Thinking of getting a dental implant to cover up missing tooth? A dental implant is a highly recommended dental procedure that will help maintain a healthy set of teeth. It will instill more confidence in your smile and will help to chew food properly.
The procedure does, however, require a lot of time, money, and patience to get the procedure done because the method depends heavily on the size and shape of the tooth. Yet, it is considered to be the best option for some because of its high success rate of 95% according to the Institute for Dental Implant Awareness.
Here are five things you need to consider before getting a dental implant:
Check If a Dental Implant Procedure is Covered by Insurance
Dental implant procedures are not always covered by health insurance companies. Know first the limits to your health insurance, and whether or not any, all, or just part would be covered. When it comes to dental implants you may need to save up for the rest of the expenses. Although it is a routine surgery, it’s always better to understand the complexities of health insurance, so you’re not taken by surprise after the fact.
Consult a Dental Surgeon
Your dentist can recommend a dental surgeon who will take an x-ray of your teeth to determine the size of the implant needed. He or she may even opt for a CT Scan in order to set the correct placement of the implant. This way it is certain to not affect any nerves connected to the tooth. The surgeon may also be able to further study how it affects the rest of your mouth. Once the results are released, your dental surgeon will advise you on how long the procedure will last and where the implant will be placed.
Be Aware of The Risk of Infection
Any type of surgical procedure always has a risk of infection. Which is why it is ideal to really know your dental surgeon first or do some type of background check about their history in surgeries. Infections can cause severe damage to your nerves or bones near the teeth, and cause a great deal of pain.
Quit Habits That Negatively Affect Your Oral Health
Before surgery, the dental surgeon may ask you to cut down on spitting, smoking, chewing tobacco, and using straws. Once the procedure is over, it will take days for the wounds to heal and in order for the implants to be effective, you may need to permanently quit smoking or using chewing tobacco, or reduce the amount of alcoholic beverages you consume.
Bridges and Dentures Can Wear Off Compared To A Dental Implant
Dental implants were made to last a lifetime which is why they cost more than the amount you’d pay for getting bridges or dentures. Bridges and dentures only last for 10 years, or less, depending on the use. They can make eating some foods more difficult as well and deteriorate over time because of the weakened bone structure in the area with the missing tooth.
The decision is yours to make, consult your Fleming Island Dentist or dental surgeon for more information on how dental implants work.
