Dental Implants

Dental implants are a relatively new innovation in cosmetic dentistry, replacing the traditional practice of dental bridges. With dental bridges, the two teeth on either side of the missing tooth are filed down to allow for the placement of a three-tooth device; the false tooth in the middle fills the gap. With dental implants, the cutting down of adjacent teeth is unnecessary, as the false tooth is surgically implanted into the patient's gum. The cost of dental implant procedures varies from one orthodontist to another, but averages about $1600 per tooth.

Generally, anyone who is a candidate for a dental bridge is also a candidate for dental implants. Implants can also be used to replace dentures. There is one caveat, however; the patient must have enough bone mass in his or her jaw to allow for the implant to "take." But even patients who lack the proper bone density can be candidates if they opt for a bone grafting procedure prior to implant placement.

The Procedure

During the implanting process, which is performed under local anesthesia, a small metal screw is inserted into the jaw bone. Most orthodontic surgeons prefer to wait up to three months, until the bone has fully healed around the screw, to affix the new false tooth to the implant. As surgeries go, this one is not terribly painful--but some may experience more discomfort than others and may want to take a mild painkiller for the first few days.

If you cringe at the thought of going toothless for three months while your bone heals, a temporary tooth, or "flipper," is a good option. Like invisible braces, flippers are removable, and should be taken out at mealtimes. For patients missing many teeth, however, a temporary set of dentures might be a more practical choice.