I’ve been thinking about getting All on 4 implants. My dentist says it looks like I’m a candidate, but there’s a lengthy planning process which requires a CT scan. I’ve already had dozens of x-rays at this point and I know they have already seen everything they need to. I’m worried about the excess radiation. I’m also worried about the cost. Is the CT scan really necessary or is it an add on to increase my costs? Thanks – Tony
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My husband must be having some serious issues with his dentures. He doesn’t seem bothered by it, but neither will he wear them. He got a new set in March and that was an ordeal by itself. Since then the dentures have been nothing but trouble. 2 nights ago, we were invited out to dinner with close friends. I begged Don to wear his dentures and he reluctantly agreed. I don’t know why he puts up such a big fuss because he looks so handsome with them. We started the meal and everything was fine, but no more than five minutes into eating, he pulled them out and put them on the table. Our friends were polite and didn’t say anything, but their eyes showed that they were uncomfortable. Don left the dentures on the table during the entire dinner. I talked to him about it on our way home, and he insisted that although I think the dentures look great, they don’t feel great. I don’t think he has worn them enough to know how they feel. How can I get my husband to wear his dentures? Thanks, Anya
Dear Anya,
It can be difficult for people to adjust to the change, and wearing dentures can be a difficult transition. There are several issues people might experience with dentures.
Too Tight/High Spots: Sometimes a new prosthesis can be too tight in certain areas or have high spots that cause pressure and make them uncomfortable to wear. The dental office should have run tests to see how the dentures fit and felt and made adjustments accordingly. If your husband prefers not to complain, he may not have mentioned these spots to the office, but they could be causing serious discomfort. If so, your best bet is to get him back to the office so they can adjust it.
Too Loose: When teeth are extracted, the jawbone in those areas begins to shrink, which can make a prosthesis feel too big. In the early stages of healing, there’s also some swelling. As swelling subsides, a prosthesis might not fit correctly. Dentists can make adjustments and reline the prosthesis for a better fit.
Movement/Sore Spots/Poor Fit: Poor fit or movement can and should be adjusted. If these issues aren’t addressed, they can cause serious pain and even injury.
Excess Saliva: When there is a foreign object in your mouth, it stimulates saliva. People new to wearing an oral prosthesis often complain about excess saliva, but as they wear it more, saliva production reduces. The key is to regularly the oral appliance.
Difficulty Speaking: It takes time to get used to talking while wearing dentures. If your husband has difficulty speaking with dentures, it can help to wear them at home and practice speaking with them.
Pushing Out/Falling Out: Some people are inclined to push their dentures out with their tongue. Others experience difficulty with suction for the upper denture. If the prosthesis is otherwise comfortable, using adhesive will be helpful. There are many different styles and brands of adhesive, so it’s a good idea for your husband to try a few until he finds one he prefers.
Any of these factors, and more, could be contributing to your husband’s discomfort. It may be better to discuss the issue with him and let him know you’re concerned. A visit or two to the dentist for adjustments should be able resolve the issue. If he continues to have discomfort, consider seeing a prosthodontist, a dentist who specializes in replacing missing teeth. Prosthodontists can help with more complicated issues and will be able to determine if your husband is a candidate an implant-supported denture, which helps dentures fit and feel better.
This blog is sponsored by Naperville denture specialist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.
I’ve been following a story in the news and am worried about the safety of some dental implants. The story involves a dentist from San Diego who just got four years in jail for doing the work incorrectly and injuring a woman. It seems like every time I watch the news, there’s new information to be worried about. I don’t know if I will go forward with treatment, but I have to wonder, how is it possible for an average person to know that their dental implants will be safe?
-Joseph
Dear Joseph,
It sounds like you’re referencing the Robert Mansueto case. Indeed, this is a heartbreaking case. While a victim of a crime suffers, there were some major red flags that should have been observed.
This blog is sponsored by Naperville dental implants provider Dr. Anthony LaVacca.
I’m wondering if it’s too late for dental implants to help my facial sagging. I’ve had dentures since I was 49 years old and I just turned 61 last week. The bags on my face from dentures are finally catching up with me. Other than cosmetic surgery, what are some ways that people with dentures can at least soften their wrinkles? Is it too late for dental implants?
Madge – After years of wearing dentures, facial sagging results from jawbone shrinkage. When all of your teeth are missing, the bone that once supported the teeth is resorbed and used elsewhere in the body. The jawbone is no longer available to support facial muscles, so sagging and shrinking result. Although cosmetic surgery may tighten facial tissue, jawbone shrinkage can continue and additional wrinkles or sagging can occur. Dental implants can help.
Bone grafting – If you don’t have enough jawbone density to support your facial muscles, you probably lack the density to support dental implants. But it’s not too late for dental implants. The good news is that jawbone can be built up through bone grafting. After the grafts heal, dental implants can be placed, and jawbone shrinkage can be prevented or interrupted.
Support for your dentures and facial muscles – Your dentures will be attached to the dental implants. Your facial muscles will have support, and the process will rejuvenate your face and help you look longer.
