Posts Tagged ‘dental implant’

Dental Implants Illustration
February 27, 2021

Everything you need to know about Dental Implants

by admin / Posted in Dental Care
Dental implants have become a popular option for patients that are looking for a tooth replacement solution. Many have questions about dental implants and may have some fear and confusion around how they work. This article will present all the information that you will need to know before choosing to get a dental implant. 

What are dental implants?

To put it simply, dental implants are an artificial tooth that is shaped similarly to a screw. They are placed directly into the jawbone where they bond with the bone. On top of the implant is the base, called an abutment, that supports the artificial base called a crown. By being anchored directly into the jawbone, they are a stable and sturdy base to support the crown.  They are durable and lasting tooth replacement solutions. When a tooth is missing, the bone that the root of the tooth will slowly decay over time, changing the shape of your face. Dentures or tooth replacement solutions that simply sit on top of the gums can do nothing to prevent this. Dental implants are the only solution that preserves the natural bone of the jaw. And they can actually help stimulate bone growth.  Not only can dental implants provide a great smile, but they can also improve your oral health by essentially replacing your tooth almost as if you had your natural tooth back. They have an advantage over traditional dentures as they preserve the natural jaw bone and thus prevent bone decay and change to your facial shape.  The titanium of the implant will fuse to the bone, so the implant won’t slip, make noise, or cause bone damage like how fixed bridgework or dentures can. The materials also don’t decay, unlike your own teeth which support the bridgework.  The implant is mounted with an abutment which holds the crown. The crown is made from a variety of materials, from porcelain to zirconium, and is made to look like your natural teeth. Modern implants have a long history of success, with a 30-year track record as the most effective way to replace lost teeth. What makes them so successful is the fact that they look, feel, and function just like a natural tooth. The surgery itself is one of the safest and predictable procedures when performed by a trained and experienced dental implant dentist. 

Why do people get dental implants?

People may get dental implants for a variety of reasons. Generally, your dentist might recommend dental implants if you:
  • Have one or more missing teeth
  • Do not smoke tobacco
  • Want to improve your ability to speak after tooth loss
  • Are unable to unwilling to wear dentures
  • Have healthy tissues in your mouth
  • Have enough bone structure to support the implant
  • Have a fully-grown jawbone
  • Don’t have any health conditions that could impact bone healing
  • Can commit several months to the process

How are dental implants put in?

The implant is surgically placed into the jaw and how the surgery is performed depends on the type of implant used and the condition of your jawbone. There may be a few different procedures involved. Because the process requires the jaw bone to heal around the implant, the process can be quite long before it is complete.   Let’s take a look at what a dental implant procedure could look like.

Preparation for the Surgery

In the planning phase, expect to go to a consultation with dentists and other specialists who will assess the health and condition of your mouth, your jaw, your face and possibly see dentists who specialize in the gums and bones, one who designs and fits artificial teeth, and occasionally an ear, nose, and throat specialist. The complexity of this part of the planning depends on a patient’s particular situation. The evaluation before the surgery will include at least these three things:
  • A comprehensive dental exam. This will include dental x-rays, 3D images, and models made of your teeth and jaw.
  • A review of your medical history. Be sure to tell your dentist of any preexisting conditions and any medications that you take. Including any prescriptions or over-the-counter drugs and supplements. If you have a heart condition or orthopedic implants you may be recommended to do a course of antibiotics before surgery to prevent infection.
  • Creation of a treatment plan. This plan will be custom built to outline the exact steps that you will be taking to prepare for, and recover from the surgery. It will include details like which teeth and how many are being replaced, the condition of your jawbone and remaining teeth, and other details.
You should also discuss with your dentist any anesthesia options, such as local anesthesia, sedation, and general anesthesia. Depending on what is chosen, your dental team will instruct you about what you will need to do before the surgery, like not drinking liquids or eating food. You will also need someone to take you home after the surgery and to rest for the rest of the day.

