Dental Implants
Many individuals contact Coast Dental Spring Hill with inquiries about whether dental implants could be an effective way to replace lost teeth or anchor dentures securely. Dental implants offer a robust and enduring solution that enables you to eat, speak, and smile confidently for many years ahead.
A dental implant consists of a titanium post, designed to resemble a tiny screw. This post is surgically inserted into the jawbone beneath your gums by a dentist or oral specialist. Over time, the jawbone bonds with the dental implant, forming a solid foundation for supporting a crown, bridge, or fixed denture. Importantly, dental implants boast a success rate exceeding 95%, making them a more reliable choice than many other tooth-replacement methods.
How Dental Implants Work
At our Coast Dental office in Brooksville, we can use dental implants to replace missing teeth in several ways.
Single Tooth Replacement
Picture a dental implant as a sturdy, fresh base for a lost tooth. It melds perfectly with your jawbone, acting as the anchor for a hardwearing, stain-defying artificial tooth or crown that is meticulously crafted to blend with the hue of your remaining teeth. Although the initial expense of a dental implant might surpass other tooth replacement alternatives, its enduring advantages are significant, underscored by an impressive success rate. Moreover, an implant is not susceptible to decay, negates the necessity for root canals, and presents a sensation quite akin to your real teeth.
Multiple Tooth Replacement
In situations where multiple teeth are missing, there’s no need to place an individual implant for each absent tooth. Dental implants can serve as robust supports for fixed bridges. For example, in the case of three consecutive missing teeth, installing just two implants at both ends of the missing section could be enough to firmly anchor a bridge covering the gap. This method reduces the necessity for replacing each tooth separately. Unlike traditional practices that depend on adjacent natural teeth for support—which can lead to wear and increase the risk of decay and root canals—dental implants provide independent support, alleviating these issues.
Fixed Implant-Supported Dentures
Implants offer a robust foundation for custom-fitted dentures, guaranteeing a secure and stable fit for both upper and lower jaws. Typically, just four implants can solidly support a complete arch of prosthetic teeth. Yet, in cases of significant loss of jawbone, additional implants may be necessary to adequately support a set of 10 to 12 teeth. These durable, implant-supported dentures are crucial in maintaining the health of the jawbone and are designed to potentially last a lifetime. Furthermore, they help preserve the natural shape of the face, preventing the sunken appearance often associated with tooth loss.
Implant-Supported Removable Dentures
Dental implants offer a dependable way to secure a full denture, resembling a complete set of synthetic teeth. Typically, four implant posts are placed by a dentist or specialist to act as the strong base to which the denture is firmly attached. These implant-supported dentures remain stationary in the mouth, avoiding the common issue of movement or slippage associated with traditional dentures. This improved steadiness not only boosts comfort but also greatly enhances function during actions such as talking and eating. Moreover, the snug fit provided by dental implants contributes to a more natural look and feel, increasing the confidence of the user.
What Do Dental Implants Cost?
Dental implants are often seen as a cost-effective choice when considering the long-term benefits for your health, comfort, and overall quality of life. Though initially more costly than alternative tooth replacement options like dentures or bridges, dental implants tend to be a more durable solution, with most not requiring replacement over time.
It’s advisable to consult with your dental insurance provider to understand what expenses may be covered under your dental benefits. Additionally, Coast Dental Spring Hill offers partnerships with third-party financiers, which could help make the cost of dental implants more manageable within your household budget.
To determine if dental implants are suitable for you, the initial step is arranging a consultation. If you’re missing one or more teeth, don’t hesitate to reach out to our dentist in Brooksville by calling (352) 596-8199 today.
