Dental Implants
Many individuals reach out to Coast Dental DeLand inquiring whether dental implants could effectively replace missing teeth or secure dentures firmly in place. Dental implants offer a durable and long-term option, enabling you to enjoy eating, speaking, and smiling with assurance for many years.
A dental implant consists of a titanium post, designed to resemble a tiny screw. This post is surgically embedded into the bone beneath your gums by a dentist or specialist. Over time, the bone will integrate with the dental implant, forming a solid foundation for a crown, bridge, or fixed denture. Importantly, dental implants boast an impressive success rate of over 95%, making them a more reliable choice than other tooth replacement methods.
How Dental Implants Work
At our Coast Dental office in DeLand, we can use dental implants to replace missing teeth in several ways.
Single Tooth Replacement
When there’s a gap from a missing tooth, a dental implant can be placed into the jawbone, acting as a stand-in for the tooth’s root. The next step involves attaching an artificial crown designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, both in color and resistance to staining. Opting for a dental implant might require a higher upfront cost compared to other tooth replacement options, but it is widely regarded as the superior choice for the long haul, boasting a commendable success rate. Furthermore, an implant is impervious to decay, sidesteps the need for future root canals, and offers a sensation remarkably similar to that of a real tooth.
Multiple Tooth Replacement
When multiple teeth are missing, it’s not mandatory to replace each missing tooth with a separate implant. Dental implants can serve as robust anchors for fixed bridges. For example, with three consecutive missing teeth, inserting just two implants at both ends of the gap might suffice. A bridge spanning this gap can be securely attached to these implants, eliminating the need for individual implants for each replacement tooth. This method does not depend on adjacent natural teeth for support, which might weaken them, elevate their decay risk, and increase the likelihood of needing root canal treatments in the future. Dental implants provide a self-sufficient support system, avoiding these complications.
Fixed Implant-Supported Dentures
Implants provide a sturdy base for a full set of upper or lower prosthetic teeth, which are meant to be permanently secured and not detachable. Typically, a full arch of prosthetic teeth can be adequately supported by a minimum of four implants. In cases where significant jawbone loss has occurred, more implants may be required to securely anchor a set of 10 to 12 teeth. These implant-supported dental prostheses play a vital role in preserving the structure of the jawbone. Designed to be a permanent solution, they aim to remain fixed in place, offering the possibility of enduring a lifetime for the patient.
Implant-Supported Removable Dentures
If you discover that your dentures for the upper or lower jaw are not fitting as well as they used to because of tooth loss, considering implants can significantly improve the snugness of your dentures. This improvement leads to enhanced comfort and a substantial boost in your confidence to eat and speak. Unlike traditional dentures that don’t substitute for tooth roots, implants help prevent the jawbone from deteriorating—a common occurrence that lowers the bone ridges crucial for denture stability. This deterioration can also alter your facial appearance, causing it to seem more collapsed and adding a prematurely aged effect as the jawbone shrinks. Securing dentures with implants evens out the forces during chewing, which helps maintain the height of the bone ridge. The heightened stability also stops the lower denture from unexpectedly slipping out of place, which can happen with tongue movements. In addition, affixing dentures with implants can greatly reduce, or completely eliminate, the dependence on denture adhesives.
What Do Dental Implants Cost?
Considering dental implants as a long-term investment can prove to be a cost-effective choice for your health, comfort, and overall quality of life. While the upfront cost of implants is higher than other tooth replacement options like dentures or bridges, they typically last much longer and most do not require replacement.
It’s a good idea to discuss with your dental insurance provider to understand what expenses your plan may cover. At Coast Dental DeLand, we also offer financing options through third-party partners that could help you incorporate the cost of dental implants into your budget.
To find out if dental implants are suitable for you, the initial step is to book a consultation. If you’re experiencing the loss of one or more teeth, please contact our dentist in DeLand by calling (386) 943-9990 today.
