Since tooth decay can lead to needing dental implants annual dental visits and proper oral hygiene practices are two important ways to protect your oral health. If you experience tooth loss, the cost of dental implants may be a concern. However, it’s important to remember that implants can last for more than 20 years, making them a cost-effective long-term treatment options.Tooth decay is a progressive condition that causes cavities to develop inside your teeth. Tooth decay can lead to more serious problems, like gingivitis, infections, and tooth loss.
What Causes Tooth Loss?
Tooth loss is typically the result of a chronic or progressive condition, although impact injuries can also lead to tooth loss.Factors that can increase your risk of experiencing tooth loss include:
Smoking and tobacco use
Failing to brush your teeth
Age (specifically for adults 35 and older)
Having diabetes, high blood pressure, and/or rheumatoid arthritis
A poor diet that is high in sugar, starches, or caffeine
Untreated tooth decay
Participating in certain sports (boxing, mixed martial arts, hockey, etc;)
Teeth are protected by enamel, dentin, and pulp. Enamel can break down if plaque accumulates on the exterior of your teeth. The reason why diets high in sugar can increase the incidence of tooth decay is that bacteria use sugar and starches as a food source. The acid expelled by bacteria reduces the amount of calcium and phosphate in your enamel, which can cause discoloration.Brushing and flossing remove plaque and particles trapped between your teeth and gums. During annual dental exams, your dentist performs a professional cleaning that removes bacteria and other particles and can administer fluoride treatments to reduce your risk of developing tooth decay.
How is Tooth Loss Treated?
Specialty dental services provide several treatment options for missing teeth. Before you discuss replacement options, your dentist will treat the underlying cause of your tooth loss. Failing to address missing teeth allows your gums to be exposed to particles and bacteria that can lead to infections and other damage. Your remaining teeth may shift to fill the gap created by your missing tooth, which can impact your bite, cause crowding, and lead to misalignment.Having a missing tooth may also be embarrassing, especially if it’s a front tooth that is visible when you smile. Missing teeth can make it more difficult to bite and chew properly, which can cause pain. A missing tooth can make oral hygiene harder, as brushing or flossing can lead to bleeding and a pathway for bacteria to enter your gums.If you are missing one tooth, an implant is usually the best option. An implant is affixed to your gum line via a screw and looks and functions like a natural tooth. However, if you are missing most or all of your teeth, dentures with implants may be a better option. While traditional dentures are removable, dentures with implants are permanent. The cost of dental implants varies depending on several factors, such as whether you need one implant or several.
What is the Cost of Dental Implants?
To best understand the cost of dental implants, you should discuss your tooth loss treatment options with your dentist. You have several choices to repair or replace missing teeth. Removable dentures are another way to address significant tooth loss. Artificial implants are durable and can last for 20 years or longer with proper maintenance. The cost of dental implants can change depending on what type of insurance you have, as some policies may cover implants.
