Restoring An Aging Smile

How Cosmetic dentistry can bring an aging smile back to life

As we age, our teeth are subjected to years of wear and tear that cause our once-bright smiles to start fading away. Discolored teeth, chipped edges, cavities, and gaps can make us feel self-conscious and embarrassed to smile. It is a known fact that our appearance affects our self-confidence, leading us to shy away from social situations and interactions. Fortunately, cosmetic dentistry can provide you with a solution to your worries and help revitalize your aging smile.

Teeth Whitening

As we age, our teeth undergo natural discoloration due to factors such as coffee, smoking, and certain foods. Teeth whitening is an effective cosmetic dentistry solution that can significantly improve the color of your teeth and give you a brighter smile. A professional teeth whitening treatment can help remove stubborn stains and brighten your teeth by several shades, providing a noticeable difference and restoring your confidence.

Veneers

Veneers offer a long-lasting solution for those with chipped, worn, or discolored teeth. They are made of high-quality porcelain that is custom-made to fit your teeth. Veneers can correct the appearance of gaps, misaligned teeth, and stains that are resistant to teeth whitening. They provide a natural, beautiful smile and are known to last for up to 15-20 years.

Dental Implants

Missing teeth can cause significant discomfort, decreased function, and a lack of confidence when smiling. Dental implants are a permanent solution that replaces missing teeth with artificial teeth that look and feel like real teeth. They are extremely durable, making them a long-lasting and effective cosmetic dentistry option that can improve not just your appearance, but also your quality of life.

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are ideal for patients with significant tooth decay or damage. A crown can restore your natural tooth shape and size while also improving your overall oral health. A crown is a customized cap that is bonded to an existing tooth, providing it with extra strength and durability. They provide a long-lasting cosmetic solution that’s effective and also helps in maintaining good oral hygiene.

Gum Contouring

Gum contouring reshapes and sculpts the gum line to create a more symmetrical, proportionate smile. It transforms the appearance of teeth that appear too short due to excessive gum tissue, giving you a more youthful and attractive smile. The procedure is relatively painless and can be completed in just one visit.

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Cosmetic dentistry offers a wide range of solutions that can restore the confidence of those with aging smiles. Teeth whitening, veneers, dental implants, crowns, and gum contouring can fix a variety of dental problems and revitalize your smile. If you’re embarrassed by your smile, it’s time to explore the benefits of cosmetic dentistry. At Green Dental Care, we’re committed to helping our clients achieve the dental look they desire, and we provide a wide range of cosmetic dentistry options to suit every need. Schedule a consultation with us today, and let our experienced team of dental experts help you bring your smile back to life.

What To Know About Dental Implants

Understanding Dental Implants

Are you considering dental implants in Parker, CO? If so, then you’ve made an excellent decision! Dental implants are a great choice when it comes to restoring missing teeth and they can provide many lasting benefits. Not only do they look natural, but they also feel realistic compared to traditional dentures or bridges. In addition, dental implants also help preserve the jawbone structure as well as facial contours. In this blog post, we’ll go over everything that you need to know about dental implants in Parker, including what the procedure entails and how to know if it’s right for you. So continue reading now!

Understand the Benefits of Dental Implants

Choosing dental implants can bring a world of benefits to your oral health and overall well-being. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, implants offer a permanent and natural-looking solution for missing or damaged teeth. Their solid foundation ensures stability when you eat, speak, or laugh. Implants also help prevent bone loss and gum recession, preserving your facial structure and maintaining a healthy smile. Additionally, they require no special maintenance beyond regular brushing and flossing, so you can experience easy care and long-term satisfaction. Don’t wait any longer to understand the life-changing advantages of dental implants!

Learn About the Types of Implants Available

If you’re considering getting implants, you have a variety of options to choose from! There are several different types of implants available, each with their own benefits and drawbacks. For example, traditional implants are the most commonly used and are great for replacing individual teeth. For those who need multiple teeth replaced, implant-supported bridges or dentures may be a better fit. These types of implants can provide more stability and security than traditional dentures. Additionally, mini dental implants are a great option for those who don’t have enough jawbone density for traditional implants. With so many options available, it’s important to do your research and talk to your dentist to determine which type of implant is the best fit for you.

