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What Would Four Dental Implants Cost
What is the cost for 4 implants in the front of my mouth?
I have a removable bridge at the present time, which I hate.
Wow --- what a loaded question. There are many variables on this question. Anterior esthetics are important and are a prime consideration in how to handle this situation. When there is ample bone present, it is much easier to place implants and restore them esthetically. Oftentimes the cause of anterior tooth loss is traumatic – a blow or fall – or periodontal - and this often compromises the amount of bone present. With inadequate bone, there are options of adding bone by grafting, placing smaller implants, or not placing implants at all…it just varies.
The only way that we can give you any kind of answer as to what we advise is to see you personally and get proper photos, x-rays and visual exam. Even with adequate bone present, there are times that we place 4 implants, as you envision, and there are times that you can get a more esthetic result with less than 4 implants. You don’t necessarily place one implant for each tooth lost. We will also have to evaluate the rest of your mouth to see what is appropriate and logical for you.
Please consider making an appointment for an implant consultation so that we can give you our opinion of what is the best advice for YOU.
Chuck Campbell, DDS
Dale Brant, DDS
(713) 795-5905Labels: cosmetic dental implants, cost of dental implants
 
A dental implant is the best possible cosmetic tooth replacement. The most common form of implant is a root form implant, which is a titanium post that screws into the jawbone. This artificial tooth root can then support any number of restorations that both work and look like natural teeth. What are the benefits of dental implants?
An implant has several benefits. Like the roots of natural teeth, it stimulates the jawbone when you chew. Jawbones are naturally stimulated by tooth roots when people bite down on food. The vibrations keep the bone stimulated and growing. When a tooth is lost, the jawbone will recede when this stimulus ceases. However, an implant restores this stimulus and keeps the tooth healthy.
An implant is strong, comfortable, and secure. When the restoration is in place, the implant looks and feels much like natural teeth.
With careful homecare and regular checkups and cleanings here in our office, an implant can be an excellent long-term solution for missing teeth.
How can an implant do for me?
An implant can support a variety of cosmetic tooth restorations, such as
A single crown
This restoration is almost always an all-porcelain crown. The newer types of porcelain that are now used to make implant retained tooth restorations look like natural teeth and are extremely durable. You will be able to chew all of the foods you normally eat.
A multi-unit bridge
This type of bridge anchors to an implant rather than to natural teeth. This prevents wear and tear that will result if the bridge is anchored to the teeth themselves. Bridges are non-removable, so for some people full-arch dentures supported by dental implants are a preferred option.
Full-arch dentures
These are removable tooth replacements for people who have lost natural teeth. Full-arch dentures can be manufactured to give you the match the characteristics of natural teeth the patient lost. New developments in cosmetic dentistry have made it possible to use materials that create much better dentures than the stereotypical false teeth of the past. Dental implants can be used to support dentures that are anchored to the jawbone through the implant, but can also be snapped out and removed during sleep. The advantage to this system is it prevents bone loss because the implants emulate tooth roots and keep the jaw continuously stimulated.
Diagnosis and treatment
Depending on the situation, placing a dental implant is a process that takes several appointments over a period of months. Surgery is involved, so we use sedation dentistry with a trained anesthesiologist to keep you from feeling any pain.
Before this happens, however, we check your medical history and make certain you’re a candidate for implants. If the health of your gums and jawbone has deteriorated, we may need to perform bone grafting or gum surgery before we install implants.
When we are ready to install them, a channel is shaped in the jawbone, and then the implant is inserted into the prepared space. We may use a temporary restoration to cover the implant over the next few months as the bone grows around it. Once this has happened, we place your cosmetic restoration over the dental implant.
Labels: cosmetic dental implants, dental tooth restoration
Full Dental Restorations
Full dental restorations are needed anytime a person loses several teeth in their upper or lower arch. Missing teeth are a serious problem. If you do nothing about the fact that some of your teeth are gone, you will eventually have problems with all of your remaining teeth.
That’s why it’s strongly recommended that you contact our office and talk to us about the options you have for tooth replacement. The nature and cost of each of these options varies, but nothing should ever make you think that there is no option for you. Something can be done, and there is always a way to work out financing through one of our many payment option programs for qualified dental patients.
Delaying treatment is never a sound course of action. Your remaining teeth need one another to stay in alignment. Any gap in the upper or lower arch is going to negatively impact the teeth on either side of the gap. Also, the jawbone is going to recede when one or more teeth are lost and tooth roots no longer stimulate the bone through chewing. Speaking and eating will become very hard for you as well.
Your lips and cheeks will lack the support they need for a more youthful appearance. For these reasons, we recommend one of three full dental restorations to help you stay healthy and keep a beautiful smile.
Depending on your medical and your financial situation, you could choose any of the following three options:
· A conventional full denture
· An overdenture
· Cosmetic Dental Implants
Conventional full dentures
When all of your teeth are missing or must be removed, a full dental restoration can be done with a set of conventional dentures. Conventional dentures can fit and function well at the start.
However, when all the teeth in an arch are missing, the jawbone gradually shrinks. This can be prevented by placing dental implants in the gaps to replace the tooth roots, then using the implants to support the dentures. This may be out of your price range, however, but it is something you can do later down the line if you choose.
Another option for full dental restoration is to save the remaining teeth and actually use them to help secure a set of overdentures fill in the gaps.
Overdentures
An overdenture looks the same as a regular denture, but it’s held in place by some of your existing teeth. This allows overdentures to be more secure and feel more natural than conventional dentures. And because some of your natural teeth are left in place, loss of bone in your jaw is slowed significantly.
Implants
Implants are small titanium posts that are placed into the bone of your jaw. They are the best of all full dental restoration options because they replace the roots of missing teeth, they help maintain the health and shape of the jawbone. Like we have already noted, implants also hold dentures, or they can support porcelain crowns.
However, implants require surgery, and they can take months to heal completely.Labels: cosmetic dental implants, cosmetic dentures, full dental restorations, overdentures
When you are missing some of your teeth (a condition known as a partially edentulous arch), it is imperative that you do something. Delaying treatment is never a good idea, because the medical impact of doing nothing is worse than you probably assume. Missing teeth will cause other teeth to grow out of alignment. Cheek muscles will cave in and wrinkle. A person can start looking older than they really are, and the jaw bone will begin to deteriorate due to the absence of a tooth root to grow around. You do not want this to happen to you.
Fortunately, you have more than one option. These choices include the following:
· A bridge
· Implant-supported crowns or a bridge
· A partial denture
Bridges
There are several types of dental bridges you can have placed in your mouth to substitute for missing teeth. Before we look at these options, let’s first understand what a dental bridge is.
A dental bridge is an artificial tooth that is attached to the teeth on either side of the gap in your smile. These teeth work as anchors, holding the bridge in place and providing support. A bridge is fixed in the mouth and is therefore more stable and secure.
The problem, however, is the effect a bridge can have on surrounding teeth. In order to place the bridge in the first place, we have to reduce tooth surfaces in order to make it fit. This makes the teeth more vulnerable to decay. In severe cases, root canals eventually have to be done on some of these teeth.
However, getting a bridge requires us to reduce the size of the supporting teeth, and reducing teeth can sometimes lead to decay and the need for root canal therapy.
This type of dental bridge is called a fixed or non-removable bridge. It is commonly used as a restoration for an edentulous arch. A second type of bridge is supported by dental implants. This eliminates the need to use surrounding teeth as brackets. This is better for your teeth, although it is also more expensive.
Implants
You can also get dental implants as replacements for missing teeth. Implants use a titanium post to substitute for the tooth roots of missing teeth. The post supports a porcelain crown that is by all accounts the best possible and longest lasting tooth replacement. Not only does the crown act as a fully functional tooth, but it looks realistic. The post mimics a tooth root just enough to fool the jawbone into thinking a tooth root is still there, so bone recession is prevented.
Implants do require surgery, and recovery time can be several months. They are also expensive.
