Dental Implants
Many individuals reach out to Coast Dental Sebring inquiring whether dental implants are a viable option for replacing missing teeth or stabilizing dentures. Dental implants offer a robust and enduring solution, enabling you to eat, converse, and smile confidently for many years ahead.
A dental implant consists of a titanium post, designed to resemble a miniature screw. This post is surgically inserted into the jawbone beneath your gums by a dentist or specialist. Over time, the bone integrates with the implant, forming a solid foundation for attaching a crown, bridge, or permanent denture. Impressively, dental implants boast a success rate exceeding 95%, markedly surpassing that of other tooth replacement methods.
How Dental Implants Work
At our Coast Dental office in Sebring, we can use dental implants to replace missing teeth in several ways.
Single Tooth Replacement
Envision a dental implant as a robust, fresh base for a missing tooth. It melds perfectly with your jawbone, acting as the foundation for a strong, stain-proof artificial tooth or crown, meticulously crafted to blend with the hue of your natural teeth. Although the initial investment in a dental implant might surpass that of other tooth replacement methods, its enduring advantages stand out, underscored by an exceptional success rate. Moreover, an implant is immune to decay, negates the necessity for root canals, and provides a sensation nearly indistinguishable from your natural teeth.
Multiple Tooth Replacement
When dealing with multiple missing teeth, it’s not always necessary to place an individual implant for each absent tooth. Dental implants can serve as robust supports for fixed bridges. For example, if you have a gap from three consecutive missing teeth, it may only be necessary to insert two implants—one at each end of the gap—to securely support a bridge covering this space. This method lessens the need to replace each tooth separately. Unlike traditional techniques that depend on adjacent natural teeth for support—potentially causing wear and increasing the risk of decay and root canals—dental implants provide independent support that reduces these risks.
Fixed Implant-Supported Dentures
Implants offer a durable foundation for custom-made dentures, designed for long-lasting and stable placement on either the upper or lower jaw. Typically, as few as four implants are sufficient to anchor an entire arch of prosthetic teeth securely. In cases where there has been significant loss of jawbone, additional implants may be necessary to adequately support a set of 10 to 12 teeth. These robust, implant-supported dentures are crucial for maintaining the health of the jawbone and are constructed to potentially last a lifetime. Additionally, they help maintain the natural shape of the face, preventing the sunken appearance often associated with tooth loss.
Implant-Supported Removable Dentures
Dental implants can secure a complete denture, representing a full row of artificial teeth. Typically, a dentist or specialist installs four implant posts, onto which the denture is firmly attached. These implant-supported dentures remain stable within the mouth, avoiding the common shifting or slipping associated with traditional dentures. This stability offers improved comfort and functionality during speaking and eating.
What Do Dental Implants Cost?
Viewing dental implants as a long-term investment can often highlight their cost-effectiveness in terms of health, comfort, and overall quality of life. While the initial cost of implants might be higher compared to other tooth replacement options like dentures or bridges, dental implants offer superior longevity, with many not requiring replacement over a lifetime.
It’s advisable to consult with your dental insurance provider to understand what costs may be mitigated by your plan. Additionally, Coast Dental Sebring offers partnerships with third-party financiers, potentially easing the integration of dental implant expenses into your family’s budget.
The first step towards improving your dental health with implants is to book a consultation to determine if they are the right choice for you. If you’re missing one or more teeth and considering your options, you’re encouraged to contact our Sebring dentist today at (863) 471-1176.
