Occasionally, our front office receives calls from people who are calling different offices to check fees. While we all want to spend our money wisely, these types of comparisons don’t always give an ‘apples to apples’ accuracy.

Take, for example, the inquiry, “How much are Dental Implants?”  Is the caller wanting the cost of the implant and placement procedure? Or, does he want to know the added cost for the replacement tooth. And, since one implant can hold more than one tooth (in many cases), calculating the cost of three implants and three replacement teeth may be far more than is necessary, when one implant and a bridge of three teeth will suffice.

It’s also difficult to answer cost questions since no two mouths are alike and fees can vary according to the type of implant that’s best suited to the individual’s need. Or, for example, to learn the fees to repair a ‘gummy’ smile, the number of teeth involved will largely determine the rate. Although, veneers or crowns may be recommended as part of the treatment to improve or protect natural teeth. These fees are extra.

Another issue with cost comparison is even more concerning when people try to ‘shop’ for the ‘best price.’ While a dentist or specialist may have higher fees for certain procedures, there is often a good reason. Having your treatment provide a flattering, natural look and feel that gives exceptional longevity and does not compromise your bite alignment (which can eventually cause headaches, chipped teeth, sore jaws, etc.) is worth the extra for a dentist who is highly trained, skilled and experienced.

For example, a dentist who has taken a few weekend courses on placing one particular type of  dental implant may offer a terrific rate. However, doctors don’t ‘guarantee’ work since, once the patient is out their door, the dentist no longer has control over its care. With implants, when not selected or placed properly, failures (and therefore, removal) can occur. When implants have to be removed, the investment is down the drain.

Think of your dental investment like you would when selecting a new roof for your family’s home. Would you pick the cheapest company, realizing the materials and workmanship will likely be inferior? Be committed to finding the right dental professional to do the job to the highest standards. A healthy, appealing smile is an investment that’s worth the very best!

A Periodontist is a dentist who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal (gums and all oral tissues) disease and dental implant placement. After completing 4 years of undergraduate school at a college or university, Periodontists continue another 4 years in dental school followed by 3 more years in extensive training in this specialty. They are considered experts in diagnosing and treating periodontal disease as well as cosmetic periodontal procedures such as gum recontouring and crown lengthening.

In addition to treating gum disease, Periodontists offer treatments such as scaling & root planing (which cleans infection below the gum line) or root surface debridement (a process that removes damaged tissue). They also treat severe gum problems and have extensive training in the placement of dental implants.

Because of the relationship between periodontal disease and chronic diseases, patients with signs of periodontal disease receive an optimal level of expertise by a trained Periodontal specialist. Patients with moderate or severe periodontal disease are restored to a healthy state more efficiently by a partnership between your general dentist and a Periodontist.

Because a Periodontist is specially trained to work with gum tissues, their skills in implant placement enhance treatment outcomes and typically shorten treatment times due to their expertise.

Crown lengthening is preformed, most often, to give an esthetic balance to the gum line when a crown is placed. This ensures neighboring teeth most visible in your smile are bordered by a similar amount of gum tissue. However, crown lengthening also enhances your oral health and the life of your crown.

Like a fingernail connected to your finger, each tooth penetrates living tissue. The seal formed by healthy gum tissues around teeth helps to prevent bacteria from entering your bloodstream through your mouth. If a cavity forms, a tooth breaks or you develop gum disease, this seal can become the entryway for bacteria to enter your body.

Crown lengthening repositions this seal to restore a healthy line of protection. While you enjoy the beauty of your new crown through your smile’s enhanced appearance, crown lengthening gives your oral health a boost at the same time!

If someone special in your life has a ‘gummy smile,’ you probably have noticed they tend to hold back on a really full smile. They may put their hand in front of their mouth when smiling or look down when laughing. In photos, they tend to resist a full smile.

This is a shame for so many people who are precious to us. Perhaps it is a mother or wife. Maybe it is a bride who knows all eyes (and photographs) will be on her. Maybe it’s a child preparing for college and feels uneasy about making new friends.

Repairing a gummy smile is, quite frankly, a fairly simple procedure. Often, excess gum tissue is removed in a single procedure. The gum line is evened out so the smile has a more balanced and appealing appearance. The patient is very comfortable throughout the procedure and healing time is quick.

If you have, or know someone who has, a gummy smile and would like to feel more confident smiling, laughing and enjoying social gatherings, begin with a consultation appointment to discuss the procedure. Your smile should reflect YOU at your very best! Call (828) 274-9440 to learn more.