The 1-2-3’s of All-On-4 Dental Implants

Posted on Aug 09, 2012 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

We believe that everyone deserves a confident smile. For those who are missing teeth, All-On-4 is helping more people achieve that.

1. A more affordable option for non-removable implants – All-On-4 is a non-removable dental implant option designed to maximize the use of available bone on just 4 implants. Thus, replacing a full arch of teeth is more affordable since fewer implants are required.

2. Gives you teeth that have excellent stability for eating – The All-On-4 process can have teeth attached immediately with implants that are angled to provide better stability. Plus, placement is done in just one appointment!

3. Works well for those who have even experienced severe bone loss – For people who have lost bone (a result of missing tooth roots), some cannot have implants without bone rebuilding or grafting procedures. Because of the unique angles in the design and placement, All On 4 works well even when severe bone loss has occurred.

For a consultation to discuss the All-On-4 system, or any tooth replacement option, call (828) 274-9440. I’ll be happy to explain the process and answer all of your questions.

Insurance Coverage For Dental Implants

Posted on Jul 18, 2012 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Dental insurance policies cover some basic oral health needs, such as filling a cavity, as well as routine care of check-ups and cleanings. However, it’s important to remember that insurance companies are in the business to make a profit. It is up to you to ensure your needs are being proactively met for your long-term oral health. Because insurance companies seek to cover ‘basic’ needs with the least expense to them, Dental Implants are often not covered by many group insurance policies.

Dental Implants are an upfront expense, meaning the total cost occurs at the time of treatment. For example, the treatment fee for those who select Dental Implants is higher than those who opt for a three unit crown & bridge. However, Dental Implants are designed to last your lifetime. Therefore, future expenses are not incurred.

Insurance companies realize the probability that you will change insurances in time. By providing coverage for only the crown-&-bridge, they are hoping they won’t be covering you for future needs that may include a broken bridge, root canals and replacement crowns. And, if you are on their plan should these incidences occur, there is a limit to what they’ll cover in any given year, regardless.

The fact that Dental implants are not covered by many policies has nothing to do with their effectiveness. It has more to do with what gives these companies (not you) the best deal. When health care decisions are made based upon what is in your long-term best interest rather than the bottom-line of an insurance company, your oral well-being will serve you well through an overall healthier you!

If you’re not sure about your insurance coverage for Dental Implants, bring your insurance information to our office and we’ll review it to give you and idea of the type of coverage you may receive. Call (828) 274-9440 to arrange a time convenient to your schedule.

Advantages of Dental Implants vs. Bridge

Posted on Jul 16, 2012 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

While a bridge or partial will initially cost more than having Dental Implants, I put strong emphasis on ‘initially’ for several reasons.

Dental Implants are designed to last your lifetime. They are held in the jaw bone, just like natural tooth roots. This means that they do not rely on adjacent teeth for support. Leaving natural teeth untouched, rather than crown them merely to support a bridge, provides a significant long-term benefit to your oral health.

Additionally, Dental Implants will never need (or cause the need for) a root canal or repair of cavities. It is a fact that the teeth adjacent to a missing tooth are most likely next in line to require removal. Dental Implants are designed to replace missing teeth using the natural foundation of your jaw bone.

Another benefit is how Dental Implants look and feel like your own teeth. Once placed, Dental Implants integrate into the structure of your bone. Through this, they help to prevent the bone loss and gum recession that often accompany bridgework and partials.

Over time, bone loss becomes obvious through changes in facial appearance. Bone loss contributes to deep wrinkles around the mouth, causing the corners of the mouth to turn downward even in a smile. Eventually, many develop a collapsed appearance of the mouth. This creates a ‘granny look’ that makes you appear far older than your actual age.

Because some people prefer to keep their Dental Implant treatment a private issue, no one ever need know that you have implant-supported replacement teeth. Some implant systems allow you to remove attached teeth, but many versions are non-removable. These types mean you’ll never have to remove your teeth from your mouth again. You’ll be able to wake up with a smile and brush your implanted teeth along with your natural teeth!

The success rate of Dental Implants is excellent. Properly selected, placed and maintained, this lifetime solution makes them a wise choice when it comes to tooth replacement. Since Periodontists specialize in gum tissues and underlying bone in the mouth, they have the knowledge, training and facilities to give you teeth that look and feel just like your own.

When you compare Dental Implants to a bridge based on the long-term advantages rather than initial costs, the choice is an easy one. Dental Implants are a wise investment. To arrange a consultation to discuss your needs, call (828) 274-9440.