Dental implants provide a durable and natural-looking solution for tooth replacement. They are more costly than traditional alternatives like dentures and bridges, but they also last much longer.

Navigating dental insurance coverage for implants can be difficult. Understanding how cost factors influence your coverage can help you plan your treatment effectively.

Implant Placement

Dental implants are one of the most popular solutions for tooth replacement. They offer the look and feel of natural teeth, allowing you to smile with confidence. And because they’re anchored to the jaw bone, they help prevent bone loss in the area of the missing teeth.

An implant consists of a titanium root form that’s surgically placed in the jaw bone. The bone then heals around it, a process called osseointegration. Once the implant is completely healed, your dentist will place a crown on top of it that blends in with your existing teeth.

Unlike other tooth replacement options, cost of dental implants auburn al don’t slip or click when you speak or eat. And because they are so durable, they can last a lifetime. Plus, patients who have them report a significant increase in their self-esteem and the ability to enjoy more foods than they were previously able to. Most insurance companies also cover the cost of the restorations that are placed on the implants, if they don’t cover the implants themselves.

Implant Restoration

Implants are a permanent replacement for missing teeth that function and look just like natural teeth. They are also a safer option than bridges or dentures. The cost of implants depends on a variety of factors, such as the number of teeth being replaced, the location of the implant in the jaw bone, and any preparation treatment required before the placement procedure.

A sinus lift or bone graft to make the jawbone strong enough to support the implants may increase the cost. So too may sedation and anesthesia for the surgical procedure.

Once the implants are placed, they must heal for a period of months while something called osseointegration takes place. This is when the titanium posts fuse with the jawbone and gum tissue. After a successful healing process, the dental restoration is attached to the implants and the process is complete. Dental implants can last for decades if they are well cared for. This means brushing and flossing daily as well as regular check-ups.

Abutment

A dental implant consists of an implant screw that is anchored into the jaw bone and a ceramic abutment piece on which the new tooth rests. The abutment is the connective link between the implant and the crown. It is important to find a dentist who has experience with this procedure and can give you an accurate estimate of costs.

The type of dental implant and material will impact the cost. For instance, zirconia implants are more expensive than titanium ones. The size and location of the implant will also influence price. Finally, patients may need to schedule follow-up appointments, which can add to the overall cost.

Fortunately, there are many ways to make cost of dental implants auburn al affordable. These include the use of flexible spending accounts and health reimbursement or savings accounts. In addition, some insurance plans cover part or all of the expense. With proper care, replacement teeth can last for a lifetime. However, it is essential to follow your doctor’s recommendations and attend regular visits.

Crown

There are many different dental implant fixture manufacturers, each with their own price points. The best ones are meticulous about meeting ADA and FDA standards and precise manufacturing tolerances. Using substandard fixtures can lead to infection, looseness or implant failure.

Your practitioner will then fit your crown to the abutment, which will make it look and function like a natural tooth. The crown is made from porcelain for strength and a natural appearance. It will be anchored to the abutment with either dental cement or a screw.

Dental implants are more expensive than traditional bridges or dentures, but they are the only tooth replacement option that preserves jaw bone. Both bridges and dentures can require regular adjustments or even complete remakes, whereas implants last a lifetime. Hear from Nydia, a 91-year-old patient who considers her new set of teeth to be an investment in the future of her health.