If you are missing teeth, you certainly aren’t on your own. Approximately 178 million Americans are missing at least one tooth while about 40 million are missing all of their teeth! Even though tooth loss can be incredibly frustrating to deal with, the good news is that you have the option to replace them with dental implants. However, they can be quite the investment. Are dental implants worth the cost in Longmeadow & Northampton? Read on to find out what the benefits are and whether or not they are worth your money.
Benefits of Dental Implants
To determine whether or not implants are worth it to you, it is important that you understand all of the benefits. Here are a few things that this restoration can offer patients who are missing one or more of their teeth:
- A permanent solution: Dental implants last many years after they have been placed. A lot of the time, patients never even have to worry about missing teeth again. When you care for them properly, they can last for upwards of 25 years and even for a lifetime. On the other hand, dentures will need to be fitted and readjusted from time to time. Bridges last about 5 to 15 years before needing to be replaced.
- Increased comfort: Many patients find that dentures can cause discomfort. Implants are so comfortable that patients often forget they’re not their natural teeth.
- Prevention of bone loss: Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that preserve the integrity of the jawbone. They help to maintain your bone density and prevent your remaining teeth from moving around in the mouth. The implant replaces the natural root of the tooth, therefore stimulating the jawbone when you chew.
- Zero eating restrictions: With dental implants, you don’t have any eating restrictions once they have completely healed. Implants restore up to 90% of your chewing power. But if you have dentures you may find that you have to give up some of your favorite food because it is too difficult to eat.
- Easy maintenance: Caring for implants is just like maintaining your natural teeth. You must be brushing twice and flossing at least once each day. Regular dental visits will help to keep your smile in check as well.
Are Dental Implants Worth the Investment?
If you’re considering the cost of dental implants, it is necessary to think of them as an investment. When you get implants, you can end up saving a lot more later on because other restorations do not last nearly as long and don’t offer the same great benefits. If you opt for dentures or dental bridges instead, you will need to replace them after a short period of time. Ultimately, plenty of patients find that the cost of dental implants in East Longmeadow & Northampton is well worth it so they can have their smile back.
If you aren’t sure about the investment, talk to your dentist. They will be able to tell you whether or not you are a good candidate for the procedure and if it is the best option to restore your unique smile.
About the Author
Dr. Vincent J. Mariano is a board-certifies prosthodontist who has been serving patients at his practice, EMA Dental, since 1984. He is a member of numerous professional organizations including the American Academy of Osseointegration and the American Academy of Fixed Prosthodontists. He works alongside several general dentists and other specialists, so patients can receive whatever they need at one of two convenient locations. For more information on dental implants or to schedule a consultation, visit his website or call (413) 584-4900.