Know the Risks Involved With Getting Implants

Getting implants can be a life-changing decision for many people who want to improve their appearance or address certain health issues. While the benefits can be significant, it’s important to understand the risks involved before making any decisions. However, there’s no need to be overly worried or fearful, as long as you do your research and find a qualified and experienced dentist. With the right guidance and information, you can make an informed decision that will give you the results and confidence you’re looking for. So if you’re considering implants, take the time to do your due diligence and educate yourself, and then move forward with positive and optimistic energy.

Consider the Cost Of The Procedure

As you contemplate undertaking a procedure, it’s natural that cost will be a major consideration. The good news is that taking into account the many factors that make up this cost can lead to procedures that are affordable and accessible, with many options ranging from outpatient visits to inpatient surgery. With medical technology advancing by leaps and bounds, there are now many innovative pain management measures and other applications that help to keep costs in check while promoting wellness. As you weigh up your options, keep the positive perspective that, with careful planning and a good healthcare team, it’s possible to find a procedure that fits your budget and your specific needs.

Find an Experienced Professional to Perform The Surgery

If you’re looking for a surgeon, finding an experienced professional is essential. You want someone who has the knowledge and expertise to perform your surgery with confidence and care. Luckily, there are numerous resources available to help you locate the right surgeon for your needs. Consider asking for referrals from your primary care physician or friends and family who have had similar procedures. Additionally, online reviews and professional associations can provide valuable insight into a surgeon’s qualifications and track record. With careful research, you can find an experienced professional who will put you at ease and deliver the best possible outcome for your surgery.

Be Ready For The Lifestyle Changes That Come With Having Implants

Having implants can be a life-changing decision, but it’s important to understand that it also comes with new lifestyle adjustments. While it may take some time to get used to these shifts, be excited about the new possibilities that come with your enhanced appearance! For example, if you have breast implants, you may need new bras or tops to accommodate your new size. Similarly, if you have dental implants, you may need to adjust your eating habits slightly. But don’t worry – these changes are minor and temporary in comparison to the long-term benefits that come with your new implants. So embrace your new lifestyle and enjoy all of the positive changes that come with it!

Contact Us Today

Ultimately, if you’re considering dental implants, it’s important to be informed, ask questions of your doctor and weigh the pros and cons before embarking on the journey. With proper research, preparation and professional assistance, receiving dental implants can be a successful endeavor that will lead to a healthier smile and improved quality of life. Your doctor is the best resource for surefire answers to all your questions about this major oral decision. Plus, there are plenty of trustworthy websites that offer more information about understanding and evaluating different implant options so you can make an educated decision about your dental health. Now that you know more about dental implants, we hope you trust yourself to make a confident choice for improving your oral health. Contact our team at Green Dental Care to schedule a consultation today!

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Dental Implant Benefits For Seniors

The Benefits of Dental Implants for Seniors in Parker, Colorado

As we age, our teeth start to deteriorate, leading to tooth loss and other dental problems. Dental implants have become a popular solution for seniors looking to replace missing teeth or damaged dentures. Not only do they provide a natural-looking and long-lasting solution, but they also offer a host of additional benefits that seniors can take advantage of. In this blog post, we will be exploring the many dental implant benefits for seniors in Parker, Colorado.

Improved Oral Health

Dental implants help improve oral health by acting as a replacement for natural teeth. When we lose teeth, our jawbone begins to deteriorate, leading to a sunken and aged appearance. Dental implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing further bone loss and maintaining the structure of the face. Additionally, they prevent the remaining teeth from shifting out of place, leading to a better-aligned and healthy smile.

Improved function and comfort

Dentures often cause discomfort and hinder eating and speaking. Dental implants feel and function like natural teeth, providing seniors with a comfortable and natural eating and speaking experience. Unlike dentures, they won’t slip or move around, allowing the seniors to enjoy their favorite foods without any problems.

Increased Confidence and Self-esteem

Tooth loss can lead to a loss of confidence and self-esteem in seniors. Dental implants are designed to look and feel like natural teeth, providing seniors with a beautiful and confident smile. They can once again feel confident and comfortable in their social interactions without feeling self-conscious about their teeth.

