Dental Implants
Numerous inquiries are made to Coast Dental South Fort Myers by individuals curious about whether dental implants are a viable option for replacing missing teeth or anchoring a denture securely. Dental implants are renowned for their durability and longevity, empowering individuals to enjoy eating, speaking, and smiling with confidence for many years.
A dental implant consists of a titanium post, small and screw-shaped, that is surgically inserted into the jawbone beneath the gums by a dentist or specialist. Over time, the jawbone fuses with the implant, forming a robust foundation for an artificial tooth crown, bridge, or fixed denture. What’s outstanding about dental implants is their consistently high success rate, exceeding 95%, which notably surpasses that of alternative tooth-replacement methods.
How Dental Implants Work
At our Coast Dental office in Fort Myers, we can use dental implants to replace missing teeth in several ways.
Single Tooth Replacement
Imagine a dental implant as a solid, new foundation for a missing tooth. It integrates seamlessly with your jawbone, serving as the base for a durable, stain-resistant artificial tooth or crown that is carefully designed to match the color of your existing teeth. While the upfront cost of a dental implant may be higher than other tooth replacement options, its lasting benefits are remarkable, highlighted by an outstanding success rate. Additionally, an implant is impervious to cavities, eliminates the need for root canals, and offers a feel almost identical to that of your natural teeth.
Multiple Tooth Replacement
For cases with several missing teeth, it’s not imperative to install a separate implant for every missing tooth. Dental implants can act as sturdy anchors for fixed bridges. For instance, if there’s a gap due to three missing teeth in a row, placing just two implants, one at either end of the gap, might suffice to securely hold a bridge that spans this area. This approach reduces the requirement for individual tooth replacement. In contrast to conventional methods, which rely on surrounding natural teeth for support—thereby causing wear and heightening the chances of decay and the need for root canals—dental implants offer self-sufficient support, mitigating these concerns.
Fixed Implant-Supported Dentures
Implants provide a strong base for tailor-made dentures, ensuring a durable and steady fit for both the upper and lower jaws. Often, only four implants are required to firmly support a full arch of false teeth. However, in situations where there is extensive jawbone loss, more implants might be needed to properly support a set of 10 to 12 teeth. These sturdy, implant-anchored dentures play a vital role in preserving jawbone health and are built to last potentially for a lifetime. Moreover, they aid in retaining the face’s natural contour, avoiding the sunken look commonly linked to losing teeth.
Implant-Supported Removable Dentures
Dental implants provide a reliable method to anchor a complete denture, which mimics an entire row of artificial teeth. In most cases, a dentist or specialist will install four implant posts that serve as the solid foundation onto which the denture is securely fastened. These implant-supported dentures stay fixed in place within the mouth, eliminating the frequent shifting or slipping that traditional dentures often suffer from. This enhanced stability not only improves comfort but also significantly enhances functionality during activities like speaking and eating. Additionally, the secure fit facilitated by dental implants allows for a more natural feel and appearance, boosting the wearer’s confidence.
What Do Dental Implants Cost?
Considering dental implants as a long-term investment can highlight their cost-effectiveness for your health, comfort, and overall quality of life. While they may seem pricier upfront compared to other tooth replacement options like dentures or bridges, dental implants are designed to be much more enduring, with many lasting a lifetime without needing replacement.
To understand the potential coverage for this procedure, it’s a good idea to review your dental insurance plan or check with your provider. Additionally, at Coast Dental South Fort Myers, we offer options for third-party financing that can assist in accommodating the expense of dental implants within your family’s budget.
To determine whether dental implants are suitable for you, we invite you to book a consultation with us. If you’re experiencing tooth loss, reach out to our Fort Myers dentist office at (239) 415-1880 to schedule your appointment.