The Dental Implant Surgery

The surgery is often done in stages and is an outpatient surgery. Between each stage is a period for recovery and healing. The steps involved in dental implant surgery may include:
  • Removal of the damaged tooth
  • Preparation of the jawbone, with potential bone grafting, if needed
  • Placement of the dental implant
  • Bone growth and healing
  • Placement of the abutment
  • Placement of the crown (artificial tooth)
This process can take many months from start to finish. The majority of this time is devoted to healing and waiting for the growth of new bone. Sometimes the steps can be combined, depending on the types of materials used, and the condition of your jaw bone.

Recovery from Dental Implant Surgery

When recovering from the surgery, you may experience many of the typical discomforts that come with dental surgery. Some of the discomforts to expect include:
  • Swelling in the gums and face
  • Bruising of the skin and gums
  • Pain or discomfort at the implant site
  • Minor bleeding
Talk to your dentist if you feel like you would need pain medication. If the swelling or the discomfort or any other problem gets worse in the days following the surgery, contact your oral surgeon. After each stage, stick to soft foods while the site heals. The stitches will often dissolve on their own, but they may require removal by the surgeon as well.

Is it painful to get dental implants?

The surgery itself will likely not hurt as you will be under some form of anesthesia, whether that is local anesthesia or general anesthesia. That detail will be discussed with your doctor during the initial consultation and planning.  During the surgery, the gums are cut open and a hole is drilled. However, there are no nerves in the jaw to feel pain so if you are only under local anesthesia for the gum pain you won’t feel any pain from the drilling.  The period that may cause the most discomfort and pain will be the recovery and healing period. It is likely that your dentist will prescribe pain medications or recommend over the counter pain relievers. Follow exactly the recovery plan outlined by your dentist for the best possible recovery.  Most people do not experience extreme pain during the procedure or recovery. Expect soreness and swelling for the first days after the surgery. Most patients compare the pain as being less than having a tooth being pulled. 

How much does it cost to get a dental implant?

A mouth of dental implants generally requires only four implants to be placed per arch, one for the top arch and one for the bottom. These serve as anchor points for the denture arch that is placed securely on top of them.  Because of the many factors involved with determining the cost, including the location of the service, the kinds of materials used, the implant model type, how extensive the surgery is, and many other factors, it can be difficult to readily estimate what dental implants will cost. The average cost for one tooth is replaced with a dental implant is anywhere between $1500 to $6,000 including office visits, x-rays, anesthesia, and more. A full set of teeth replaced can be between $3000 to $30,000 depending on the factors mentioned above.  Insurance can sometimes help, depending on if it is being implanted to meet a medical need. If the insurance company considers it to be a cosmetic company, then they will often not cover the expenses.  They may cover portions of the procedure, but it is important to contact your insurance company to see what they will cover. Your dentist can often help with this part of the research.

FAQ

How much does one implant cost?

One implant can cost between $1500 to $6000 on average, depending on many factors. A full mouth can cost between $3000 to $30,000 on average.

How long is recovery?

Recovery can last several months depending on the timeline set up by your dentist. It is not a short recovery, but can sometimes take months.

Does it hurt to get an implant?

The surgery itself is often painless, but the recovery can be painful or uncomfortable for a few days after the procedure.

Why should I get an implant?

If you are missing one or more teeth and you don’t want to deal with dentures sliding around and you want to be able to get your natural tooth back, dental implants are as close as you can get.

Quality Dental Implants in Rancho Cucamonga, CA

Golden Smiles Dental in Rancho Cucamonga, CA can do all the necessary dental work to determine the option that’s right for you. Golden Smiles Dental proudly serves the Rancho Cucamonga area with a full range of Dental & Implant services. Give us a call at (909) 481-8990 to schedule an appointment.
Dental Implants Illustration
January 21, 2020

The True Cost of Dental Implants

by admin / Posted in Dental Care, Dental Implants
The options available for tooth replacement are many and each has its own costs associated with them, but what is the real cost of dental implants? Unlike traditional dentures, they require no glues or adhesives to stay in place and they often last many years if not decades. They also have the advantage of acting very much like a natural tooth and helping to preserve the shape of your face.  It seems like more and more is being said about dental implants and their advantages. They are popular for very good reasons. They look and function very much like natural, real teeth, but they are designed to be durable and strong. But how much is this going to cost you? 

How much does it cost to get a full mouth of dental implants?

