Category Archive for ‘Dental Implants’

Dental Implants Illustration

The True Cost of Dental Implants

The options available for tooth replacement are many and each has its own costs associated with them, but what is the real cost of dental implants? Unlike traditional dentures, they require no glues or adhesives to stay in place and they often last many years if not decades. They also have the advantage of acting very much like a natural tooth and helping to preserve the shape of your face.  It seems like more and more is being said about dental implants and their advantages. They are popular for very good reasons. They look and function very much like natural, real teeth, but they are designed to be durable and strong. But how much is this going to cost you? 

How much does it cost to get a full mouth of dental implants?

On average a full mouth of dental implants only requires four implants per arch, four on top and four on the bottom. These are anchor points on which the arch is placed. Together they hold in place a denture securely and naturally to the gums.  The final cost of your bill will often take in factors such as location, the number of dental implants that are required, the materials that are used for the implant and what if anything your dentist needs to do before the surgery. This can be things like tooth extraction, or molds of the teeth. You are also paying for the dentist’s expertise. Be sure that you are going to a reputable and skilled oral surgeon as your oral health impacts the entirety of the rest of your health.  Getting a full set of teeth replaced can open the door to greater health. You can enjoy the foods you once enjoyed, speak with ease and clarity, and never worry about your smile again. The cost of more than one implant can range from $3,000 to $30,000, and if you opt for the best of all the available options that could go up as high as $90,000. 

How much does a dental implant cost for one tooth?

Getting a dental implant can cost roughly anywhere between $1500 to $6,000 including the cost of the office visits, any x-rays, any anesthesia, and any other associated costs. As with getting a full mouth of implants, the cost is directly related to the location, materials, and any prior procedures that will be required to be done.  While this may seem like a large investment, remember that you aren’t paying for just a quick and simple fix. You are investing in your future health and livelihood. Being able to eat good, healthful foods is going to impact your ability to live a full and healthy life. If you are missing a tooth, you can not only impact your health by not being able to chew the foods you love and need, but your appearance will change as well. The jawbone will naturally recede if there is no tooth root to encourage the bone to grow. This means your face shape will change over time. A dental implant will save you that shift in appearance by being anchored directly into the jawbone. This allows it to act as a natural tooth and it will bond directly to the bone. This creates a stable and secure base for the implant crown.

How much does insurance pay for dental implants?

Often insurance will cover the cost of dental implants if they are being implanted for a medical need. If it is considered a cosmetic surgery then many insurance companies will not cover the cost of dental implants. It is important to check with your dental insurance to see what they will cover and what costs you can expect to have to cover for the surgery, visits and other aspects of the service. Sometimes only portions or parts of the dental implant procedure will be covered, such as the initial consultation, office visits and more.  Call your insurance as soon as you are considering to get dental implants and you may save yourself a ton of money. Some Medicare Advantage plans may include dental implants, so it is important to know what your coverage will and will not include.

Why do dental implants cost so much?

One of the reasons why dental implants can be so costly is that they are not a single procedure, but require seeing a dentist or oral surgeon multiple times in order to check on your progress and provide consultations. Here is a very basic breakdown of what you can expect to do if you are planning on getting a dental implant:
  • Consultation. During the consultation, your dentist will check your mouth, get x-rays, and give a diagnosis of the condition of your teeth, gums, and jawbone. This is important to determine if you are a good candidate for implants. If you want to proceed with the implant surgery, your dentist will then take a mold of your mouth to be used in the creation of the implant.
  • The setting of the implant. The implant surgery itself generally consists of the dentist or oral surgeon drilling a small hole into the jawbone and inserting the implant. You sometimes will get a temporary tooth after this procedure.
  • The Abutment and Crown placement. After your gum and jaw have healed from the insertion of the implant base, an abutment is placed. This basically provides a surface for the permanent crown to be fixed on to. Sometimes the crown is placed after a period of more healing depending on the needs of the patient.
If you think dental implants are for you, and you live in the Rancho Cucamonga, CA area, give Golden Smiles Dental a call for your consultation at  (909) 481-8990. Our expert team will be more than happy to answer your questions.
dental implants cost

How much are dental implants?

