As soon as you lose your first tooth, you face the dilemma of whether or not to replace it and how. This article will cover what dentures are, what mini oral implants are, the process of placing dental implants, and how much dental implants and dentures cost.
The Risks of Skipping a Replacement
Since losing a tooth may cause the surrounding teeth to loosen, you may end up needing to replace several teeth. You may also face gum and bone loss if you chose to skip replacing it. Additionally, your self-confidence may suffer and you may try to hide your smile or cover your mouth around other people. Tooth loss may also cause pain or discomfort during speaking or eating.
Dentures Vs. Dental Implants
If you are searching for the answer to the dilemma of tooth loss there are several things to consider:
- Ignoring the Issue
- Dentures
- Dental Implants
Each option has pros and cons. Read on to learn how to decide which choice is best for you.
Dentures
Dentures – previously the only option for replacing natural teeth – are false teeth that can be removed. The quality of dentures has improved over time but they still present certain disadvantages. For example, they can fall out when you are laughing, talking, or eating and may cause discomfort or irritation. They can also place a strain on the remaining teeth.
Partial dentures can lead to infection or decay if they are not properly fitted. In this case, tooth packing on the adjoining teeth would be required.
Dental Implants
If you need to replace a tooth and still have healthy gums and a balanced jaw, dental implants – substitute teeth that are surgically placed into the jaw – might be an excellent option to consider. As long as they are cared for properly, dental implants can last 20 or more years. Houston Dental implants are a popular option for people who are just missing one or two teeth. They can also be used to secure dentures.
Dental implants have several advantages such as staying secure while you eat, talk, or laugh. They also help protect your bones as time goes on and do not impair your speech. Screwing the substitute tooth into the jawbone tricks the body into thinking it is a real tooth. Dental implants also require less maintenance and help preserve your facial structure.
To place an implant, our qualified Houston dentist at Sinada Dental will insert a titanium screw into the jawbone and secures a false tooth to the implant. Although dental implants are more expensive initially than dentures, you do not need to pay for the ongoing cost of washes, replacements, and fixatives. The majority of patients consider dental implants a valuable investment considering they do not slip out of place, do not impair your taste, and have the potential to last a lifetime.
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge may be covered by insurance but is more prone to nerve damage and degeneration. The cost of maintenance for bridges is also higher than dental implants.
Cost of Dental Implants
Generally, it costs around $3,000 to $4,500 to replace a tooth depending on your location. A full collection of implants can cost as much as $45,000. In some cases, dental insurance will help offset the cost. At Sinada Dental in Houston, we can help you determine the best financial fit for your budget.
A Less Costly Alternative
For individuals that cannot afford the cost of dental implants, there is a different choice: mini oral implants. These miniature titanium posts help stabilize dentures to offer a more secure fit. The tiny titanium implants are integrated right into the foundation of your false teeth and function similar to your natural teeth. Although the dentures will still be removable, the mini implants help keep them firmly in place.