Partial dentures
Partial dentures can also works as missing tooth replacements. Of course, this is not the very best restoration for a partially edentulous arch, but it may be the most affordable option for you in the beginning. There are several types of partial dentures we can make for you. We can fit you with an all-acrylic flipper, which is a form of provisional partial denture. We can also fit you with a metal-based conventional partial denture if you prefer. For patients that need additional support for their restorations, implant supported dentures are also sometimes used. Labels: cosmetic dental implants, cosmetic removable partial dentures, missing teeth replacements, partially edentulous arch
Houston Dental Implants
I am very interested in the dental implants. I have had some work done on my mouth but would like for my teeth to be more natural. I also had gum surgery about 7 months ago, so I would really appreciate your opinion on whether or not I could be a candidate for implants.Carolyn
Hello, Carolyn.
Most patients that are missing one or more teeth can benefit by the placement of dental implants. It is very dependent on how much bone you have remaining, but we have different sizes of implants to fit different width of residual bone support.We will contact you and try to answer some of your questions by phone, but the best way for you to learn what your options are is to make an appointment for an implant consultation and come into the office. We will take photos and necessary x-rays and show you what is appropriate for your situation.
Thanks for the inquiry…
Chuck Campbell, DDS
Dale Brant, DDS
713-795-5905Labels: cosmetic dental implants
How Much is a Dental Implant Per Tooth?
I have very bad teeth and I was wandering the cost of the dental implants per tooth? My dental insurance only covers $1500 per year and I know it's going to cost more than that.Thank You!--PatrickHi, Patrick… thanks for the inquiry. The cost of a dental implant is usually about $1800. When we work with implants, however, we don’t figure one implant for each missing tooth, if that is what you are thinking. We have to make a decision as to how strong the existing natural teeth are and how many implants fit in any given situation. For instance, if you are missing all of your teeth, we don’t multiply by 32 to replace every single tooth with an implant – not necessary or practical.
The only way I can really teach you is for you to come in for a consult appointment. We will take photos and complete x-rays and possibly even study models to understand your need and your options. There is always more than one choice of what to do. Diagnosis from afar is not recommended.
In general, dental insurance is reluctant to cover dental implants. Some policies will cover, and these are getting more common now that the use of dental implants is becoming more routine. It will all depend on your need, but there are usually enough other things being done that you can get most of your insurance benefit, or we can sometimes stretch treatment over the end of a year to get you two annual benefit amounts. We can help you to understand what your policy will cover.
Give us a call when you are ready. It is an interesting process, and a formal consult is the only way you can really understand your options.
Chuck Campbell, DDS
Dale Brant, DDS
(713) 795-5905Labels: cosmetic dental implants, cost of dental implants
How Much is a Dental Implant Per Tooth?
I have very bad teeth and I was wandering the cost of the dental implants per tooth? My dental insurance only covers $1500 per year and I know it's going to cost more than that.Thank You!--PatrickHi, Patrick… thanks for the inquiry. The cost of a dental implant is usually about $1800. When we work with implants, however, we don’t figure one implant for each missing tooth, if that is what you are thinking. We have to make a decision as to how strong the existing natural teeth are and how many implants fit in any given situation. For instance, if you are missing all of your teeth, we don’t multiply by 32 to replace every single tooth with an implant – not necessary or practical.
The only way I can really teach you is for you to come in for a consult appointment. We will take photos and complete x-rays and possibly even study models to understand your need and your options. There is always more than one choice of what to do. Diagnosis from afar is not recommended.
In general, dental insurance is reluctant to cover dental implants. Some policies will cover, and these are getting more common now that the use of dental implants is becoming more routine. It will all depend on your need, but there are usually enough other things being done that you can get most of your insurance benefit, or we can sometimes stretch treatment over the end of a year to get you two annual benefit amounts. We can help you to understand what your policy will cover.
Give us a call when you are ready. It is an interesting process, and a formal consult is the only way you can really understand your options.
Chuck Campbell, DDS
Dale Brant, DDS
(713) 795-5905Labels: cosmetic dental implants
When you are missing one or more teeth, you have several options.
You can choose to do nothing and delay treatment.
You can choose to get a dental bridge.
You can choose to get dental implants.
Let’s take a look at the advantages and disadvantages to dental bridges and the alternatives to dental bridges.
Delaying treatment
Most people immediately assume they are giving themselves a financial advantage by delaying treatment. After all, not seeking treatment means not having to pay a dental bill.
However, this is only going to cause you more problems. Your health will suffer, and in the long run, your pocketbook will suffer as well. Leaving your teeth as they are will cause them to shift. Over time, your bite will change. This will cause some teeth to become loose, and you will eventually lose them as well.
Choosing a dental bridge
A dental bridge is an excellent way to replace one or more missing teeth and restore stability to your mouth. A bridge is a natural replacement that is attached securely to the supporting teeth. They are dependable, easy to care for, and they look great.
This is why many Houston dentists recommend dental bridges. A bridge fills the space between existing and restores your natural bite and smile.
The disadvantage to a bridge is it has to be anchored to natural teeth and will wear on the enamel, damaging them in the process.
Trying a partial denture
A partial denture is a removable replacement for missing teeth. A partial will work well if several teeth are missing in the mouth because it will in the spaces and keep surrounding teeth in alignment.
The disadvantage to a partial as an alternative to a dental bridge is that dentures of any kind are not as strong as natural teeth and make less than ideal replacements.
Some dentures also make annoying sounds when you eat, and all have to be removed and cleaned at times. Of course, the more you are willing to invest in high quality dentures, particularly fixed partials, the better your chance at getting something workable in terms of a tooth replacement.
Still, dental implants are the best alternative to dental bridges if you have enough remaining bone mass to implant them.
Getting implants
Dental implants really are the best form of tooth replacement. They are designed to be permanent and completely assume the function of natural teeth. An implant with a crown can also replace a tooth, and it does not require us to work on the teeth next to the space. Implants stop bone loss and require surgery. Treatment time is somewhat longer, but the outcome is cosmetic and often indistinguishable from natural teeth.Labels: cosmetic dental implants, Dental Implants, dentures
Alternatives to Dental Bridges
Alternatives to Dental Bridges-BLOG
When you are missing one or more teeth, you have several options.
You can choose to do nothing and delay treatment.
You can choose to get a dental bridge.
You can choose to get dental implants.
Let’s take a look at the advantages and disadvantages to dental bridges and the alternatives to dental bridges.
Delaying treatment
Most people immediately assume they are giving themselves a financial advantage by delaying treatment. After all, not seeking treatment means not having to pay a dental bill.
However, this is only going to cause you more problems. Your health will suffer, and in the long run, your pocketbook will suffer as well. Leaving your teeth as they are will cause them to shift. Over time, your bite will change. This will cause some teeth to become loose, and you will eventually lose them as well.
Choosing a dental bridge
A dental bridge is an excellent way to replace one or more missing teeth and restore stability to your mouth. A bridge is a natural replacement that is attached securely to the supporting teeth. They are dependable, easy to care for, and they look great.
This is why many Houston dentists recommend dental bridges. A bridge fills the space between existing and restores your natural bite and smile.
The disadvantage to a bridge is it has to be anchored to natural teeth and will wear on the enamel, damaging them in the process.
Trying a partial denture
A partial denture is a removable replacement for missing teeth. A partial will work well if several teeth are missing in the mouth because it will in the spaces and keep surrounding teeth in alignment.
The disadvantage to a partial as an alternative to a dental bridge is that dentures of any kind are not as strong as natural teeth and make less than ideal replacements.
Some dentures also make annoying sounds when you eat, and all have to be removed and cleaned at times. Of course, the more you are willing to invest in high quality dentures, particularly fixed partials, or cosmetic removable partial dentures, the better your chance at getting something workable in terms of a tooth replacement.
Still, dental implants are the best alternative to dental bridges if you have enough remaining bone mass to implant them.
