Millions of adults across the United States are missing at least one tooth. Many of those are missing most or all of their teeth. For most people, missing teeth leads to a reduced quality of life, which is why tooth replacement is critical.
Many people choose dental bridges or partial dentures to replace some missing teeth and often opt for conventional dentures if missing all of their teeth. However, these solutions have many disadvantages that come with them.
Dr. Schwartz at Wolf-Schwartz Dentistry in Boca Raton highly recommends dental implants and implant-based solutions. Dental implants are a more natural approach to restoring your smile. Here’s what you need to know about dental implants:
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a very popular tooth replacement procedure designed to look, feel, and function like a natural tooth. This solution consists of three pieces:
- The implant screw, which is inserted into the jawbone and acts as a tooth root
- The abutment, which connects the implant screw to the crown
- The crown, which sits on top of the abutment and replaces the visible portion of the tooth
This is typically classified as a cosmetic procedure since there are less expensive alternatives. However, many providers are learning the benefits of dental implants over other options, so they are starting to cover some of it.
Things to Know Before Dental Implants
There are several things you need to know about before getting dental implants:
- Oral health is critical- if you’re not in good oral or overall health, you are not a good candidate for implants
- Overall health is critical- if you have certain medical conditions, you may be disqualified from getting implants
- Jawbone health is critical- if you do not have adequate jawbone, your implants may not be successful
- Healing involves the process of osseointegration and may take up to 6 months or more
Things to Know After Dental Implants
There are a few things to keep in mind after getting dental implants:
Oral hygiene is critical- even though the restorations are artificial, your gums and jawbone are still susceptible to bacteria and must be cleaned at least once if not twice a day
Healing can take up to 6 months or more. You will need to stick with a soft food diet during that time.
Dental bridge vs implants
| Dental Bridge | Dental Implants |
| $2,500 to $5,000, depending on how many teeth are required. | $5,000 per tooth |
| Replaces several missing teeth in a row | Can replace a single tooth or a full mouth with just a few implants |
| May look artificial, depending on the material of the restoration | Looks, feels, and functions more like natural teeth |
| May need the support of the neighboring teeth | Does not need the support of any other teeth- each implant stands alone |
How many teeth?
Dentures
Up to an entire arch
Dental Implants
Up to an entire arch when multiple implants are used
Bridges
Several teeth in a row
Cost?
Dentures
Ranges from around $300 for economy dentures to $4,000+ for higher-end options
Dental Implants
Average of $5,000 per tooth
Bridges
Ranges from $1,500 to $5,000+, depending on several factors including the type of bridge, the materials, and more
How Long for Results?
Dentures
Depending on additional treatments required, typically takes a few weeks for the dental lab to fabricate custom dentures
Dental Implants
Can take a minimum of several months to a year or more for the results
Bridges
Depending on additional treatments, usually takes several weeks for the dental lab to fabricate the bridge
Comfort?
Dentures
Sit on gums, causing pressure and friction sores
Dental Implants
Inserted into the jawbone- looks, feels, and functions naturally
Bridges
Attached to neighboring teeth or implants on either side of gap, should not move but may not be as comfortable as dental implants
Life expectancy?
Dentures
Complete/Full dentures last about 10 to 15 years, while partials last about 20 years- depending on care and maintenance practices
Dental Implants
Designed to last a lifetime, crown may need replacing in about 20 years
Bridges
Lasts an average of 5 to 15 years, depending on care and maintenance practices
Insurance coverage?
Dentures
Most dental insurance companies will cover dentures
Dental Implants
Some will cover, some will not- depends on how it is classified
Bridges
Most insurance providers cover a portion of dental bridge treatment
Dental Implant-based Options
Single Implants
Implant-supported Bridge
Implant-supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures can be partial or complete. Typically, implant-supported dentures must be removed at night for cleaning- but they are secured in place and do not slip around inside the mouth when talking.
All-on-4 Dental Implants
All-on-6 Dental Implants
Choose the Best Dentist, Dr. Schwartz, In Boca Raton FL for Your Missing Teeth Treatment
If you are missing one or more teeth, schedule your consultation with Dr. Schwartz at Wolf Schwartz Dentistry in Boca Raton. Dr. Schwartz is one of two dental implantologists in the Boca Raton area. He received his certification in Implant Dentistry in April 2001 from the American Board of Oral Implantology.
He has been practicing dentistry in the Boca Raton area for many years and strives to make sure that patients have a pleasant experience each and every time they enter the clinic.
We are located on Southeast 5th Street in Boca Raton. Our office hours are 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. We are available on Wednesday from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
Dental Implants FAQs
Dental implants are a very popular choice for replacing missing teeth. However, many patients still have questions. Our team will take the time to discuss your questions and concerns with you at any time. Below are a few of the most common questions that we’ve gotten through the years.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime. The crown may need to be replaced after about 20 years. However, with proper care and maintenance, some dental crowns have lasted 40 years or more.
Do dental implants hurt?
Patients are provided with local anesthesia before the procedure begins, which prevents pain from being felt during the placement. You may have some minor discomfort as the anesthesia wears off. However, you should not feel significant pain. If you do, there may be something wrong with your implant.
Are dental implants safe?
Yes, dental implants are safe for most patients. There are a few health issues including uncontrolled diabetes, heart disease, and uncontrolled gum disease that can increase the risk of implant failure.
How do dental implants work?
Dental implants are prosthetic dental devices made of three pieces: implant screw, abutment, and crown. The implant screw is inserted into the jawbone acting as an artificial tooth root. the abutment is the piece that secures the crown to the implant screw. The crown is the portion that replaces the visible portion of the tooth.
How long does a dental implant procedure take?
The entire process from start to finish may take up to a year depending on additional procedures required and how your body heals. However, implant placement surgery usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour. This depends on the location of the tooth as well as the experience and expertise of the dentist.