Dental implant: Price, procedure and answers to your questions

Like dentures, the primary function of dental implants is to replace missing teeth. By extension, they allow us to chew food, support our jaw muscles and can improve our speech. This means that this procedure - in addition to helping us in such mundane actions as eating and speaking - increases our self-esteem and confidence in our own smile.

With such great benefits, it's not surprising that you want to know more about this operation. Pain, duration, and especially price, take the time to find all the answers to your questions, and even more!

Dental implants: the procedure from A to Z

What is a dental implant?

The first question you probably ask yourself, and not the least! A dental implant is an artificial root, usually made of titanium, that is firmly inserted into the jawbone. After a few weeks of healing, the implant is fused to the bone and can serve as an anchor for a denture or crown, thus replacing one or more missing teeth.

What are the possible contraindications?

While age does not preclude the placement of implants, other factors must be considered. For example, infections of the mouth - such as gum disease - must be treated before treatment. Heart disease or certain medications can also be a major obstacle. Never hesitate to talk to your dentist about your health condition to ensure your safety and the success of the operation.

How long does the whole process take

It depends on the quality of your bone, so unfortunately this is an element over which you have little control. If the quality is good, the installation of the implant and the temporary tooth can be done in one consultation. You will then have to wait between 2 and 5 months for the bone to heal around the implant (this phase is called osseointegration). Afterwards, a full or partial denture or a single crown can be installed, depending on your specific needs. In any case, a temporary tooth can always be placed in case of a longer treatment period.

Do I have to be toothless?

As we have just seen, the placement of temporary teeth prevents you from remaining "toothless".

Is the placement of the implants painful?

Here is another important question for your well-being! Implant placement is a painless procedure, as it is done under local anesthesia. Some offices may also prescribe a mild sedative to help you relax. After the procedure, you may experience some discomfort or minor pain, but nothing that painkillers cannot relieve.

Can I resume my activities after the implants?

Working, playing sports and smiling will be permitted from the day after the implants are placed. The only action that will require a little patience is eating. You will have to focus on liquid foods for at least two weeks, then make a transition to soft foods such as pasta, fish, eggs. After the second month, chewing will be possible again, so you can add slightly firmer foods to your diet. Finally, after three months, it will be back to normal!

How to maintain dental implants?

It's as simple as brushing, flossing and regular check-ups with your dentist - in other words, a routine you've already mastered! Of course, your dentist can explain to you how to maintain them properly and efficiently.

What is the life span of the implants?

The quality of the bone and the implant, your general health, the experience of the practitioner, your age and your dental hygiene can influence the life span of your implants. To reassure you, you should know that the average life span of your implants is between 7 and 10 years, with a success rate of around 95%, and therefore an almost zero risk of rejection.

Fast operation, long-term solution, improved comfort, easy maintenance: are implants only advantages? Not quite, because all of these positive points come with a cost that should be considered before embarking on the procedure.

The price of dental implants

To tell you that each case is unique would be an easy answer… But how frustrating! However, the price of dental implants depends a lot on the number of teeth to be replaced, the amount of bone available, the quality of the implants and their components, and of course the experience of the dentist! A reasonable price range would be around $4,500 for a single tooth replacement with high-quality treatment, and up to $60,000 or more for a full mouth. You've probably heard that implants are done in Mexico or Cuba for a more affordable price. While it is impossible to deny that the rates are indeed cheaper, keep in mind that the absence of risks and associated costs is not guaranteed.

Fortunately, tax credits, financing and dental insurance can provide significant support. In fact, depending on your income, you may be entitled to tax credits for medical expenses. Insurance is a little more complicated, as most of them do not cover implants. However, some steps are eligible and reimbursed by most dental insurance plans. It is up to you to submit a treatment plan to your insurance company to see what reimbursement is possible. Finally, you may be able to apply for a bank loan at a reasonable rate to finance such treatment. Again, your dentist can provide you with information on how to proceed.

As you can see, when you are missing several teeth, price is one of the major differences between implants and dentures. Dentures work much better if you have experienced bone loss or if you don't want the invasive treatment of a dental implant. On the other hand, they don't last as long, require special maintenance and are not comfortable for everyone. Both options are effective, however, and really depend on your condition and that of your wallet!

As with many dental treatments, the first meeting with the dentist is essential. In addition to explaining the procedure in detail and presenting you with precise fees, he must be able to put you at ease. Money, time, well-being: what you invest deserves to be listened to and followed up on.

This is exactly what the MonSmile St-Sauveur Dental Clinic offers you. Add it to your prospecting list: there is no doubt that you will find the attention, the kindness and the professionalism you deserve.