Skip to main content
Category

Implant Dentistry

Mar 07

Will diabetes prevent me from getting All-on-4 dental implants?

By All-on-4 Dental Implants No Comments

I’d like to know if I’m really a candidate for All-on-4 dental implants because I have diabetes. To be honest, I previously did not take good care of myself. I was more than 200 pounds overweight and subsequently developed diabetes. When I was diagnosed, I ignored medical treatment and spiraled into depression. My self-care was terrible. In addition to diabetes, I developed a number of other conditions, including gum disease, which resulted in me losing many of my teeth. My major wake up call, however, did not happen until about five years ago when I had a heart attack at age 46. Since then, I have made some major changes to my health. I dropped 150 pounds, quit smoking, and am diligent about taking my diabetes meds. I’m still not great about exercise, but I do get out and walk a couple times a week and watch what I eat.

The last time I went in to see my dentist, he proposed that I have All-on-4 dental implants done. I was incredibly excited that there was a simple and affordable way for me to get my smile back, and I really feel like I earned it. However, I’ve been looking online trying to find out what to expect and there’s a lot of conflicting information. It seems like, because of diabetes, I may be in a high-risk category for failure with All-on-4, and I am very hesitant about it if I’m going to pour time and money into it and may still not get good results. I mentioned it to my dentist and he said I didn’t need to worry, but I also felt like he was brushing me off. Is this something I can safely have done now or should I explore other options? Thank you, Pete H.

Pete,

A lot of research has been done around the longevity of dental implants and the types of risk factors that impact the success rates.

All-on-4 Dental Implants for Diabetic Patients

  • Studies have shown that as much as 98-99% of people will have successful outcomes with dental implants when they’re in the hands of an experienced dentist.
  • There are certain risk factors that can reduce the odds of a successful outcome, which include uncontrolled diabetes and smoking.
  • Newer research suggests that even people with uncontrolled diabetes may have success with these kinds of treatments, but conservative dentists tend to err on the side of caution until there is more evidence.

With all that said, all your hard work has essentially eliminated the major risk factors for you. That’s no easy feat, so congratulations on your efforts and amazing results. While no dentist can ever guarantee a 100% success rate, even in patients who have no risk factors at all, it sounds like you’re probably a great candidate. If you’re unsure, it’s worthwhile to get a second opinion or consult with an All-on-4 dentist, to discuss your concerns and verify you’re a candidate for the treatment before going forward.

 

This blog is sponsored by Naperville all-on-4 dental implants provider Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

Mar 01

Dental implants are darker after Zoom whitening

By Dental Implants No Comments

I’ve had dental implants for 3 years. In January, I got Zoom whitening. The dentist I’m seeing now isn’t the same dentist who did the implant crowns. Anyway, it took a total of 3 whitening sessions to get my teeth as white as I want them. After the first session, I was immediately worried that my own teeth were lighter than the implant crowns. The dentist told me that it takes time for the color to stabilize and I shouldn’t worry. 2 months later and the implant crowns are still noticeably darker. All 3 implants are on the top left of my mouth, immediately to the left of my center teeth. So I’m concerned about how this looks. My dentist has no explanation now. She just tells me that it’s not so noticeable. I have honest close friends who have told me that the color difference is noticeable. Am I stuck with this, or is there some way to darken my teeth or will I have to get new implant crowns? Kamila

Kamila – Zoom whitening and the acceleration light provide quick penetration of bleaching gel into your teeth. This makes the whitening process faster than take-home whitening. Your super white teeth might darken a little with time, but that will take considerable time. Teeth bleaching gel lightens the natural pigmentation of your teeth. It is unlikely that your teeth will ever darken enough to match your dental implant crowns.

Matching Dental Implant Crowns to Bleached Teeth

Ideally, teeth whitening should be completed before you receive dental implants. Crowns are colorfast, so they cannot be darkened or lightened. Your dentist should have explained to you that your implant crowns wouldn’t match your teeth after Zoom whitening. Receiving whitening first ensures implant crowns are made to match your newly whitened natural teeth. Unfortunately, the solution for you is to get new crowns to match your natural teeth. An experienced prosthodontist can perfectly match the color so no one can distinguish your new crowns from your natural teeth.