Getting implants
Dental implants really are the best form of tooth replacement. They are designed to be permanent and completely assume the function of natural teeth. An implant with a crown can also replace a tooth, and it does not require us to work on the teeth next to the space. Implants stop bone loss and require surgery. Treatment time is somewhat longer, but the outcome is cosmetic and often indistinguishable from natural teeth.Labels: cosmetic dental bridges, cosmetic dental implants, cosmetic removable partial dentures
Houston Implant Dentists
There are all sorts of advertisements both in the newspaper and all over the Internet for Houston implant dentists. People see these ads and draw all sorts of conclusions—some accurate, some not so accurate—about the true nature of these highly specialized dental professionals.The following FAQ is intended to address some of these perceptions and misperceptions with the simple facts about this very important and highly sought after cosmetic dental service.What do Houston implant dentists do?First and foremost, they provide permanent tooth replacements for missing teeth. The importance of this cannot be underestimated. No other form of tooth replacement can be expected to last for the life of the patient.What are the benefits of permanent tooth replacement?Houston implant dentists offer patients both medical and cosmetic benefits as a result of these amazing tooth prosthetics.While technically in a manner of speaking, there is only one type of Houston implant dentist, most of these professionals specialize in one or the other phase of implant dentistry. These phases are the surgical phase and the prosthetic phase. The surgical phase involves placing the actual implant into the jawbone itself. The prosthetic phase involves placing an abutment over the implant to create a stable, flat surface for a crown. The actual placement of the crown is called the prosthetic phase of dental implantation.Where do they get their knowledge?Houston implant dentists must undergo standard dental school training in General Dentistry in order to learn the basic dynamics of tooth, gum, and bone health. They must also attend cosmetic dentistry school in order to learn how to make implant dentistry help their patients not only medically, but also cosmetically beneficial to the patient as well. If possible, they also mentor under an implant dentist who can teach them advanced surgical implantation and prosthetic placement strategies so Houston residents can receive the maximum medical and emotional benefits from their dental implants.Why should patients see a Houston implant dentist?Although dental implants cost more than bridges and dentures, they are well worth the money. They are the only form of tooth replacement that is permanent and expected to last for the life of the patient. They are certainly less conspicuous and difficult to clean than dentures.
They are also better for natural teeth than are bridges. Bridges require the use of natural teeth as anchors to support the bridge. Over time, this puts stress on tooth enamel and causes
Dental implants, however, go directly into the jaw bone in a way that actually helps the bone grow back toward its original shape. They do not impact the surrounding teeth in any way and thus are much more tooth-preserving than dental bridges.What makes the Medical Center Dental Group Unique?Perhaps the most unique thing about our practice is Dr. Charles Campbell’s dual specialization in both the surgical and prosthetic aspects of dental implants. Many cosmetic dentistry centers in Houston either perform the surgical aspect of dental implantation or the prosthetic aspect of it.
However, in our office, Dr. Campbell does both. He has mentored for over 20 years now with Dr. Hilt Tatum, who is regarded as the leading authority in the world on cosmetic dental implants. Labels: cosmetic dental implants, houston dental implants, houston dental office
What are dental implants?Houston dental implants are permanent tooth replacements.How do they differ from other tooth replacements?Dental implants differ from other tooth replacements because they are permanently affixed to the jaw bone itself. Not only does the base of the implant actually attach to the jaw, it eventually becomes a part of it.What are they made of?Dental implants are made of three components. The actual implant is basically a titanium-based alloy made from a material called Tivolloy. This is a bio-friendly metal that is easily accepted by the jaw and the gums.The bottom of the implant is shaped like a screw. This allows it to be twisted into the bone and firmly set within it. This is important, because in order to remain in the mouth, the device must become a part of the bone so it does not originally fall out.The second part of the dental implant is called an abutment. It is a small metal post the helps anchor and secure the base of the tooth replacement.The third part is the crown. It is made from porcelain, and it works in the same way that other cosmetic dental crowns work. It both looks and functions like a natural tooth. This is because porcelain is the same color as tooth enamel. It is also because porcelain is extremely hard, and it is capable of chewing any number of foods.What makes cosmetic dental implants superior to dentures and dental bridges?There are a number of problems associated with both dentures and dental bridges.To begin with dentures, the cheaper models often make embarrassing clicking noises when a person chews. They also have to be taken out and cleaned which leaves a person toothless for the time being and often creates embarrassing situations when dentures are found in a glass.Bridgework can create problems as well. Bridges have to be affixed to anchor points, which in the case of permanent bridgework, means bracketing tooth replacement to surrounding natural teeth. Over time, the stress of chewing can put enough strain on these brackets that they wear down the enamel of natural teeth.Dental implants overcome both sets of problems. Because they are permanently attached to the jaw, they do not have to be taken out for cleaning. In fact, they can be brushed and flossed just like natural teeth.Dental implants also go into the jawbone itself and do not affect surrounding, natural teeth in a negative way. In fact, they actually help natural teeth grow straighter because they close the gaps caused by missing teeth.Are there other benefits besides these?The greatest benefit they bring, aside from a completely natural-looking smile, is the reversal of bone loss. When teeth are lost, the bones that normally grow around the roots begin to recede. Implanting a tooth replacement directly into the bone reverses this process by giving it something to grow around.Labels: cosmetic dental implants, cosmetic dentistry Houston, dental implant, dental implants houston, houston dental implants
Surgical Phase
The surgical phase of Houston Dental Implant treatment involves placing an artificial tooth root into the jawbone itself. This base resembles a screw on the bottom and so gives the bone a structure around which to grow.
The immediate benefit of this is that it stops bone recession, which always begins after a tooth is lost and the root no longer has a root around which to grow.
The long term benefit of this is that bone recession eventually reverses itself and begins to engulf the dental implant--provided the treatment is performed in time. This process is called osseointegration and can take up to six months.
Post-Operative Phase
In order to give osseointegration and gum healing the best chance of success, there are immediate steps that the dentist has each patient take.
After the dentist places the dental implants, a surgical dressing will be applied to the area around the incision. Patients should keep this in place for as long as possible, and they should use cotton swabs to clean the areas around dental implants rather than brushing.
Salt water rinsing helps to prevent irritation of the gums, and should be performed twice a day for two weeks following the surgical phase. Antibiotics, if prescribed, should be taken as directed.
It is important that Houston dental implant patients maintain a high protein diet for the duration of the first part of the postoperative phase. Foods that are an excellent source of protein are eggs, soup, cottage cheese, milk products, and lean ground beef.
It is best, at least at first, to chop these foods in a blender. This is because a soft diet helps the incisions around the dental implant to heal. Houston dental implant patients should avoid hard foods.
If no infection occurs, the patient should still return in two weeks for suture removal and post-op evaluation. The dentist may place a temporary crown over the dental implant(s) at this time.
The remainder of the healing process can take six months.
Restorative Phase
After osseointegration has completed itself; the second phase of the dental implant process begins. If a temporary crown was placed, the dentist removes it and replaces it with an abutment. This is a special screw-like covering that goes over the implant.
The dentist will then cap the abutment with a porcelain crown. This creates an entirely new, artificial tooth that is very aesthetically appealing and amazingly strong.
Phase I and Phase II of implant dentistry are often performed by separate dentists, as one involves dental surgery, and the other phase involves cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Charles Campbell at the Houston Medical Center Dental Group is one of the few Houston dentists who will frequently perform both phases for his patients. He mentored under the best specialists in the world, and he has been working with titanium dental implants since the mid-1980s.
Labels: after cosmetic dentistry, cosmetic dental implants, houston dental implants
Dr. Charles Campbell is our leading expert in Houston dental implants. Dr. Campbell’s experience in restorative implant dentistry is some of the most impressive of any dental professional in the city of Houston. Since 1985, he has trained with one of the best implant dentists in the world, Dr. Hilt Tatum. He has completed multiple, ongoing coursework at the Las Vegas Institute of Cosmetic Dentistry, and he has developed an extensive skill set in restorative treatment. Not only does Dr. Campbell offer to the people of Houston dental implants that can replace individual, missing teeth, but he has perfected the ability to utilize dental implants in full mouth reconstructions that can literally fill an empty mouth with what appears to be all natural tooth replacements.
Our when it comes to restorative services, our practice is somewhat unique in the city of Houston. Dental implants must be placed in the mouth in two phases. The first phase is known as the surgical phase, where the base of the implant is affixed to the jaw. The second phase is called the restorative phase, where a porcelain crown is placed over the base and actually functions as the visible tooth replacement.Most cosmetic dental offices perform either the surgical phase of the procedure or the restorative phase. If the dentist performs the surgical phase, he or she then refers the patient to another dentist who will then affix the porcelain crown to the tooth root replacement. The disadvantage here is that the patient has to see more than one dentist to receive proper care.
