5 Little-Known Facts About Dental Implants

Bridges and dentures aren’t the only treatments for tooth loss anymore. 500,000 Americans every year are investing in dental implants to replace their missing teeth. The revolutionary procedure provides the next best thing to your real teeth. Here are 5 little-known facts about dental implants you should know.

1. A Dental Implant Mimics the Whole Tooth

Traditional dental prosthetics only mimic the portions of teeth above the gum line. A dental implant goes a step further. A titanium post is surgically placed into your jaw to serve as a new root. It will support a customized restoration that will match the appearance of your natural teeth. This mimics that whole tooth structure, providing unmatched benefits not possible using traditional methods.

2. Dental Implants Can Last for Decades

Regular bridges and dentures only last for a few years before needing to be replaced. Not dental implants. They have over a 95% success rate to last for 30 years or longer with the right care, like brushing and flossing. You’ll never need to budget for replacements. Dental implants could end up paying for themselves. 

3. Regain 70% of Your Biting Force

Your jaw will fuse to the implant through a process called osseointegration. Your replacement tooth will have the support of your jawbone, restoring up to 70% of your biting force. You can enjoy a variety of nutritious foods to promote your overall wellness.

4. Preserves Your Jawbone

Losing a tooth can cause your jaw to shrink by up to 25% in the first year. Your jaw will continue to deteriorate over time, changing the shape of your face and increasing your risk of dental problems, like more missing teeth. A dental implant is the only method of stopping bone loss in your jaw because it will replace the tooth root. You’ll look years younger and reduce your risk of future dental problems.

5. Dental Implants Can Be Relatively Inexpensive

Contrary to many rumors, dental implants can be affordable. The process requires several phases, each with separate costs. This can give you more time to pay. In some cases, dental insurance can be used for the consultation, diagnostic services, and preliminary treatments, like gum disease therapy. After meeting your annual deductible, your insurance may pay some of the costs for other steps in your treatment plan. 

Besides using your dental insurance, you can pay any out-of-pocket expenses using a monthly payment plan through a third-party financing company, like CareCredit. You can invest in the most successful treatment for tooth loss without breaking the bank.

About Dr. Shandy Condie

Dr. Condie earned her dental degree from the Creighton School of Dentistry and has completed training in various specialties, including restorative, implant, and neuromuscular dentistry. She is a proud member of the American Dental Association and the Arizona Dental Association. Request an appointment through her website or call her office at (480) 780-9080.