The cost can be a major sticking point to some, but depending on your oral health needs and the goals of your smile, it may be that dental implants cost much less thank you think. When it comes to teeth replacement options, there are none more effective at preserving jaw bone, chewing strength, and even the natural shape of your face like dental implants.  

How much does a full mouth of dental implants cost?

There are many dental-health related reasons to consider getting dental implants. If you have lost one or many teeth there may be a loss of confidence and over time there can even be a loss of jawbone which can lead to a less aesthetically pleasing smile.  Dental implants act very much like natural teeth. By anchoring them in the jaw, they encourage the bone to grow around them, giving them a stable base that is unmatched by other tooth replacement options like dentures Dental implants have been around for many decades, and as the technology improved to both make the implants and install them, the dental implant’s cost has reduced as well.  When it comes down to it, your dental implant’s cost can vary based on what coverage your provider will give and the number of teeth that are being replaced. It can also vary based on where you are getting the implant and what kind of material is used for the crown.  Generally, the cost of a single dental implant can range between $3000 to $4500. This includes the surgery for the placement of the implant, the components, and the implant crown. When replacing a full jaw of teeth, it is more common to do something like a bridge instead of replacing each individual tooth. This may reduce the cost per-tooth of the implants. This may seem like a large investment, but consider how your mouth is the main indicator of your overall health. Being able to chew foods you enjoy dramatically impacts your quality of life. Further, dental implants often last decades where traditional dentures may only last years.  Think of dental implants not as an expense, but as an investment in your health from years to come. The best part is, they are often indistinguishable from natural teeth! It’s the closest thing to getting your natural smile back.

Does any dental insurance cover implants?

You should check with your individual provider to see if they cover dental implants. Your dental team will be able to help you make an informed decision about your insurance and financing options.  If you are feeling stressed or anxious over the cost of implants, your insurance may have your back. Dental implants may be covered by your insurance and even include the costs of exams, x-rays, follow-ups and the materials used in the surgery.  Getting a dental implant means seeing a specialist oral surgeon, and your insurance may even help you out with that. Some may help pay for the implant crown. There are even grants to help pay for your implants that could be worth exploring. Just look for cosmetic dentistry grant programs. Be sure to see what your benefits will cover, as some insurance companies see dental implants as a kind of elective procedure, despite dental implants becoming standard care for the replacement of missing teeth. They have become the favored option because they have a proven and predicable result with a 98% success rate. 

How long do dental implants last?

Dental implants offer a long-lasting and highly effective solution for missing teeth. With proper maintenance, dental implants can last for more than 25 years. That is huge when compared to traditional dentures that last only a few years and can result in greater bone loss in the jaw.  Dental implants are designed to be a permanent tooth replacement solution. They support the dental structure and are attached firmly to the jawbone so there is never any slipping when chewing or biting.  A dental implant looks and feels just like your natural teeth and this improves your confidence and self-esteem. You can smile with pride with your new implant, knowing that it looks natural and aesthetically pleasing.  Do you want to spend the next 25 years fiddling with denture glue, watching your face change shape as your jaw disappears? Or do you want to see your smile restored and confident that you can eat the foods you love and do every day essential things like talk and smile with confidence? If you think dental implants are for you, and you live in the Rancho Cucamonga, CA area, give Golden Smiles Dental a call for your consultation at  (909) 481-8990. Our expert team will be more than happy to answer your questions.
Dental Implant Insurance

Is there such a thing as dental implant insurance?

It can be tiresome trying to find out if dental implant insurance exists. This can often mean spending hours on the phone with a representative from the insurance company or searching online for answers. The world of insurance is often difficult to understand and can be painful to deal with, so here are some tips that you can use.

What does a dental implant cost without insurance?

Dental implants can cost anywhere between $1,600 to $8,200 per tooth without any form of dental insurance. There are a number of variables that can go into determining the cost. Some of those variables include:
  • Preparing the location of the tooth being replaced
  • How many teeth are to be replaced
  • What kind of implant is going to be implanted
  • Where the location of the surgery is
Each of these factors will play a role in determining the end cost of the dental implant. These factors are just some of the factors that may play a role in the end cost of your implant. Try to see if the your dentist will be able to quote you how much your implant will cost before fully committing to the surgery so you can at least begin to work with a real number instead of just an estimate.

What about your existing dental plan?

