Dental implants are a treatment option used by dentists to replace the patient’s missing teeth. These are artificial replacements that take care of the roots as well as the crown. Depending on the implant type one needs, they can be used to support crowns, bridges, and dentures. Implants are a long-lasting option if patients are willing to look after their teeth properly. However, one should pick an experienced and qualified dentist for proper treatment.

Single implants
As the name suggests, single implants are the best choice to replace a single missing tooth. The dentist surgically places an implant screw in the patient’s jawbone. It is then followed by an abutment to connect with the new custom-made crown that needs to be installed. In most cases, the doctor would use a titanium screw for the implant. The crown is made to replicate the natural tooth structure and function.

Single implants are most effective in patients with minimal bone loss. The doctors will need to check the bone mass of the patient’s jaw and determine where the implant needs to be placed. People can only get a single implant if there aren’t any other missing teeth adjacent to it. It is the most affordable option for people who want to have single missing teeth replaced.

Implant-supported bridges
Implant-supported bridges are ideal for people who want to replace a couple or more missing teeth. The dentist strategically positions more than one implant in the patient’s jawbone. The implants are used to support a bridge, which fills in the rest of the gap between the remaining teeth. Implant-supported bridges are a great option for patients requiring higher stability. Like single implants, they also help mimic the look and function of natural teeth, as well as the natural biting and chewing action of dentures.

It works better when there are consecutively missing teeth. The implants placed act as anchors that keep the bridge in place. An implant-supported bridge, essentially a fixed bridge with artificial teeth, is then attached to the implants, bridging the gap between the remaining natural teeth. Implant-supported bridges also offer a higher bite force when compared to traditional dental bridges. The cost of these will depend on the number of missing teeth. In addition, the doctor will also quote varying prices based on the material they use for the bridge.

Implant-retained dentures
Implant-retained dentures are used when the patient is missing multiple teeth. It can also be used as a solution when the complete arch of teeth needs to be replaced. These dentures utilize strategically placed implants for enhanced stability and comfort compared to traditional dentures. Some of the commonly preferred variations include overdentures and fixed dentures. Overdentures are easy to use. The set of dentures only needs to be snapped into place for use. It latches on to the implant-supported attachments that make it easy to put the dentures on and take them off. The ease of removal makes it easier to maintain the cleanliness of the implant-supported denture. On the other hand, fixed dentures are permanently set in place with the help of screws. Since there is no need to remove the dentures, they tend to offer improved stability. Fixed dentures are also better at providing patients with the closest experience to having natural teeth.

With these implants, patients can expect superior comfort, better chewing ability, stability, and a boost in their confidence. They are a commonly suggested option for seniors who have lost a few teeth.

All-on-4/Teeth-in-a-Day
A revolutionary technique, this option utilizes only four implant screws spread out on the jaw to hold a full arch of teeth in place. It is a minimally invasive procedure and allows temporary dentures to be immediately replaced. It is best for seniors or other patients if they want to spend minimal possible time without dentures. After a healing period for the implant site, the fixed bridge is attached that is supported by just four screws.

This is an ideal option for seniors who do not want to go a long time without their dentures. Compared to bridge-supported dentures, this process involves fewer installations of implant screws. The procedure allows the placement of temporary dentures on the implants immediately. It might be why some people consider it a one-day dental implant procedure that comes with a high price tag. This saves patients time and the worry about having to go denture-free for the time being. Because of the advanced technique, All-on-4 is the costliest implant procedure one can choose.

Costs of dental implants
One must consult a qualified dentist to determine the most suitable implant type for one’s needs. A dentist can assess one’s oral health and jawbone condition and discuss all available options. The estimated cost of each of these implant types starts from £2,850, £5,800, £7,000, and £16,500, respectively. When used as a full-mouth dental implant replacement, the cost of the implants could be more than £12,000. This is just a ballpark range; patients might need additional charges for consultations, procedures, and follow-ups. Some clinics might offer a free consultation at the beginning to help figure out the best treatment for the patients. Later on, consultation for implant assessment can cost anywhere above £195. Patients also need to consider the diagnostic costs of the implants. Doctors might need X-rays and other imaging to help determine the exact position of the implant. This can cost about £500 or more in the procedure costs. If the tests show the need for grafting, bone grafts are priced at £1,500 onward, while gum grafts can be anywhere above £750. However, different dental clinics will have different price points. The patient must check their insurance for the payable amount.