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Can I find more affordable dental implants?

Posted on by smiles4u.

I have several missing teeth and I refuse to smile anymore because I am so embarrassed about how I look. I want to get implants, but the dentist I recently visited quoted me $5000. That is so much more than I was expecting and I really don’t think I can afford it. Is it possible to find a dentist who will do implants at a more affordable cost?  — Mary

Mary,
There’s no doubt that $5000 is a lot of money, but it will certainly be very difficult to find another dentist who will make implants more affordable than the quote you were given. In fact, it almost sound too good to be true, and here’s why…

Dental implants are a two-stage process: 1) the surgical placement of the posts, and 2) placing the top of the tooth (crown) to the implant once is has fully integrated with your jawbone. While there will be some variation in cost depending on the quality of the materials, the expertise of your dentist and even where you live, you should expect to pay (at minimum) $1,000 per tooth being replaced for each stage. When you do the math for three teeth, that’s a cost of at least $6000. But consider this: some dentists can run as high as $2500 per tooth for each stage for a total of $15,000.

The first thing you need to do is verify with this dentist that the quote you were given is your total out-of-pocket expense for all procedures and materials. And make sure that he is doing three full, traditional dental implants. It could be that he is quoting you something else – like a bridge, a partial or even mini implants. Being fully prepared and informed means there will be no unpleasant surprises in the end.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Read more about  why many consider Dr. Delaune to be the best dentist in New Orleans.

What’s with the brown line on my implant?

Posted on by smiles4u.

I recently noticed a brown line on my dental implant. I had an appointment for a cleaning and it totally slipped my mind to ask my dentist about it. After the cleaning, the dark line was gone so I just assumed it must have been a stain so I stopped worrying about it. Then I noticed today the line is back, so now I am wondering if something is wrong. If it’s nothing, I don’t want my dentist to think I am paranoid, but why would it show up in the exact same place if it was a stain?  — Mary Ann in Oklahoma

Mary Ann,
It’s highly possible that what you are seeing is a stain. Sometimes porcelain crowns can have slight defects, or they can get a very small crack in them. If there is an indentation or crevice, it can easily collect and show a stain. It’s very possible that your hygienist removed the stain, but it has come back again.

You should probably see your dentist soon to determine if it is a crack because there is a risk that it could give way and completely shatter the crown. Unfortunately your dentist will not be able to predict if or when that could happen. If the defect shallow, you may be able to remove the stain by brushing the area a little more thoroughly or it may be possible to buff the spot, which will smooth it out so it doesn’t collect stain. I also could be possible that you will eventually have to have a new crown made. The good news is that you won’t have to have the entire implant redone, just the restoration that attaches to your implant.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Read more about why many consider Dr. Delaune to be the best dentist in New Orleans.

Not enough space for implants?

Posted on by smiles4u.

When I was young, a minor accident knocked one of my teeth out. It wasn’t in an obvious place that could be seen, so I didn’t worry about fixing it. I just recently went to the dentist after not being to one for many years, and I had to have the tooth next to it pulled. Now, I’d like to replace the two missing teeth with implants, but my dentist says I need to do a bridge because there is not enough room for two implants. I don’t understand how there is not enough room and also, the teeth on each side that he would need to crown are healthy, so why would he shave down good teeth?

Sam in Illinois

Sam,

When you lose a tooth, the surrounding teeth will shift.  Since it has been so many years since you lost the tooth, it’s given your other teeth plenty of time to move around, making the space smaller and leaving less room for two implants.

While a bridge may be an option – it’s not the only option.  Most dentists would likely want to find an alternative solution that doesn’t require shaving down healthy teeth, but if your dentist isn’t giving you any other options, it may be time to look for another opinion.

Mini implants might be an option in your case because they need less space. A dentist might be able to place two mini implants or even a single mini or traditional implant that will support two replacement teeth.

Bottom line, there are many options out there… take the time to do a little shopping around to find a dentist who will offer the best solution for you.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Read more about Find out why many consider Dr. Delaune to be the best dentist in New Orleans.

New dental implants done overseas hurt ALL the time. Can they be removed?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

I had 4 dental implants overseas and now they ALL the time. I can’t believe that all of them hurt. The pain is not intense but it is moderate and very uncomfortable. It’s been 10 months since I had them done and I can’t afford to keep going in and out of the country for the dentist there to get it right. I want to cry because I am so frustrated, and I am embarrassed for taking the risk and having thing turn out so wrong. Can the implants be removed? What’s involved? – T.M.

T.M. – We are sorry to hear about the difficulty you are experiencing with your dental implants.

An experienced implant dentist will examine your implants and if necessary, remove them. An incision will made to expose the implants. The implant dentist will gently remove the gum tissue off of the bone. An attachment will be used to carefully remove the implants without damaging the bone.

If the bone is firmly attached to the implant, the bone may need to be weakened to remove the implant. Bone grafting will be needed to build back the bone. In four to five months, new bone will grow and new implants can be placed.

Before you select an implant dentist verify the amount of training and experience he or she has in implant dentistry and implant removal. Ensure that your questions are answered and your concerns are addressed. You should also consider getting the opinion of two different implant dentists.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Find out why many consider Dr. Delaune to be the best dentist in New Orleans.