The next step is to look at what your existing dental insurance coverage is. Check with your employer, or the insurance company to see what they cover. Some insurance plans may cover portions of the surgery and then require you to pay the rest out of pocket. Others may have an option to cover the surgery in its entirety. Unfortunately, dental implants are often classified as a kind of cosmetic dentistry. This means that most dental plans will not cover it. This is why it is very important to see what your existing coverage options are. You may have to spend some time doing the research to find a plan that will cover it if your insurance does not. Be careful as you will still likely have out-of-pocket expenses due to the fact that insurance companies will consider this kind of surgery a cosmetic procedure.  Be sure to look to see if you’ve already hit your annual maximum which is the highest amount of money you have to pay per year. Otherwise, you may be on the hook for the entire cost of the treatment out-of-pocket. You should also look into what sorts of reimbursement options are available on your existing plan. Being fully Versed and how this process works with your insurance company will give you more options. It’s also good idea to call the company to see what they might be able to do to either answer your questions or cover your surgery. Even though your current policy may say it does not cover implants there may be certain exceptions or exclusions. Even the exclusion clause for implant may not mean that there will be no benefits applied.  Be sure to double-check what procedures will be covered by referring to the correct ADA code, as the slightest difference between procedures can be the difference between paying thousands of dollars out-of-pocket or having the insurance cover it. Additionally be sure to contact your dentist who may be able to recommend helpful resources or even a plan that could cover the implants.  Alternatively you can also pursue something like a dental savings plan.  These kinds of plans may sometimes offer a contracted percentage off the preferred treatment without deductibles or maximums. No matter which type of insurance you decide to go for, the internet is going to be your number one resource to help you make a decision.  Be certain to do careful research before committing to any plan if you want to know you are getting the best deal. If you have any questions regarding getting a dental implant or what kinds of insurance are accepted, give Golden Smiles Dental in Rancho Cucamonga, CA a call at (909) 481-8990 to ask us what we recommend.

Why choose dental implants over dentures?

rThe decision to choose dental implants over dentures can be a tough one. There are so many variables to consider when making the decision, it is important to do your due diligence to make a good decision. Both are quite capable for a solution to smile restoration, but more and more people are choosing dental implants over dentures due to a number of factors, including their improved comfort, better chewing ability, and a whole host of benefits.

Why should I choose dentures?

Dentures are the most traditional out of all your options for smile restoration. Dentures have been a staple of dentistry for a long time, and for one good reason: they are relatively inexpensive.  For some price is the most important part in their considerations.

How Dentures Work

Dentures work by using a mold of the teeth that are to be replaced, and then casting it in a durable and mouth-safe material. Next the dentures are affixed to the gum with an adhesive or cream.

Disadvantages of Dentures

  1. Dentures are not a long-term solution to tooth replacement. They wear down over time and will have to be replaced every few years. And if they don’t wear down they have to be adjusted to fit the changing shape of your jaw.
  2. That’s right, without teeth in the jawbone, the jawbone will begin to decay, and that will cause deterioration of the facial structure. Dentures will do nothing to keep your natural face shape.
  3. They often feel fake or unnatural in the mouth, and are prone to slip and move around. They can also cause much difficulty when chewing and speaking.
  4. Dentures will also likely need creams and adhesives that must be used to secure them in place. This will require you to reapply the adhesive every time that you wear dentures, a daily occurrence for most. You also will be restricted with what foods you can eat, due to the weaker chewing ability that the dentures impose.
  5. The dentures will have to be removed nightly in order to be cleaned. This can translate to misplaced dentures, and that means another replacement will need to be bought and developed.
When considering the cost of getting a set of dentures, be sure to factor the cost of the replacements in addition to the cost of initially getting the dentures. While this may not seem like a big expense now, the cost will eventually add up as every few years you are forced to replace them.

Why are dental implants so much better?

Dental implants offer a much simpler solution. They are also permanent, and can last a lifetime. They may seem like a greater investment up front, but they have long term benefits that are well worth the investment.

