Dental Implants
Many people contact Coast Dental Palm Bay to inquire whether dental implants are a suitable option for replacing missing teeth or securing dentures. Dental implants provide a durable and long-lasting solution, enhancing your ability to eat, speak, and smile confidently for many years.
A dental implant consists of a titanium post, similar in shape to a small screw, which is inserted into the bone beneath your gums. Over time, the bone integrates with the implant, forming a robust foundation for a crown, bridge, or fixed denture. Notably, dental implants boast a success rate exceeding 95%, which is significantly higher compared to other tooth replacement methods.
How Dental Implants Work
At our Coast Dental office in West Melbourne, we can use dental implants to replace missing teeth in several ways.
Single Tooth Replacement
Think of a dental implant as a sturdy new root for a missing tooth. It integrates seamlessly with your jawbone, serving as a base for a durable, stain-resistant artificial tooth or crown that is carefully created to match the color of your natural teeth. While the initial cost of a dental implant may be higher than other tooth replacement options, its long-term benefits are unparalleled, highlighted by an outstanding success rate. Additionally, an implant is resistant to decay, eliminates the need for root canals, and offers a feel almost identical to your natural teeth.
Multiple Tooth Replacement
When multiple teeth are missing, it’s not essential to have a separate implant for each absent tooth. Dental implants can act as strong anchors for fixed bridges. For instance, in the case of three sequentially missing teeth, placing just two implants at each end of the gap might suffice to firmly uphold a bridge spanning the area. This approach reduces the necessity for replacing each tooth individually. Unlike conventional methods relying on surrounding natural teeth for support—which can lead to wear and heighten the chances of decay and root canals—dental implants offer a standalone support structure that diminishes these concerns.
Fixed Implant-Supported Dentures
Implants offer a solid foundation for custom-fitted dentures, made for prolonged and stable use in either the upper or lower jaw. Often, only four implants are needed to secure a full arch of prosthetic teeth. However, in cases of significant jawbone loss, additional implants might be necessary to reliably support a set of 10 to 12 teeth. These durable, implant-supported dentures are critical in maintaining the health of the jawbone and are crafted with the potential to last a lifetime.
Implant-Supported Removable Dentures
Dental implants can anchor a full denture, offering a complete row of replacement teeth. Typically, the dentist or specialist places four dental implant posts that the denture then attaches to. These implant-supported dentures stay firmly in place within the mouth, eliminating the movement or slippage often experienced with traditional dentures. This secure fit facilitates easier speaking and eating.
What Do Dental Implants Cost?
Dental implants are frequently seen as a cost-effective choice when considered a long-term investment in your health, comfort, and quality of life. While they are initially more costly than other tooth replacement options like dentures or bridges, dental implants tend to last much longer, and many never require replacement.
It’s advisable to consult with your dental insurance provider to determine what part of the cost might be covered under your dental benefits. Additionally, Coast Dental Palm Bay offers partnerships with third-party financiers, which could help fit the expense of dental implants into your family’s budget.
The initial step is to book a consultation to find out if dental implants are suitable for you. If you’re missing one or more teeth, contact our West Melbourne dentist today at (321) 728-8053.