Loose dental implant

Posted on by AllSmiles.

I had 3 dental implants fitted in April and one has come a bit loose. Can this be dangerous or is just like a loose tooth that will fall out later? – Janet

Janet – Dental implants should not become lose or fall out. A loose implant is a sign of dental implant failure. Have you had any follow-up visits with your implant dentist to check the progress of your implants?

A dental can become loose if it is improperly placed, if cheap implant fixtures are used, or if you have inadequate bone density to support the implant. You should schedule an appointment with your implant dentist right away. If the dental implant has failed, it will need to be completely redone.

If you prefer, you can get a second opinion from an experienced implants. He or she will examine the implant and let you know your treatment options.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Read about his Top Dentist award from his peers, and find out why his patients consider him to be the best dentist in New Orleans.

How do you know if your dental implant is messed up or failing?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

How do you know if your dental implant is messed up or failing? – Melanie

Melanie – There are several indicators of dental implant failure.

  • Infection – Infection can result from implants that were improperly placed or poorly fitted.
  • Loose implants – Cheap implant fixtures can cause the implants to loosen. Implants can also loosen if there isn’t enough bone density to support them, or if replacement teeth are prematurely loaded onto them.
  • Nerve impairment – Numbness, pain, and tingling that persist can result from improper placement of the implants. Nerves in the jaw can be pinched and cause persistent problems.
  • Puncture of other body structure – The nose, sinus, or the area of your lower jaw and beneath your tongue can be punctured and result in much discomfort.

If you suspect that your dental implants have failed, notify your implant surgeon. You may prefer to get a second opinion from an experienced implant dentist.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Find out why so many patients think he is the best dentist in New Orleans.

What should I expect after dental implant surgery?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

I am considering getting dental implants but I want to know as much about the whole process as possible. After dental implant surgery, how will I feel/what should I expect? – Kent

Kent – After your dental implant surgery, for 24 to 48 hours, you may experience minor bleeding around the implant site. You will be instructed not to sip through a straw, spit, or rinse your mouth, because these actions can increase bleeding.  But you should stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. You should avoid physical exertion, which can result in more bleeding.

Your gums and face may be swollen after surgery, and your jaw muscles may feel tight. You may notice bruising on your face and gums. Slight elevation of your body temperature may occur. It is persists, notify your implant surgeon.

Antibiotics may be prescribed. Depending on the complexity of the surgery and the level of pain anticipated, you may also receive a prescription for pain medication. Many patients are comfortable with over-the-counter pain reliever.

It may be recommended that you eat soft foods during the initial phase of healing, which can last up to two weeks.  During the entire healing period, avoid foods such as nuts, seeds, or popcorn, which can get lodged between your teeth and gums. The sticthes at the implant site should dissolve within two weeks or less.

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to the healing process. Tobacco use should be avoided, because it interferes with the healing process.

We recommend that you have a few consultations with experienced implant dentists. The consultation will allow you to ask questions about the procedure, and the implant surgeon’s credentials and experience.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Find out why many consider him to be the best dentist in New Orleans.

How can I tell if I have gum disease?

Posted on by AllSmiles.

How can I tell if I have gum disease? My gums are bleeding. Thanks. Thomas

Thomas – The best way to tell if you have gum disease is to see your dentist. Your dentist will examine your teeth and gums to make the determination.

Symptoms of gum disease

  • Gums that bleed when you floss or brush your teeth
  • Inflamed or sore gums
  • Gums that are receding, or pulling away from the teeth
  • Persistent bad breath
  • Pus between the teeth and gums
  • Loose teeth
  • A change in your bite—the way your teeth fit together
  • An increase in the space between your teeth
  • A partial denture that no longer fits correctly

Inadequate brushing and flossing your teeth, genetics, certain illnesses, and certain medications can make you more susceptible to gum disease. Regular brushing and flossing, as well as regular exams by your dentist and dental cleanings can help prevent gum disease.

If you think you have gum disease, make an appointment with your dentist. Early detection makes it easier to control the gum disease and save your teeth. Teeth that are lost due to gum disease can be replaced with a dental bridge or dental implants.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune of Metairie.

Need some advice on teeth implants

Posted on by AllSmiles.

The crowns on my teeth implants look fake. I’ve had them for almost three years and I hate them. My dentist says that I’m being too picky, and that I should give it some time. How much more time do I need after three years? Am I being unreasonable, or am I right to make an appointment with a cosmetic dentist? – Nyesha T., New Orleans – Metairie

Nyesha,

A cosmetic dentist has appreciation for aesthetics. He or she wants you to have a beautiful smile that you love—not one that you have to get used to in order to like it. When the crowns on your dental implants don’t look natural, a cosmetic dentist can help.

Porcelain crowns can and should have the translucency and color of your natural teeth. And when you have dental implants, no one should be able to tell that they are replacement teeth.

A cosmetic dentist will work with you to ensure that you love the look of your new smile.

This blog is brought to you by the office of New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune of Metairie. Dr. Delaune has received post-graduate training specific to the placement of dental implants.