On average a full mouth of dental implants only requires four implants per arch, four on top and four on the bottom. These are anchor points on which the arch is placed. Together they hold in place a denture securely and naturally to the gums.  The final cost of your bill will often take in factors such as location, the number of dental implants that are required, the materials that are used for the implant and what if anything your dentist needs to do before the surgery. This can be things like tooth extraction, or molds of the teeth. You are also paying for the dentist’s expertise. Be sure that you are going to a reputable and skilled oral surgeon as your oral health impacts the entirety of the rest of your health.  Getting a full set of teeth replaced can open the door to greater health. You can enjoy the foods you once enjoyed, speak with ease and clarity, and never worry about your smile again. The cost of more than one implant can range from $3,000 to $30,000, and if you opt for the best of all the available options that could go up as high as $90,000. 

How much does a dental implant cost for one tooth?

Getting a dental implant can cost roughly anywhere between $1500 to $6,000 including the cost of the office visits, any x-rays, any anesthesia, and any other associated costs. As with getting a full mouth of implants, the cost is directly related to the location, materials, and any prior procedures that will be required to be done.  While this may seem like a large investment, remember that you aren’t paying for just a quick and simple fix. You are investing in your future health and livelihood. Being able to eat good, healthful foods is going to impact your ability to live a full and healthy life. If you are missing a tooth, you can not only impact your health by not being able to chew the foods you love and need, but your appearance will change as well. The jawbone will naturally recede if there is no tooth root to encourage the bone to grow. This means your face shape will change over time. A dental implant will save you that shift in appearance by being anchored directly into the jawbone. This allows it to act as a natural tooth and it will bond directly to the bone. This creates a stable and secure base for the implant crown.

How much does insurance pay for dental implants?

Often insurance will cover the cost of dental implants if they are being implanted for a medical need. If it is considered a cosmetic surgery then many insurance companies will not cover the cost of dental implants. It is important to check with your dental insurance to see what they will cover and what costs you can expect to have to cover for the surgery, visits and other aspects of the service. Sometimes only portions or parts of the dental implant procedure will be covered, such as the initial consultation, office visits and more.  Call your insurance as soon as you are considering to get dental implants and you may save yourself a ton of money. Some Medicare Advantage plans may include dental implants, so it is important to know what your coverage will and will not include.

Why do dental implants cost so much?

One of the reasons why dental implants can be so costly is that they are not a single procedure, but require seeing a dentist or oral surgeon multiple times in order to check on your progress and provide consultations. Here is a very basic breakdown of what you can expect to do if you are planning on getting a dental implant:
  • Consultation. During the consultation, your dentist will check your mouth, get x-rays, and give a diagnosis of the condition of your teeth, gums, and jawbone. This is important to determine if you are a good candidate for implants. If you want to proceed with the implant surgery, your dentist will then take a mold of your mouth to be used in the creation of the implant.
  • The setting of the implant. The implant surgery itself generally consists of the dentist or oral surgeon drilling a small hole into the jawbone and inserting the implant. You sometimes will get a temporary tooth after this procedure.
  • The Abutment and Crown placement. After your gum and jaw have healed from the insertion of the implant base, an abutment is placed. This basically provides a surface for the permanent crown to be fixed on to. Sometimes the crown is placed after a period of more healing depending on the needs of the patient.
If you think dental implants are for you, and you live in the Rancho Cucamonga, CA area, give Golden Smiles Dental a call for your consultation at  (909) 481-8990. Our expert team will be more than happy to answer your questions.
dental implants cost
December 17, 2019

How much are dental implants?

by admin / Posted in Dental Care, Dental Implants
The cost can be a major sticking point to some, but depending on your oral health needs and the goals of your smile, it may be that dental implants cost much less thank you think. When it comes to teeth replacement options, there are none more effective at preserving jaw bone, chewing strength, and even the natural shape of your face like dental implants.  

How much does a full mouth of dental implants cost?