Before you choose a prosthodontist, check his or her website to learn more about the following:

  • Level of experience
  • Training
  • Credentials
  • Smile gallery before-and-after photos of actual patients at the practice

Although replacing the implant crowns will cost you more money, you’ll have the satisfaction of a smile that you’re comfortable with and really love.

This post is sponsored by Naperville board-certified prosthodontist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

Feb 21

What’s the cost to get denture teeth replaced?

By Dentures No Comments

The false teeth in my dentures keep falling out and my dentist keeps putting them back. This has been going on for the past 9 months or so. After the 3rd tooth fell out, I started keeping track of it because I thought it might become a pattern. I am not proud to say I was right, but I was right. Over the past 9 months, 7 false teeth have fallen out. There is no pattern to it either. It doesn’t matter whether I was eating, talking, walking, or sitting. The teeth have randomly fallen out. Each of the 5 times I have gone back to the dentist for this, she asks me what I was doing when a tooth fell out. Unless I was biting something metal, does it matter? Can denture teeth fall out with everyday activity?

And why is she asking me questions like this after multiple teeth fell out? Shouldn’t she be concerned about what she or the lab did or didn’t do correctly to cause this problem? My time is valuable and so are my nerves. I see nothing to my advantage to make it a habit of going to my dentist’s office and having false teeth put back in my dentures as if it’s normal. I am wondering about my options and how much it would cost to take out all of the false teeth and replace them with new ones? Or am I going to need new dentures? Thanks. Dorcas

Dorcas – Before your denture teeth are replaced, your dentist—or a second-opinion prosthodontist—needs to determine why they keep falling out. The fact that your dentist has not taken the initiative to identify the real issue suggests a lack of desire, or a lack of proper training, to resolve it. There are several causes, though.

Possible Reasons Denture Teeth Fall Out

  • They weren’t bonded correctly

    If teeth aren’t properly bonded to the denture base, they won’t be secure. Pressure on the teeth from eating or chewing can gradually cause them to loosen and fall out.

  • A poorly constructed base

    If you received a poor-quality denture base, it won’t hold the teeth. After wearing your dentures regularly, teeth will randomly fall out.

  • Your bite is off

    Just as natural teeth should properly fit together when you bite down, so should denture teeth. Pressure from an uneven bite can cause teeth to loosen and fall out.

The Cost

If each denture tooth needs to be replaced and your dentures are still under warranty, you shouldn’t be responsible for the cost. It might be easier to replace the dentures in their entirety, though. This is especially true if there is an issue with the base.

Schedule an appointment with a prosthodontist. He or she is skilled and trained in providing high-quality, natural looking dentures that fit well and that will last. You can also consider having your dentures secured with dental implants to prevent them from floating around and to prevent jawbone shrinkage.

This post is sponsored by Naperville award-winning implant dentist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

Feb 13

Bad experience trying to get affordable dental implants

By Affordable Implant Dentistry No Comments

I need affordable dental implants, but I’ve had a bad experience with my dentist. Although I won’t get into my life story about my childhood, because of my environment, I went through life without ever going to a dentist until my adulthood. My previous jobs didn’t provide dental insurance. I’m 27 years old and I have a great job with benefits. My teeth and gums are in horrible shape, and I lost 6 teeth already due to advanced gum disease. Dentures are the only way to go. I read enough about how your bone shrinks with dentures, so I also want affordable dental implants.

I unknowingly chose an unsympathetic dentist through my dental plan. There are not a lot of choices in the plan for dentists near my apartment. This dentist asked nothing about my medical or dental history. She just spewed out insult after insult. I didn’t even get to ask her about dentures or the cost. Honestly, I felt so bad that when the hygienist told me the dentist would return shortly I just slipped out of the office. I had to pay up front, so don’t worry, I didn’t walk out without paying. This was the most humiliating experience ever. If this is what I have to go through to get dentures and implants, I’m not sure if I can take it emotionally. What should I do if dentist after dentist keeps insulting me? My teeth are in horrible shape, but shouldn’t I be treated with respect? – Riya

Riya – We are sorry that your dentist was insulting and disrespectful. Her behavior was clearly unprofessional too. Every patient should be treated with dignity and respect. The good news is that you might not need dentures and low-cost implants to secure them at all.