Long-lasting solution

Dental implants are designed to be a long-lasting solution compared to traditional dentures or bridges. With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last up to 25 years or more. This reduces the need for frequent replacements and increases the overall satisfaction of the patient.

Improved Quality of Life

Dental implants can significantly improve the quality of life of seniors. They provide a natural-looking and long-lasting solution that promotes better oral health, improves function and comfort, and enhances confidence and self-esteem. Seniors can continue to enjoy their favorite foods, speak more comfortably, and feel confident in their social interactions.

Dental implants are a beneficial solution for seniors in Parker, Colorado, who are looking to replace missing teeth or dentures. They offer a wide range of benefits that promote oral health, function and comfort, confidence, and self-esteem. Seniors can enjoy a long-lasting solution that enhances their overall quality of life. If you are a senior looking for a dentist in Parker, Colorado, to discuss your options for dental implants, feel free to contact our office today. Green Dental Care is here to help and provide you with the best dental care.

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Dental Implant Recovery Process

A Guide to the Dental Implant Recovery Process: What to Expect

If you have recently undergone a dental implant procedure, congratulations! You are now on your way to a beautiful, functional smile. However, the recovery process can be a bit intimidating, especially if you’re not sure what to expect. In this guide, we’ll take you through the different stages of dental implant recovery, so you can be prepared for what’s to come. Whether you need a single tooth implant or a full-mouth restoration, our tips will help you heal faster and maintain optimal oral health.

Immediately After Surgery

After your dental implant surgery, your dentist will provide you with instructions on how to care for your implant site. You’ll need to avoid smoking, using straws, and eating hard or sticky foods for a few days. You should also use ice packs to reduce swelling and avoid strenuous activities for at least 24 hours. You may experience some discomfort, but your dentist will prescribe pain medication to help you manage it. It’s important to keep your mouth clean to prevent infection. You can rinse your mouth with saltwater but avoid brushing or flossing the implant site for the first week.

First Few Days

During the first few days of your dental implant recovery, you may experience some bleeding, swelling, and bruising. This is normal and should subside within a week. You can manage these symptoms with over-the-counter pain medication and by applying ice packs to the affected area. Make sure to get plenty of rest and avoid activities that may increase swelling, such as bending over or exercising. It’s also important to stick to soft and lukewarm foods, such as soup and mashed potatoes, to avoid irritating the implant site.

First Two Weeks

After the first week, you can resume your oral hygiene routine, but be gentle around the implant site. You can brush your teeth and use a water flosser but avoid touching the implant or using too much pressure. Your dentist may recommend a special mouthwash to help keep your mouth clean and reduce the risk of infection. You should also continue to stick to soft and lukewarm foods, and avoid smoking and drinking alcohol for at least two weeks.

First Month

By the end of the first month, your dental implant should be fully integrated with your jawbone. You can start introducing harder and chewier foods into your diet, but be careful not to bite down directly on the implant. Your dentist may also recommend a custom-made mouthguard if you grind your teeth at night. This can help protect your new implant and prevent damage. Make sure to attend all your follow-up appointments with your dentist, so they can monitor your progress and make sure your implant is healing properly.

Aftercare

Once your dental implant has fully healed, you should continue to take care of your oral health by brushing and flossing regularly and visiting your dentist for regular checkups. You should also avoid hard and sticky foods, as they can damage your new implant. If you play contact sports, make sure to wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and gums. With proper care, your dental implant can last a lifetime, and you can enjoy a beautiful, healthy smile for years to come.

Dental implant recovery can be a bit challenging, but it’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions and take care of your oral health. By following our tips and advice, you can speed up your recovery time and minimize the risk of complications. If you’re looking for a dentist in Parker, Colorado, our team at Green Dental Care is here to help. We specialize in dental implants and can provide you with personalized care and attention. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a beautiful, functional smile.

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Facts on Choosing a Cosmetic Dentist

How To Choose A Cosmetic Dentist

Choosing a cosmetic dentist can be a daunting task. With so many dentists to choose from, it’s difficult to know who to trust with your smile. This blog post will provide you with facts on choosing a cosmetic dentist in Parker, Colorado. We will take a closer look at what sets a good cosmetic dentist apart, what to look for, and how to ensure that you’re making the right decision for your dental health.

