Understanding Dental Implants: Cost, Benefits, and More

The idea of implants in your mouth might make you nervous, but dental implants are not as scary as you think! On the contrary, filling gaps in your teeth with a more permanent solution than a bridge or partial denture offers you long-term relief from discomfort, aesthetic issues, chewing problems, poor hygiene, and low self-esteem.

Dr. Sarah Wilmer, DDS has a long history of success with dental implants. For patients who have been considering dental implants but are nervous about the process, we have created this guide to show you how safe and beneficial the procedure can be for you.

Oral Health Benefits of Dental Implants

Losing a tooth does more than leave an unsightly gap in your mouth. It also provides room for the remaining teeth to shift and move. This movement can cause these teeth to become crooked, press against other healthy teeth, and negatively impact your jawbone.

Movement in your mouth due to a missing tooth could also affect your chewing, speech, and strength of your remaining teeth. Receiving a dental implant reduces the risk of future loss of teeth and improves speech, chewing, and oral aesthetics.

Dental Implants Can Boost the Appearance of Your Teeth and Self-Esteem 

While Dr. Wilmer and team believe beauty is found within, we also know that the way we look on the outside can impact the way we feel about ourselves on the inside. Our mouths are the one area that is constantly on display to the world. At home, in business, and in social situations, we speak, laugh, chew, and our teeth are on display. (Yes, even during the pandemic! There are more close-up Zoom meetings that ever!)

Missing a tooth not only creates a less-than-even smile, but it can be detrimental to the way your mouth sits. When there is no tooth to support your lips, you may notice the area in front of your tooth loss beginning to dip (bone loss). A dental implant fills this space, preserves your natural bone, and improves the look of your smile inside and out.

Fixing your smile physically can boost confidence and keep you smiling in all future meetings, social gatherings, and dinner dates. It can even make you look younger!

Improved Comfort with Dental Implants 

Comfort is essential for a happy life, and a missing tooth can be extremely uncomfortable. At first, the crevasse left in your gums could expose the root of an adjacent tooth. When you chew food, particles fall into the gap and rub against the root causing pain and discomfort. You may notice that certain foods with grains and seeds become unbearable to eat, or that foods that are extremely hot or cold become too intense to chew.

A dental implant fills this hole, leaving no space for food particles to rub against the exposed root. It also helps protect your gums from bacteria building up inside of the crevasse, which could lead to an infection if not properly cared for.

Dental Implants Promote Better Oral Hygiene 

Cleaning your teeth becomes difficult and bothersome when there are difficult to reach areas, such as a gap. The food that gets trapped can cause the gums to decay or inflame, causing further pain.

Basic toothbrushes are not designed to get deep inside crevasses left by missing teeth. The best fix for a missing tooth is to fill the hole. Closing this gap makes dental hygiene much more convenient. You will find yourself able to clean your teeth faster and more efficiently without missing anything that could cause problems later.

The Long-Term Investment of Dental Implants

Dental implants are a long-term investment. Unlike some other quick dental fixes, your implant will last you years and years and will never decay. They are easy to care for, requiring regular brushing just like the rest of your teeth. They also hold their color, providing you with an opportunity to brighten your smile and enjoy a full mouth of beautiful sparkling teeth.

How Much Dental Implants Cost

The cost of dental implants can vary based on several factors, including the number of implants needed, the complexity of the procedure, the location of the dental practice, and any additional treatments required, such as bone grafting or sinus lifts. On average, a single dental implant can range from $1,000 to $3,000, not including the cost of abutments, crowns, or other prosthetic components. However, it’s essential to consult with a dental professional for an accurate estimate tailored to your specific needs and circumstances. Keep in mind that while the upfront cost of dental implants may seem higher than other tooth replacement options, their long-term durability and benefits often make them a worthwhile investment in oral health and quality of life.

Contact a Dentist in Richmond, VA Today

If you have a missing tooth and find yourself looking at the space in the mirror, wishing you had a full set of teeth to chew, chat, and smile with without concern, we invite you to contact Dr. Wilmer and her team of oral specialists. At the Cosmetic and Laser Dental Spa of Richmond, we want you to feel better, look better and take charge of your health with our cosmetic and functional dentistry services. 

Contact us with any questions you may have or book an appointment and let us help you create not only a beautiful smile but also a healthy one!