Statistics from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research show that 92% of adults between 20 to 64 have had dental caries on their permanent teeth. 26% of them still live with untreated decay. Dental implant procedures are excellent options for replacing missing or decayed teeth.
A dental implant refers to an artificial tooth root lodged deep into the jawbone through surgery to support a dental crown. It can hold a single prosthetic tooth or a series of teeth in place. The result is an artificial tooth that looks, feels, and functions like a normal tooth. It can give you back your beautiful smile.
Here are three vital tips to help you find the right dental implants for a healthy mouth.
1. Choose an Experienced Dentist
The success of dental implant surgery is partly pegged on the expertise of the dentist carrying it out. Inexperienced dentists can damage your nerves or implant drills that cause constant bleeding and swelling. The best dentist qualifies to perform the surgical procedure and has the right credentials to back it up.
Find out their level of training and the dental school that they attended. Inquire about the number of implant operations that they have done within the past year. What is the local dentist’s success rate? You can easily find this information online from their website and other review sites. Read through the comments and testimonials about past patients’ experiences after the surgeries.
2. Pick the Right Dental Implant
First, you may need to determine whether you qualify for dental implants. The dentist in Lowell, MA, will schedule a consultation where they can inspect your bone and oral health. You can discuss your medical history, identifying conditions that can affect the type of dental implant that you pick.
There are generally three types of dental implants-endosteal, subperiosteal and zygomatic techniques. Endosteal implants are inserted directly into the jaw bone. It is considered the safest method but takes the longest period to heal (four to six months.)
Subperiosteal dental implant rests under your gum tissue, on top of your bone. It is ideal for patients with shallow jawbones, with healing taking around one to three months. Zygomatic dental implants are the most complex, with the metal base fixed on your cheekbones. Healing may take two to four months.
Your family dentist can advise you on the best option for you, depending on your bone strength and oral health.
3. Factor in The Cost
Before settling for your dental implants, you may need to factor in the dental implant costs. The procedure is often fully-customized, with the expenses varying on a case-to-case basis. The New York Times states that the average cost of dental implants is between $3000 to $4500.
Discuss with your dentists the different types of dental implants available and their estimated costs. Your insurance plan may cover the cost or part of the surgical expenses. Reach out to your insurance agent to find out what’s covered under your plan. You can also discuss a flexible repayment plan with your dentists.
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Dental implants are excellent solutions to decayed or missing teeth. Lowell Dental Arts can help you get your smile back by offering affordable dental care services. To learn more about dental implant solutions available for you, call us today.
