Are Dental Implants Right for Me?
“A smile is worth a thousand words,” Julie A. Walker. In today’s fast-paced world this is even more true. In a world of online line meetings and virtual conferences, our faces (and smiles) are the first thing people see. That first impression can make a big difference. Were we smiling? Or did we give a tight-lipped nod, not because we weren’t excited… But because we were embarrassed about our smile. One of the fastest-growing trends in dental appliances for teeth replacement has become dental implants.
And while this isn’t a new concept (a 2019 study found that 57% of Americans were insecure about their smile!), the age of electronics reminds us every time we turn the camera on for the next zoom meeting that there is something we don’t like about our smile.
Fortunately, the dental industry has made great strides in making “smile enhancement” more affordable than ever. Where 50 years ago the only affordable option may have been to pull bad teeth and then get uncomfortable, ill-fitting dentures, in 2021 Lans Family Dentistry offers many affordable options for both permanent and removable replacement teeth.
What Are Dental Implants? 
Dental implants are a permanent solution to tooth replacement. Dental implants have been used by men going back thousands of years. There is evidence that Mayans were using items like stone and seashells in 600 A.D. as implants!
A dental implant requires that a mental rod be inserted into the jawbone replacing the missing tooth’s root. The jawbone will graft onto the steel post and at that point, a crown, or artificial tooth, will cover the rod. This ensures a lifelike replacement and durability that you cannot find in removable devices.
Dental implants can be used to replace single teeth, multiple teeth, or as anchors for dentures.
Why Should I Choose Implants Over Dentures?
When it comes to dental repairs we are no longer limited to “either/or” options. Treatments can vary widely depending on what repairs need to be made (one tooth, multiple teeth, etc.) and what kind of shape the client’s remaining teeth and jaw are in.
A reputable family dentist will be able to sit down with you and explain the different treatments and what they would recommend based on how much the treatment will cost and how long the treatment will last.
Implants, though relatively new to the scene, have seen massive growth in popularity since the 1970s when they first became mainstream. Part of what makes them so popular is their ease and convenience.
– A Beautiful Smile. Dental implants are an actual part of you. They look and feel like your own teeth because they are! That gives many people that extra boost of confidence to show off those pearly whites.
– Pronunciation. Because implants are a permanent feature, you don’t have to worry about being caught without teeth in or denture slips. This leads to better pronunciation and improved speech patterns.
– Comfort. Removable dentures can often slip and slide, the glue may come loose, or rubbing may cause sores and pinching. Implants are much more comfortable because, in addition to being designed for you personally, they are permanently placed, so no need to worry about slips and sores.
– Durability. Implants today have the ability to last decades if not a lifetime. If the implants are properly cared for and maintained, then they can be a second set of “permanent teeth” to last through adulthood.
– Convenience. Dentures are fantastic. They look great and they serve a purpose, but they are not permanent. You don’t have to worry about any embarrassment about taking them out at night with dental implants. You don’t have to worry about carrying adhesive if your dentures slip. Implants get treated in the same manner your regular teeth would.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
The cost of dental implants can vary greatly based on an individual’s needs.
Variables That Affect Cost
– Initial Evaluation
– X-rays/CT scans
– Tooth Extractions/Implant Prep
– Bone Grafting
– Implant Post
– Implant Crown
– Abutment
All of these factors need to be tailored to each individual’s personal needs. For example, some people may not require bone grafts. Some may choose materials that may affect the cost for the post or crown.
Dental Insurance can also play a factor in the cost of implants. You, or your dentist, can reach out to your insurance company for a list of what is covered and what isn’t. There are certain instances where it may be covered as a medical necessity and not sheerly cosmetic.
These details need to be discussed when considering implants so that you and the dentist will have a complete understanding of patient/provider responsibility and what options are affordable for your needs.
How Do I Get Dental Implants?
The first step to getting dental implants is to set up a consultation with your dentist. This way they can determine:
– If you are eligible for dental implants
– How many implants will be needed
– What, if any, work needs to be done prior to setting the post
– Projected Expenses
From there you can pick the best implants that work for your needs and set up a time frame for the treatment.
At Lans Family Dentistry in Ashburn, Virginia we strive every day to provide affordable, top-quality dental care in a relaxing atmosphere. As always, Dr. Lans, our staff, and our associates are here to answer all your questions and be your trusted partner in superior oral and dental health.