There are certain myths about the cost of dental procedures in Nigeria, well we would say to some certain points, there is but a fact to some conversations around this. Whatever dental procedure you are trying to undergo, they come always with a price. Before I proceed with the details of cost, let’s chit chat a bit why people have double standards when it comes to their oral hygiene.
Conversations with a few colleagues have proven that dental anxiety, poor dental education, and negligence are majorly contributing factors to why visitation to the dental clinic is neglected. Nevertheless, certain organizations like the Health Maintenance Organisation (HMOs) have contributed to the increase in patient visitations to the dental clinic. This is pointed to the fact that HMO works with collaborations with dental clinics at subsidized rates in order to suit their customers. So, the basic approach and mental build up remain, I am literally not paying for it but my HMO is. There are one thousand and one reasons why people visit the dental clinic. Here are a few common dental procedures involving Nigerians.
Tooth Extraction
Being one of the common cases in Nigeria, tooth extraction is the surgical removal of a tooth. There are certain contributing factors on why anyone would undergo this dental procedure.
For all tooth extraction procedures, patients are given anesthesia to make the procedure pain free. It is important to note that not all tooth extraction involves a surgical procedure but all should involve the use of dental x-rays. Well the cost for this dental procedure varies from clinic to clinic. It is best to communicate with the clinic in order to know the prices.
Tooth Filling
Having a hole in your tooth is the major reason why this dental procedure is carried out. These holes may be caused by long term dental attrition, habits, or accidents. Dental fillings are basically imagined like a seal. Most dental fillings have a long life. They are strong adhesives that are never toxic to human health.
It is important to note that dental fillings are also regarded as a conservative procedure. Examples of materials used for dental fillings include glass ionomer cement, zinc oxide eugenol cement amongst others. Oftentimes, the price of dental filling in a dental clinic is affected by the position of the tooth, amount of tooth to be extracted, and what type of dental filling material used. Also, each dental filling has different life spans as well as characteristics.
Root Canal Treatment
The best way to describe this procedure is to have an extra life while you are losing at a game. Root Canal Procedure is often carried out by a dentist to help savage a dead tooth. Dead, we literally mean the tooth is present in the mouth but has lost its functionality due to certain underlying factors. RCT process involves total removal of the part of the tooth that supplies blood and nerves; the pulp tissue. Oftentimes, this procedure requires more than one dental visit. As regards the cost of RCT, you can liken it to the cost of surgery. Aforementioned, it is really important to verify from your choicest dentist as regards the cost of any dental procedure.
Crowning
The dental lab is the major hub for this dental procedure. After being clerked by the dentist, the patient is required to take a teeth impression which is later sent to the dental lab for construction. Crowns are tooth-shaped caps used to restore aesthetics to a tooth. They are glued to the tooth after prepping (a process of tooth reduction). Oftentimes, this dental procedure requires the use of a healthy tooth serving as an anchor. There are different types of crowns including porcelain crowns, fused with metal crowns, Zirconia crowns amongst others Just like the tooth filling procedure, the cost of the crowning of the tooth is dependent on the choice of material.
Denture
This is likely one of the most common dental procedures ever. Dentures are tooth replacements. They are plastic teeth in nature built to exhibit a few functions of the tooth. We could describe dentures as a replacement. Dentures are not expensive and are more affordable when compared to other types of tooth restorations.
Dental Implants
A recent survey carried out by us has revealed that in Nigeria, dental implants are not really known. Also, a few who know about this type of dental restoration describe the process as hellish. However, as a renowned dental clinic, we dispute this. For a dental implant procedure, there is little or no pain involved. Oftentimes the point where the implants are inserted into the gum. The area which would undergo this process is often numb. You can read more about dental implants here
Braces
A type of cosmetic dentistry, braces become a choice when you want to align your teeth. They are fixed on the tooth. The type of braces for patients depends on the type of malocclusion involved. Braces works with force pull and time. There are different types of Braces with relative cost.
Invisalign
Invisalign are like fraternal twins to braces, they have the same function as metallic braces but are more aesthetically pleasing. You can read more about them here. Also, the cost of Invisalign varies from that of braces. Soon, we hope that a more affordable product makes its way to Nigeria. It is also important to note that Invisalign procedures require more than one dental visit. It is often a long dental procedure that can last between 3 months upward. Aforementioned it is best to speak to your dentist for the cost of this procedure.
Scaling and Polishing
With a lot of people realizing the importance of visiting the dental clinic, this is one of the most common dental procedures. Best described as cleaning the tooth by Nigerians, dental scaling and polishing process is often advised to be done twice in a year. Thus emphasizing the importance of visiting the dental clinic twice a year. Scaling and polishing procedure can be done manually or by the use of ultrasonic machines.
Bridges
Bridges are also a type of restorative dentistry, unlike a few others are cemented permanently. They are often a better alternative to removable dentures. Bridges uses an already existing tooth as an anchor.
At Smile360 dental clinic, we offer the best of prices to help you attain your perfect smile. We are a walk-In dental clinic positioned to make a difference in dental health in Nigeria. Book your appointment here and watch us help broaden your smile.