Are Affordable Dental Implants and Dentures Necessary?

Unfortunately, you didn’t have an opportunity to speak with the dentist and discuss your options. Periodontal (gum) disease is treatable. You’ve lost several teeth, but even an advanced cased can be controlled—either through a family dentist or through a specialist, or periodontist. Well-controlled gum disease can prevent the need for dentures and affordable dental implants.

What can you do?

  • We recommend that you visit at least two prosthodontists, or dentists who are specialists in replacing and restoring teeth.
  • Keep in mind that you might need to drive a little farther to find prosthodontists in your plan and get proper care.
  • You can consider scheduling consultations with at least two different specialists. This will give you a chance to meet the dentists and see how they interact with you. A dentist’s first concern should be restoring your oral health. You shouldn’t be scolded or insulted.
  • When you find a specialist who treats you with respect and works to restore your oral health, it’s probably the right dentist for you, and it’s time to switch.

Dentures and affordable dental implants will be the last option a conscientious prosthodontist will offer. There are other ways to replace missing teeth, including a dental bridge or dental implants. You probably need a series of deep dental cleanings to regain your oral health. Every effort will be made to help you keep your natural teeth and restore any that are damaged.

This post is sponsored by board-certified prosthodontist and implant dentist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

 

Feb 07

Dental implants or Invisalign first?

By Dental Implants No Comments

I would like your help in deciding whether I should get dental implants or Invisalign first. I have 3 upper teeth missing (left side) and 2 lower teeth missing (left side). The teeth have been out for probably 7 to 9 years, so my upper and lower teeth have shifted pretty bad. I want to replace the teeth, but I also want to straighten out my teeth so my smile looks good. I’ve done some online research for Invisalign and dental implants. I have a budget and I don’t want to get them both at the same time. Is there a priority of what is healthiest for my smile? Does it matter whether I get dental implants or Invisalign first? Thx. Owen

Owen – Here are a few facts about dental implants and Invisalign. They will help you understand the priority for your smile.

Invisalign

  • Invisible braces that people won’t notice
  • Move your teeth with precision
  • Treatment time is half that of traditional braces
  • Removable so you can eat, brush, and floss well
  • More comfortable than metal braces
  • Requires wearing a retainer full time for a year after treatment, then nightly for life

Dental Implants

  • Usually made of titanium
  • Surgically implanted in your jawbone
  • Require bone grafting if you don’t have enough jawbone density
  • Require a three to six month healing period so the implants fuse with your jawbone
  • Feel and function like natural teeth
  • Permanently in place, and don’t contain ligaments like natural teeth to allow them to be repositioned during orthodontic treatment

Get Dental Implants After Invisalign

Usually, it makes more sense to complete orthodontic treatment before you receive dental implants. Here’s why:

  • Dental implants are rigid.
  • As your teeth shift, the implants can damage them because Invisalign is unable to move the dental implants along with your teeth.
  • In some cases, orthodontic treatment is needed to ensure there is enough room for the implants.

Schedule an appointment with a prosthodontist and an orthodontist to discuss your goals for your oral health. They will work together to ensure you get quality tooth replacement and alignment.

This post is sponsored by Naperville implant dentist and board-certified prosthodontist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

 

Feb 02

Will All-on-4 dental implants or overdentures save me money in the long run?

By All-on-4 Dental Implants No Comments

I’m wondering if All-on-4 dental implants or implant overdentures will really save me money over the course of time. I’m in my 50s and have been struggling with my teeth since my 20s. I presently have a dental bridge on both my upper right and upper left. The bridges span across the back four teeth on both sides of my mouth, with two false teeth in the middle.

