Are Dental Implants Worth the Investment?

Whether you currently wear dentures or just underwent a much-needed tooth extraction, dental implants seem to be the preferred solution by dentists and patients alike. Since they replace the roots of the missing teeth, they offer a wide range of benefits that you can’t achieve with traditional dentures or dental bridges. To do this, they require a longer treatment process at a higher cost. This makes patients wonder: are dental implants worth the cost? Here’s what you should take into consideration.

5 Benefits of Dental Implants

To find out if dental implants are the right solution for you, it is important that you understand their benefits. Here are some of the most prominent ones.

• Comfortable: Dentures don’t feel quite like your natural teeth did. Once dental implants fully integrate into the jawbone, you shouldn’t even notice that they are there. It will be like having your old smile back.
• Easy Maintenance: Taking care of dentures can be a chore. Between needing to stock up on adhesive and having to clean them frequently, they can feel like quite a time commitment. You care for dental implants the same way you care for natural teeth. Just brush, floss, rinse, and see your dentist for regular checkups.
• No Eating Restrictions: While your implants heal, you will need to take it easy. However, once the osseointegration process is complete, you will be able to enjoy all of your favorite foods again. They restore up to 90% of your natural chewing power!
• Long Life: Dentures need to be relined and replaced periodically, but dental implants can last upwards of three decades with proper maintenance.
• Prevents Bone Loss: Dental implants are unique because they replace the roots of the missing teeth, stimulating the jawbone with regular chewing. This prevents the bone from being reabsorbed over time.

Are Dental Implants Worth the Cost?

Many patients worry about the initial cost of getting dental implants, as it is much more costly than dentures or dental bridges. However, it is crucial that you consider the lasting benefits. Dental implants might seem pricy when you look at the upfront cost, but other tooth replacement options don’t offer the same advantages. You could end up spending more on routine repairs and replacements over the years with dentures. Dental implants can make a significant difference in the future of your dental health. They are the only tooth replacement options that prevent atrophy of the jawbone. Ultimately, many patients find that restoring the appearance and health of their teeth is well worth the wait!

The best way to find out if dental implants are right for you is to schedule a consultation with your dentist. This way, they can examine your smile, and you can go over the expected cost in detail. You deserve a complete, fully functional set of teeth!

About the Author

Dr. David M. Weinman earned his dental doctorate from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. Since then, he has completed hundreds of hours of continuing education and a three-year program at NYU in dental implants. He is also a Fellow of the international Congress of Oral Implantology. To learn more about dental implants or to schedule a consultation, visit his website or call (908) 654-7200.