On the other hand, Dr. Campbell has made it a point to specialize in both phases of implant dentistry so that patients of the Cosmetic Dentistry Center of Houston can receive dental implants in a single location. This makes it easier for the patient in two respects. First, the patient usually feels more comfortable working with a single dentist that he or she has already become accustomed to. Secondly, dental insurance issues are much less complicated when there is only a single dentist involved. Also, patients receive the very best aesthetic outcome when they come to the Cosmetic Dentistry Center of Houston. Dental implants here are carefully, custom-made to fit the mouth of the patient so that the new porcelain crowns look so much like the original, natural teeth that virtually no one can tell they are artificial. This allows a patient to do away with dentures once and for all. It also enables a person to begin eating a normal diet once again, because porcelain is such a hard substance that it can chew anything that natural teeth can handle. Labels: cosmetic dental implants, houston dental implants, tooth restorations
People feel more confident, and find it easier to smile when they invest in Houston dental implants.No one wants to reveal that they are missing teeth. Society will make all sorts of judgments about the fact that a man or a woman has lost one or more teeth. The closer that the missing teeth are to the front of the mouth, the more embarrassing this gap in the bite becomes.
Houston dental implants, one of the major specialties of the Medical Center Dental Group, can do away with this terrible embarrassment. By repairing the smile with tooth replacements that look virtually identical to original, natural teeth, our team helps restore confidence to the soul who was previously too shy.Our Houston dental implants service can also restore a healthy diet to patients.When a person is missing teeth, he or she either has to bite down with a incomplete set of teeth, or put up with the problematics of wearing dentures. There are varying kinds of dentures, but none that are free from problematics. Dentures have to be removed for cleaning, and the less expensive models often make embarrassing clicking noises. Even worse, there are some foods you simply cannot chew with dentures.One of the advantages that the Houston Medical Center Dental Group offers to our dental implants patients is the option to get rid of dentures once and for all and replace them with harder, permanent tooth replacements that will actually chew any food substance just like natural teeth will.The face will look younger because skin will wrinkle less.Many people do not know this, but the muscles of the face retain their vitality and shape largely due to the presence of teeth in the mouth. When people lose teeth, the face and lip muscles begin to sag because there is no pressure within the mouth to retain their rigidity. Over time, this causes a great deal of wrinkling to occur in these areas. In severe cases, an entire portion of the face may drop. Dental implants can prevent this from happening by implanting teeth replacements that are custom-made to compliment surrounding teeth. Nothing looks more natural than a porcelain implant whose shape has been designed to mimic the tooth it is replacing, and whose surface area both looks and functions like natural tooth enamel.
You will feel better about your long term health when you realize that bone loss has been stopped in its tracks.Teeth are vital to the health of both upper and lower jaw bones. The jaw bone depends upon the tooth root just as much as the tooth depends upon the jaw. Bone actually has something to grow around when a root system is present within its form.
When one or more teeth are lost, the bone begins to recede from what is now an empty socket. Over time, this can lead to irreversible bone loss. However, patients can come to the Houston Medical Center and obtain dental implants that can reverse this recession. Because the titanium root of the implant works just like a natural tooth root, the bone now has a reason to grow back to its original shape—if implantation occurs in time. Labels: cosmetic dental implants, houston dental implants, implant dentistry houston
The aesthetic and medical benefits of cosmetic dentistry aesthetic and medical benefits are many, to say the least. They restore health and beauty to the smile, and they restore the ability of the patient to enjoy a full and normal lifestyle once again.
Many people believe that cosmetic dental services are too expensive. This is not so. Many treatments are similar in cost to the more advanced general dentistry and orthodontic procedures. There are also numerous financial assistance programs and payment options available as well that can help patients afford to get the treatment they need.
One of the most common benefits of cosmetic dentistry is whiter teeth.
Teeth can become discolored for many different reasons. They may yellow from smoking tobacco or drinking coffee. They may turn brown because of prescription medicine side effects. Others simply become discolored as a result of age.
There are many ways to fix this. The simplest treatment is cosmetic tooth whitening. Cosmetic tooth whitening combines in-office cleaning with at-home bleaching over a period of approximately two weeks. Stains go away, and teeth look beautiful once more.
Tooth repair is another benefit of cosmetic dentistry.
Before cosmetic dentistry became a separate branch of dentistry, a cracked tooth that could not be filled had to be extracted or replaced with a gold crown. This is no longer necessary. Minor cracks can be covered with cosmetic porcelain veneers, or they can be filled in with cosmetic resin bonding agents.
Severely cracked teeth may still require capping with a crown. However, the crowns used today are made from porcelain and look just like tooth enamel. Porcelain is also hard, and it can chew anything that natural teeth can bite.
Teeth straightening can now be done more cost effectively and without metal braces.
Orthodontic treatment has existed for years. In recent years, however, one of the more recent benefits of cosmetic dentistry has been the option to straighten teeth with a variety of non-metal braces or mouthpieces that function like braces.
Many of these devices take less time to work than metal braces, and all of them cause far less discomfort. They are also either tooth-colored or practically invisible, so you can wear them without feeling like you cannot smile in public.
Tooth replacement is perhaps the oldest benefit of cosmetic dentistry that has been practiced since Ancient Times.
The Egyptians made dental implants from seashells to replace missing teeth. Implants today are made from Tivolloy (a bio-friendly Titanium alloy). The Tivolloy implant is shaped like a screw that affixes to the jaw itself, and a porcelain crown fits right over its top.
Dental implants may be very expensive, but they offer benefits beyond the cosmetic when you consider how they stop bone loss in its tracks and allow a person to resume eating a normal diet that almost no dentures can provide in the same way.
Labels: benefits of cosmetic dentistry, cosmetic dental implants, cosmetic tooth whitening
If you have a lower denture it is a good idea to go ahead and get it replaced with a lower jaw implant. A lower jaw implant will look much more like a natural tooth and will provide you with a more effective chewing surface.
You already know how uncomfortable a lower denture can be. You have probably noticed that it hurts to choose sometimes. This is because when you lose teeth, the bone in your jaw starts receding. Nerves that run to the surface of the bone become sensitive when you bite down.
Partial dentures are not the best solution to the problem of missing teeth because they do not anchor to the jaw itself. Lower jaw implants do, however. Shaped like cylinders with screw-shaped bottoms, these tooth root replacements are embedded in the bone itself, which then believes them to be natural tooth roots. This stops the process of bone recession, and it provides a sturdy base to cap with a porcelain crown that looks just like a natural tooth.
You may be saying at this point that you have lost too many teeth to replace all of your lower dentures with implants. In this case, we recommend you schedule an appointment and at least start with a combination of dentures and implants. What we will do is to connect the new lower jaw implants with a bar, then clip the new dentures to the bar.. These clips snap down on the bar and keep the denture from moving around and making those obnoxious, embarrassing noises. You can still take out your dentures to clean them, however, and this will also help you better clean the bar and the porcelain crowns.
Regardless of the option you ultimately go with, be aware that any implantation procedure is the one sure way to take the pressure off of jaw bones and nerves. And, like we already mentioned, they give the bone something to grow around so that bone loss gets stopped in its tracks.
Lower jaw implants are placed in your mouth in a two-phase process. The first phase is the surgical phase. Patients are sedated during this phase to prevent them from feeling pain. The dentist makes a small incision in the gums and screws the titanium base into the jaw bone. Over the next few months the jaw bone grows around this base, thinking it is a new tooth root.
Lower jaw implants are placed using a two-phase procedure. The first phase is called the surgical phase and involves sedating you so you will not feel any pain. The dentist makes a small incision in your gum and screws the implant in to the jaw bone. A few months are needed for the bone to accept the implant and properly heal.
Once it heals, a porcelain crown is then made that looks identical in size and coloration to your surrounding teeth. This is placed over the artificial root to provide a hard, comfortable surface for chewing that looks so close to the real thing no one will even know you are using a tooth replacement.
Not only will this make eating more enjoyable, but it will make you feel more confident when you smile and talk to other people.Labels: cosmetic dental implants, dentures, implant dentistry, tooth replacements
Can I Afford Dental Implants?
