When you are seeking a replacement for a missing tooth, you will have a range of choices. Dental bridges, dentures, and implants are widely available in the Chatsworth area of Los Angeles, California. When choosing, you will no doubt want your tooth replacement to look natural and provide the functionality a natural tooth would. When you visit Dr. Roya Shoffet and our team here at Royal Dental Practice, you can expect to find these options. However, only one tooth replacement is considered the “gold standard” – dental implants.Â
Our team is here to answer any questions about tooth replacement and will talk to you about the cost of the implant procedure and provide aftercare instructions. It is nearly unanimous among our patients that dental implants are worth the time and cost due to the unmatched benefits offered by this tooth replacement option.
What Is A Dental Implant?
When you first hear about a dental implant, you may think of it as a single piece surgically implanted into your mouth. However, a dental implant is comprised of three distinct components, all of which serve a different function:
- The titanium post or screw is surgically implanted into the jawbone. Once this is complete, you will require time to heal and for your jaw to fuse to the post via osseointegration
- The abutment, attached to the implant, will eventually hold the prosthetic tooth
- The tooth prosthetic is typically a dental crown that looks natural
Are Dental Implants Worth The Cost?
When considering tooth replacement options, knowing the costs is essential. While dental implants may have a higher upfront cost than dental bridges or dentures, it’s vital to consider their long-term benefits.
Here are some reasons why investing in a dental implant is worth the extra cost.
Replaces The Tooth Below The Gumline
When replacing missing teeth, a dental bridge or denture only covers the portion above the gum line. These options simply rest on the gum line without addressing the root. In contrast, a dental implant is surgically inserted into the jawbone to replace the missing tooth’s root. This is essential because teeth play a crucial role in maintaining the health of your jawbone.
The stimulation provided by teeth keeps the jawbone strong and healthy. When a tooth is lost, this stimulation is also lost, which can lead to jawbone deterioration over time. A dental bridge or denture cannot replace this lost stimulation. Only a dental implant can replace the tooth above and below the gum line, ensuring your jawbone remains strong and healthy.
Strength and Durability
Once surgically inserted into the jawbone, a dental implant will take weeks to heal fully. During this stage, osseointegration occurs, where the jawbone fuses and integrates with the implant. Once this process is complete, the implanted post will serve as a sturdy base for attaching your prosthetic tooth.
More Affordable
You might think a dental bridge or denture is more budget-friendly. However, in the long run, a dental implant will prove to be the most cost-effective choice due to its durability. For most people, a dental implant can last a lifetime, with only the crown – the artificial tooth – needing possible replacement. On the other hand, a dental bridge or denture may need to be entirely replaced numerous times.
Please Schedule An Appointment Today
Dr. Shoffet’s dental practice warmly welcomes families in the Chatsworth area for gentle, effective, and compassionate care. To contact our office, please call (818) 334-6655.