Lately, I’ve noticed that the bridge on the right side feels loose, which has happened before, and a tooth fell out of it. I’m honestly a little afraid to get it checked out. I don’t know how much it will cost to repair or replace it. When the last issue happened, the dentist told me I’m probably be a candidate for dental implants, but I’m not sure about implants. It seems rather expensive. I’ve searched online for on implant overdentures or All-on-4, and it looks like that might be a better option. It’s either that, trying to convince my dentist to do an even bigger bridge, or getting full dentures. Any idea on what the cost comparison here is? – Clifford

Clifford,

It’s important that you have your dental bridge examined. It could be simply loose, or it may have decay under it. In either case, the cost to repair it would be comparatively inexpensive. If it is more serious, the doctor may be able to stabilize it or, at the very least, he can give you options and costs for repair.

All-on-4 and Overdentures Cost Comparison

Prices vary depending on the dentist you see and where you live.

  • Individual dental implants – $2,000 to $6,000 each
  • Full arch of 14 teeth – $28,000 to $84,000. It’s more likely that the cost would be in the $40,000-60,000 range, but, again, that’s only if you had a dental implant replacing every single tooth.
  • Traditional dentures – Approximately $2,500 to replace a full arch.
  • Partial denture – Approximately $2,000. If you choose this option, you’ll likely be replacing the denture every 10 years or so.
  • All-on-4 dental implants or implant overdentures – $1,000-3,000 per implant. Can be retained with four to eight dental implants (All-on-6 or All-on-8), but doesn’t include the cost of the denture, which is an additional $2,500 or more. This is about half the cost of a full arch of dental implants.

Why Choose All-on-4 Implants?

  • Cost savings over an arch of dental implants
  • Preserves bone density and reduces facial collapse
  • Eliminates or reduces the need for bone grafting
  • More secure fit
  • More comfortable fit

We recommend that you schedule consultations with at least two prosthodontists to learn if you are a candidate for All-on-4 or other types of implant overdentures and to discuss your options.

This post is sponsored by Naperville American-board certified prosthodontist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

Jan 14

All on 4 implants or overdentures if I smoke?

By All-on-4 Dental Implants No Comments

Can you tell me if All on 4 implants will work better than standard implants if I smoke? Since the implants are put in at an angle I’m wondering if they will stay put better than standard implants. I’m not a chain smoker but I smoke every day. What’s the better option for me? – Thanks. Branton

Branton,

Whether you receive All-On-4 implants or implant overdentures with standard fixtures, your dentist will encourage you to quit smoking before you receive them.

Quit Smoking Before You Receive All-on-4 Dental Implants

Smoking will affect the success of your implants in several ways:

  • Nicotine restricts the blood flow in your mouth.
  • Smoking slows the implant healing process, and it can prevent the implants from healing properly.
  • When you smoke, it increases the risk of periodontal (gum) disease. You need healthy gums for your implants to heal.
  • The purpose of All-on-4 is to receive implants when you have low bone density. Studies show the effects of smoking are more pronounced in areas of low bone density. So All-on-4 will present an even higher risk than standard implant overdentures.

What about Smoking after Surgery?

  • Smoking after surgery increases the risk of inflammation at the surgical site.
  • Increased bleeding at the implant site is more common with smokers.
  • Although implant fixtures stimulate bone growth, increased nicotine hinders bone growth. So you can still experience jawbone shrinkage and facial collapse.
  • If you continue to smoke after surgery, it may cause your All-on-4 implants to fail. If even if a single implant fails, they will all need to be completely redone.

When Should You Stop Smoking?

At a minimum, it is recommended that you stop smoking at least one week prior to surgery and two months after. The recommendation from your implant dentist can differ. If you are unable to break the habit on your own, speak with your medical doctor about getting assistance to quit.

Smoking doesn’t eliminate your ability to get dental implants, but healing can be slower, and there is a greater risk of implant failure. Your investment in your overall health and in All-on-4 dental implants will be worth it.

This post is sponsored by Naperville implant dentist and American board-certified prosthodontist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

Jan 09

Is the diamond in Drake’s tooth a dental implant?