Credentials and Experience

Ensure that the dentist you choose is licensed and has experience in cosmetic dentistry. Look for a dentist who has a solid educational background in the field and has years of experience under their belt. Ask potential dentists about their experience with the specific cosmetic procedures you’re interested in.

Specialization

If you’re looking for a specific cosmetic procedure such as dental implants, veneers or teeth whitening, look for a dentist who specializes in that area. Cosmetic dentistry requires a high level of specialization, so finding a dentist who has skills in your specific area can make a huge difference in your outcomes.

Referrals and Recommendations

Before making a decision, collect referrals and recommendations from friends, family, and colleagues. You can also check online reviews of the dentist you’re interested in. Word-of-mouth referrals provide insight into the quality of service, level of expertise, and overall satisfaction you can expect from a specific cosmetic dentist.

Technology and Techniques

Look for a cosmetic dentist who uses modern technology and up-to-date techniques. A good cosmetic dentist will have invested in the latest equipment and technology to provide the best dental care to their patients. Ask the dentist about the technology and techniques they use and how they work. This will give you a better understanding of what to expect during your visit.

Comfort and Communication

A good cosmetic dentist should make you feel comfortable and at ease during your visits. A cosmetic dentist’s communication style is important, especially when discussing procedures and treatment options. The right cosmetic dentist should provide clear and detailed explanations of treatments, procedures, and what to expect during and after each visit.

Choosing a cosmetic dentist is an important decision. It’s essential to take your time, research your options, and choose a dentist that you feel comfortable with. Consider factors such as education, experience, specialization, referrals, technology and techniques, and communication when making your choice. Remember, a good cosmetic dentist will have your best interests in mind, provide quality care, and help you achieve the beautiful, healthy smile you deserve. Green Dental Care in Parker, Colorado is here to help you with all of your cosmetic dentistry needs.

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Dental Implant Supported Dentures

Parker, Colorado

A Guide to Dental Implant-Supported Dentures

If you’re looking for a permanent solution to replace missing teeth and restore your smile, dental implant-supported dentures may be the right option for you. This type of denture offers more stability and strength than traditional dentures, allowing you to chew and speak with confidence. At Green Dental Care in Parker CO, we excel in dental implants and can assess if they’re the right choice for you.

What are Dental Implant Supported Dentures?

Dental implant-supported dentures are a type of denture that attaches to one or more implants placed into the jawbone. Traditional dentures rest on your gums, but dental implant-supported dentures attach directly to the jawbone giving them extra stability. This allows you to eat and speak without worry of them slipping out of place.

Benefits of Dental Implant Supported Dentures

Dental implant-supported dentures offer a variety of benefits when compared to traditional dentures. These include:
• Better chewing ability – Implant-supported dentures enhance chewing with direct jawbone attachment, providing confidence to enjoy your favorite foods.
• Improved comfort – Directly anchored to the jawbone, these dentures remove the need for messy adhesives, ensuring greater comfort than traditional options.
• Longer lifespan – Directly anchored in the jawbone, these dentures last longer and are easily replaceable if damaged, outlasting traditional options.
• Increased self-confidence – Revitalize your smile with dental implant-supported dentures for enhanced self-confidence through a beautiful, lasting solution.

Contact Us Today!

At Green Dental Care in Parker CO, we specialize in dental implants and can help determine if this option is right for you. Implant-supported dentures offer lasting comfort, improved chewing, and a longer lifespan compared to traditional options, providing an effective permanent smile restoration. Give us a call today to learn more about this option or schedule an appointment!

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How To Save A Tooth When It Gets Knocked Out

What To Do When Your Tooth Gets Knocked Out

Losing a tooth is a frightening event, and it can happen in several ways. Most commonly, teeth are knocked out or loosened due to an accident or trauma. In this situation, staying calm and seeking medical attention immediately is important. In the meantime, avoid touching or moving the affected tooth, as this could damage the root and make it more difficult to save. If the tooth is loose, gently rinse it with warm water and attempt to replace it in the socket. If the tooth is completely knocked out, hold it by the crown (the white part) and rinse any dirt or debris. Do not attempt to reinsert the tooth into the socket, as this could damage the root. Instead, place the tooth in a cup of milk or saline solution and bring it with you to the best dentist Parker Co. With prompt medical treatment, saving your tooth and avoiding further complications may be possible.