Ask The Dentist The Cosmetic Dentistry Center in the Houston Medical Center Dental Group offers the full range of cosmetic dentistry procedures and general dentistry practices. Every patient is treated as a genuinely unique individual with his or her own set of unique and specific needs. We like to say that no two smiles are exactly alike, so when you come to our office, you can be confident we provide your smile with a restorative or cosmetic solution that is specifically created just for you._______________I am a 36yr old male. About four years ago I had several molars pulled. They were in bad shape from heavy meth use. I have been drug free for 12yrs. I would like to get dental implants but I am not sure I can afford it. I have insurance, but I’m not sure what or how much it covers. So I guess my question would be how much this procedure cost ??
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Thanks for the question --- it sounds like you are a perfect candidate for dental implants. As you suspect, dental insurance will be limited. There are always things that they will cover and other things that they will not cover. After we get a good examination with x-rays and photos, we can give you a pretty good idea of what your insurance will help you with. A predetermination will also give you more information.
That said, the majority of the cost will not be covered by your insurance, so we often advise patients to make their financial plans based on the total cost, and then any money available from insurance is a pleasant surprise and will be helpful. You cannot make your plans on complex dental work based on dental insurance.
Costs vary widely according to what you need. There will always be options that you have for dental treatment, and each option is different in cost. Honestly, the only way we can help you to understand your needs and options and the cost options is for you to come in and have a complete exam that includes photos and x-rays. Otherwise, we would be just guessing. Give us a call and let one of us help you understand your situation.
Chuck Campbell, DDS
Dale Brant, DDS
(713) 795-5905Labels: cosmetic dental implants, dental insurance, finacial options for cosmetic dental implants
Ask the Dentist: Can I Get Dentures if I have Soft Enamel?
Ask The DentistThe Cosmetic Dentistry Center in the Houston Medical Center Dental Group offers the full range of cosmetic dentistry procedures and general dentistry practices. Every patient is treated as a genuinely unique individual with his or her own set of unique and specific needs. We like to say that no two smiles are exactly alike, so when you come to our office, you can be confident we provide your smile with a restorative or cosmetic solution that is specifically created just for you.________________________________________________________________When I was between 15 and 16, my dentist told me that I had soft enamel. She said I would have to basically work twice as hard to take care of my teeth. I have done my best, but now they have gotten much worse.I have several questions for you.- Does having soft enamel prevent me from getting partial dentures?
- Would I need full dentures instead?
- What is the average cost of both extraction and the denture cost?
I am not sure if this would help, but I have dental insurance through Aetna. Thanks, Benjamin
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Hi, Benjamin.
People with soft enamel, and all people who are more cavity prone, for that matter, definitely spend more time in the dental chair.
The questions you ask are good ones, but it would not be possible to answer blindly without seeing you in the dental office.
I would recommend a complete exam with x-rays and photos to learn what your problems are exactly. Then you can pursue your various options of treatment. You will find many options of treatment that might include periodontal treatment and possibly the inclusion of implants if you are missing teeth. You definitely need to spend some time in a dental office learning what all is going on.
Chuck Campbell, DDS
Dale J. Brant, DDS
713-795-5905
Labels: cosmetic dental implants, cosmetic removable partial dentures, denture costs, full dentures, soft enamel
Extreme dental makeovers involve full mouth reconstructions with dental implants and fixed porcelain bridges. A full mouth reconstruction is very similar to building a highway bridge. The implants act like columns that support the bridge, and the bridges themselves are like the pavement you drive across. This is only a metaphor intended to show how a dental extreme makeover is actually performed in your mouth. The outcome looks much more cosmetic than a bridge in the outside world.
Because the implants provide the actual support in extreme dental makeovers, the distances between teeth determine the number of implant needed. This follows the same principle as bridge construction over rivers. A short span bridge over a small stream may require only two columns on either side. A longer bridge over a 10 lane freeway, however, often needs up to ten supports.
When performing an extreme dental makeover for a patient, the dentist first examines existing natural teeth and measures of the distances between them. These distances are used to determine the number of implants that are needed to support fixed porcelain bridges that are later built between implants and any existing teeth that are capped with porcelain crowns.
The key to extreme dental makeovers is training and knowledge in advanced cosmetic dentistry that helps us understand where implants have to be placed and where bridges have to be built. When there is only a small distance between teeth, we only need build a short span bridge. A longer bridge requires one or more implants. If there is a very long space along the bone with no teeth, and only one or two natural teeth, the dentist may cap these natural teeth and use these as anchor supports for bridges.
The intent in an extreme dental makeover is to make a cosmetically superior outcome from a position of strength and stability. Once enough support is created between implants and natural teeth, the dentist can places all porcelain bridges and crowns. Sometimes people find it very challenging, though, to invest in this complex combination of implants, crowns, and bridgework. For these people, there are many more affordable, temporary options that can be explored. Often, people get the necessary implants to build future supports for bridges, and then they invest in partial dentures that will work as viable tooth replacements while they are saving up money for permanent, more durable tooth replacements.
Extreme dental makeovers offer everyone, regardless of how badly damaged their teeth have become, or how many teeth they have lost, the opportunity to confidently smile with a full set of natural, healthy, and white teeth.Labels: cosmetic dental implants, denta makeover, extreme dental makeover, full mouth reconstruction
Ask the Dentist: What is the Cost of Full Upper Dental Implants?
Ask The DentistThe Cosmetic Dentistry Center in the Houston Medical Center Dental Group offers the full range of cosmetic dentistry procedures and general dentistry practices. Every patient is treated as a genuinely unique individual with his or her own set of unique and specific needs. We like to say that no two smiles are exactly alike, so when you come to our office, you can be confident we provide your smile with a restorative or cosmetic solution that is specifically created just for you.
I need full upper dental implants, I was wondering what ballpark price range I would be looking at, and how much recuperation time I would be looking at. I nned the upper teeth pulled as well as the implants put in.
Thank you so much for you time
Barbie Conigliaro
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Thanks for the enquiry, Barbie. The questions you ask are the right ones, but they are very hard to answer without seeing you and understanding your needs and wants. Implant cases vary widely according to the dental situation. Simple cases might require 1-2 implants, complex cases might require many more. Another variable is how much bone you have remaining if teeth have been removed or if periodontal disease is present.
By far the best way to understand what your options are is to come in for a complete exam that includes x-rays, photos, and a visual examination. Only with this information can we give you any type of estimate of cost and difficulty.
We would be happy to spend time with you, but it is just not done well blindly. Please set up an exam day and we will spend the time to show you what your options and potential costs are.
Chuck Campbell, DDS
Dale Brant, DDS
Labels: cosmetic dental bridges, cosmetic dental implants
Dental makeovers give you an entirely new smile there are a number of things you can count on receiving when you come to the Cosmetic Dentistry Center for advanced dental services.
Cosmetic Tooth Whitening
Teeth get darker as we age. They also get stained from things we eat and drink. A lot of people smoke too, which definitely creates a yellowing effect on the teeth.
One of the things a person gets from a dental makeover is cosmetic tooth whitening services. The dentist applies a special bleaching gel to your teeth to remove stains. He or she then sends you home with a special ray to apply home bleaching agent for the next two weeks. After that, you return for a second office visit and a final bleaching session.
All-Porcelain Bridges
Another great aspect of a dental makeover is the use of all-porcelain bridges. In past years, bridges were made from a blend of porcelain and metal. However, the presence of the metal would eventually show up as a blue line near the gums, which made it obvious that the patient was wearing a bridge.
The bridges used today are far more sophisticated. They are made completely out of porcelain and can handle normal biting and chewing just like natural teeth. They also look like natural teeth!.
Porcelain Veneers
Sometimes we only need to reshape a tooth, and the method we use to do this is with the application of porcelain veneers. Veneers are made from thin shells of porcelain and are bonded to the teeth by the dentist. They also help close gaps between teeth, help lengthen small or misshapen teeth, and even help whiten teeth with stains on them. Porcelain veneers will also last for many years.
All-Porcelain Crowns
In the old days, dentists often had to pull teeth that had decayed or fractured past a certain point. With the invention of dental crowns, however, dentists could then save many of these teeth by first performing a root canal, then capping it with a crown. Crowns had to be cast out of a blend of metal and porcelain in order to give them a somewhat natural look but also the needed strength to handle biting and chewing.
Today’s all-porcelain crowns are light years past those used in the past. They have a strength that is unsurpassed by their predecessors, and they look identical to natural teeth. They even have a translucence that mimics the color and texture of natural tooth enamel.
