Beyond the Sticker Shock: How Dental Implants Can Save You Money over Time

Dental implants have allowed millions of patients to replace their lost teeth with beautifully lifelike and incredibly functional restorations like crowns, dentures, and bridges. However, many people may be hesitant to commit to these remarkable prosthetic devices since they have a reputation for being costly. Here’s a brief guide to a few of the many benefits of dental implants and how they can potentially save you thousands of dollars over the years.

The Trouble with Traditional Restorations

For centuries, people have relied on traditional dental bridges and dentures to replace their lost teeth, but these conventional appliances can leave a lot to be desired. Since traditional restorations do not address the issue of bone erosion in the jaw that happens after a tooth is lost, the mouth will continue to change shape over time. Eventually, the appliance will no longer fit properly, meaning that it will need to be adjusted or replaced. The cost of addressing this issue can amount to thousands of dollars over a few decades.

How Can Dental Implants Save Me Money?

Many people are drawn to dental implants because they look, work, and feel just like real teeth, but one of the most significant advantages these restorations offer is that they are permanent. After a dental implant is placed, it will fuse with the jawbone through the natural process of osseointegration, giving it the sturdy hold it needs to last for decades and exert maximum chewing force. To make things even better, dental implants also restore the exercise the jaw needs to stay healthy, which can prevent or even reverse bone loss.

How Are Dental Implants Placed?

After you are approved for the procedure, your dentist will begin by administering a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort, and you may also receive sedation treatments if necessary. They will then surgically place the titanium post of the implant into the jawbone, and you’ll receive a detailed set of aftercare instructions to ensure that your healing process proceeds smoothly.

With excellent care, dental implants can last for life, meaning that you won’t have to worry about expensive replacement appliances. Consulting with your dentist can help you find the best way to replace your lost teeth.

About the Author

Dr. John T. Thompson earned his dental degree from Baylor College of Dentistry and regularly participates in continuing education coursework to stay abreast of the latest developments in his field. He is proud to be a member of the Academy of General Dentistry and the Texas Dental Association. His office in Corpus Christi offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as dental implant services. To schedule your dental implant consultation, contact his office online or dial (361) 242-3151.