Dental Implants
Numerous individuals reach out to Coast Dental South Tampa inquiring whether dental implants are an effective option for replacing missing teeth or for securing dentures firmly. Dental implants are a robust and enduring solution that enables confident eating, speaking, and smiling for many years.
A dental implant consists of a titanium post, designed like a miniature screw. This post is implanted into the jawbone beneath your gums by the dentist or specialist. Over time, the jawbone integrates with the dental implant, forming a solid foundation for an artificial crown, bridge, or permanent denture. What’s most impressive is that dental implants boast a success rate of over 95%, which is notably higher than other dental restoration methods.
How Dental Implants Work
At our Coast Dental office in Tampa, we can use dental implants to replace missing teeth in several ways.
Single Tooth Replacement
Picture a dental implant as a sturdy, fresh foundation for a lost tooth. It blends flawlessly with your jawbone, acting as the anchor for a long-lasting, stain-proof artificial tooth or crown that’s meticulously crafted to match your natural teeth’s color. Although the initial investment for a dental implant might be more than other tooth replacement methods, its enduring advantages are significant, underscored by an exceptional success rate. Plus, an implant is not susceptible to cavities, removes the necessity for root canals, and provides a sensation nearly indistinguishable from your real teeth.
Multiple Tooth Replacement
In situations where multiple teeth are missing, it isn’t necessary to place an individual implant for each absent tooth. Dental implants can serve as solid supports for fixed bridges. For example, a gap resulting from three consecutive missing teeth can be effectively bridged by installing just two implants, one at each end of the gap, to securely anchor the bridge covering that space. This strategy minimizes the need to replace each tooth separately. Unlike traditional methods that depend on adjacent natural teeth for stability—risking additional wear and increasing the likelihood of decay and subsequent root canals—dental implants provide independent support, reducing these risks.
Fixed Implant-Supported Dentures
Implants offer a robust foundation for custom-fitted dentures, providing a secure and stable placement for both upper and lower jaws. Typically, just four implants are needed to solidly anchor a full arch of prosthetic teeth. However, in cases where significant jawbone loss has occurred, 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 can 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 means of anchoring a full denture, replicating an entire row of false teeth. Generally, a dentist or oral specialist places four implant posts that act as a robust base for the secure attachment of the denture. These implant-supported dentures remain stationary in the mouth, free from the common shifting or slipping associated with traditional dentures. This improved steadiness not only heightens comfort but also markedly betters function during actions such as talking and eating. Moreover, the snug fit provided by dental implants contributes to a more natural sensation and look, enhancing the user’s self-assurance.
What Do Dental Implants Cost?
Dental implants can be viewed as a cost-effective choice when considering their long-term value to your health, comfort, and overall quality of life. While the initial cost of implants is higher than other tooth replacement options like dentures or bridges, dental implants have a much longer lifespan and often don’t require replacement.
It’s advisable to contact your dental insurance provider to determine what portion of the cost might be covered under your dental plan. Additionally, Coast Dental South Tampa offers financing options through third-party partnerships that can assist in managing the expense of dental implants within your household budget.
To explore whether dental implants are suitable for you, the first step is to book a consultation. If you’re dealing with the loss of one or several teeth, please reach out to our Tampa dentist at (813) 254-6838 to set up an appointment today.