Healthier than cosmetic surgery – Dental implants stimulate jawbone growth. Cosmetic surgery doesn’t. When all of your teeth are missing, dental implants and bone grafting support your oral health, while cosmetic surgery only lifts your facial muscles and improves your facial appearance. Without dental implants, your bone will continue to shrink, and additional cosmetic treatment might be needed in the future.
Before you receive any treatment, diagnostic studies are needed to determine how much jawbone shrinkage has occurred and the best way to address it. The process will take several months, but you’ll have better oral health, and it will enhance your facial appearance.
This post is sponsored by board-certified prosthodontist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.
I have 4 upper teeth and 3 bottom teeth left. I don’t want dentures. Everyone that I know who wears dentures hates them. Plus they look bad. The teeth look like white plastic and the gums look like dark plastic. It is interesting to me that as long as dentures have been around that they still look unsightly. I’ve been looking into alternatives to dentures that might look more natural. Can I get a snap on smile instead? I think it will look better than false teeth. – Ephraim
Ephraim – Dentures vary in quality. The prosthesis you have described are likely budget dentures. They are the least expensive and least natural-looking dentures available. But for people with a limited budget, this is an option that is better than having all of your teeth missing. It enables people to chew and to smile with more confidence than having no teeth at all.
There are several characteristics of a Snap-On Smile that make it an unsuitable alternative to dentures:
You can get comfortable cosmetic dentures that are made of high-quality materials and look natural. A prosthodontist will provide you with customized dentures that fit well. They will look much better than a Snap-On Smile.
A prosthodontist has at least two years of post-dental school training in replacing and restoring teeth. You will be included in the process of designing dentures that like your natural smile. They will compliment your facial features and be an expression of your personality.
If it’s within your budget, you can consider securing your dentures with dental implants. The implants will prevent your dentures for from slipping. Implant overdentures may fit over the remaining natural teeth that you have left, if the teeth are healthy.
Request a consultation with a prosthodontist to learn about cosmetic dentures and your options for stabilizing them.
This post is sponsored by award-winning prosthodontist Dr. Anthony LaVacca of Naperville.
I’ve lost all most of my teeth and the remaining ones are loose and need to be extracted. My dentist says that I have enough bone to do All-on-4 implants. It probably sounds bad, but I’m tired of dealing with teeth problems and am really looking forward to dentures. Anyway, I I am wondering if two or three dental implants will suffice. It seems like a great way to save money and there would be less to go wrong. Is this a viable solution?
Thanks, Ronny
Dear Ronny,
The All-on-4 process is well known because it has been heavily advertised. Some companies and practices may use the terms overdenture or implant-supported denture instead. There are versions that referred to as fixed or permanent because you cannot take them out. There are also removable or snap-on dentures, which you can take out as needed.
Dentures with no additional support stay in place with suction or adhesives. While they are the traditional cost-effective replacement, may look natural, and work well, they don’t feel natural. Some people struggle with movement in the appliance or keeping them in place. Imagine if you add a single dental implant to the appliance. You may be able to keep it in place better, but you won’t really improve the stability or balance.
If you add a second implant, the retention will improve, but again, there will still be a significant area without an implant, and stability will continue to be an issue. As you add additional anchors, the stability of the prosthesis will increase. You could theoretically function with a denture that’s only anchored in two or three places, but it won’t be as secure as a denture that is anchored in four or six places.
Fewer implants don’t necessarily guarantee success. Generally, individual dental implants successfully integrate and remain healthy 98% of the time. But the largest determining factor of success is the dentist you choose.
Doctors who frequently place implants, such as oral surgeons, prosthodontists, periodontists, and a handful of general dentists with extra training, provide statistically better outcomes for their patients. In part, this is because they are more skilled, but another reason is that they look at each case and evaluate it individually. They know when a person isn’t a good candidate at all, as well as what options are going to provide the highest success rates. Find a doctor who routinely handles cases like yours to help you trust what he or she is recommending will provide the best outcome.
You might find a doctor who will only place two implants for you. That won’t necessarily reduce the risk though. It doesn’t hurt to ask a dentist you know and trust if two could work for you. Odds are, however, that he’ll walk you through the risks and challenges of doing so or he may insist on four or more if he doesn’t believe he can provide you with a successful outcome using fewer.
This blog is sponsored by Dr. Anthony LaVacca, a Naperville All on 4 implants provider. Dr. LaVacca is a board-certified prosthodontist with specialized training in replacing missing teeth.