By Dental Implants No Comments

Is the diamond in Drake’s tooth a dental implant? I recently read he has a pink diamond in one tooth. Or is it possible to insert a diamond in a natural tooth? It looks cool, but I’m wondering if it is safe to do? And if so, what does a dentist charge for something like that? – Ozzie

Ozzie,

Your dental implant question probably refers to a Twitter post between xxx and Drank that’s circulating. Drake’s photo was posted and there’s an awkward smudge on one of his front teeth. One of the comments made on the photo was:

“Lmao all that money and ur teeth still don’t look clean.”

Drake responded with:

“I have a pink diamond in my tooth…I brush with activated charcoal before any club night where I will see baddies know datttttttttttt”

Does Drake Have a Dental Implant for His Diamond Tooth?

Drake hasn’t clarified how he got the diamond in his tooth. We haven’t found any clear photos that show the tooth well. So, we can only guess what it could be. So here are the possibilities:

  • Natural tooth – The tooth with the diamond could be a natural tooth. Dentists are doctors, so their concern is to not harm natural teeth. Most dentists would view drilling into a natural tooth as causing harm, but a diamond in a tooth is considered cosmetic dentistry. So there are some dentists who would yield to the patient’s request.
  • A grill –  A lot of celebrities have grills. This doesn’t appear to be a grill because the diamond is only on a single tooth. If Drake wanted a grill, he would probably have gold added to it for more bling, similar to what Lil Wayne has done.
  • Dental implant or a crown – Unless Drake had a missing tooth, it’s probably not a dental implant. Most likely, he has a dental crown with a diamond in it. Although it’s not common, a dental lab can easily make a crown with a space in it to embed a diamond.

Is it Safe to Put Diamond in Your Teeth?

Safety depends on the dentist and the technique used. If the procedure was done in a dental office, it’s safe. Most dentists would not recommend removing natural tooth structure to embed a diamond in it. But if Drake has a dental crown, having it placed was likely a necessary procedure and bling was added to it. If anyone other than a dentist does the dental work, it’s not safe. Bacteria can collect around the crown and increase the risk of decay. Or permanent damage to the tooth can occur and ultimately result in the loss of the tooth. It isn’t wise to extract a tooth just to get a dental implant with a diamond in it.

How Much Does Something Like This Cost?

Pink diamonds are rare, but their value depends on the intensity of the hue, the clarity, and the number of carats. We can’t see the pink hue in the photos of the diamond in Drake’s tooth, but the diamond is likely graded as “fancy” or “fancy light,” meaning it is less rare and less valuable than one with more intense shading. The stone alone probably cost a few thousand dollars. A crown from a cosmetic dentist who caters to celebrities would also cost a few thousand dollars.

 

This post is sponsored by award-winning Naperville implant dentist and board-certified prosthodontist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

 

Dec 29

Titanium or Zirconia Dental Implants? Three Things You Should Know Before Deciding

By Dental Implants No Comments

Are you trying to decide whether titanium or zirconia dental implants are best for replacing your missing teeth? There are three things you should know about each of them before making a decision.

Titanium Dental Implants

1. Their History

In the last 20 years, titanium has gained popularity for use in many medical and dental procedures, including:

  • Dental implants
  • Hip and knee replacement
  • Elbow and shoulder joint replacement
  • Protect vertebrae in some back surgeries
  • Cardiovascular devices
  • External prosthesis

2. Why Titanium Dental Implants Work So Well

Titanium is so successful because it’s biocompatible, extremely resistant to corrosion, and super strong. The element has been rigorously tested and researched.

3. What about Titanium Allergies?

The thought of receiving titanium dental implants causes many people to be concerned about metal allergies and sensitivities. Nickel, cobalt, and chromium are the most common causes of reactions to metal in humans. The human body needs to maintain microelements of certain metals, including iron, copper, and zinc for certain functions. But what about titanium? It is biocompatible. Studies show that .06% percent—an extremely low rate—of patients experience a reaction. That means the vast majority of patients have not experienced a negative reaction to the implants.

If you have a history of metal allergies, speak with your implant dentist about your concerns. Some patients choose to be tested for allergies before receiving dental work that contains metal.

Zirconia Dental Implants

1. What Are They Made Of?

Zirconia dental implants are made of zirconium oxide. Zirconium dioxide is known for its high flexural strength. It is used in aerospace, optoelectronics, and nuclear power.

