Dental Implants Explained
The ability to chew and enjoy your food is one of our most basic needs. We live in a culture that embraces food and the pleasures associated with it like no other. Unfortunately, over time, our teeth can begin to wear and break down.
One of the true blessings of modern dental technology is that we can repair and rejuvenate your teeth and smile regardless of their condition. Dental implants allow us to predictably replace missing teeth with permanent, solid, replacements.
If you have false teeth, implants can be used to “anchor” your false teeth so they lock in place. There is no longer any excuse for not enjoying the function and pleasures of a beautiful smile and fully functional bite.
We Can Preserve Your Jaw Bone
When multiple teeth are taken away, the jaw literally shrinks both in density and height.
You can predictably lose up to 25% of your supporting jaw bone structure within the first year after tooth loss. The great news is even after youʼve been living with a denture for a long time, you are most likely a candidate for implant supported dentures.
The titanium posts fuse with the bone holding them in place and actually help maintain the height of the bone. A removable denture can be replaced with one that attaches firmly onto implants, making wobbly and uncomfortable dentures a thing of the past. In many cases, we can finish these cases in ONE day!
What To Expect At Your Dental Implant Consultation
You will meet with our doctors for a comprehensive dental implant exam. During this exam, we will discuss the following:
Cone Beam 3D Imaging
We will take a 3D image of your jaw and mouth area with our 3D cone beam.
Diagnostic Workup
The doctor will review the 3D images with you along with your dental history and address any questions you may have.
Treatment Plan
Our doctor will discuss your customized treatment plan we’ve created just for you.
Financial Options
You’ll get to meet with our financial coordinator and discuss the total investment, and financing options that may be available to you.
How Do Implants Compare to Dentures and Bridges?
Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth or even a full row of teeth, making them one of the most versatile tooth replacement options available. When comparing the three most popular restorations (dentures, implants, and bridges), you will be confronted with several important considerations. Read on to learn how these compare in terms of cost, longevity, esthetics, comfort, and function.
As you consider your restoration options, one important thing to keep in mind is how long each restoration is designed to last. Most dental bridges last around seven to ten years. Dentures usually come with a seven-to-ten-year replacement schedule in place. Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime. You may need to replace a crown after 20 years, but the implant post should last for many years.
In terms of outward appearance, dental implants appear the most natural in comparison to other popular tooth replacement options. Since the crown that tops dental implants can be tinted to perfectly match the surrounding teeth, your implants should be indistinguishable from your natural teeth. What about the less-costly alternatives?
Dentures might look good for the first year or two, but then the gum material begins to darken, making it look unnatural. Dental bridges rank second behind implants in terms of esthetics. When crafted by a master ceramist, dental bridges should appear identical to natural teeth. Although, some metal-fused bridges can give the restoration a darker, stain-like appearance, which can diminish the esthetic quality.
As your dentist in Lexington, we are mostly concerned about how the restoration functions and maintains oral health. With these in mind, dental implants surpass bridges and dentures in terms of functionality. Since implants are anchored to bone they offer more stability than other restoration options.
Unlike dentures and bridges, dental implants do not rest on the gums, therefore they do not cause painful gum irritation and slipping.
If you are considering dental implants then you must be aware that they typically come in at a higher short-term cost than dental bridges and dentures. However, dental implants are a long term solution that allow most patients to save money in the future. So, how does the cost of dental implants compare to dentures and bridges? Contact our office to schedule a consultation and learn all about our tooth replacement options.