Are Dental Implants The Right Choice? 3 Things To Consider

Missing teeth are far more common than most people realize. An incredible 69 percent of Americans between the ages of 35 and 44 have at least one missing tooth while a quarter of people over the age of 74 have no natural teeth at all. When it comes to replacing lost teeth, there are a variety of options to choose from, including dentures, bridges, and dental implants. Some types of tooth replacements may work better than others. For those who are considering dental implants, here are three things that should be considered.

Age

Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically inserted into the jaw in order to act as a replacement tooth root. A crown is then affixed to the top of the implant. Dental implants are long-lasting and are virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth. When it comes to dental implants, age is something that should be considered. The good news is that as long as the patient is healthy enough for the surgery, dental implants can be placed at almost any age. However, there may be some limitations for younger patients. For patients under the age of 18, the jaw bone may still be developing. If this is the case, then it may be necessary to wait a few years.

Time Frame

Another thing to consider is that the time frame for placing dental implants can vary. For traditional dental implants, the artificial tooth is put in place first and then the surrounding tissue is allowed to heal for at least a couple of months. After the gum tissue heals, the crown is then put into place. In total, this process can take anywhere from five to six months. If bone grafting is needed before the implant is placed, it can take up to a year for the entire process. 

Budget

One of the main benefits of dental implants is that they look and feel just like natural teeth. They can also be brushed and flossed like natural teeth as well. However, it's important to note that all of this does come at a premium cost. A single dental implant can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000. A mouth full of dental implants can easily cost tens of thousands of dollars. A budget should be considered carefully when deciding whether or not dental implants are the right choice. 

Dental implants are a great option for replacing missing teeth. They look and feel like natural teeth and are easy to care for. However, there are a few things to consider before getting these implants. Implants can be placed in people of almost any age. However, younger patients may have to wait until their jaw finishes developing. The process of getting dental implants can also take upwards of a half a year. Those looking for a faster solution may want to consider dentures. The high cost of dental implants is also something that should be taken into consideration before making a decision.

For more information, contact a business such as Pinon Hills Dental.