This dental ceramic contains both metallic and non-metallic atoms, which makes it a transition metal. Unlike titanium, it is not classified as a true metal. Although titanium sensitivities are rare, people who have them can usually tolerate zirconia implants.

2. How do zirconia dental implants compare to traditional ones?

  • They are titanium-free.
  • They are durable and long-lasting.
  • They are white, so many people think they are more aesthetically pleasing than titanium implants.
  • Unlike traditional implants, some zirconia implants are a single unit—combining the implant fixture and abutment (which supports a dental crown).

3. What’s the success rate?

Although studies vary, results of a September 2016, Springer – Clinical Oral Investigations study reports that after one year of function, zirconia implants had a 92% survival rate. The success rate of titanium implants is about 95%.

So What Should You Do?

Each patient case is different. Consult with at least two skilled prosthodontists or implant dentists to discuss your options. If you are allergic to titanium or any other metal, let the dentists know. You will need an examination to determine if you’re a candidate for this form of tooth replacement. A highly skilled prosthodontist will let you know the results you can expect from either zirconia or titanium implants.

This post is sponsored by Naperville American-board certified prosthodontist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

Dec 16

5 Ways to Get Affordable Dental Implants that Last

By Affordable Implant Dentistry No Comments

If you are looking for affordable dental implants, you probably realize how important they are to your long-term oral health.

Deeply Rooted Advantages

  • Surgically implanted – They mimic tooth roots and are placed in your jawbone. They function and feel natural.
  • Stability – You can get maximum stability for a single missing tooth, multiple missing teeth, or dentures.
  • Preserve jawbone – Implants stimulate bone and prevent jawbone shrinkage.
  • Prevent facial collapse – If all of your teeth are missing and your jawbone shrinks, your facial muscles will sag and make you look older. Implants help prevent facial collapse.

How to Get High-Quality, Affordable Dental Implants

There are several ways to make tooth replacement or stabilizing your dentures more affordable.

1. Limit the number

If you need to stabilize your dentures, it can be done with as few as two implants. If it’s within your budget, choose standard fixtures over smaller ones. Just remember that more implants will increase the stability. Most implant dentists recommend four to six fixtures. Some of your options include:

  • Snap-on dentures
  • Bar-retained
  • Ball-retained
  • All-On-4®

2. Limit the size

Although mini implants are not strong enough to replace a single tooth, they can secure dentures. Just two of these smaller fixtures will eliminate the anxiety and embarrassment of dentures slipping around or falling out. The diagram to the right shows how mini and standard fixtures compare.

3. Have the work done in phases

Ask your dentist about options for completing your dental work in phases. Some possibilities are below.

  • Receive your dentures first and have the base fitted for affordable dental implants later.
  • You can also receive implant fixtures in phases—two at a time—until you’ve reached the number you want.
  • If you are replacing individual teeth, get one or two implants at a time.

4. Consider financing

Most dentists offer financing or payment plans. Ask your dentist about in-office plans or low- or no-interest financing through healthcare credit companies. You can even request financing on your own through companies like CareCredit®.

5. Do Your Homework

Whether or not you get quality implants that last is mostly determined by the dentist you choose. Before you select a provider, research a few dentists to learn about their education, continuing education, and credentials. Affordable dental implants are a waste of time without quality planning, placement, and aftercare. Going the cheap route can cause many problems, including:

  • Loose implant fixtures
  • Infection
  • Nerve impairment
  • Pain, numbness, and tingling

Your choice of a provider is crucial to avoiding implant failure. For example, Dr. LaVacca is an American board-certified prosthodontist. In addition to receiving specialty training after dental school, he obtained board certification. He also teaches other dentists about how to obtain the best results with implantology. Find out what he does to ensure you get dental treatment that lasts.

Schedule Consultations for Affordable Dental Implants

We recommend that you schedule consultations with two or three highly experienced dentists to discuss your treatment and payment options. If you’re local to Naperville, Dr. LaVacca welcomes you to schedule one of your consultations with him.

This post is sponsored by American board-certified prosthodontist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

Close Menu