Benefits of Dental Implants

  1. The most dramatic benefit is the fact that they actually preserve the remaining jawbone which keeps you looking exactly like yourself. You don’t have to worry about bone loss at all, and can instead enjoy your natural smile.
  2. Dental implants also feel and function just like your natural teeth. You will hardly notice them, and they will be matched to your natural tooth color. Where in the past they may have looked translucent or noticeably different from your natural teeth, they are now made from much more detailed looking crown.
  3. There is also no need to mess with sticky creams, adhesives and the like. You can just take care of them just like your natural teeth – brushing two times a day and flossing at least once a day. Your life will likely be not very much different after getting the implant, after all it is fused directly into the jawbone.
  4. Dental implants are strong and stable, as they are anchored directly into the jawbone and they fit very comfortably in the mouth, just like your natural teeth. This means that you never have to worry about them slipping when eating, drinking and talking. You can even continue to eat the same foods you’ve always enjoyed, unlike a set of dentures.

Disadvantages of Dental Implants

  1. They can be very expensive, but that money is a life-long investment in not just your oral health, but your overall health. Your oral health impacts the rest of your life by allowing you to eat well and consume nutrients.
  2. They may also have to be replaced if you suffer from bone loss also know as Osteoporosis
If you are interested in exploring what a dental implant would look for you, give Golden Smiles Dental in Rancho Cucamonga, CA a call at (909) 481-8990 to arrange an appointment with one of our dentists today.
Dental Implants Cost

How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?

Not all dental implants cost the same so it is important to do your research carefully when considering getting a dental implant. Dental implants are among the most popular tooth replacement options in America, for two major reasons: they look and function just like your natural teeth, and they are also designed to last a long time, and with good care and consistent check ups, possibly even a lifetime. If you have a tooth that is beyond repair or you lost a tooth in an accident or for any other reason, your dentist might recommend getting an implant to restore your beautiful smile. But the question remains: how much will the dental implant cost? The dental implant surgery is a very intense procedure that often takes months of recovery and the use of a skilled expert to perform the surgery correctly. To help with your research, here’s some facts about the dental implants that can give you an idea of what you can expect if you decide that dental implants are right for you.

Factors that Play into Cost

It is important to realize that your individual case is possibly to be far from the average. There are a number of factors influencing cost, from the extent of the work needed, to other factors, such as how much your insurance covers, to the cost of living of your area. The below factors will deal with the usual cost of a dental implant. Where you are located can have an influence on the cost of the implant. This may surprise you, but in regions in which the rent is higher, the dentist may require to charge higher rates to cover their overhead. If your dentist purchases dental implants from a supplier that charges higher prices, the cost of that may pass on to you too. Another factor is how many dental implants you will need. The more, the higher the price. In such cases, your dentist may suggest a bridge which can be an economical and better solution for those who need to replace multiple of their teeth. Your dentist can also opt to use an implant that uses high quality materials like a zirconium crown or a titanium implant. These materials, and the materials used in the other parts of the implant, will have an influence on the price. Be sure to talk to your dentist about the pros and cons of the various materials that can be used in your implant so that you are able to find the best option for quality and for price. Any preparation your dentist may need to do will influence the final cost of the procedure. For example, if you need a tooth extracted or a bone graft, this will have an influence on the cost.  Additionally, the dentist’s level of expertise might influence how much they charges. Your choice in dentist may play a role in the size of your bill.

What then can you expect to pay?

There are many factors that will influence the cost of the dental implant, but the average cost generally ranges between $1000 to $3000 for just one implant. But there is more, as you still need to add the cost of the abutment and the crown, which can cost between $500 to $3000. That means that your implant can range between $1,500 to $6,000. That is a big range to have to consider. If you need more than one dental implant the cost can range between $3000 to $30,000. And if you want to avoid a full set of dentures, then you are looking to be paying the top end of htt range, or even up to $90,000. So in one example, if you need just one implant you could spend $2000 for the implant to be placed, plus possibly $400 for the abutment, and another $2,000 for the crown, bringing the total cost up to $4,400. The need for x-rays, extractions, bone grafts, and other extras, can increase that total significantly.

Why such a high cost?