There are many dental-health related reasons to consider getting dental implants. If you have lost one or many teeth there may be a loss of confidence and over time there can even be a loss of jawbone which can lead to a less aesthetically pleasing smile.  Dental implants act very much like natural teeth. By anchoring them in the jaw, they encourage the bone to grow around them, giving them a stable base that is unmatched by other tooth replacement options like dentures.  Dental implants have been around for many decades, and as the technology improved to both make the implants and install them, the dental implant’s cost has reduced as well.  When it comes down to it, your dental implant’s cost can vary based on what coverage your provider will give and the number of teeth that are being replaced. It can also vary based on where you are getting the implant and what kind of material is used for the crown.  Generally, the cost of a single dental implant can range between $3000 to $4500. This includes the surgery for the placement of the implant, the components, and the implant crown. When replacing a full jaw of teeth, it is more common to do something like a bridge instead of replacing each individual tooth. This may reduce the cost per-tooth of the implants. This may seem like a large investment, but consider how your mouth is the main indicator of your overall health. Being able to chew foods you enjoy dramatically impacts your quality of life. Further, dental implants often last decades where traditional dentures may only last years.  Think of dental implants not as an expense, but as an investment in your health from years to come. The best part is, they are often indistinguishable from natural teeth! It’s the closest thing to getting your natural smile back.

Does any dental insurance cover implants?

You should check with your individual provider to see if they cover dental implants. Your dental team will be able to help you make an informed decision about your insurance and financing options.  If you are feeling stressed or anxious over the cost of implants, your insurance may have your back. Dental implants may be covered by your insurance and even include the costs of exams, x-rays, follow-ups and the materials used in the surgery.  Getting a dental implant means seeing a specialist oral surgeon, and your insurance may even help you out with that. Some may help pay for the implant crown. There are even grants to help pay for your implants that could be worth exploring. Just look for cosmetic dentistry grant programs. Be sure to see what your benefits will cover, as some insurance companies see dental implants as a kind of elective procedure, despite dental implants becoming standard care for the replacement of missing teeth. They have become the favored option because they have a proven and predicable result with a 98% success rate. 

How long do dental implants last?

Dental implants offer a long-lasting and highly effective solution for missing teeth. With proper maintenance, dental implants can last for more than 25 years. That is huge when compared to traditional dentures that last only a few years and can result in greater bone loss in the jaw.  Dental implants are designed to be a permanent tooth replacement solution. They support the dental structure and are attached firmly to the jawbone so there is never any slipping when chewing or biting.  A dental implant looks and feels just like your natural teeth and this improves your confidence and self-esteem. You can smile with pride with your new implant, knowing that it looks natural and aesthetically pleasing.  Do you want to spend the next 25 years fiddling with denture glue, watching your face change shape as your jaw disappears? Or do you want to see your smile restored and confident that you can eat the foods you love and do every day essential things like talk and smile with confidence? If you think dental implants are for you, and you live in the Rancho Cucamonga, CA area, give Golden Smiles Dental a call for your consultation at  (909) 481-8990. Our expert team will be more than happy to answer your questions.
dental implants cost
November 13, 2019

Benefits of All on 4 Implants vs. Dentures

by admin / Posted in Dental Care
When it comes to options you have for tooth replacement, it can sometimes seem like there are too many choices. How can you tell which option would work best for you? The answer depends on several factors that you and your dentist have to consider when trying to develop a treatment plan, from your oral health to what options your insurance covers. Today we are going to take a look at the benefits of All on 4 implants versus dentures. Which one is right for you? Find out below.

What is an All on 4 Implant?

Let’s first take a look at dental implants. Essentially, a dental implant is a small titanium screw that is fitted inside the jaw bone and completely replaces the missing tooth. The screw actually will bond to the jawbone and help prevent the jawbone from receding. Once the screw is set, a crown is attached to give a highly realistic-looking and exceptionally functional prosthetic tooth. But what if you have more than one tooth missing? What if you need a full mouth dental implant restoration? That is where All on 4 implants come in. All on 4 implants use just four implants in the top or bottom jaw to restore your smile. The full-arch implant has a unique ability to directly fuse to your jaw and strengthen them due to the titanium used in the implant. This means your new implants can serve as a strong and lasting foundation for your new teeth. The fusion of the implant into the jaw can even prevent bone loss. This has the effect of maintaining your facial structure as well as your oral health. All on 4 implants can quickly change your life by almost completely restoring your teeth. 

