Despite advancements in dental care, many Americans continue to experience tooth loss. Regardless of the cause, dental implants are often considered the most effective solution. Here is what you should know before getting dental implants.
Varieties of Dental Implants
- Subperiosteal (on the bone): This implant is positioned on the surface of the jawbone using metal framework posts that extend through the gum to secure the implant. It is typically recommended for patients who cannot wear traditional dentures and lack sufficient bone height to support an endosteal implant.
- Endosteal (in the bone): This is the most common type of implant. Its various forms include screws, cylinders, or blades surgically placed into the jawbone. Each implant holds one or more prosthetic teeth. This type of implant is generally an alternative for patients who are now wearing bridges or removable dentures.
Who Can Get Dental Implants?
Most people who are in good health and can undergo routine dental extraction or oral surgery may be eligible for dental implants. Patients must satisfy certain criteria:
- You’re in good general and oral health.
- You have adequate bone in your jaw to support the implant.
- You have healthy gum tissues that are free of periodontal disease.
Types of Dental Implant Procedures
Depending on your specific condition and the type of implant chosen, your periodontist will create a treatment plan tailored to meet your needs. Here are some of the possible treatment plans depending on your situation:
- Single Tooth Dental Implants: If you’re missing a single tooth, one dental implant can replace it.
- Multiple Tooth Dental Implants: If you’re missing several teeth, they can be replaced by multiple dental implants.
- Full Mouth Dental Implants: If you’re missing all of your teeth, they can be replaced by full mouth dental implants.
- Sinus Augmentation: A key to implant success is the quantity and quality of the bone where the implant is to be placed. The upper back jaw has traditionally been one of the most difficult areas to successfully place dental implants due to insufficient bone quantity and quality and the close proximity to the sinus. Sinus augmentation can help correct this problem by raising the sinus floor and developing bone for the placement of dental implants.
- Ridge Modification: Deformities in the upper or lower jaw can leave you with an inadequate amount of bone in which to place dental implants. To correct the problem, the gum is lifted away from the ridge to expose the void where bone is missing. The void is then filled with bone or bone substitute to build up the ridge. Ridge modification has been shown to greatly improve the jaw’s appearance and increase the chances of successful implants.
How To Get Affordable Dental Implants Near Me
- Shop Around and Compare Prices: Get quotes from multiple dentists. The cost can vary depending on experience, location, and materials used.
- Consider Dental Schools: Dental schools often offer implant procedures at a lower cost, performed by supervised students.
- Look for Promotions and Discounts: Some dentists offer seasonal discounts, referral bonuses, or package deals.
- Explore Dental Savings Plans: These plans offer discounted rates on dental procedures from participating providers.
- Ask About Flexible Payment Plans: Many dentists offer extended payment plans to make the cost more manageable.
- See if You Qualify for Government Assistance: Some government programs may offer financial aid for dental care, depending on your income and situation.
