Finding Out About Dental Implants
By Dr. Bilal Ahmed | Published on June 30, 2011 | 0 Comments
When it comes to having missing teeth replaced, the days of bridges and dentures, while not obsolete just yet, may see the writing on the wall as dental implants by Washington D.C. dentists are coming to be the preferred choice. The Washington D.C. cosmetic dentist, Bilal Ahmed, discusses his thoughts regarding dental implants and why they should be seriously considered by anyone who is suffering from missing teeth. Universal Smiles DC, which Ahmed owns and practices, not only performs cosmetic dentistry, but also has sedation dentistry for their Washington D.C. patients who are a bit more phobic of dental procedures.
Why dental implants?
Dental implants have been picking up steam over the last decade since their inception to the commercial dental marketplace in 1978. While dentures and bridges have been the more common choice for replacing missing teeth for decades, implants are now the best thing out on the market today, according to Dr. Ahmed. An implant is a small tooth-looking piece that is inserted into the upper and lower jaws. The reasons for using dental implants are many:
- Retains the natural structure of your mouth
- Improved oral health
- Convenient
- Helps facilitate proper chewing when you eat
- Improves speech
- Feels more like your own teeth compared to bridges and dentures
- Can last a lifetime if are properly maintained
The one issue that causes some problems with implants is if a person does not have enough bone density to anchor the implants into. When this is the case, then a bone graft or synthetic bone substitute is fitted on top of the existing bone to rebuild this substandard area of the ridge. One needs a good solid base for the titanium screws of the implants to attach to; without building up this bone base, implants will not work effectively.
What is the cost of dental implants?
The reason why dentures and bridges will hang along for a bit longer is due to the radical price difference between the three types of dental procedures:
- Bridges can range in price from $500 to $1,200 on average
- Dentures can range in price from $300 to $2,500 on average
- Dental implants can start at a price point somewhere in the neighborhood of $1,250 to $3,000. But if there is a large amount of bone that needs to be replaced, then this price can soar from $15,000 to $30,000 easily
And while dental insurance by and large does not cover dental implants, some medical insurance plans do provide cover for these procedures.
*Disclaimer: The information on this website is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.