In just one visit with your dentist, you can completely rejuvenate your smile with dental implants. And, after a short healing period, you will once again be able to enjoy the foods you’ve been missing and smile with confidence. Dental implants seem like a miracle cure for tooth loss, but they’re not for everyone.

For one thing, there’s the cost. A single dental implant (with porcelain crown) can cost $5,000. But, if you are looking to replace a full arch of teeth, the cost can be as much as a luxury car.

To be a candidate for dental implant treatments, you must also have dense and healthy jaw bone material. If not, you may need to undergo a regenerative therapy such as bone grafting.

If you are curious whether dental implants are right for you, call Susquehanna Oral & Facial Surgery & Dental Implant Center to schedule a consultation, or read on to learn more.

Benefits of Dental Implants

The reason dental implants have become so popular is they offer a number of advantages over fixed bridges, partials, and complete dentures.

• Stability. One of the great things about dental implants is they offer more stability and durability than dental bridges and dentures. Unlike bridges, you won’t have to worry about damaging the framework by biting into hard foods, or having to replace the restoration every five to seven years.
• Comfort. In comparison to traditional dentures, dental implants offer greater comfort. After a short adjustment period, you may even forget you’re wearing dental implants. With dentures, there is the slipping, clacking, and sore gums that you have to contend with. And, you will always be aware that there is a foreign object in your mouth. Patients who have previously had fixed bridges or removable dentures describe dental implants as being much more comfortable.
• Longevity. In comparison to dental bridges and dentures, dental implants offer greater longevity. Most dental implant restorations, whether it is a single tooth or bridge, last upwards of 20 years. Dentures, on the other hand, should be replace every seven to 10 years.
• Esthetics. Due to the construction of dentures, they never truly replicate the appearance of natural teeth. Both dental implants and bridges can provide a fabulous esthetic result so long as the dentist and lab communicate effectively and premium materials are used.

Due to their esthetics, comfort, and longevity, dental implants are the superior option when compared to dental bridges and dentures.

Contraindications that Might Prevent You from Getting Dental Implants

There are a number of contraindications that might prevent you from getting dental implants. If you suffer from uncontrolled diabetes, periodontal disease, osteoporosis, cancer, or alcoholism, these may make you ineligible for dental implant surgery.

While dental implants are an excellent tooth replacement option, it’s important to remember that even if you are ineligible for dental implants, you do have other options. We would be happy to discuss these with you during your consultation.

The team at Susquehanna Oral & Facial Surgery & Dental Implant Center will discuss your medical history before recommending any type of procedure, including dental implants.

Will Dental Implants Correct My Condition?

The first question you will likely have when considering dental implants is, “Will dental implants correct my condition?” Some of the most common reasons patients ultimately choose dental implants include:

• Poor-fitting dentures
• Replacing a molar or pre-molar
• Failing dentition (extensive tooth loss)
• Replacing a tooth in “esthetic zone” (front teeth)
• Complications with dental bridge

Do any of these sound like you? If so, call Susquehanna Oral & Facial Surgery & Dental Implant Center to schedule a consultation.

What to Expect with Dental Implant Surgery

Today’s dental implant procedures are straightforward and predictable. The team at Susquehanna Oral & Facial Surgery & Dental Implant Center is here to ensure everything goes as planned. There will be a number of specialists involved in your care. If you are having a tooth extracted prior to implant placement, this may either be performed by your dentist or oral surgeon, all depending on your personal treatment plan.

The oral surgeon will be there to extract the tooth (if necessary) and they will also place the implant and healing cap. If you are having an immediate-loading implant placed, the oral surgeon will place the implant, abutment, and provisional (temporary) crown. In most dental implant cases, the implant is placed with a healing abutment (cap) and allowed to heal for a minimum of three to six months. Once the bone around the implant has healed, the dental laboratory will send the final restoration to your dentist, who will then place it during your follow-up visit.

Let’s Transform Your Smile

If you have one or more missing teeth, or you are scheduled for a tooth extraction, dental implants may be the right option for you. Unlike dentures, dental implants actually help stabilize your oral health. This also means dental implants can help preserve the symmetry and contours of your face.

Read to finally smile with confidence and enjoy your favorite foods? Call Susquehanna Oral & Facial Surgery & Dental Implant Center to schedule a consultation on dental implants.