San Francisco, Marin, and Oakland, CA
While losing a tooth is an unwelcome experience, you will have options to replace it. A dental implant in San Francisco may be a choice offered to you. It is a permanent and expensive option, although there are other less permanent and expensive options that do not begin to compare to dental implants. Dental implants are the only replacement option that looks most like real teeth. But how do you decide if they are worth the cost?
Dental implants are a multi-step process
Placing a dental implant requires surgery. If your San Francisco implant dentist is not trained in oral surgery and implant placement, you will need an oral surgeon, a Prosthodontists or another type of specialist—or a team of doctors to complete the process. This will up the cost of the procedure. The first step to the process is a consultation. At this first visit, diagnosis and prognosis will be established, after x-rays have been taken. Jaw bone and gum condition, as well as tooth location, will also be evaluated. An impression is taken of teeth and gums. The dentist will explain the procedure and the timing, in addition to whether or not a bone graft will be necessary. Although most people are candidates for the dental implant procedure, there are certain conditions which would preclude the use of dental implants. If you suffer a chronic disease, are a heavy smoker or excessively consume alcohol, then you may not be considered for a dental implant.
Next, a hole is drilled into the jawbone and the implant is inserted. If the tooth is in a prominent spot in your smile, you will leave with a fake tooth that covers the end of the implant post. After the bone has healed, an abutment is screwed into the top of the implant, and a temporary crown is attached. An abutment is a device that connects the implant to the replacement tooth. If a healing cap is attached to help the gums heal, the abutment is placed at this time. Finally, the permanent crown is attached, once it has been returned from the lab, and permanently attached to the implant.
The cost of Dental Implants
The average cost of a dental implant may cost several thousand dollars or more. Does insurance cover dental implants? Some do; some don’t. Sometimes dental implants are viewed as elective procedures and, thus, would not be covered, although more insurances cover dental implants than they did 10 years ago. However, some parts of the process may be covered, (the placement of a temporary crown followed by the permanent one, for example) which can be paid by insurance. Some policies, though, may cover a large percentage of the cost. In addition, some dental offices offer payment plans to help defray costs.
The Beauty Factor
Dental implants are permanent. They look pretty and are just like real teeth you can brush and floss. They can’t be removed except by your dentist, so if you are a person who feels unsure, keep in mind this is a permanent decision. Plus, there are cheaper and less permanent options such as a bridge. The most important thing is to be informed and make the decision that is right for you and your oral health, as well as your finances.
Dental Implants in San Francisco
Our staff of friendly professionals can make your dental health an easy and stress-free experience. Call Glen Park Dental at (415) 585-1500 for an appointment today!
Glen Park Dental proudly serves the Marin, Oakland, and San Francisco, California area!