Dental Implants
A dental makeover can actually replace missing teeth as well through implant dentistry. Titanium implants, which are bio-friendly, can be inserted into the jawbone, where they take the place of tooth roots that have been lost. After the bone accepts the implant, the implant is then capped with a porcelain crown.Labels: cosmetic dental crowns, cosmetic dental implants, dental makeover
Ask The Dentist: Dental Implant Options
Ask The DentistThis forum gives you the opportunity to ask a dentist about conditions you may be experiencing and treatment options you may want to consider. This forum is free and open to the public.I have had dentures since i was 23 and have some bone deterioration of the bone in my lower jaw. I want more than anything to be able to brush my teeth. People take that for granted. My upper jaw i saw that now you have the implants that do not cover the whole top of the mouth. I also would like that. I know the cost is going to be some what high but i have also seen that they have mini implants and that does lower the cost. I am 31 and hate having dentures.
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Hi, Angela.
You are the perfect candidate for dental implant treatment. There are several different options that you will have, depending upon the amount of residual bone that you have. You need to begin the process by coming in for a comprehensive exam. We can then tell you a lot about what options would be best for you. If you will call our office, I have alerted Debbie to look for your call. She can answer just about any question you might have, and she can get you scheduled at a time when we can spend enough time to help you fully understand your options. We have photos and plaster models of just about any of the appropriate treatments for you. It is easier to explain these things when we can be knee-to-knee and spend some time together.
Hope to see you soon!Labels: cosmetic dental implants
What is the starting cost of dental implants. My main concern at the moment is a missing front tooth. I need an idea on how much it will cost since financing is not an option. -Barbara
Hi, Barbara,
The cost will depend upon what is necessary. Depending on what conditions are present, the cost of restoring missing teeth can be more than you expect. In our opinion, you cannot get a true picture of what your needs are, and therefore what your costs will be, over the internet. There is much often more going on than you realize. I assume -- that you are assuming -- you have a simple situation. Some are straightforward and some are complex.. Having an implant plus a crown to restore it can vary approximately from $2500 - $5000 if a single implant is what you need..
Ø Have you already lost a tooth?
Ø Is the spacing right to just restore one tooth? Is the spacing crowded? Is there too much space?
Ø Do you have root canal needs? Have there been root canals done on teeth nearby?
Ø Have you had a fall or a blow?
Ø Have you lost bone in the area you are asking about?
Ø Do you have a tooth that you can tell will be lost?
Ø Do you have periodontal problems with this area and adjacent teeth?
Ø There are certainly times when the bone is OK and adequate, that an implant is a great idea, and there ore other situations in which an alternate treatment would be better for you. Dental implants are terrific, but there are times when they are contra-indicated (lack of bone, esthetic demands).
Ø Do your other front teeth have needs? Matching teeth color can be tricky, and there are times that other fillings need to be replaced or other crowns need to be done at the same time.
Truly the only way that we can understand your needs and give you an estimate of costs for your needs is for you to come into the office and let us take x-rays, photos, study models, etc. Please call and come by for an exam. You will learn what your whole situation is and what your options are. There are always several options.
Chuck Campbell, DDS
Dale Brant, DDS
(713) 795-5905
Labels: cosmetic dental implants, cosmetic dental procedures, financial options
Ask The Dentist:What is the number scale that hygienists use to measure the amount of recession going on? Does it have a name, and is it universally used in the USA?
Dentistry uses the metric system for measurement. In assessing periodontal bone and/or soft tissue loss, the measurements would be in millimeters. The most common measurement is the depth of the periodontal pocket, in which we use a periodontal probe to measure the distance from the base of the gingival pocket to the gingival crest. The norm is approximately 2-3 mm, and deeper than this basically reflects periodontal bone loss.
When there is also recession of tissue, the facial root surface is exposed. Measurement of tissue loss and recession would be from the cervical line (where the enamel ends) to the height of the exposed root.
Adding these 2 numbers together would show total loss – bone lost in pocket + facial soft tissue lost.
There are a variety of ways to gather records, but these are the parameters that we are trying to assess. Individual clinicians would have different techniques and methods.Chuck Campbell, DDS (713) 795-5905 Labels: bone loss, cosmetic dental implants, periodontal pocket, tooth roots
The Snap-On Smile is a non-invasive, patented dental device that can be used in both restorative and diagnostic applications.
There is no need for any drilling, Novocain shots, or adhesive bonding to install it. In fact, most applications can be completed in as little as one half hour.
The Snap-On Smile can raise the vertical dimension of facial height.
Tooth surfaces diminish after long periods of Bruxism and attrition. Face muscles will eventually begin to sag because of this. Restoring the proper surface areas of teeth will in reverse this drooping effect, create a healthier and more natural looking smile, and prevent further Bruxism at night.
The Snap-On Smile is the most comfortable and attractive cosmetic removable partial denture developed to date.
Tooth loss creates two problems for people. One problem is gaps in the smile. The other problem is the damaged appearance of remaining teeth. By applying a Snap-On Smile, both problems can be corrected at once. The Cosmetic Dentistry Center of Houston can make these cosmetic removable partials in either quadrant or full arch sizes. Patients almost unanimously report these are the best dentures they have ever used. One group of patients in particular—those with a strong gag reflex—especially like these dentures because they cover only the teeth, not the palate.
The Snap-On Smile has consistently proven itself to be a superior form of temporary replacement for people receiving implants.
The unobtrusive nature of the device prevents it from coming from impinging on gingival tissues. Because of its 100 percent tooth-retention, it puts far less pressure on the mouth in general. This makes it far easier for tissues that have received an implant to heal.
This device has also proven to be a very effective surgical template in a number of procedures such as cosmetic gingivectomies. After such a surgery is performed, the near perfect fit that the tooth-retained partials provide provides the gum line with an ideal contour to follow in healing and post-surgical growth.
Many people come to us looking to use The Snap-On Smile for exclusively cosmetic purposes.
There are all types of negatives that can impact the way teeth look. Such issues as midline discrepancies, stains in teeth, worn teeth, chips and small cracks, dark triangles, and even uneven tooth sizes can all be cosmetically altered by this simple device. It is also possible to use these remarkable tooth retained dentures as temporary tooth replacements during full mouth reconstruction work that can take up to 18 months. While bridges and implants are being placed in the mouth, the Snap-On Smile can show a consistently natural and healthy looking face to the world while the dentist works quietly behind the scenes.Labels: cosmetic dental implants, cosmetic removable partial dentures, cosmetic tooth whitening, dental abfraction, dental tooth implants, full mouth reconstruction, Snap-On Smile
People loose teeth for many reasons, including tooth decay, periodontal disease, and accidents. Bone loss can occur from periodontal disease can even cause bone that will further loosen teeth in their sockets. When they become this loose, or too severely damaged to cap, many dentists will decide that extracting them is the only option. In these instances, immediate dentures can then be used as teeth replacements.
Immediate dentures are made and placed in the mouth within 24 hours of tooth extraction. This is why they are called immediate dentures, and the rapid placement of them offers a very good chance of speedy recovery and minimized infection.
Immediate dentures are made from impressions of the mouth that the dentist makes before teeth are extracted. A mold is made from natural a tooth that mimics their size, shape, and texture. Dentists then pinpoint the exact shape and color of natural and use this to color your dentures. Your immediate dentures are then made and unhealthy and loose teeth pulled. This will be done under anesthetic to prevent you from feeling pain.
As each tooth is extracted, it is replaced with an immediate denture. After the procedure, there are some side effects that will linger for the first 24 hours. Your gums will probably swell and make your denture(s) feel tight. You may also have problems associated immediately after your dentures are placed. Some may tip when you chew, and you may notice an increase in salivation.
Your dentures may feel bulky at first no matter how closely we match them to your natural teeth. If you have a strong gag reflex, it may be triggered at first, but not for very long. Some people report a slight difficulty speaking at first. Overall, though, all of these effects diminish as your mouth eventually adjusts.
Your jawbone will also heal over the six to nine months, and your gums will shrink slightly. We will correct this by using a temporary lining material to fill the small gaps between the denture(s) and the gum. After about 9 months, when the healing process is complete, your mouth will assume a final shape that we can then use to reline each denture for a final fit.
