Whether you’ve recently lost teeth or have had traditional dentures for a while, you’ve probably heard the rumor: upgrading to dental implants is expensive. The truth, however, is that the price may be surprisingly affordable, especially when considering cost effectiveness. If you’ve been thinking about upgrading then there might be no better time than the holidays. The procedure is typically done within two visits, so beginning the process could give you a running start into the new year.
If you’re still on the fence, here are four reasons to talk to your dentist immediately.
Efficiency and Duration
In general, the initial investment for dental implants will be higher than traditional dentures. Over the long term, though, dental implants can prove to be the cheaper solution. That’s because most traditional dentures only last between 5-8 years before needing to be replaced. Dental implants, if properly cared for, can last a lifetime, due in part to their design.
Each implant is comprised of two main components, a titanium base, and a porcelain crown or other restoration. After the base is inserted into the jaw bone, it fuses with the surrounding muscle through a process known as osseointegration. Once this process is complete, the implant functions much like a natural tooth root.
Prevents Bone Loss
Because traditional dentures do not attach to the jaw bone, the jaw can gradually lose bone density when dentures are worn for long periods of time,. This can result in a “sunken” look in the cheeks, and shifting teeth. The titanium base in implants stimulates the jawbone much like natural teeth, prompting bone regeneration.
No Added Maintenance
Convenience is one of the main factors considered when patients upgrade to implants, and it’s easy to see why. While dentures require lengthy cleaning processes and extra supplies, dental implants are cared for the same as natural teeth. Simply brushing and flossing twice daily will keep dental implants from failing. Admittedly, flossing can sometimes be more challenging with some implant designs, but implants still require less maintenance than dentures.
Improved Quality of Life
Simply put, getting accustomed to traditional dentures can be incredibly difficult. Everyday tasks such as chewing or speaking can be accompanied by the anxiety of dentures slipping out of place. Pronouncing certain syllables may require speech therapy, and even sneezing can potentially dislodge your dentures.
For many patients, quality of life is improved when they upgrade. Dental implants work the same as natural teeth, so there is no learning curve, and no need for anxiety. The gleam of porcelain crowns reproduces that of natural enamel, making them almost impossible to spot.
There is a lot of misinformation out there out about what can exclude patients from dental implants, the best way to learn if you’re a candidate is to schedule an appointment.
If you’d like to learn more about the implant process, please call (914) 526-2144 today for an appointment with a Westchester County implant dentist at Advanced Dentistry of Mohegan Lake.