First Thing, Pick Up From The Root Of The Tooth

When your tooth gets knocked out, it is important to handle it correctly so that it can be used for dental implants. The first step is to pick the tooth up by the top (the part that chews). You want to avoid touching the tooth’s root, as this can damage it. Once you have picked up the tooth by the top, you should rinse it off with water. You must put the tooth in a milk or saline solution container. This will help keep the tooth alive and prevent it from drying. If you follow these steps, you will increase the chances that the tooth can be used for dental implants.

Rinse The Tooth Off If It’s Dirty

If the tooth is dirty, rinse it with water. Do not use soap or chemicals like hydrogen peroxide or alcohol. Do not scrub the tooth or try to dry it off, and do not wrap the tooth in any type of dry tissue or cloth. The best way to preserve the tooth is to keep it moist. Place the tooth in milk, saline solution, or water container, and get to the dentist as soon as possible. Time is of the essence when it comes to saving a knocked-out tooth, so act quickly!

Push The Tooth Back In The Socket

Dental emergencies can be painful and stressful, but it’s important to remain calm and take quick action to ensure the best possible outcome. If you have a tooth knocked out, the first step is to place it back in the socket. If the root is still intact, gently push the tooth back into the socket and close your mouth. You can keep it in place by biting down gently or holding it steady with your finger. Then, seek professional dental care as soon as possible. With prompt treatment, it may be possible to save the tooth and avoid further damage to your smile.

Contact Green Dental Care Today!

Green Dental Care is committed to providing our patients with the highest quality care. We offer a wide range of services, from preventative care to cosmetic dentistry. We use the latest technology and techniques to ensure that our patients receive the best possible treatment. Please contact us today if you have any questions or want to schedule an appointment. We look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve your dental goals.

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Temporary Crown Falls Out

Your local dentist in Parker, CO, will place a temporary crown over your teeth if you’ve undergone restorative treatment. The temporary crown is designed to protect your tooth after treatment like root canals. Your temporary crown can also preserve aesthetics until you are fitted with your permanent restoration.

Parker CO dentists emphasize that temporary crowns are not as durable as the permanent dental crowns that will replace it. If your temporary crown becomes damaged, cracked, or falls out entirely before your permanent dental crown is placed, you’ll need to fix this problem ASAP. It can be worrisome when this happens, but there’s no need to panic just yet. Keep reading to find out what steps you should take if your temporary crown does happen to fall out.

Understanding the Temporary Crown

The temporary crown is a tooth restoration solution that is custom-made to cover and protect a tooth that has been reshaped for placement of the permanent crown. It helps to protect the vulnerable tooth from damage. It could also protect you from feeling any sensitivity that may otherwise send you cringing when you eat or drink something cold.

The temporary crown can be made from a number of materials, including a type of acrylic-based material that is molded to the shape of your tooth and bite. The interim crown is set in place using a temporary adhesive that’ll make it easy to remove the temporary at your return visit to your dentist in Parker CO. If all goes smoothly, the temporary crown should stay in place until your next visit.

If Your Temporary Crown Falls Out

There is a possibility that your crown can falls out or breaks before your next scheduled appointment. This is often seen with molars and premolars as they incur much more force when you are chewing. Even if you do keep your meals to soft-to-chew food, it’s still possible for the crown to break free.

If you have some time to wait before your next appointment, take these steps to avoid pain and also keep your mouth and teeth safe:

Remove the crown or any broken pieces from your mouth
Rinse out your mouth with warm water so that you can remove any sharp pieces remaining in your mouth
Examine the now-exposed tooth and see if there are any jagged edges that you may inadvertently cut your tongue or inside of your cheek
Call the best dentist in Parker and explain the situation to us in full detail. We may offer some instructions to get you through to the next available appointment.
Return to the office when possible, to have another replacement crown placed, or have the temporary crown bonded back if it is not damaged.

