Top Dentist in Raleigh
Dr. Chris Gudger
New Patients: (919) 822-9326
Existing Patients: (919) 899-7414
8116 Creedmoor Rd., Raleigh, NC
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ABOUT DENTAL IMPLANTS
What are Dental Implants?
Dental Implants can be thought of as artificial tooth roots placed in your jawbone and become a base for supporting one or more artificial teeth, called crowns. A connector, known as an abutment, is placed on top of the dental implant to support the crowns. Dental implants are made from medical-grade titanium, which provides a more durable and natural-looking root form. Given the numerous benefits and aesthetic qualities dental implants offer, they have become the preferred method of tooth replacement today.
What are the benefits of Dental Implants?
Dental Implants are a more modern solution for tooth replacement than dentures or bridges. They are actually the only dental restoration option that preserves natural bone and helps stimulate bone growth. Dental implants look, feel and function like a real tooth. They will not decay and are designed to last for the rest of your life. There is no slippage or discomfort that commonly happens with dentures. They also make eating and speaking easier while improving your overall oral health.
Who is a good candidate for Dental Implants?
Those likely to benefit from dental implants include people who have been experiencing problems with conventional dentures or simply people who have lost a tooth or teeth. They make life easier for those finding it difficult to chew and enjoy meals and can slow down the process of tissue and bone loss in the jaw. What’s more, implants can even provide a more youthful appearance because they will give your facial structure a lift. Furthermore, they will help you to speak more clearly.
However, for this implant procedure to work, there must be enough bone in the jaw. The bone has to be strong enough to hold and support the implant. If there is not enough bone, it may need to be added with a procedure called bone grafting. In addition, natural teeth and supporting tissues near where the implant will be placed must be in good health.
How much do Dental Implants cost?
Dental implants initially have a higher up-front cost compared to alternatives such as bridges and dentures, but implants outlast those services by decades. This makes implants a smarter and more affordable choice over time.
About Dental Implant Costs
When reviewing and comparing costs, it’s essential to consider that dental implants are “medical devices” that require a larger team of dental professionals. In addition, the placement of dental implants is both art and science. In fact, you are buying a service rather than a product – a service that can change your life and give you permanent teeth that will last a lifetime.
At Lifetime Family Dental, the total dental implant costs for a single dental implant to be placed and restored range is about $1900. To replace all your top or bottom teeth with full-arch fixed implant bridges – often referred to as All-on-4 – starts at $19,999 per arch.
We also offer many payment plans and options that make implants quite affordable at low monthly rates. For example, a single implant could cost as low as $100 per month, and with our special financing, a full arch could be as low as $248 per month. Click here for more details.
Can you find a dentist who can provide dental implants for less? Absolutely. You can always find someone cheaper, just like you can always find someone less skilled and with less experience.
Dental Implants Are More Cost-Effective in the Long Run
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While more expensive than dentures, dental implants are the more cost-effective option for dental restoration, and provide a more natural, secure, longer-lasting solution. Other options, such as a tooth-supported bridge, have a limited lifespan and must be replaced. The American Dental Association reports that the average bridge must be replaced every 10.1 years. However, clinical studies have shown that implant-supported crowns (like we're discussing here) are effective at 20+ years in 95% of cases. This study shows a 98.8% 10-year survival rate of dental implants, which means the implants will almost certainly outlast bridges. Other studies have shown the effectiveness of dental implants in the shorter term. This Swedish study showed a 98.2% survival rate of the implant (Not for patients; there were no fatalities reported in the study!) over 32 months with the immediately loaded implants. Implants may be more expensive up-front, but over time their superior value and lifespan mean you'll be saving money in the long run.