Benefits of All on 4 Implants

All on 4 implants are a great solution for those patients who need all or the majority of teeth replaced on the upper or lower jaw. Unlike dentures, which adhere to the gums with a sticky and messy cement, all on 4 implants can replace an entire jaw of teeth with only four simple implants.  The biggest benefit of the all on 4 implants is how quickly you can get your smile restored. While they do require minor surgery for the implants to be installed, they offer a long term solution to missing teeth. Dentures often last only a few years, while implants can last decades. They are about as close to getting your natural teeth back as you can get. 

Cost of All on 4 Implants

When it comes down to it, the biggest factor that many people consider is the cost of all on 4 implants. The cost of the all on 4 implants can vary based on the materials chosen and how much your insurance will cover. The materials of all on 4 implants vary from acrylic to composite. An acrylic denture can typically cost between $20,000 to $30,000. You may go to more than one dentist or specialist for this procedure and that may increase the cost.  Porcelain or composite dentures are often more realistic than acrylic and often last much longer, but often run about $5,000 more per jaw. Replacing a broken porcelain denture can cost roughly $15,000. The expense of getting an All on 4 implants may be intimidating for many patients, but remember that insurance and discounts could apply.  It is important to remember that your oral health is perhaps the biggest factor that determines your overall quality of life. Good oral health impacts everything from brain health to speaking comfortably to your diet. Being able to eat foods you enjoy and ones that are important to you is important and can only be done with good oral health. 

What is the Procedure Like for All on 4 Implants?

Getting any implant for the first time can be intimidating. Gaining a good understanding of the process can help soothe your fears, so here is an explanation of the process from start to finish. The procedure begins with a consultation between you and the dentist in which you can address any fears and have any questions you might have about the procedure. First, your dentist will ensure that you are comfortable and administer either a local or general anesthesia. Next, the dentist or the oral surgeon will prepare your mouth for the implants. This can include removing your remaining teeth that are failing. They will then remove any diseased or infected tissue from your jaw and gums. Then comes the actual implantation process. They will insert the titanium screws into the jawbone, placing two toward the front of the mouth and two toward the back of the mouth so that the anchors can evenly carry the force of the denture.  Once all the Implants have been placed your dentist will thoroughly clean the site and suture all the incisions. Then you’ll be taken into a room to recover and relax while you wake up from the anesthesia.  The recovery time for all on four dental implants can range from 3 to 8 months but you should be functioning much sooner. The reason for the lengthy recovery time is that the implants are fusing to your bone and this will promote stability from the very first day. Your dentist will prepare you for the recovery and you may need to meet with them for checkups during the recovery period. 

How Long do All on 4 Implants Last versus dentures?

It’s important to remember that all in 4 implants are made up of two parts: a dental implant that is placed inside the bone and the visible denture that connects to those implants. Studies have shown that over the past 10 years all on four implants are comparable or better than other dental implant systems.  At five years the implant success rate was at 98% with 95% of patients experiencing not a single dental implant failure. At the 10-year mark, the implant survival rate was at 95% with 94% of patients experiencing not a single implant failure. This study shows how reliable and how stable all on four implants are. If you think all on 4 implants are for you, and you live in the Rancho Cucamonga, CA area, give Golden Smiles Dental a call for your consultation at (909) 481-8990. Our expert team will be more than happy to answer your questions.
tooth whitening cost
September 24, 2019

What is a Smile Makeover?

by admin / Posted in Dental Care
Have you ever wanted to reinvent your smile? Luckily for you, there is such a thing as a smile makeover. Smile Makeovers are all the rage and for good reason. They are a process of improving the appearance of your smile through one or more cosmetic dental procedures, like dental veneers, composite bonding, tooth implants, and teeth whitening. What’s more is that the approach is holistic with your facial appearance, skin tone, hair color, teeth – including the color, width, length, shape, and tooth display – gum tissue and lips. There is a variety of reasons for choosing a smile makeover and each is customized for your needs.

Some Smile Makeover Options

Tooth color

Tooth discoloration, whether it is from silver or amalgam dental fillings, or from stained teeth, can often be corrected and even improved. Tooth color and shading are often among the top considerations during the evaluation and preparation of different procedures, such as porcelain veneers, crowns, bridges, composite bonding, and dental implants. Each of these procedures can be useful for whitening the teeth, but each had different levels of involvement and time required. Dark or discolored teeth can be taken as aged mouth, and a white, well-shaped smile can give your face an immediate youthful appearance. And, special consideration is taken to be sure that the shade of white used is appropriate for your overall appearance and help create a natural appearance.

