Dental Implants
Many people contact Coast Dental Apopka inquiring whether dental implants are a suitable option for replacing missing teeth or securing dentures. Dental implants offer a robust, durable solution that allows you to eat, speak, and smile confidently for many years.
A dental implant is a titanium post, shaped much like a small screw, that is inserted into the bone beneath your gums by a dentist or specialist. Over time, your bone will integrate with the implant, forming a solid foundation for a crown, bridge, or fixed denture. What’s more, dental implants boast a success rate of over 95%, which is considerably higher than other tooth replacement methods.
How Dental Implants Work
At our Coast Dental office in Apopka, we can use dental implants to replace missing teeth in several ways.
Single Tooth Replacement
For a single missing tooth, an individual implant is positioned into the bone, effectively replacing the tooth’s root portion. A custom-made crown, designed to match the color of your teeth and resistant to staining, is then affixed to this implant, closely replicating a real tooth. Despite the higher initial expense compared to other replacement options, this solution is considered the most advantageous long-term investment for replacing a single missing tooth, with the highest success rate. An implant does not decay, eliminates the need for root canal therapy, and provides the feeling of possessing a natural tooth.
Multiple Tooth Replacement
Should you find yourself missing multiple teeth, it’s not necessary to replace each one with an individual implant. Dental implants can effectively act as anchors for fixed bridges. For instance, if three teeth in a row are missing, it’s possible to insert two implants on both ends of the gap. These can then support a crown in the middle, which doesn’t need its own implant. This method offers the benefit of not having to depend on natural teeth for bridge support. Relying on natural teeth as bridge abutments can lead to them becoming weakened, more prone to decay, and could increase the risk of root canal issues—problems that dental implants help to avoid.
Fixed Implant-Supported Dentures
Implants are capable of supporting a full arch of upper or lower replacement teeth, which are fixed in place permanently and do not need to be removed. Often, as few as four implants are needed to support an entire set of replacement teeth. However, in situations with considerable loss of jawbone, additional implants may be necessary to support a span of 10 to 12 teeth. Replacement teeth secured by dental implants help in maintaining the integrity of your jawbone, will not slip, and are designed to last a lifetime.
Implant-Supported Removable Dentures
If you’re missing all of your teeth on the upper or lower jaw, you may find your dentures aren’t fitting as well as they once did. Implants can enhance denture comfort and stability, boosting your confidence to eat and speak. Without tooth roots, the jawbone can shrink over time, making it difficult for dentures to stay in place, potentially changing your facial structure and causing premature aging due to bone loss. Implant-supported dentures distribute pressure to help preserve the jaw’s structure, offering added stability and reducing the likelihood of the lower denture being dislodged by the tongue. Additionally, they minimize or even remove the need for denture adhesives.What Do Dental Implants Cost?
Dental implants represent a cost-effective choice when considered as a long-term investment in your health, comfort, and overall well-being. While the initial cost of implants is higher than other tooth replacement options like dentures or bridges, dental implants are more durable and typically do not need replacement.
It’s advisable to consult with your dental insurance provider to determine the extent of coverage under your plan. Additionally, Coast Dental Apopka offers partnerships with third-party financing services, which could help integrate the cost of dental implants into your budget more smoothly.
The initial step towards this process is to book a consultation to find out if dental implants are suitable for you. If you’re missing one or more teeth, don’t hesitate to contact our dental office in Apopka at (407) 889-2555 to make an appointment today.
