This four-part article series provides a comprehensive overview of the various technologies available for the replacement of missing and irreparably damaged or decayed teeth.

Tooth loss is a major problem that affects people of every culture, creed, color and age across the globe. But, as with most fields of medicine and science, modern advancements and constant development has evolved the technology necessary to keep up with this problem. The result is that there are a number of solutions available to those who require one or more of their natural teeth replaced. Which technology works the best? Which one lasts the longest? What are the benefits of dental implants? How do dental bridges fare in the long term? Are dentures worth considering? In this four-part article series, an experienced general, cosmetic and implant dentist in Chicago will be answering all of our questions about the different technologies used to replace missing teeth!

FAQ: What is the number one teeth replacement technology recommended by dentists and why?

Answer: “Without a doubt, dental implants are the number one recommendation of dental healthcare professionals around the world,” says the implant dentist in Chicago. “This is because implants offer benefits that are unparalleled by any other teeth replacement technology: they function better, they feel more natural and they last far longer. Dental implants also help to maintain good jawbone health, which prevents a great number of problems for patients in the long run.”

FAQ: What are dental implants and how do they work?

Answer: “Dental implants offer patients a fixed and non-removable solution to missing teeth”. “They are essentially artificial tooth roots made from titanium metal, which is exceptionally strong, durable, lightweight and non-corrodible. The implant is place in the jawbone at the site/s of the missing tooth or teeth, where it provides a stable foundation for an artificial tooth crown. This is usually custom-fabricated from ceramic materials. In the case of full arch reconstruction, an array of dental implants can be strategically placed to provide support for an acrylic dental bridge.”

FAQ: What alternatives are there to dental implants?

Answer: “Dental implants may be the most popular dental technology as far as dentists are concerned, but they aren’t the only one. Dental bridges, which consist of three connected ceramic crowns, can be used to provide Chicago residents with a replacement tooth.”(see image below for a diagrammatic representation of how bridges are placed).

“Then there are removable dentures for patients who have lost many teeth or even all of their teeth over the years. Dentures can be partials, in which case they make use of metal hooks and a patient’s remaining natural teeth to remain stabilized in the mouth, or they can be full removable dentures,” explains an implant dentist in Chicago. “These rely on their bulkiness, the underlying gums and products such as adhesive strips to prevent them from shifting about, although, full removable dentures will always move around to a degree. This is just something that denture-wearers will need to grow accustomed to.”

Stay Tuned for Part 2

To find out more information about the various teeth replacement technologies available today, stay tuned for the second installment of this four-part FAQ series, courtesy of “All-On-4” dentists in Chicago.

This article talks about the cost of dental implants, highlighting the ways in which the dentist can work with the patient to devise payment strategies that suit their budget.

In an ideal world, money would not be an issue when it comes to medical expenses. You would be able to get what you need when you need it without the stress of an empty wallet. The implant dentist in Chicago understands this desire and thus also understands that the cost of the All-On-4 implant procedure is one the primary concerns of prospective patients. This article is here to inform you about the in's and out's regarding costs and payment strategies involved with All-On-4 dental implants.

The Cost

To be entirely honest, Chicago residents will find the initial cost of the All-On-4 dental implants procedure to be higher than other tooth replacement options. This is due to the sophisticated technology, quality hardware and time and expense that goes into providing patients with new teeth using this advanced dental implant protocol. In any case, the outcomes of the "All-On-4" are far longer lived than any other teeth replacement technology and don’t come with repeat expenses or the need for restoration. Dental bridges, for instance, are said to last approximately eight years and then require restoration. The "All-On-4", on the other hand, can last twenty to thirty years, sometimes even longer if cared for properly.

So although the initial expense seems far greater than other options, such as removable dentures, in the long run All-On-4 dental implants end up costing Chicago residents less than other tooth replacement technologies.

Medical Insurance

“Dental implants are fast becoming the most popular choice in tooth replacement strategies, and are recognized as the best solution for multiple and single tooth replacement,” says an implant dentist in Chicago. “Despite these facts, medical insurances cover little, or none, of the costs associated with dental implants.”