We asked our friend, Dr. Ben Kacos, a dentist in Shreveport, LA, about his suggestions when your temporary crown falls out. Dr. Kacos says, “Be very careful with the new temporary crown until your permanent crown is ready to be placed. Avoid directly chewing on the interim restoration, and do not floss between the crown and your other teeth. This could accidentally tug on the temporary crown and lead to it coming out all over again.”

It’s not a huge deal if the temporary does break loose before your permanent crown is ready. It can just expose you to the potential for some sensitivity and discomfort until the restored tooth has been covered once again. Follow these helpful tips and get in touch with our dental office in Parker, CO. We are here to keep you smiling. Whether you’re looking for dental implants in Parker, CO, or looking for other smile restoration solutions, we have options to help you meet your dental goals.

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What You Need to Know Before Dental Implants

You may be undecided on whether you should get dental implants or not because of some unanswered questions lingering in your mind. In this article, you’ll find the answers you’ll need to know before getting dental implants in Parker, CO. If you have additional questions or would like to schedule a dental implant consultation, contact Green Dental Care.

Can the Entire Dental Implant Procedure Be Completed at the Office?

Some people worry that they will be shuffled from one dental practice to another in order to have different aspects of the dental implant procedure completed. If you decide to have your dental implants placed at Green Dental Care by Dr. Chris Green, you will not have to go anywhere else during your treatment. We complete every step of the process at the office until you get your final restorations for the smile you have always dreamt about.

How Long Does the Surgery Take?

As you may already know, dental implants are titanium screws placed in the jawbone to act as artificial roots for restoration teeth. As any dentist in Parker, CO will tell you, dentistry has advanced so much that the surgery to place dental implants no longer takes a long time. Dr. Chris Green relies on 3D technology to develop a detailed plan of how the surgery will go, and this information helps him to place the implants in about 30 minutes. People who need more than one implant should expect the surgery to last longer.

Is the Dental Implant Procedure Painful?

The advancements in the field of dentistry also mean that you don’t have to worry about discomfort or pain during dental procedures, including implant surgery. The Parker, CO dentist will use either a local anesthetic or IV sedation to remove any discomfort or pain that you may feel during the procedure. So, you can be sure that the entire procedure will be painless.

How Soon Can I Return to Work?

Since the implant placement procedure requires the use of an anesthetic, Dr. Chris Green recommends that you take the rest of the day off after your surgery so that the sedative can wear off. Most patients typically return to work the next day, unless the dentist in Parker, CO recommends otherwise based on the specific circumstances pertaining to a patient.

Does Insurance Cover Dental Implants?

While insurance policies vary, most of them cover at least a portion of dental implant treatment. Talk to a Parker, CO dentist at Green Dental Care if you are concerned about the cost of implants. A way will be found for you to get your smile back.

When Can I Receive My New Teeth?

Dr. Chris Green explains that the time needed before you get your restoration teeth varies from one patient to another depending on how quickly one can heal after the surgery. It is best to visit Green Dental Care in Parker, CO so that you can learn what the treatment duration will be for you.

Can I Have Metal-Free Implants?

Nearly all materials used to make restoration teeth have some metal in them in order to increase the strength and durability of those restorations. If you are concerned about the likely effects of having metals in your mouth, worry no more. Dental implants are typically made from titanium, a metal which has a long track record of being biocompatible (the body easily accepts and integrates it). Additionally, the metal is so chemically stable that it can last for your entire lifetime without undergoing any change. Dentists in Parker, CO assert that to date, no material has been found to perform to the same exceptional level as titanium.

Are Implants Removable?

Dental implants aren’t removable like removable dentures. As already mentioned, the implant is surgically placed in your jaw and osseointegration (bonding between the jaw and the implant) takes place to give a very strong anchor for the restoration teeth you receive. The upper portion of the restoration called the crown can be removed or changed, but the implant remains.

How Many Teeth Can I Replace With Dental Implants?

It is possible to replace one or more teeth with implants. For example, if you are missing one tooth, then it can be replaced using one implant. However, as few as four implants may suffice to replace an entire set of teeth in either your lower or upper jaw. Dr. Chris Green will examine you during the initial consultation and recommend the number of implants that you need to replace your missing teeth cost-effectively.

Still Have Questions?

