Are Implants the Right Choice?

First, the basics. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots surgically implanted into the jawbone, supporting artificial teeth such as crowns, bridges, and dentures. They are typically made from titanium, a metal compatible with body tissues.

The process of dental implant surgery typically involves several steps:

-- Extraction:  Sometimes, the patient has a damaged tooth that must to be extracted to make space for the implant. This procedure is the same as any other standard extraction, typically done under local anesthesia,

--  Implant placement:  The next step, with or without extraction, is to make an incision in the gum and access the bone. The implant post is then placed (screwed) into the bone, and the gum is stitched closed. During the entire process, the patient’s jaw is placed under local anesthesia, which is often augmented with sedation anesthesia.

--  Temporary Crown:   The dentist will place a temporary crown on the implant post (abutment) to restore some limited functionality to the new tooth. The patient should understand that this crown’s primary purpose is as a placeholder, for aesthetics, and to mitigate against damage to the implant.

--  Healing period:  There is a healing period of about 4-6 months, during which the implant fuses with the jawbone. This process is called osseointegration, and it is what makes dental implants a permanent solution. The patient will be instructed to minimize interference during this critical period as the implant fuses successfully with the bone.

--  Final Crown Placement:  The dentist will place a permanent dental crown on the implant when the implant has fused with the jawbone; from this point forward, the patient can enjoy a natural-looking and functional tooth.

Consultation and Exam

Extraction (if necessary)

Implant Placement

Temporary Crown

Ossification and Healing

Final Crown Placement

Cost-Benefit of Dental Implants

Patients should consider that the total cost of implant tooth replacement will be a combination of implant, abutment, and crown, temporary and permanent. Assuming bone grafting is not required, one can calculate something in the range of 1200-1800€,

The enduring benefits of dental implants cannot be understated. Using the finest biocompatible materials under the skilled hands of a dental professional, implant surgery delivers the enormous payoff of a radiant, healthy smile. It’s all part of the Riga Dentist promise:   Smile with Confidence!