Why is it that dental implants cost so much? You must remember that this is a surgical procedure, so it is best to see a dentist who has received the proper training. A dentist with this speciality, known as implantology, a prosthodontist, or an oral surgeon are a few of the specialists that you would want to see to be sure that the implant is installed properly. You also should expect to see the expert for a number of times. Here is a basic outline of what the steps of getting an implant is:
  • Initial Consultation: The dentist will check your mouth, get some x-rays, and give you a diagnoses of the condition of your jaw to determine if you are a good candidate to receive an implant.
  • Insertion of the Implant: During the appointment, the dentist will drill into your jawbone and insert the implant. You may get a temporary tooth during the procedure.
  • Placement of the Abutment: After your gum has healed from the implant placement, it’s time for your dentist to screw the abutment in your implant. The abutment connects the implant to the crown.
  • Placement of the Crown: Lastly, the dentist will be able to remove the temporary crown and then replace it with a permanent crown.
The right dental insurance will often help with the cost of these procedures. Be sure to check with your insurance to see what they cover and what options are open to you. If you are interested in learning more about the process and cost of getting a dental implant, give Golden Smiles Dental in Rancho Cucamonga, CA a call at (909) 481-8990 to schedule a free dental implant consultation today.
dental implants cost

How Dental Implants Work

Dental Implants are among the most popular options for full tooth replacement. They have many advantages over traditional dentures. This article will explain some of the features and benefits of having a dental implant. First, let’s examine what exactly a dental implant is.

What is a Dental Implant?

Dental implants are, to put it simply, an artificial tooth, similar in shape to a small screw. The implants are placed in the jawbone where they bond with the bone. This leads to a sturdy and stable base that supports one or more artificial teeth, called crowns. This also meant that unlike traditional dentures, dental implants help preserve the bone and so preserve your natural face shape. An abutment is placed on top of the implant. This is a connector between the implant and the crown. This is here to hold and support the crown. The crowns are then custom made to match your natural teeth and fit your mouth. Modern implants have a long 30 year history of success, and they are the strongest device to support replacement teeth. What makes them even more spectacular is that they allow these new teeth to feel, look and function naturally. The dental implant surgery is one of the most safe and predictable procedures in dentistry when performed by a trained and experienced dental implant dentist.

The Process of Getting a Dental Implant

Getting a dental implant begins by a consultation with your dentist. They assess if you have enough bone in your jaw to support the implant. Sometimes a bone graft is needed in order to allow for a strong base of support for the implant. This process may take a number of months of healing and recovery, but once complete, the dentist will generally perform the surgery in one or two sittings, beginning with placing the implant. Then, after some time as passed to allow for some healing, the crown is fitted. The healing process can be lengthy and while it may require some months of discomfort, you are effectively getting your tooth back. Isn’t getting your natural smile restored worth some discomfort?

Top Five Facts about Dental Implants:

  1. Dental implants have been used for over a thousand years, with the earliest archaeological record being a tooth-like piece of shell that had been hammered into the jaw of a Mayan woman. Luckily, dental implants have come a long way since then.
  2. Dental implants are the only type of dental restoration that actually preserves the natural bone of your jaw! And, it even stimulates bone growth
  3. In 1951, the AAID – American Academy of Implant Dentistry was founded by a group of dentists who were very successful at placing dental implants. Their mission was to share their knowledge and practice of implantology. The AAID is the first professional organization dedicated to advancing implant dentistry
  4. Not long after the founding of the AAID, in 1952, a Swedish orthopedic surgeon, named P.I. Branemark found that titanium actually fuses with bone, leading to its adoption as the go-to metal for metals from knee and hip replacements to dental implants
  5. An amazing 3 million people in the United States have implants and that number grows each year by about 500,000.
  If you are interested in getting your own dental implant and live in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, give Golden Smiles Dental a call at (909) 481-8990. You can arrange a free dental implant consultation with one of our dentists to see if a dental implant is the right choice for you.
dental implants

