-Rays to determine how your implant should be constructed and attached. X-Ray machines and other diagnostic equipment is also expensive to obtain and operate.
Typically, dental implant surgery is performed in two stages. Your dentist's first task will be to replace the root of the missing tooth by implant the artificial tooth root (a small titanium screw) in the gums, then anchor it to the jawbone. The screw part of the implant serves as the root or stable base. An artificial tooth will be attached later.
The site where the implant was placed will heal as the screw integrates with the jaw bone, creating a strong permanent base for your artificial tooth (restoration). After implant surgery, patients usually take about 4 to 6 months to heal. Once complete healing has occurred, the abutment and restoration can be added.
The abutment acts to connect and secure the restoration to the dental implant, and will usually be made from ceramic or titanium material. The restoration (a single artificial tooth, or multiple artificial teeth such as a crown or bridge) is then attached to the abutment.
Additional Treatments
Sometimes, patients may need additional treatment at their Surrey or Langley dental clinic to prepare the mouth and ensure implant surgery will be successful. This often consists of several hygiene treatments and perhaps a bone graft procedure to ensure the implant can be successfully anchored to the jawbone.
Dr. Sophie's goal is always to ensure that patients are getting value from their investment from every treatment, including dental implants. As an experienced, trained and educated dentist, she will ensure your dental implant is made from high-quality materials and works exactly as it should.