Dental Implants
Many individuals contact Coast Dental Tarpon Springs inquiring whether dental implants are a viable option for replacing missing teeth or securing dentures. Dental implants offer a durable, long-term solution that enables you to eat, speak, and smile confidently for many years.
A dental implant consists of a titanium post designed like a tiny screw, which a dentist or specialist inserts into the bone beneath your gums. Over time, the bone fuses around the implant, providing a solid foundation for a crown, bridge, or fixed denture. Remarkably, dental implants boast a success rate exceeding 95%, significantly outperforming other tooth-replacement methods.
How Dental Implants Work
At our Coast Dental office in Tarpon Springs, we can use dental implants to replace missing teeth in several ways.
Single Tooth Replacement
Think of a dental implant as a robust, new foundation for a missing tooth. It blends seamlessly into your jawbone, providing the anchor for a strong, stain-resistant artificial tooth or crown that is meticulously crafted to match your existing teeth’s color. Although the initial investment in a dental implant might be higher than other tooth replacement alternatives, the long-term advantages are significant, underscored by an excellent success rate. Furthermore, an implant is not susceptible to cavities, removes the necessity for root canals, and delivers a feel that is nearly indistinguishable from your natural teeth.
Multiple Tooth Replacement
In situations where multiple teeth are missing, it’s not always necessary to place an individual implant for each missing tooth. Dental implants can serve as robust supports for fixed bridges. For example, in the case of three consecutive missing teeth, placing just two implants at both ends of the gap can be enough to firmly anchor a bridge covering that space. This method lessens the need for replacing each tooth separately. Unlike traditional techniques that depend on adjacent natural teeth for support—leading to wear and increasing the risk of decay and root canals—dental implants provide independent support, alleviating these issues.
Fixed Implant-Supported Dentures
Implants offer a robust foundation for custom-fitted dentures, providing a secure and stable fit for both upper and lower jawlines. Typically, a full arch of prosthetic teeth can be securely supported with as few as four implants. However, in cases where there is significant loss of jawbone, additional implants may be necessary to adequately support a set of 10 to 12 teeth. These strong, implant-supported dentures are crucial for maintaining the health of the jawbone and are designed to endure potentially a lifetime. Additionally, they assist in maintaining 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 place four implant posts that form a strong base for the denture to be securely attached. These implant-supported dentures are fixed in position within the mouth, preventing the common movement or slipping associated with traditional dentures. This increased stability not only enhances comfort but also greatly improves functionality during actions such as speaking and eating. Moreover, the secure fit provided by dental implants delivers a more natural feel and look, increasing the wearer’s confidence.
What Do Dental Implants Cost?
Dental implants can be seen as a cost-effective choice when considered a long-term investment in your health, comfort, and overall well-being. While the initial cost of implants is higher compared to other tooth-replacement options like dentures or bridgework, dental implants have a longer lifespan; indeed, most do not require replacement.
It is advisable to consult with your dental insurance provider to determine what portion of the cost may be covered by your dental benefits. Coast Dental Tarpon Springs also offers financing through third-party partnerships, which might help you integrate the cost of dental implants into your household budget.
The initial step is to arrange a consultation to find out if dental implants are suitable for you. If you’re missing one or more teeth, contact our Tarpon Springs dentist today at (727) 942-4144.