Top 10 Reasons Why Dental Implants Are a Smart Investment

Dental Implants are the latest innovation in the replacement of missing teeth.  You are probably familiar with traditional full dentures, which is the most common restoration used for patients missing all or most of their natural teeth. The image of dentures soaking in a cup of water each night is a common one, but it doesn’t have to be like that. Here are ten reasons that prove that tooth replacement doesn’t have to be uncomfortable or inconvenient. If you are interested in seeing if Dental Implants are the best option for you, give us at Golden Smiles Dental in Rancho Cucamonga, CA a call (909) 481-8990 to book your appointment today.
  1. Boost your look Dental implants can dramatically improve your appearance by offering a more natural and attractive looking option than removable dentures. What is amazing is that they look and feel just like your natural teeth! Even better, the implants will fuse to the jawbone, so that they are just as permanent as your natural teeth. Worries about slippage, or irritating the gums are gone!
  2. Improve your confidence Traditional removable dentures can become loose and rock causing embarrassment and difficulty speaking and eating. With dental implants you can enjoy food, chat as much as you’d like, and do all your normal regular activities with confidence and without any sort of fear of embarrassment.
  3. Experience greater comfort and convenience Removable dentures can cause sore spots by rubbing on the gum beneath them. This is not the case for dental implants. Dental implant supported prostheses do not rub because they are fixed into the jaw, and there is no risk of slippage. Removable dentures must be removed at night and cleaned, and they may need messy adhesives, unlike dental implants which can be brushed like natural teeth, and need no application of adhesives
  4. Dental implants are durable Dental implants have a high rate of success and are much more durable than dentures. They can last years, or even decades with the right care. If kept clean and well-maintained, they can last a lifetime – just like natural teeth.
  5. You can improve your ability to eat the foods you used to love Removable dentures slide around, clicking when speaking and slipping when speaking. This can cause once pleasurable activities overly complicated and cause extreme unhappiness. The ability to chew foods improves dramatically when someone has dental implants. Removable dentures are only 20-25% as efficient as natural teeth, whereas dental implants are 80% as efficient as your natural teeth.
  6. Improve the taste of your foods When you are fitted with a full upper removable denture it covers the roof of the mouth, which makes food more difficult to taste and to enjoy. However, a implant supported prosthesis allow you to enjoy the full flavor and texture of your food without compromise.
  7. Improve your health and nutrition Food forms the foundation of health, and having an impaired ability to chew and enjoy food, can damage your health. Because you are unable to eat as many foods your health can be severely impacted. Traditional removable dentures can prevent you from eating certain foods, which are required to have a healthy and varied nutrient-filled diet. Chewy, crunchy foods, like vegetables and fruits can become very difficult to eat with a removable dentures. Dental implants make eating them about as easy as with natural teeth.
  8. You can regain your natural speaking ability Removable dental prosthesis can impede your ability to speak clearly and effectively, negatively impacting all aspects of your life. This can dramatically impact your quality of life in almost every area. A dental implant can help you speak clearly without difficulty and any slippage or popping.
  9. Lower the chance of losing your dental prostheses Because a dental implant cannot be removed you never even have to worry about losing it. Traditional dentures can become misplaced or lost very easily. You never have to worry about going without the ability to chew or speak clearly and effectively.
  10. Strengthen the Jaw Bone Your jaw bone will grow around the implants, preserving your natural jaw shape. When a tooth is absent from the jaw the jaw bone will degrade, dramatically altering your natural face. You can keep your natural smile, your natural face – something that removable dentures cannot do for you.
Tooth Implant

Five Reasons to Get Dental Implants

There are several treatment options for a missing or damaged tooth or teeth, like veneers and crowns. However, dental implants provide a number of benefits that make for a better long-term investment overall.  Here are some great reasons why you should consider dental implants if you need to replace a damaged or missing tooth.
  1. Get permanent results Other alternatives, such as dentures or crowns, will deteriorate and even break. Because dental implants are anchored directly to the jawbone, proving greater stability and they can last an entire lifetime as long as you provide them with proper care.
  2. Prevent getting deeper oral health problems Missing teeth can create opportunities for your teeth to shift and these new spaces become a breeding ground for bacteria and cause tooth decay and gum disease. Dental implants eliminate such gaps and hold the surrounding teeth in place. This means you can keep your jaw from shifting and potentially changing your jaw shape.
  3. More effective oral function Implants hold in place very firmly and this is because they actually fuse to your bone over time, just like as if they are real teeth. The stability provides better functionality than other alternative because you won’t have to worry about changes in speech or an appliance falling out.
  4. Get back your natural smile An implant can give you back your natural smile without sacrificing the aesthetic quality of your smile. They can also match the color of the implant to the specific color of your teeth, giving you a more natural smile. This allows them to blends seamlessly with your existing teeth.
  5. A more convenient option Dental implants provide a more permanent solution so you can care for them like your natural teeth. Healthy oral healthy hygiene habits like regular brushing and flossing after meals to remove lingering food particles can let your implants last a lifetime and lessen your daily worries.
If you live in Rancho Cucamonga, CA give Golden Smiles Dental a call and any one can help you with any questions about dental implants. Call us at (909) 481-8990 to schedule an appointment today.
teeth whitening