While medical insurance companies might not understand the many necessary benefits afforded by dental implants, the implant dentist in Chicago does. What’s important is that the lack of support (insurance–wise) for this sophisticated treatment should not deter patients from benefitting from the best possible solution there is for missing teeth. This is why most Chicago implant dentists work closely with dental financing companies that are able to work out a payment plan that best suits the individual’s budget.

Payment Possibilities

Because implant dentists in Chicago really do have your best interests at heart, they do not want a concern for cost to hinder your opportunity to have the smile and confidence that you deserve with All-On-4 dental implants.

Working together with financing companies and your budget, the dentist will be willing to determine a payment plan that works with your budget. This payment plan usually breaks the cost of dental implants down into monthly installments, making it all far more manageable.

A Realizable Dream

With the help of your implant dentist in Chicago your wish for a perfect and confident smile is able to become a reality. With a few monthly installments you will have a permanent smile that, with the appropriate care and good oral hygiene, could last you the rest of your life.

Even though it may seem cheaper for you to stick with your removable dentures, there are just too many advantages to All-On-4 dental implants to wait a moment longer. Set up a consultation with your dental specialist and make your pearly white dreams a reality.

This three-part article series explains five important things you can do to get the very most out of your bi-annual appointments with the dentist and oral hygienist.

Welcome to the final installment of this three-part article series on how to get the most out of your bi-annual dental appointments. In Part 1, we spoke to an implant dentist in Chicago, who recommended that patients compile a list of questions and concerns (bleeding gums, tooth sensitivity, how to brush properly, etc.) they may have and bring it with them to their appointments. In Part 2, it was recommended that if it has been more than a year since they have done so, patients should update their medical history, which all Chicago dental practices keep on file. Point # 3 on the checklist was for patients to tell their dentist about any medications, supplements and vitamins they may be taking, since this can impact oral health.

Now, lets address the two remaining points on our checklist for getting the very most out of your dental appointments!

4. Speak to Your Dentist About Low-Cost Options and Dental Financing

“Too many patients make the mistake of avoiding treatment or choosing the inferior dental technology because they are concerned about money,” says the implant dentist in Chicago. “What they don’t realize is that we, as dental healthcare practitioners, prioritize treatment and the health of our patients. As such, we work closely with medical financing companies that provide tailor-made payment plans to help patients cover the costs of a procedure or treatment. This can be done over any number of months, depending upon your budget and financial means. Either way, you can benefit from the very best treatment option without having to dig too deep.”

“We also offer a variety of treatment options, for example, for tooth loss. If a traditional dental implant is outside of your budget, you could go for mini-dental implants. Chicago dental implant dentists can also do conventional bridges, although they do prefer dental implants for their superior functionality, aesthetics, longevity and the fact that they don’t harm the adjacent natural teeth when being placed,” says a Chicago dental implants expert. “Speak to your dentist… we’re here to help and are ready and willing to work with you to find the best possible solution.”

5. Ask Your Dentist About How You Can Improve Your Dental Healthcare At Home

“Your dentist can tell from the condition of your teeth and gums just how you care for them when you’re at home. We can tell whether or not you floss and just how frequently and thoroughly you brush your teeth,” says the implant dentist in Chicago. “Even if you brush your teeth twice a day, as is widely recommended, there can be space for improvement, so speak to us about what we see and how you can do better with caring for your teeth and gums.”

Additionally, new dental healthcare products are constantly being introduced to the market. From hygienic tongue scrapers to cosmetic whiteners… just ask your dentist what the latest and greatest is in the field of oral healthcare and he or she will be glad to provide you with his or her recommendations. Remember your dentist is your lifelong partner in excellent oral health and smile confidence!

Get the most out of your bi-annual dental appointments by following the 5-point checklist laid out in this three-part article series:

1. Make a list of any problems or issues you’ve been experiencing.
2. Update your medical history with your dentist’s receptionist.
3. Give your dentist a list of any medications, supplements and vitamins you may be on.
4. Speak to your dentist about any low-cost options or dental financing if cost is a concern for you.
5. Ask your dentist how you could improve your home oral healthcare routine.