No one wants to have a tooth pulled, but sometimes it is necessary. One way to prevent further tooth and bone loss is to get immediate dentures that will not only help maintain your health, but will also work to restore and improve your smile. Labels: cosmetic dental implants, dental tooth implants, false teeth, immediate dentures, teeth replacements, tooth replacements
Great question -- I’m not sure how long you have been in the process of learning about dental implants, but you will find that they are an extremely valuable tool in dentistry. There are situations that are simple that cost less, and there are situations that are very complicated that cost more. We don’t quote specific prices here because the situations are so variable and individual needs and time requirements vary so widely. We feel that the only way you can get a fair evaluation is to have a complete examination that includes photography, x-rays and a direct, visual examination and conversation with a doctor who is well-versed in the subject. Again, the cost of dental implant treatment varies widely. It will all depend on the complexity of your dental needs. Dental implants are simply one tool that we use in dental restorations. In patients with advanced needs that need complex restorative dentistry, implants are sometimes the key element that allows us to achieve good results in difficult situations. The additional strength that implants add to the foundation of dental restorations is amazing. The use of implants has revolutionized modern restorative dentistry. In assessing the cost of treatment, we take into consideration the time requirements for each phase of treatment & implant procedures, the health status of the patient, and the difficulty to achieve what that patient needs and wants…. and whether we can provide what they would like to obtain. Even diagnosing and organizing treatment is a time-consuming process that is important to your understanding of options. We will be happy to discuss the cost of what we feel are the appropriate options for you. Please come and have an exam that will teach you all the facts that you want to know. We will try to fairly give you a proper understanding of your situation and your options. Labels: cosmetic dental implants, dental implant procedures, dental tooth implants, houston dental implants, titanium dental implants
There was a man we will refer to as Cooper who came to us. Years before, he had lost several teeth in the lower arch of his mouth. He lacked the funding at the time to pay for dental implants, and not knowing much about tooth replacement to begin with, had chosen to take the economical route of removable, partial dentures. He found that they worked to a degree, but caused him to experience difficulty chewing certain foods he liked to eat.
This situation is common for people who wear partial dentures. While they are cheaper than titanium dental implants, they come with a price of their own. Partials are by nature softer than titanium and porcelain (the materials used to make dental implants), and consequently limit what a person can and cannot comfortably chew.
Partial dentures are also a source of embarrassment for many people. Almost no one who dentures has not been caught at some point in time by a child or close relative with his or her teeth in a glass, so to speak. The clicking sound made by dentures while chewing is also embarrassing, because everyone at the table knows where that sound is coming from, and who has false teeth and who does not.
Dental implants, on the other hand, can fool even the most critical of self-styled smile experts. They look identical to natural teeth, and they work even better in some cases due to their rugged constitution. They can also be made very affordable to patients like Cooper through financial plans that allow for payments to be spread out over a period of time. This is a common courtesy we offer to all intake patients like here at the Houston Cosmetic Dentistry Center of the Medical Center Dental Group.
Once Cooper qualified for one of our many financial plans, we scheduled an appointment to make a thorough examination of his mouth. We took x-rays first to assess the condition of his jaw bone. This is standard protocol in implant dentistry, and almost universally the first step we take in replacing missing teeth. The reason for this is because bones begin to recede when teeth fall out or become decayed to the point they must be extracted. Without tooth roots to form around, bone mass deteriorates and flattens.
The degree of bone loss determines just how many cosmetic dental implants we can actually place in the jaw. The lesser the bone loss, the more implants the jaw will support. However, very few people have come to us with an ideal jawbone just waiting to be filled with implants. Most people like Cooper have already experienced severe bone deterioration. These patients, like Cooper, must be treated with a combination of dental implants and fixed bridgework.
In Coopers case, we were able to successfully place four implants at key locations around the bottom of his mouth. We then used these implants as anchors for fixed bridges. The cosmetic dental bridges that we use in full mouth reconstructions are different than the standard bridges used in general family dentistry. Unlike standard bridges, they rarely are affixed to natural teeth, but are made instead to attach directly to the porcelain crowns that cover the titanium implant base. This avoids damaging healthy teeth which can actually lose enamel when bridges are anchored to them.
When we removed the acrylic roof to the partials and replaced the dentures he wore with dental implants and bridges, Cooper was now able to enjoy total freedom of diet for the first time in years. He immediately called us back to thank us not only for expanding his menu, but also for making it possible for him to smile securely knowing that only he knew the true origin of the bright healthy looking teeth that gave him a new face to the world. For more information on dental implants and new forms of dentures, read the following articles on our main site: Dental Implants
Cosmetic Tooth Implants
Dental Implant Procedure
Dental Implant Surgery
Denture Implants Labels: cosmetic dental implants, cosmetic dental procedures, dental implant, dental implant procedures, retained dentures
Two years ago we treated a woman named Susanna, who was in her early sixties. Over forty years ago, she had lost all but 6 of her lower front teeth. At that time, a removable upper denture seemed her most workable and convenient option. True, she did not like having to take it out and clean it in front of her husband and children, and she was embarrassed at times by the sounds it made when she chewed certain foods.
After she retired, however she decided to look into implant dentistry. She called our office and asked if we could help with some kind of payment plan. We told her it is routine for a good majority of our patients to pay for dental implants over a period of time. Susanna was more than happy to come in upon hearing this news, excited to hear that an alternative to dentures had finally presented itself within reach.
It is unfortunate that so many people like Susanna assume that implant dentistry is beyond their budget, and that they must settle for a lifetime of removable dentures. Nothing could be farther from the truth. While it is true that this treatment is certainly much more expensive than other forms of tooth replacement, implant dentistry does not have to be paid for all at once. A full list of financial options can be explored by visiting this link on our main website. Any number of these can be within the realm of possibility for a gainfully employed or comfortably retired person to qualify for. She had very good credit and a comfortable income from her savings and retirement plans, and her credit immediately qualified her for one of our plans.
Susanna was a unique case in that she had lived without her natural teeth for over 40 years. However, she had not experienced the severe bone loss that often ensues after teeth remain missing for a period of time. In most cases like hers, there is seldom enough bone mass to place more than a few implants. The remainder of a full-mouth reconstruction has to be done with fixed bridgework attached to implants that are used as anchor points. In fact, we were a bit shocked at this remarkable condition after looking at the x-rays of her mouth. Susanna simply told us that she took good care of herself by eating healthy and taking daily supplements.
We never complain when a patient is this proactive in self-care. Over the next 18 months, we placed a total of 15 dental implants in Susannas upper jaw. In the few gaps between these implants, we placed porcelain cosmetic dental bridges to completely rebuild her smile.
Susanna reports today that she loves the new freedom she has to eat anything she wants (although she still eats only healthy foods). She also remarked that it is a genuine pleasure to finally be able to brush her upper teeth—something she has not been able to do since her early twenties. Again, it makes us feel good as dentists to hear a patient so passionate about dental hygiene. For more information, visit the following articles on our main website:Dental Implant Procedures Dentures Dental Implants Dental Tooth Implants Dental Implant SurgeryLabels: cosmetic dental implants, cosmetic dental procedures, dental imlplants, dental implant, dental implant procedures, Dental Implants, implant dentistry
What can I expect to pay for four implants in my top gum please. I require to just get an idea of whether it is affordable?
Thanks for your question – it is what everyone wants to know. The problem is that the costs vary widely, according to the different situations that different people present with. The only way that you can get a good answer for YOUR situation is to make an appointment to come in and have a comprehensive exam and x-rays to find out what is possible for you.
After teeth are removed, the gums change drastically as healing occurs. This is something that can be seen to happen over the first few weeks following the surgery. What you cannot see is what has happened to the underlying bone. The function of the bone is to hold teeth, so when the teeth are lost, there is a progressive loss of bone that continues for the rest of your life. The bone gets shorter and thinner -- shorter and thinner – until sometimes there is only a fraction of the bony support left. This is why partials or dentures become loose over time. That bony foundation changes as time passes, and it is different for everyone. Some people have drastic changes, some have slower changes, but everyone has some changes to their bone after losing their teeth.