Tooth Alignment and Spacing

Crooked teeth, or teeth that are overlapping, or ones that have gaps between them can often be straightened. When necessary, the teeth can be aligned with options such as orthodontics or products like Invisalign, and be further improved with veneers.

Fix Missing Teeth

If you have one or more missing teeth, this can negatively affect the appearance of your smile. It can also have an effect on your ability to chew food and increase the risk of tooth decay. Replacement teeth can be an integral part of your oral health and facial aesthetics. Missing teeth can be remedied by dental implants, bridges, or partial dentures.

A More Aesthetically Pleasing Smile

A smile that has chipped or cracked teeth, or an uneven appearance can be corrected by a cosmetic bonding, and a smile with a lot of cum can be shaped to help improve the overall look of the smile. Your face can be rejuvenated by cosmetic dentistry procedures that can reshape your whole face. A cosmetic dentist will help you create a treatment plan that is designed to achieve the exact results that you want from your smile makeover. The treatment plan may include both cosmetic and restorative procedures. These could include teeth whitening, composite bonding, veneers, dental crowns, orthodontics like braces, oral maxillofacial surgery, and even gummy smile reduction.

What Things Are Considered in a Smile Makeover?

When creating a treatment plan for a smile makeover you will have a lot of things to consider when working with your dentist to help create your perfect smile. Here are some options that you might consider:
  • Tooth Length: Short teeth or a gummy smile can make your teeth look shorter, and this can significantly age you. Long teeth help to lend a more youthful appearance. This can also change the overall appearance of your face. Long, square teeth on a person with a round-faced individual can often create a very slimming effect. Some procedures that can be used to create this effect include: reshaping and lengthening the two front central teeth with cosmetic bonding or porcelain veneers.
  • Improving the Smile Line: The smile line is the name for an imaginary line that follows the edges of your upper teeth from one side to the other. Ideally, the line runs parallel to the curve of your lower lip when you smile. This is a standard point of reference when you want to determine how long your teeth should be.
  • Keeping your Teeth in Proportions: One of the first things that your dentist will determine is if your teeth are in proportion. Generally, an aesthetically pleasing smile is one that has the two front teeth as the dominant ones and width to length ratio of 4 to 5. This proportion is the guide by which your dentist will keep your smile in balance.
  • Tooth Texture and Characterization: The veneers and crowns can be customized to create a look that matches the look and feel of a natural tooth.

Keeping Your Smile Shining with a Smile Makeover

You will still require regular oral care and will require maintenance in order to keep your smile glowing over time. Teeth whitening will sometimes need to be repeated to maintain brightness. Veneers may chip and require replacement. If you are serious about getting your perfect smile, you will also follow a regular oral health routine, including brushing twice daily and flossing at least once a day. Any oral health problems – such as gum disease, or a misaligned bite – will need to be taken care of before cosmetic treatments are applied. If you are interested in getting your own smile makeover, and you live in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, give Golden Smiles Dental a call at (909) 481-8990.
teeth whitening
September 14, 2019

How much does Teeth Whitening cost?

by admin / Posted in Dental Care
The decision to get teeth whitening done is one that demands the question: How much does teeth whitening cost? The answer, like many things, depends on which method of teeth whitening you choose. There are a variety of options that can be very inexpensive to tens of thousands of dollars. In-office treatments, such as laser treatments can be among the most expensive options, but something simple as adding whitening strips to your daily routine can be a convenient and less expensive way to get dramatic results in a short time frame. In this article, we will compare the most common treatments, including how much they cost

Laser Teeth Whitening

Laser teeth whitening generally starts at $500 and can increase in price to an upwards of $1000 or more. The procedure is done in the dentist’s office and is often more expensive than at-home teeth whitening treatments. This kind of treatment generally takes about an hour and will provide the fastest and most dramatic results. Be careful! Most treatments will still require that you return for regular maintenance treatments.