I signed up for a discount dental plan in hopes of eventually getting affordable dental implants because most of my teeth are missing. On my first appointment I completed forms that I thought asked for more information than usual. I was told to wait a few minutes and really in less than 5 minutes the receptionist told me that I qualify for financing. Why were they trying to qualify me for financing before my teeth were even cleaned? After I got the x-ray and cleaning, the dentist came in. He didn’t look at my teeth at all. He told me that I needed several fillings and 4 crowns. Then they gave me this crazy cost of $4000 which I really though sounds excessive even though I don’t know how much crowns cost. I was really shocked and didn’t say much. When I was checking out, the receptionist was trying to schedule me for the fillings and crowns appointments but I told her I would have to call back to schedule. Of course I am not going back to the office at all. If I really need the dental work they say I do, it will be 3 or 4 years before I can even get affordable dental implants. Besides all that, I don’t have enough healthy teeth left to invest in them. I prefer overdentures. Today I got a call from them to schedule my appointment for the dental work. I haven’t been to a dentist in 3 years so I can believe that I might have cavities but is it normal for a dentist to tell you that you need all this work if he hasn’t even looked at your teeth? – Abrielle
Abrielle – Your dental appointment was unusual. In addition to your cleaning and x-rays, your teeth should be thoroughly examined by the dentist before treatment is recommended. The dentist should also be specific about what dental treatment is needed and why. High fees for treatment can make even the most affordable dental implants out of reach.
This post is sponsored by Naperville dentist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.
I’ve had dental implants since 2004. The current dentures on them make me feel old. They look old, even though I’ve only had them for about 18 months. I am tired of explaining what I want to my dentist. I couldn’t believe it when he put his hand on mine and told me to remember how lucky I am because some people can’t afford to secure their dentures with dental implants so they have to go about life with loose dentures or no teeth at all. I am insulted. This is a dentist that I’ve seen since childhood. I think it’s time to move on. I know I’m fortunate, but I don’t have an endless supply of money to keep getting new dentures because he can’t make them look youthful. There has to be something better than dentures that age me by at least 10 years. What do you suggest? Am I going to need new dentures? Judith
Judith – It is not unusual to receive dentures for their dental implants that look like, as many people call them, “false teeth.” Your experience is unfortunate, but not unique.
Your dentist’s response likely means that he has done his best in providing you with dentures for your dental implants. But you have the option of finding a prosthodontist, who specializes in dental implants and cosmetic dentures.
Dental implants can last a lifetime. You should have natural-looking dentures that fit well. It affects your quality of life. We suggest that you schedule two or three consultations with prosthodontists—preferably those who are board certified. It will increase the chances of getting a smile that you love.
This post is sponsored by American Board certified prosthodontist and award-winning Naperville implant dentist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.
Opposites attract. That’s one reason why magnetic dentures work so well. But what should you know about them before you ask your dentist to secure your dentures with magnets?
Magnetic dentures are a type of implant overdentures. Dental implants are surgically placed in the jawbone. An magnetic abutment, or connector, is placed on top of the implants. Often, a healing period of several months is allowed before your permanent dentures are placed. Magnets in the base of the denture lock into place on the abutment.
Although magnetic denture systems often have the magnet enclosed in a capsule, some systems contact a trace of nickel. Some magnets are enclosed in a stainless steel case or are coated with ceramic to limit nickel exposure and add resistance to abrasion and corrosion. Let your implant dentist or prosthodontist know if you have metal sensitivities or allergies. Some dentists use magnets made of the minerals samarium-cobalt or iron-neodynium-boron. If you have concerns about the types of metals used, ask your implant dentist about it.
Before you choose any method of stabilizing your dentures, request a consultation with a skilled prosthodontist. Prosthodontists are specialists who, after dental school, completed two years of specialized training in restoring and replacing missing teeth.
After an examination and 3-D imaging, the doctor can let you know the following:
Magnetic dentures might be right for your case, but don’t insist on this method unless you understand the pros and cons. A conscientious prosthodontist will let you know the results you can expect with various methods for securing your dentures.
We recommend that you schedule at least two consultations with different prosthodontists so you can compare the options, costs, and methods of achieving the results you want. Keep in mind that the lowest fees aren’t always the safest and healthiest option for your smile.
This blog is sponsored by Naperville award-winning prosthodontist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.
I got affordable dental implants 8 months ago. They have been fine and I have had no problems whatsoever with them until now. The problem is actually with only one of the teeth. So I saw the dentist who did the arch of and she confirmed what I thought. There is a fracture in one of them and it’s making it feel like my bite is off. The dentist asked me how long I had the dental implants. I thought that was very strange because she was the one who did the dentures. Then after another 10 minutes of looking at all my teeth, she suggested that I replace the whole prosthesis “as a precaution.” I have never heard of this. Why would I replace perfectly good dentures that I’ve had no problem with, just in case something happens to them? Am I missing something? What was the purpose of getting affordable dental implants? Also she implied that I am somehow at fault so she is going to charge me for 75% of the cost of replacing the whole arch. – Traci
Traci – No, you are not missing anything. The savings from your affordable dental implants would be consumed by replacing your dentures.
We recommend that you get a second opinion. Have a second dentist—preferably a prosthodontist—examine the fractured tooth. It is possible to replace one or more teeth in a denture without replacing the entire prosthesis. Don’t mention anything to the second-opinion dentist about the recommendation you received from your dentist. If necessary, you can get a third opinion until you are comfortable with the diagnosis, recommended treatment for your affordable dental implants and dentures, and the explanation for both.
This post is sponsored by Naperville prosthodontist and implant dentist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.
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