Dental implants are an effective way to complete your smile. With a great range of advantages, from improved self-confidence and better oral health, they’re often one of the best choices for individuals looking to restore their smiles.
In the U.S. alone, almost 120 million people are living with one or more missing teeth. Trauma, gum disease, and tooth decay are just a few reasons why someone may be missing teeth. And while many live with a gap in their smile, a dental implant can offer the perfect solution.
Read on to discover more about what you need to know about dental implants, including the answers to some of the most common questions:
- What are dental implants?
- Why do people need dental implants?
- Are dental implants safe?
- How long do dental implants last?
- What are the benefits of dental implants?
- What’s the cost of dental implants in Richmond, VA?
Let’s begin by explaining what dental implants are.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant consists of several components: the implant itself, an abutment, and a prosthetic tooth (crown). Here’s how they work together:
- Your dentist will insert a titanium post into your jawbone, where it will fuse with the bone to provide a stable foundation for the crown.
- After the area has had time to heal, the abutment – a connector between the implant and the replacement tooth – will be attached to the post.
- Finally, a natural-looking prosthetic tooth will be placed on top of the abutment and function like a regular tooth.
Why Do People Need Dental Implants?
There are various reasons why someone may choose to get a dental implant. The most common reasons are:
- To replace missing teeth: People with missing teeth can benefit from a dental implant. It can provide them with a solid, natural-looking replacement that requires minimal maintenance.
- To stabilize an existing denture: If someone wears a loose-fitting denture, they may opt for dental implants to anchor it. This can offer greater stability and comfort than standard dentures alone.
- To ensure oral health: Dental implants are a good way to preserve the structure of the jawbone and gums, ensuring healthy teeth and tissue for years to come.
- To improve aesthetics: Implants can give you back a beautiful smile, making you feel more confident in social situations. Plus, many patients report that the comfort and convenience of implants make them feel like their own teeth.
Are Dental Implants Safe?
Absolutely! A key aspect of what you need to know about dental implants is their high success and safety rate. Dental implant treatments are done by trained and experienced dental professionals who consider each patient’s existing dental health, overall health history, and lifestyle.
Patients will receive a thorough evaluation to ensure they’re good candidates before beginning any procedure. Plus, all materials used in dental implants are biocompatible, meaning they won’t harm your body. So, you can be confident that dental implants are safe and effective.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants last for decades. However, individual results may vary. For example, certain medical conditions or lifestyle habits (such as smoking) can affect the longevity of dental implants.
To keep your implants in good condition, you should maintain a thorough oral hygiene routine and visit your dentist regularly for checkups and professional cleanings. Your dentist will be able to monitor the health of your implants and assist you in keeping them in good condition.
What Are The Benefits Of Dental Implants?
Dental implants not only look and feel like natural teeth, but they also provide numerous benefits compared to other tooth replacement options.
Quality Of Life
Many individuals seek dental implants to improve their quality of life. Losing a tooth can cause speech impediments, difficulty eating, and even depression. Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth, providing an improved quality of life for individuals who have lost teeth.
Oral Strength And Stability
A dental implant can help restore your jaw’s overall structure and stability. For instance, if you have a bridge, dentures, or partial dentures, a dental implant can help reduce the strain on the other teeth in your mouth and provide more stability.
Durability
Dental implants are designed to be extremely durable, meaning your new teeth will last for years to come. The most common implant material is titanium, which creates a strong bond with the bone in your jaw. This ensures that the implant won’t shift or loosen over time.
Natural Look And Feel
You can trust that dental implants will look and feel like your natural teeth. Dental implants blend in seamlessly with your other teeth using various materials, including porcelain and ceramic.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost In Virginia?
Naturally, the first question many have when considering treatments relates to cost. The cost of dental implants in Richmond, VA, will vary based on a variety of factors:
- The number of implants needed for your specific case
- The complexity of your implant procedure
- The type of implant material used
- Any additional procedures required to restore your smile
Your dentist can help you determine the full cost of a procedure. However, on average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 for each implant.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Implants Or Bridges?
In some cases, your dental insurance may cover some of the cost of implants or bridges; however, check with your provider before making any decisions. Many dental practices offer payment plans to help make the procedure more accessible.
Does VA Pay for Dental Implants?
Similar to insurance, the VA (Veterans Affairs) has limited coverage for specific dental procedures — all of these are determined case by case. For instance, the VA may cover implants in cases where you’ve lost teeth due to an injury during active military service. The VA doesn’t typically pay for cosmetic procedures like whitening or veneers.
Contact Northside Dental Co About The Cost Of Dental Implants In Richmond, VA
At Northside Dental Co, our team of friendly and compassionate dental professionals is dedicated to providing you with quality care and excellent results. We offer a variety of restorative treatments, including dental implants, bridges, crowns, dentures, and more.
We’ll work closely with you to design a treatment plan that meets your individual needs and goals and walk you through every step of the process. We also offer dental savings plans for those without insurance to make getting the care you need more affordable.
At Northside Dental Co, we believe everyone deserves a beautiful and healthy smile. Schedule a consultation to learn more about the cost of dental implants in Richmond, VA, and whether implants are the right treatment option for you.
