What are Dental Implants?
If you have recently lost a tooth or had a tooth extracted, you may be interested in a tooth replacement treatment. Fortunately, today there are a number of tooth replacement treatment options available to you. But, this growing list of treatment options may be overwhelming. Indianapolis Dental implants are one of the most popular tooth replacement treatments available. Here is more information on dental implants and the implant procedure to help you decide if dental implants are the right tooth replacement treatment for you.
What are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is designed to replace a missing tooth and the root of the tooth. The implant is a metal or ceramic post that is surgically inserted into the jawbone. After the implant is installed and the gums and bone have healed, your dentist will attach an artificial tooth, called a crown, on top of it, creating a brand-new tooth for you. The dental implant restores the appearance of the smile and the function of the tooth.
What Makes Dental Implants So Popular?
There are many affordable, reliable, and easy treatment alternatives to dental implants. But unlike many of these alternatives, once the implant treatment is complete, the implant has permanently replaced your tooth and you don’t have to worry about it again. Many of the alternatives, such as dentures and bridges, involve more maintenance, repeat fittings and repairs, and overtime can become loose and cause discomfort. Although it may be intimidating, the implant surgery is fairly simple and quick. During the procedure, a small hole is drilled in the jawbone and the implant is securely installed in the hole. In a few weeks, the implant will fuse to the jawbone, securing the implant in place. Once the crown is attached on top the treatment is complete. Due to this secure placement, dental implants are more stable and durable than all of the alternative treatment options. The durability, stability, and enhanced appearance are huge benefits of implant treatment that make it one of the most popular replacement treatments today.
Things to Consider When Considering a Dental Implant
There are some additional factors you may want to consider before committing to dental implant treatment:
- Oral Health: Your provider will need to confirm the gums and jawbone are healthy before committing to an implant treatment. It is critical to the long-term success of the implant that the bone and gums are healthy.
- Costs: It is important to discuss with your provider the estimated costs of a dental implant treatment. The implant treatment can be a big investment. Implants are a larger investment upfront than some of the alternatives. However, once the implant treatment is complete your new tooth is permanent and requires no more maintenance than daily brushing and flossing.
- Insurance coverage: For many insurance companies, dental implants are considered elective procedures and therefore the treatment costs may not be covered. If your insurance will not cover the implant treatment you will want to have a plan for covering the estimated costs prior to starting the treatment.