What you need to know about Dental Implants

Many patients face the decision of whether or not to get a dental implant with a certain amount of fear or confusion.  What exactly does that procedure entail?  What might you expect?  This article will discuss some of the basics about dental implants.  If you are left with more questions after the article, give Golden Smiles Dental in Rancho Cucamonga, CA a call to speak with a dentist who can answer your questions. Call us at (909) 481-8990 to set up an appointment today. The truth about dental implants is that they provide you with much more than a great smile. They can play an integral role in maintaining your oral health. When a tooth is missing, due to decay or loss, dental implants preserve facial structure and prevent the jaw bone from deteriorating. After the loss of a tooth, adjacent teeth can shift and create a gap that becomes a potential breeding ground for bacteria, leading to more infection. Another option to consider is the cost. While the procedure is usually more expensive than a bridge or a crown, however the results are permanent and do not require much maintenance. The implants are anchored directly into the jaw bone, creating a strong foundation for the artificial teeth.  This means that the implant will not require additional maintenance or replacement. Other factors to consider is that the fear surrounding getting an implant is the biggest obstacle for many. Really, the procedure is a simple one, with the dentist using an anesthetic during the procedure and most patients feel little to no discomfort. Most patients can use over-the counter medications to manage pain following the procedure. This means that dental implants are not as painful as you might expect. A winning smile may be worth the pain. If a dental implant sounds like a good fit to you, call Golden Smiles Dental in Rancho Cucamonga, CA at (909) 481-8990 a call to speak with a dentist who can answer your questions.

Why choose a dental implant over a bridge?

The decision of what to do when looking to replace a tooth often comes down to wondering what the difference is between a bridge and an implant. Your dentist will be your best resource in determining a good option for you, but replacing the tooth is the best option for your long term oral health. Implants have a reputation of being costly, but they offer a decades-long solution to a missing tooth and are as close as you can get to getting your natural tooth back. Bridges are sometimes cheaper, but they often are a lower quality option.

As if it was never gone!

A dental implant replaces the missing tooth in both form and function. A small metal post is set into the jaw bone, and a crown, generally made of porcelain, is fitted on top of the post. The jaw bone will actually grow around the post, anchoring it securely in your jaw as a natural tooth. The porcelain crown is colored to match your natural tooth color and retains the same durability and strength as a natural tooth. Unlike bridges, there is no slippage or squeaks, and there is no risk of jaw decay, as the jaw bone grows around the implant. In order to be fit for a bridge, you actually have to lose a portion of the healthy teeth surrounding the gap. Then the bridge is fitted over the gap, which is simply covered up by the bridge. Bridges work for people whose jaw is not strong enough or thick enough to carry an implant, but a dental implant gives the best and most reliable option. The implant procedure is generally done over a few sessions, starting with a consultation. The jaw is prepared to accept the implant and may require a bone graft if the jaw is not strong enough or not thick enough. Then, the metal post is placed in the jaw. After the sometimes months-long healing process, the crown is placed and the implant is done!

An investment in your health

The process to get an implant can sometimes take months of healing, however, you get decades or a lifetime of use from the implant. Bridges often must be replaced as the teeth around the gap shift, causing gaps to form. With the implant, however, you retain your natural smile and never have to worry about it again. You aren’t just investing in your smile but in your ability to speak clearly and eat without undue trouble. The health of your mouth is demonstrative of the health of your body. The better you can keep your oral health, the healthier you are overall and the less susceptible you are to getting a number of mouth and gum diseases.

You keep your smile

A dental bridge can be a good option for some, but you do not fill the gap left and your remaining teeth will shift position over time. This can dramatically change your smile and even the appearance of your face. A dental implant prevents that from ever happening. The titanium post will root into the jaw, just like the roots of your natural teeth. This preserves your jaw bone and prevents any jaw loss or decay. Implants offer a great option for both replacing a missing tooth and keeping your natural smile. They allow you to keep your natural bite, and you can feel secure that you are able to live your life just like before when you had your natural tooth.