What You Need to Know About Dental Bone Regeneration

Oral surgery designed to stimulate new bone growth in the jaw is known as bone regeneration. The procedure is performed by experienced periodontists, often in preparation for dental implant surgery. However, it may also be performed as a preventive procedure to safeguard against tooth loss. Dental bone regeneration may also be performed to improve a sunken facial appearance or to create space during a sinus lift surgery. Here’s what you need to know about dental bone regeneration.

What Causes Jawbone Loss?

The jawbone, which is responsible for anchoring your teeth, and for connecting your jaw to your skull may deteriorate for several reasons. Most of the time, jawbone loss is caused by missing teeth. When teeth and their roots are extracted, the jawbone has nothing to attach to, so it begins receding. 

Serious gum disease known as periodontitis can also cause bone loss in the jaw.  This is because untreated bacterial infections which spread to the living cellular tissues of the jawbone can significantly damage the bone. 

Dental trauma can also lead to jawbone loss. This typically happens as the result of the development of an infection after a tooth has been broken or completely knocked out.  Finally, jawbone loss may result from tumors and cancers. 

Why Do I Need Bone Regeneration in My Jaw?

If you are referred for dental bone regeneration it is because you have experienced a significant loss of bone, and need to stimulate new growth. If you are planning to replace missing teeth with dental implants, your implant specialist will first have to confirm that you have sufficient jaw bone to support the implants. In other words, the jawbone must meet certain height and density requirements. If your jawbone has deteriorated, you’ll need bone regeneration before you’ll be approved for implant surgery.

In other cases, you may elect to have bone regeneration to correct premature aging due to a sunken facial appearance. Other patients may be referred for dental bone regeneration to prevent future tooth loss and dental problems. Finally, you may need to have this surgery after a serious gum infection that damaged the jaw bone.

What is the Procedure for Regenerating Dental Bone?

Dental bone regeneration involves bone grafting. During a bone graft, an incision will be made in the gum to expose the underlying bone. Any active infection will be removed or cleaned out. Then a graft material will be placed in the bone. The graft will either be harvested from your own body, secured from a tissue bank, or synthetic material may be used.  After the graft material has been placed, a membrane to prevent downgrowth of the gum into the bone may also be placed.  

During the surgery, Plasma Rich in Growth Factors (PRGF) may be injected to help maximize bone regeneration and to expedite the healing process. This plasma is taken from your own body. It requires a simple blood draw which is then put in a centrifuge that separates the growth factors so that they are concentrated. That very concentrated plasma will be injected into the site of the graft.

The science behind using PRGF in dental bone regeneration is similar to Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections which are commonly used to expedite healing following an orthopedic injury 

Jawbone Regeneration in Massachusetts

Contact Periodontal Associates in Framingham or Newton Centre, MA to learn more about dental bone regeneration. For more than 30 years, Dr. Feuerman and Dr. Castellucci have been able to predictably regenerate bone around natural teeth, restore your facial structure, or prepare for dental implant surgery. 

Framingham Office:        508-875-6185

Newton Centre Office:        617-964-6185

Periodontitis is one word that strikes fear in many adults, and for good reason. The CDC has estimated that more than 47% of adults have periodontal disease by the age of 30. By age 65, approximately 70% of people have some form of the disease. That explains why dentures and dental implants have become so normal, that most people expect to need them eventually.

The good news is that you don’t have to live in fear of periodontal disease. When you understand what it is and what causes it, you can take preventative actions. You should also know the symptoms of periodontal disease so that you can catch it while it’s possibly curable.

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease is also known as periodontitis. It’s a medical condition that involves inflammation and infection in the gums and bone supporting teeth. It damages soft tissue and bone structure  in the mouth over time and can lead to a receding gum line and potentially tooth loss.

The primary cause of periodontitis is an overgrowth of bacteria. That occurs when the teeth and gums aren’t cared for properly over time. If you make brushing and flossing a routine part of your day and visit your dentist for a cleaning on a regularly scheduled basis, you have a good chance of avoiding gum disease and keeping your teeth into old age.

Early Signs of Periodontal Disease

Periodontitis starts out as gingivitis. You may notice that your gums bleed when you brush or floss your teeth. Your gums may also just seem more tender than usual. If you look closely, you may also see plaque build up along your gum line.

In some cases, gingivitis is present with no apparent signs. If you’re visiting your dentist regularly for cleanings, they can alert you to signs noticeable from their experienced eye. Without those cleanings, you may not know you have periodontal disease until a later stage.

Signs of more developed periodontal disease include:

• Chronic bad breath
• Swollen gums
• Bleeding gums
• Pain when brushing or flossing
• Gum recession
• Tooth loss
• Sensitivity to cold and hot

What Happens if Periodontitis Isn’t Treated Properly?

Losing your teeth may seem like the most devastating long-term impact of untreated periodontal disease, but it can get worse. Severe gum infections can lead to inflammation and infection throughout the body. It can increase your chances of heart disease in addition to leaving you in need of dental implants or dentures.

Bad breath and bleeding gums can also interfere with your social and professional life. More advanced gum disease often means your gums start bleeding with any irritation, even if you aren’t brushing or flossing. It can take a toll on your self-confidence over time.

What to Do If You Think You Have Periodontal Disease

It’s easier to treat gingivitis than it is the more advanced periodontal disease. Preventative care includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and seeing your dentist for a professional cleaning regularly.

If you have been neglecting oral care and you notice signs of periodontal disease, it’s urgent to schedule a cleaning with a local dentist. They can determine if you have gum disease and tell you what stage you are in if you do. The longer you wait, the more expensive it will become to treat the condition and the more likely you are to lose teeth.

If you have gum disease, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Cooper, contact us today at 516-627-4151.

