The Benefits of Dental Implants in Sarasota, FL

The teeth are a vital component to overall health. They are specifically designed to last a life time. However sometimes, they simply don't. Whether it's through years of neglect and poor oral care or through an unfortunate accident, sometimes teeth are lost or pulled. Missing teeth lead to an abundance of problems including the loss of chewing capability, poor appearance, strain on the remaining teeth, and diminished overall health. When facing the loss of a tooth, a dental implant offers numerous benefits as a viable option to replace the missing or damaged tooth.

What is an implant?

A dental implant in Sarasota, FL is a man made substitute for the root of a missing tooth. It is an artificial tooth root or anchor that is surgically inserted to hold a replacement tooth or crown. It is an ideal option for those who have lost teeth from periodontal disease, tooth decay, or accidental injury.

What are the benefits of dental implants?

There are numerous advantages to dental implants. They are considered especially beneficial to those who cannot wear removable dentures. First, dental implants protect the remaining teeth by reducing the load and stress caused by the missing tooth. In addition, an implant reduces the need to cut down or grind away the adjacent healthy teeth often needed to perform conventional bridgework. This has also been shown to reduce the need for follow up restorative care on the adjacent teeth.

Furthermore, dental implants work to preserve the bone and reduce bone reabsorption and deterioration. When a tooth is lost, the surrounding jawbone begins to shrink and become brittle. This atrophy actually begins to change the shape of the face and causes it to look prematurely aged. Dental implants help to stop or reverse this process. The implant helps to improve the facial contours and minimize premature wrinkling.

Dental implants replace loose and ill-fitting dentures with permanent improved support and stability. They enable patients to better chew their food and to speak more clearly and confidently.

Are there disadvantages to dental implants?

Inserting a dental implant is a surgical procedure. In addition to the increase in cost compared to conventional restorative procedures, patients will also face a period of healing before the implant can be used properly. There is also some amount of risk that follows any standard surgery procedure such as infection, bleeding, and nerve damage.

The incidents of fracture to porcelain crowns is also higher on dental implants than on natural teeth. This is due to the lack of shock absorbency between the implant and the jawbone. This risk can often be reduced with proper care and caution when using the implant.

Losing a tooth leaves a patient with decreased self-esteem and greater susceptibility to a number of health issues. Replacing the tooth is important, but is often a difficult decision as undergoing surgery for dental implants can be a scary and costly prospect. Dr. Koval and her team understand your concerns.

To discuss your options, contact Dr. Koval today. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will review your personal dental history and thoroughly review all recommended courses of action. Dr. Koval and her team realize that sometimes budget is a concern and patients may put off needed dental work to avoid expensive dental bills. However, this can actually lead to more extensive work and greater health problems. During every dental implant consultation, they offer a detailed treatment plan with a full breakdown of all expenses involved. In addition, they provide a number of payment and financing options including cash, credit card, Care Credit, and Springstone. Let Dr. Koval and her team help you today.