Dental Implants
Many individuals reach out to Coast Dental St. Lucie West with questions about whether dental implants are a suitable option for replacing missing teeth or stabilizing a denture. Dental implants are recognized for their strength and longevity, providing a reliable foundation that enables individuals to enjoy eating, speaking, and smiling with confidence for many years.
A dental implant consists of a titanium post that resembles a tiny screw in shape. This post is surgically inserted into the jawbone beneath your gums by a dentist or specialist. Over time, the jawbone fuses with the dental implant, creating a solid foundation for a crown, bridge, or permanent denture. Impressively, dental implants boast a success rate of over 95%, making them a more effective tooth-replacement choice compared to other methods.
How Dental Implants Work
At our Coast Dental office in Port St Lucie, we can use dental implants to replace missing teeth in several ways.
Single Tooth Replacement
Envision a dental implant as a robust, new base for a lost tooth. It melds perfectly with your jawbone, providing the foundation for a strong, stain-resistant artificial tooth or crown that is meticulously crafted to blend with the shade of your surrounding teeth. Although initially more expensive, the enduring advantages of a dental implant are significant, underscored by an impressive success rate. Moreover, an implant is not susceptible to tooth decay, avoids the necessity for root canals, and delivers a sensation remarkably similar to your original teeth.
Multiple Tooth Replacement
In scenarios where multiple teeth are absent, there’s no need to place an individual implant for each one. Dental implants can provide robust support as the foundational anchors for fixed bridges. Take an example where three consecutive teeth are missing; it may only be necessary to place two implants, one at each end of the space, to securely support a bridge that covers the span. This strategy minimizes the need for replacing each tooth separately. Unlike traditional methods that depend on adjacent natural teeth for anchorage—leading to additional wear and an increased risk of decay and root canals—dental implants stand independently, alleviating such issues.
Fixed Implant-Supported Dentures
Implants offer a robust foundation for custom-fit dentures, guaranteeing a secure and stable fit for both the upper and lower jaws. Typically, just four implants can provide solid support for an entire arch of dentures. Nonetheless, in cases of significant jawbone deterioration, additional implants may be necessary to support a set of 10 to 12 teeth adequately. These durable, implant-supported dentures are crucial in maintaining the health of the jawbone and can last potentially 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 complete denture, which resembles a full row of artificial teeth. Typically, a dentist or specialist will insert four implant posts that act as a sturdy base for the denture to be securely attached. These implant-supported dentures remain fixed in the mouth, avoiding the common issue of shifting or slipping that often plagues traditional dentures. This increased stability not only boosts comfort but also greatly improves functionality during activities like speaking and eating. Furthermore, the secure attachment provided by dental implants promotes a more natural look and feel, enhancing the wearer’s confidence.
What Do Dental Implants Cost?
Considering the long-term benefits, dental implants can be seen as a cost-effective choice for your health, comfort, and overall happiness. While the upfront cost of implants might be higher compared to other tooth-replacement solutions like dentures or bridges, the longevity of dental implants – with many never requiring replacement – offers significant value over time.
It’s advisable to consult your dental insurance provider to understand what expenses might be offset by your plan. Moreover, Coast Dental St. Lucie West collaborates with third-party financiers, which could assist in incorporating the cost of dental implants into your budget.
To determine whether dental implants are the right solution for you, starting with a consultation is key. If you’re missing one or more teeth and interested in exploring your options, reach out to our dental practice in Port St. Lucie by calling (772) 343-0179 to schedule your appointment today.
