Before making an important decision or investment, you should know as much about it as possible. You wouldn’t buy a house without learning more details about its origins, updates and repairs, etc. Similarly, before you move forward with dental implants to replace missing teeth, you should make sure you understand them and what they entail. Here are a few lesser-known facts you be aware of prior to starting treatment.
Fact #1: Dental Implants Have a Remarkably High Success Rate.
When compared to a lot of other procedures you can receive, dental implants have impressive consistency. In fact, more than a decade after placement, at least 95 percent of implant patients are still going strong! With maintenance, they continue to be successful for up to the rest of a patient’s lifetime. Plus, dental implants add strength to your bite you won’t find with any other replacement option. Up to 70 percent of your original biting force comes back, allowing you to enjoy a varied, delicious diet.
Fact #2: Completing the Dental Implant Process Typically Takes Between Six Months and a Year.
Although traditional dentures and bridges typically take just a few weeks up to a few months from start to finish, you must remember that dental implants involve more complicated steps. Before the visible portion of your missing teeth are addressed, your dentist replaces the hidden root portion by surgically placing a root-like post within the jawbone. This tissue takes three to six months to grow, surround, and stabilize the implant post. This process, called osseointegration, is the secret to dental implant success. With a little patience, you can have the closest thing to your natural teeth back.
Fact #3: Dental Implants Can End Up Costing Less Than Continuing with Traditional Dentures in the Long Term.
If you look only at the initial price, traditional replacements may seem much more affordable. However, a few years down the line, you’ll have to pay to reline your dentures and eventually have to go through the whole process again to replace them. Over time, these subsequent replacements add up; meanwhile, your dental implants typically don’t cost much to maintain after they are successful at the beginning. In the end, your total cost of dental implants may have a lower total than all your traditional prosthetics.
With a stronger understanding of dental implants, you can feel more confident and certain about your treatment. If you have other questions or confusion, don’t hesitate to talk to your implant dentist about your concerns. They will be happy to inform you about the exciting ways dental implants can improve your quality of life and what steps you’ll go through to get there.
About the Author
Since graduating from dental school over a decade ago, Dr. Vincent Lam has continued to expand his knowledge and skillset in dentistry. In fact, he has studied with the John Kois Center to earn certification. In addition to dental implant placement, he has extensive training in CEREC crowns, sedation, and more. At Seahurst Smiles of Burien, Dr. Lam enjoys seeing the life-changing impact a strong smile has on patients every day! To schedule a dental implant consultation with him, contact his Burien practice online or call the office at 206-242-4477.