Dental Implants
Many individuals reach out to Coast Dental Willow Bend inquiring whether dental implants are a suitable option for replacing missing teeth or stabilizing dentures. Dental implants offer a robust, enduring solution that enables you to eat, speak, and smile with assurance for many years ahead.
A dental implant consists of a titanium post, resembling a small screw, which is inserted by a dentist or specialist into the jawbone beneath your gums. Over time, the bone integrates with the implant, forming a solid foundation for a crown, bridge, or fixed denture. Notably, dental implants boast a success rate exceeding 95%, making them a significantly more reliable option compared to other tooth replacement methods.
How Dental Implants Work
At our Coast Dental office in Lutz, we can use dental implants to replace missing teeth in several ways.
Single Tooth Replacement
Envision a dental implant as a sturdy, fresh foundation for an absent tooth. It merges flawlessly with your jawbone, acting as the anchor for a resilient, stain-proof artificial tooth or crown that is meticulously crafted to blend with the shade of your surrounding teeth. Although the initial investment in a dental implant may surpass that of alternative tooth-replacement choices, its enduring advantages are exceptional, underscored by an impressive success rate. Moreover, an implant is not susceptible to decay, negates the necessity for root canals, and provides a sensation very similar to that of your natural teeth.
Multiple Tooth Replacement
In cases where several teeth are missing, it isn’t necessary to place an individual implant for each missing tooth. Dental implants can serve as solid supports for fixed bridges. For example, if you have a gap from three consecutive missing teeth, installing just two implants—one at each end of the gap—may be sufficient to securely anchor a bridge that covers this space. This method reduces the need for replacing each tooth separately. Unlike traditional methods that depend on adjacent natural teeth for support—potentially causing wear and increasing the risk of decay and the need for root canals—dental implants provide independent support, alleviating these issues.
Fixed Implant-Supported Dentures
Implants offer a robust foundation for custom-made dentures, ensuring a secure and stable fit for both the upper and lower jaws. Typically, only four implants are necessary to solidly support a full arch of dentures. However, in cases of significant jawbone loss, additional implants may be required to adequately sustain a set of 10 to 12 teeth. These durable, implant-anchored dentures are crucial for maintaining the health of the jawbone and are designed to last potentially a lifetime. Moreover, they help maintain the natural contour 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, replicating an entire row of artificial teeth. Typically, a dentist or specialist places four implant posts that act as a strong base for the denture to be securely attached. These implant-supported dentures remain stable in the mouth, avoiding the common problem of movement or slippage associated with traditional dentures. This increased stability not only enhances comfort but also greatly improves function during actions such as speaking and eating. Furthermore, the snug fit provided by dental implants contributes to a more natural sensation and look, increasing the confidence of the wearer.
What Do Dental Implants Cost?
Considering their longevity, dental implants can be a cost-effective choice for a long-term investment in your oral health, comfort, and overall quality of life. While the initial price of implants might be higher than that of other tooth replacement options like dentures or bridges, dental implants typically have a much longer lifespan—in many cases, they may never need replacement at all.
We suggest reaching out to your dental insurance provider to determine if your plan offers any coverage for dental implants. Additionally, at Coast Dental Willow Bend, we are partnered with third-party financing companies that could assist in making the cost of dental implants manageable within your family’s budget.
To determine whether dental implants are the correct solution for you, the initial step is to arrange a consultation. If you’re dealing with the loss of one or more teeth, please contact our Lutz dentist by calling (813) 909-1317 today.
