Are dental implants necessary?

Dental implants are considered one of the most innovative improvements in dental care. These are replacements for teeth roots that grant a strong foundation for permanent or removable replacement teeth that look natural and authentic.

The necessity for implants is subjective. The choice affects individuals differently depending on personal condition, preference, and budget.

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According to Dr. Mark Wolff, an associate dean at New York University’s College of Dentistry, dental implants are better alternatives to bridges or dentures. Although all teeth replacement procedures serve the same purpose, proper implants are said to have no physical downsides and have reliable longevity.

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Among the many advantages of dental implants are improved appearance, speech, and comfort. Designed to fuse with the bone, dental implants eliminate the discomfort of removable dentures—allowing the person to speak without worrying that the replacement teeth will slip out of one’s mouth. They also improve oral hygiene as they do not require reducing other teeth, unlike bridges.

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Despite their benefits, implants pose a common problem: the cost, which is rarely covered by health insurance. Practitioners, including oral surgeons, periodontists, or prosthodontists, normally charge patients from $3,000 to $4,500 for a single tooth.

Another consideration is health. Patients with uncontrolled chronic disorders, such as diabetes or heart disease, for example, are advised to be evaluated on an individual basis since the treatment is surgical and involves the bone of jaw or skull of the patient. The best way to asses one’s eligibility is to visit a dentist to see if implants are right for you.  

Dr. John Pasqual a board certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon with expertise including complicated facial surgery, dental extractions, and implants. Visit this Facebook page for more information on his practice.