Our problem is that we need that residual bone to hold the implants. We have different sizes of implants, narrow and wider, shorter and longer, and it is our challenge to design a scheme that works for you. Some cases are easier than others. With a large amount of bone, we can design a very strong restoration for you, with very thin bone, it is much tougher to get a solid foundation. Some people can create enough strong foundation to achieve fixed bridge work, that requires strength, others just do not have enough foundation, even with implants, and different types of restorative options apply to them.
So, with all the variables of your health, bony status, health and condition of your teeth, etc., it is really impossible for us to give you costs without seeing you. It is just more complicated than that. Please come in and have an exam and discussion appropriate to your personal situation. You will learn what your options are, and you will learn what advantages or disadvantages you have. Dental implants are exciting. They provide many more options of care in dentistry, and patients benefit from the use of implants. Come let us teach you about what is best for you.
Chuck Campbell, DDS
713-795-5905Labels: cosmetic dental implants, dental implant, dental implant procedures, Dental Implants
In order for dental implant procedures to be effective, careful examination of the medical history and overall general health of the patient has to be done first. At the Medical Center Dental Group, we leave no stone unturned when it comes to taking stock of the patient’s medical history and current condition. Using our computer to access patient medical records, we check for such things as diabetes and alcoholism. If these conditions are currently present, they can significantly diminish the chances of dental implant procedures being successful. The decision to move forward in such an event is made on a case by case basis between the doctor and the patient.
If advanced periodontal disease is discovered, the dentist will diagnose its level of severity and determine a treatment plan. Some periodontal disease can be corrected with non-surgical treatments. Advanced gum disease will require surgery, which we recommend patients have performed here using our PerioLase® MVP-7 laser engineered specifically for Laser Periodontal Therapy.
Once the patient has become healthy enough for dental implant procedures to have a more than 90 percent chance of success, the dentist will then examine the condition of the jaw bones. The longer teeth are missing from the mouth, the more bone deterioration occurs. The dentist will need to know just how much degradation has occurred in order to determine how many implants can be placed in the jaw. If more than 50 percent of the teeth have been missing for a period of years and severe deterioration has set in, the dentist will have to selectively use implants as anchors for fixed bridgework in a full mouth reconstruction. If bone loss is not so severe, implants can simply be placed where the missing teeth were previously located.
Once these determinations have been made, the dentist will make a mold of existing, healthy teeth. This will function as a template for the size and placement of dental implants. Surgical procedures then follow, with the dentist placing the patient under local anesthetic for one or two implants, or placing the patient under general anesthetic for the implantation of multiple replacements. The actual implants themselves are made of a bio-friendly Titanium alloy. They are shaped like screws at the bottom and set in the jaw itself. Sometimes the dentist will cap the implant to minimize the risk of infection. A 3-6 month healing process then ensues, where the bone grows around the implant and attaches to it. (This is called osseointegration).
After osseointegration is complete, the patient returns to the office to have the final dental implant procedures performed. The dentist will secure the implant with another screw called an abutment, then cap the entire structure with a porcelain crown molded to match the appearance and functionality of a natural tooth.
For more information, visit our website and read the following articles:
Dental ImplantsTitanium Dental ImplantsDental Implant SurgeryDental Tooth ImplantsDentures Dental ImplantsPostoperative Instructions for Dental ImplantsIf you are missing teeth, but feel cosmetic dental implants are out of your price range, call us and ask about our financial plans to help people from all walks of life pay for the winning smile that every person deserves to show to the world. Labels: cosmetic dental bridges, cosmetic dental implants, dental crowns, implant dentistry
Titanium implants have proven themselves to be the best replacement tooth option every developed. While dental implants in one form or fashion have been used since ancient times, it was not until Titanium dental implants were invented in the 1970s that implant dentistry gained a success rate of over 90 percent. Titanium implants look very much like screws that are twisted into the bone. Through a process called osseointegration, the bone adapts to the implant and grows around it
When this process is complete, the mouth essentially has a new tooth root to work with. If a temporary crown was placed over the Titanium alloy at the time of implantation, the dentist will remove it at the beginning of the restorative phase. He or she will then secure the titanium implant with a smaller screw known as an abutment. Then, the entire structure is capped with a porcelain crown that looks and works just like a natural tooth.
Phase I and Phase II of the process are frequently performed by separate dentists. There are some, however, that prefer to handle both phases of the treatment. Dr. Charles Campbell at the Houston Medical Center Dental Group is one of the few Houston dentists who perform both the surgical phase and the restorative phase of cosmetic implant dentistry. He has specialized in this discipline for the majority of his career, and he has studied under some of the best experts in the world since the mid 1980s.
Titanium dental implants do more than restore the aesthetics of a smile. They also fill out the natural curvature of facial muscles and structures that would otherwise begin to droop and wrinkle. They also halt bone degradation that inevitably sets in when a tooth is extracted or lost in an accident. Osseointegration is actually a healthy thing for bones because it provides a motivation and pathway for new growth to occur.
Titanium dental implants are also much better for the mouth than traditional bridges and crowns that have to be anchored to natural teeth in order to hold in place. The problem with this type of bridgework lies in the fact that it wears down tooth enamel and makes otherwise healthy teeth more vulnerable to damage and decay. Implants, on the other hand, are supported by the jaw and not by other teeth.
Dental Implants
Dental Implant Surgery
Dental Tooth Implants
Dentures Dental Implants
Dental Implant Procedures
Postoperative Instructions for Dental Implants
While the cost of titanium dental implants may appear daunting to some, the benefits are well worth it. Many insurance plans will cover a portion of the costs. However, if insurance not cover dental implants, however, the average person can still often afford them if they arrange for special financing through our billing office, or apply for financing options one of our partner finance services. Details on making such arrangements can be obtained by clicking here, or simply by calling our office.Labels: cosmetic dental crowns, cosmetic dental implants, cosmetic dental procedures, titanium dental implants
Cosmetic dentists can do wonders to restore the health, vitality, and sheer beauty of the human smile. Advanced technology makes it possible for cosmetic dental procedures to repair almost any problem with teeth or gums. Many problems can be solved with very simple procedures. Others require much more complex methods and surgical techniques. Because every patient is different, cosmetic dental procedures tend to be highly individualized to the needs of the person as well. Cosmetic dental bonding is a simple procedure that involves applying a special composite resin to teeth surfaces in order to cover chipped and discolored areas. It is a painless procedure, and it has proven itself a superior alternative to metal fillings because the resin mimics the natural color of teeth and is more benign to the mouth than metal fillings. Tooth whitening is performed when teeth become discolored for any number of reasons. Smoking and drinking coffee can change teeth from white to yellow in a short matter of time. Some prescription medications can also discolor teeth severely. Even certain healthy teas that people have begun to substitute for caffeine and nicotine can cause teeth to lose their color. Mild to moderate discoloration is normally reverse with a bleaching solution that is applied both in the dental office and through two weeks of self-care at home. More severe cases may require the use of cosmetic dental veneers, which are made from porcelain that provides a hard, reliable overlay for tooth enamel. Veneers are stain resistant and will normally last for many years. For fragmented or missing teeth, more aggressive cosmetic dental procedures are necessary. In the past, teeth that were badly cracked were often pulled and replaced with a bridge. Today, cosmetic dentists can often save a damage tooth by performing a root canal and capping the tooth with a porcelain crown. This procedure is also used to repair teeth that have lost metal fillings. It not only creates a new chewing surface, but it also helps prevent infection. Implant dentistry is the most advanced of all cosmetic dental procedures. It involves placing a titanium alloy implant in the jaw that the bone then accepts and grows around, much like it does a natural tooth root. After the implant area has healed, which can take anywhere from 3-6 months, the dentist then places a porcelain crown over the implant to create an entirely new tooth. Cosmetic DentistryTechnology in Cosmetic DentistryGingivectomy and Gingivoplasty (Gum Removal)Cosmetic Dental implantsCosmetic Teeth ProceduresCosmetic Dental CareCosmetic Dental TreatmentsCosmetic Dental WorkCosmetic DentistsCosmetic dental procedures are continually evolving as new technology emerges and dentists continue to develop new treatment options for patients with discolored, damaged, or missing teeth. Labels: cosmetic dental bonding, cosmetic dental braces, cosmetic dental implants, cosmetic dental procedures, cosmetic dental veneers
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