What are dental implants? You’ve probably asked that question a few times already especially if you’re looking to replace a missing tooth. So, what are dental implants? Well, think of the product and service as the best solution you can get for missing teeth. Of course, it still has its flaws which is why this article will talk about the product. Everything you need to know about it will be covered. This article will cover what it is, what it has to offer, some precautions, and more.

What Are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is a root implant made out of titanium that’s inserted in the jawbone of the missing tooth. Once the implant is secured in place, it is then capped off with a dental crown.

This is a basic rundown of the service when you one ask what are dental implants. Essentially, a dental implant was made to be a more permanent solution for missing teeth. It doesn’t need to be removed to be cleaned nor doe it has a 10 – 15-year lifespan.

Related: Read About The Different Types of Dental Implants

What Are The Benefits of a Dental Implant?

• Longevity – a dental implant can last a lifetime. Since it’s placed in the jawbone itself, it’s kept out of external harm nor is it vulnerable to common ailments of the tooth. A single root implant is expected to last upwards of up to 50 years or even more.
• Comfort – dental implants are comfortable to the patient. They don’t exhibit pain or discomfort after they heal. They won’t even be felt by the patient.
• Prevents Misalignment – since a dental implant is capped off by a dental crown, your teeth will not drift out of place because of a missing tooth.
• Bone Loss – receding bone happens when a tooth is lost. No other dental service or product can prevent this problem from happening except dental implants. Your jawbone will not recede if you have a missing tooth replaced by an implant.

What Are The Cons of a Dental Implant?

• Price – the average price of a dental implant in the Philippines is Php 75,000. It’s one of the most expensive dental products today and that’s for only one dental implant. Imagine if you’re having two or three missing teeth replaced?
• Preparation – a dental implant procedure involves surgery. This means that thorough preparation and examinations are needed before the procedure could even start. Getting a dental implant is certainly not a quick way of replacing a tooth.
• Enough Bone – in order for a dental implant to work, it needs enough bone for to be secured in. However, if the patient lacks the amount of bone required then he/she might just have to settle for another service.

What Is A Bone Grafting Service?

As mentioned above, if a patient doesn’t have enough bone in his/her jaw then they’re not viable for a dental implant. If that does happen, then a patient can pay for a bone grafting service.

Basically, a bone grafting service uses a bone graft to restore the lost bone in the jaw. The service is perfect for those who have lost a small amount of bone but is not recommended for patients who suffered from severe bone loss.

Getting the service does mean more payments on top of the dental implant procedure.

What Are The Alternatives of a Dental Implant?

A dental implant has two notable alternatives that most patients go for:

 

• Dentures – dentures are a set of false teeth placed on a rigid material. This is probably the most popular service in the category because it’s the oldest form of product that replaces missing teeth. It can replace a few missing teeth or the whole set. The product does come with a myriad of inconveniences. The average cost of a set of dentures in the Philippines is Php 16,000.

• Dental Bridges – a dental bridge is a false tooth anchored by two abutment caps. These caps are placed on top of the adjacent teeth of the missing tooth thus forming a bridge. It’s a great service to replace missing teeth because it has none of the problems that come with dentures. It’s conservative in structure as well as better looking in form. The average price of a dental bridge in the Philippines is Php 23,000.

 

Note that the prices given above will vary from one dental clinic to another as well as the number of missing teeth that it has to cover.

Conclusion

Make sure to visit your dentist and get a consultation if any of the products mentioned have piqued your interest. Doing so will give you the benefit of information and insight to make the right choice.