Come to Green Dental Care in Parker, CO and get answers to all your concerns about dental implants. Dr. Chris Green will examine you and discuss a written treatment plan with you so that you make an informed decision regarding how soon implants can play a part in restoring your beautiful smile.

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Dental Implants vs. Bridges

Two popular options that many people consider when they want to replace missing teeth are dental bridges and dental implants. The key question which each person wants to answer is, “Which option is right for me?” This article discusses dental implants vs. bridges and other related questions.

How Dental Implants Work

A dental implant is an artificial root of a tooth anchored in the position left by the missing tooth. The implants are usually made from titanium, a metal which has distinguished itself as being readily accepted by the body and its high durability. Dr. Chris Green, a dentist in Parker, CO, explains that after the implant has been surgically placed, a temporary covering is placed on it as osseointegration (a process through which the dental implant fuses with your jawbone) takes place. Osseointegration can take up to six months to be completed, but this is time well spent because the outcome is a very stable and long-lasting prosthetic. The dental experts at Green Dental Care will remove the protective covering on the implant and replace it with a temporary crown once osseointegration has taken place. This temporary crown has a base which guides the gum on how to grow around the implant. The final stage of this process entails removing the temporary crown and placing a permanent crown in its place.

How Dental Bridges Work

Picture a bridge on a river if you want to grasp how a dental bridge works. The bridge on the river is supported on both sides of the river and the middle of the bridge is suspended over the water. Similarly, a dental bridge replaces a missing tooth by relying on the surrounding teeth to provide support to the artificial tooth. A crown is placed on the neighboring tooth on either side of the gap and the crown taking the place of the missing tooth fills the gap. The process of getting a dental bridge typically takes a shorter time than the time needed to get a dental implant. However, Dr. Chris Green explains that a dental bridge can be seen as more invasive because the neighboring teeth onto which crowns are to be placed have to be filed down to create room for those crowns. This step is irreversible.

Are You Eligible?

Dental bridges and dental implants both have some requirements which one must meet before being found fit for these restorations. Your eligibility will be ascertained during your initial consultation with Dr. Chris Green.

Experts usually wait until someone is passed adolescence in order to be eligible for dental implantation. This milestone is necessary because an implant should be placed when the individual has passed the stage when their bones are still growing. Your dentists at Green Dental Care will also use a CT scan or an x-ray to assess the bone quality and density for successful dental implant placement. People with insufficient bone mass may undergo a bone graft so that ample support for the implant is available. Research has shown that smoking increases the risk of dental implant failure, so you will be advised to quit smoking before dental implantation can take place. People with cancer, diabetes or periodontal disease may need to have those conditions managed before dental implantation.

Eligibility for dental bridges isn’t as restrictive as that for implants because the process is, in some respects, less invasive than dental implantation. The health and stability of the surrounding teeth is the most important eligibility factor, according to Dr. Chris Green. For example, tooth decay may render the neighboring teeth too weak to take on the task of supporting the dental bridge. Additional procedures may be required to fix any issues which may compromise the ability of those neighboring teeth to support the bridge.

The Cost of Dental Bridges & Dental Implants

Many times, patients opt for implants or bridges depending on their immediate ability to pay for either one of those procedures. However, the cost can be a tricky factor to base your decision upon because the price tag you see may not tell the whole story about the cost of these options.

For example, the process of getting a dental implant may cost twice the cost of a dental bridge. This cost excludes the cost of any other procedures, such as bone grafting, which may be needed before you get your restorations.

However, the experts at Green Dental Care in Parker, CO caution that sticker shock should not lead you to discard implants as an option. This is because if well cared for, dental implants can last an entire lifetime. We asked our friend, Dr. Ben Kacos, a dentist in Shreveport, LA, about the ROI of dental implants. Dr. Kacos says, “Dental implants have incredible durability which makes them more cost-effective in the long term since dental bridges aren’t as durable and will need to be replaced after 10-20 years. The time and money which you spend on replacement bridges can turn out to be higher than what is required for a one-time investment in dental implants.”

Have you lost a tooth or teeth and want to explore tooth replacement options? Contact Green Dental Care and talk to one of our professionals about your needs. Dr. Chris Green and his team will examine you and make recommendations regarding the most cost-effective way to restore your smile.

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