Teeth Whitening Strips

These fantastic strips are significantly cheaper and can cost up to $70. Many of these products contain similar ingredients to the products that are in use by dentists int heir office and are just as capable in removing stains from below the enamel surface.

Bleaching Trays and Gels

Bleaching Trays and Gels offer a middle path between teeth whitening strips and laser treatment. This does require that you visit the dentist so that they can make a mold of your teeth (called a tray) and you will then fill it with bleaching gel at home. The trays can dramatically whiten teeth but may present an inconvenience to people’s daily lifestyle. The trays need to be removed to eat and drink and are often required to be worn overnight. The cost of the trays varies greatly depending on the quality of the gel and how custom made the tray is to your teeth. The cost of replacements should be factored in as well. Generally, trays cost around $300.

Whitening toothpaste and mouthwash

The cheapest option, costing between $3.25 to $7 per tube, whitening toothpaste and mouthwash allow for easy and regular teeth whitening without breaking the bank. It is important to choose a product that fits your budget and your lifestyle. Just remember to be consistent with these products if you want to see long-lasting results.

What are the benefits of teeth whitening?

There have been many studies that demonstrate that whiter teeth have a dramatic impact on people’s personal and professional life, but the cost of teeth whitening is a major concern for people. In a 2007 study, researches at Loyola Marymount University found that people with whiter teeth were perceived as others as more attractive and they got longer interviews and higher salary offers when compared to when before their teeth were whitened. This study suggests that the effort and cost of teeth whitening are well worth it. A bright, clean smile can give you the confidence you need to improve your chances of doing well at your job, or attracting the perfect made. If you are interested in improving your smile contact Golden Smiles Dental in Rancho Cucamonga, CA at (909) 481-8990 to arrange an appointment today.
January 10, 2019

Why choose a dental implant over a bridge?

by admin / Posted in Dental Implants, General Dentistry
The decision of what to do when looking to replace a tooth often comes down to wondering what the difference is between a bridge and an implant. Your dentist will be your best resource in determining a good option for you, but replacing the tooth is the best option for your long term oral health. Implants have a reputation of being costly, but they offer a decades-long solution to a missing tooth and are as close as you can get to getting your natural tooth back. Bridges are sometimes cheaper, but they often are a lower quality option.

As if it was never gone!

A dental implant replaces the missing tooth in both form and function. A small metal post is set into the jaw bone, and a crown, generally made of porcelain, is fitted on top of the post. The jaw bone will actually grow around the post, anchoring it securely in your jaw as a natural tooth. The porcelain crown is colored to match your natural tooth color and retains the same durability and strength as a natural tooth. Unlike bridges, there is no slippage or squeaks, and there is no risk of jaw decay, as the jaw bone grows around the implant. In order to be fit for a bridge, you actually have to lose a portion of the healthy teeth surrounding the gap. Then the bridge is fitted over the gap, which is simply covered up by the bridge. Bridges work for people whose jaw is not strong enough or thick enough to carry an implant, but a dental implant gives the best and most reliable option. The implant procedure is generally done over a few sessions, starting with a consultation. The jaw is prepared to accept the implant and may require a bone graft if the jaw is not strong enough or not thick enough. Then, the metal post is placed in the jaw. After the sometimes months-long healing process, the crown is placed and the implant is done!

An investment in your health

The process to get an implant can sometimes take months of healing, however, you get decades or a lifetime of use from the implant. Bridges often must be replaced as the teeth around the gap shift, causing gaps to form. With the implant, however, you retain your natural smile and never have to worry about it again. You aren’t just investing in your smile but in your ability to speak clearly and eat without undue trouble. The health of your mouth is demonstrative of the health of your body. The better you can keep your oral health, the healthier you are overall and the less susceptible you are to getting a number of mouth and gum diseases.

You keep your smile

A dental bridge can be a good option for some, but you do not fill the gap left and your remaining teeth will shift position over time. This can dramatically change your smile and even the appearance of your face. A dental implant prevents that from ever happening. The titanium post will root into the jaw, just like the roots of your natural teeth. This preserves your jaw bone and prevents any jaw loss or decay. Implants offer a great option for both replacing a missing tooth and keeping your natural smile. They allow you to keep your natural bite, and you can feel secure that you are able to live your life just like before when you had your natural tooth.