Dental Implants in Bonita Springs, Florida: Your Permanent Smile Solution

You’ve embraced life and smiled through many years of moments. Some crazy, some quiet, some ordinary, some unforgettable. Your smile carries history. However, when teeth are missing, it can change how you act and feel about your smile. Many people adapt by covering their mouths when they laugh or avoiding certain foods. It doesn’t have to stay this way.

Dental implants provide a stable and lasting way to restore your teeth, your confidence and your freedom. Unlike dentures that rest on your gums, implants use titanium posts placed in the jawbone. They are made to look and function like natural teeth, and many patients see life-changing results in just months. If you’re in the greater Fort Myers area, you’ll be happy to know that this tooth replacement option is close to home.

At Aspen Dental in Bonita Springs, Florida, Dr. Eliana Betzios helps patients reclaim their smiles with permanent solutions built to last. Flexible financing options are also available, making dental implants accessible regardless of insurance status. With a 99% approval rate for patients who apply, the goal is simple: help you restore your dental health and feel good about your smile.

What are dental implants, and how do they work?

Thanks to advances in science and technology, dental implants are the closest replacement to natural teeth. An implant consists of three parts: a titanium post that fuses with the jawbone, a support piece that connects the post to the replacement tooth and a custom crown that looks and feels like a real tooth.

Here's what sets implants apart from traditional dentures. Instead of resting on the gums and relying on an adhesive, an implant is anchored directly into your jawbone. This stability allows you to bite, chew, and speak with confidence. You won't experience the slipping, clicking, or discomfort often associated with dentures. Over time, the titanium post becomes part of the bone, creating a foundation as strong as a natural tooth root.

The process takes several months from start to finish, but the results are worth the wait. Most patients leave their first appointment with a clear understanding of their timeline and investment. No surprises. No pressure. Just straightforward care tailored to your situation.

Why does this matter? Dental implants help preserve your jawbone. When teeth are lost and not replaced, the jawbone can begin to deteriorate. This may affect your facial structure and lead to additional oral health issues over time. Implants help slow this process by stimulating the bone, just like natural tooth roots do.

Why are patients in Bonita Springs choosing implants over dentures?

Southwest Florida's active senior population understands the difference between living with tooth loss and living freely. Traditional dentures may seem affordable upfront. They often, however, come with ongoing costs such as replacement every 5 to 10 years, regular adjustments and the continued need for an adhesive to prevent dentures from slipping. 

Dental implants change that equation. While the initial investment is higher, an implant placed today can last a lifetime with proper care. The crown may need a replacement at some point, but not the entire system. You simply maintain them like natural teeth: brush and floss daily and keep up with routine checkups. That's it.  

Here’s a helpful comparison. Dentures generally need to be replaced every 5 to 7 years. Over time, that can mean multiple replacements and mounting costs. An implant is a one-time investment in stability and permanence.  

For Bonita Springs residents who love boating, golfing, dining out and staying active, implants offer freedom. You eat what you want. You smile without hesitation. You no longer need to keep an adhesive on hand or worry about your teeth shifting during conversations.  

What does the dental implant process look like at Aspen Dental?

From consultation through restoration, Dr. Eliana Betzios takes a patient-first approach. Your initial visit includes a thorough evaluation, a review of your health history, advanced imaging to assess jawbone density, and a determination of whether implants are right for you. 

Implant placement is performed under local anesthesia. Dr. Betzios creates a small opening in the jawbone and places the titanium post. You'll feel pressure, but pain should be minimal. The implant then needs time to fully fuse with the bone. This healing phase, known as osseointegration, is essential for long-term stability. 

Once healing is complete, your custom crown is attached. You walk out with a tooth that looks, feels and functions naturally. Throughout the process, your Aspen Dental care team stays connected, answers questions and helps ensure your comfort.  

How much do dental implants cost in Bonita Springs?

A single tooth implant typically costs more than a denture, but over time it often costs less than replacing dentures multiple times. To help make treatments more accessible, flexible financing through trusted third-party lenders is available. Ninety-nine percent of patients who apply are approved. Thanks to monthly payment plans, you can begin your transformation right away. 

During your consultation, Dr. Betzios will verify your insurance, provide clear cost estimates with no hidden fees, and discuss financing options tailored to your budget.  

Insurance note: Medicaid is not accepted at Aspen Dental offices. However, most PPO dental insurance plans provide coverage for implant treatment.  

What should I expect during recovery?

Recovery is often easier than expected. Most patients experience mild discomfort that can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Soft foods are recommended during the first week, along with avoiding strenuous activity. The full process typically spans 4 to 6 months, from your initial consultation to the final restoration of your smile.  

Are you a candidate for dental implants?

Most people are candidates for implants. Adequate jawbone is required to support the post. If bone loss has occurred, bone grafting can help rebuild lost bone when necessary.

During your consultation, Dr. Betzios will determine your eligibility based on your bone density, oral health and overall medical history. Questions and concerns are always welcome.  

Dr. Betzios and your dental care team are focused on finding solutions that work for you.

When should you schedule your implant consultation?

If you're missing teeth and tired of limitations, now may be the right time to explore your options. The longer you wait, the greater the risk of additional jawbone loss. This does not mean rushing into treatment but rather getting an expert evaluation so you can understand your choices and timeline.  

A consultation with Dr. Eliana Betzios costs nothing beyond a standard exam. You'll walk away with clarity about your situation, your possibilities, and your investment. You'll understand what comes next if you decide to move forward and what financing options are available. Most importantly, you'll see a clear path toward renewed confidence.

You've waited long enough to feel comfortable sharing your smile. Bonita Springs residents deserve to enjoy active, vibrant lives without the burden of tooth loss. Dental implants make that possible.  

Frequently asked questions about dental implants

Will implants feel like natural teeth?

Yes. Once healed and restored, implants function and feel like natural teeth. You can chew comfortably, speak clearly and experience no movement or shifting. Most patients adjust within a few weeks and forget they have implants.

How long do dental implants last?

Implants are designed to last a lifetime. Studies show extremely high success rates with proper care. Your crown may need a replacement over time, but the implant post can support new crowns indefinitely.

Does Aspen Dental accept Medicaid for implants?

No. Medicaid is not accepted at Aspen Dental offices. However, most PPO dental insurance plans provide coverage for implant treatment. Your benefits are verified during your visit and financing options are available. Plus, 99% of patients who apply for third-party financing are approved.

What's the difference between implants and dentures?

Dentures rest on the gums and rely on an adhesive to stay in place. They need regular adjustments, routine replacement and daily removal for cleaning. Implants are anchored in the jawbone, designed to feel more natural, last significantly longer and do not require adhesive.

Is the implant procedure very painful?

No. Local anesthesia keeps you comfortable during placement. You may feel pressure, but pain should be minimal. Post-procedure soreness is typically mild and manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.

How many appointments will I need?

For a single tooth implant, most patients need three to four appointments over several months. These include your consultation, healing checks and crown placement. Dr. Betzios schedules appointments with your availability in mind.

Your smile is worth the investment

Dental implants represent the best of modern dentistry: a lasting solution, natural function and meaningful quality-of-life improvement. Dr. Eliana Betzios and the Aspen Dental care team in Bonita Springs combine clinical expertise with genuine care, treating every patient with respect and compassion.

If you're ready to reclaim your smile and confidence, schedule an appointment today. Call Aspen Dental in Bonita Springs or schedule online. Dr. Betzios and the team look forward to helping you enjoy your smile again.