Making the decision to get dental implants is a step in the right direction for the future of your oral health. But just like your real teeth, your dental implants require a level of care, as well. This is how you can ensure their longevity and keep them looking great, too. 

It all starts with properly cleaning your dental implants – and here’s how you do it. 

Cleaning Your Implants

Keeping your dental implants clean is much like keeping your teeth clean. You just want to take extra care to avoid causing any harm or damage. Follow these steps. 

Brush Your Teeth

You will want to make sure you are using a soft-bristled toothbrush as anything harder may cause damage to your gums and cause bleeding. If you prefer, you can use an electric toothbrush. Manual or electric soft-bristled toothbrushes will both work to remove things like tartar and plaque while still keeping your teeth healthy and safe. 

Make sure you brush at least two times per day. Though if you can brush after every meal, that’s even better. First thing in the morning you should brush your teeth to remove any bacteria that developed overnight — and rid yourself of that nasty morning breath. Brushing again before bed helps remove any buildup from the day and keeps plaque and decay at bay while you sleep. 

Floss Regularly

Flossing is important. It gets all the buildup of debris and particles that have been tucked away in between and around your teeth. Known as an oral irrigator, a water flosser allows you to safely floss your teeth using water. This is one of the best tools for thorough flossing — and is usually highly recommended by dentists. 

If you do not have a water flosser, using a fuzzy crown flosser is your next best option. It will help you get in between areas and clean them without risking dislodging your crown. It is not likely to happen, but not tugging on it with floss from underneath will keep it healthy and secure. 

Floss daily – at least once – to maintain good oral hygiene. 

Increase the Life of Your Dental Implants With These Tips

Sometimes you just need to learn the tips that will transform the way you approach your oral health. And when it comes to implants, there are a few things you should know. 

• Use non-abrasive toothpaste. Or a low-abrasive option. This would be one that doesn’t include whitening agents or baking soda. These are too abrasive and can cause damage to implants, making them look dull and worn. 

• When brushing, use a soft-bristled angled toothbrush so you can reach up under the abutment/post while brushing to keep it extra clean. 

• Visit your dentist regularly. Deep cleanings can only be received at your dentist’s office – and they are important to protect your dental implants. So make your appointment every 6 months and keep it!

Learn More About Dental Implants at Periodontal Associates 

Whether you have one missing tooth or a mouthful of missing teeth, dental implants can have a positive impact on your overall quality of life. If you are interested in learning more, then the professionals at Periodontal Associates can help. 

Call our office today to schedule an appointment at one of our two convenient locations. 

Framingham Office: (508) 875-6185

Newton Office: (617) 964-6185
Or schedule an appointment online.

As the world around us grows and advances, we choose to move with it and take advantage of all it has to offer. In the dental world, laser dentistry is one of those advances. It has allowed dentists in all types of settings to treat patients effectively, comfortably, and with much fewer risks. 

Let’s take a closer look at laser dentistry and what it is used for. 

Laser Dentistry

Laser dentistry is a thin beam of focused light that has the energy to get through several different dental treatments. Approved by the FDA, there are two different types of lasers used in dentistry – those designed to treat hard tissue such as teeth and those to treat soft tissue, such as gums. 

Hard tissue lasers are strong enough to cut through bone – hence why they are used in procedures involving the teeth. They are accurate and precise, cutting the tooth only where needed and minimizing the invasiveness of the tissues. Dentists most commonly use these for finding cavities, prepping the tooth for a filling, and even dealing with tooth sensitivity. 

Soft tissue lasers – those most used in a periodontal office – are designed with soft gum tissue in mind. As the gum gets cut by the laser it simultaneously seals off any exposed blood vessels. This helps to reduce bleeding as well as reduce the chance of infection. Healing is quicker, too. Many procedures involving the gums can be safely and effectively handled using these lasers with great results.

The more dentists use lasers in their dentistry work, the more they experience the potential and powerful benefits they provide. 

Common Laser Dentistry Procedures

While lasers may not be able to handle all dental procedures, they are capable of handling many, including: 

• Crown lengthening
• Pocket reduction (for those with gum disease)
• Gum contouring
• Frenectomy
• Soft tissue folds
• Tooth decay
• Hypersensitivity
• Preparation for dental fillings

And it does all of these things in a much less invasive manner than if they were done using traditional dental tools. 

Benefits of Laser Dentistry

The benefits of laser dentistry are plentiful. Most patients who experience it tend to find that it is a much more pleasant experience than traditional procedures. Of course, this isn’t the only benefit that comes from taking advantage of the new technology. 

Local anesthesia may not be necessary. It depends on the patient and the procedure, but local anesthesia is often not needed with laser dentistry. And, if it is, it is often less than you’d typically receive for a regular dental procedure. 

Less blood loss. The highly-focused light beam of lasers aids in the clotting of exposed blood vessels, greatly reducing blood loss. 

The chance of infection is significantly lower. Thanks to the ability of the laser to sterilize the area, the risks of infection are much lower. 

Healing time is reduced. Laser procedures are less invasive so the healing time is greatly reduced. 

Reduce dental fear. Dental fear and anxiety are very common issues for many patients – and it often stems from the sounds and the manner in which dental procedures are traditionally handled. However, laser dentistry is much more comfortable and makes the experience much more tolerable for those with hesitations. 

Take Advantage of All That  Laser Dentistry Has to Offer

Imagine being able to have your natural teeth and gums restored to health without any invasive dental procedures. At Periodontal Associates, we strive to stay on top of the latest technology so that we may provide our patients with the best treatment options – and that includes laser dentistry. 

If you would like to learn more about laser dentistry and how you can benefit from it, reach out to one of our convenient locations: 

Framingham Office 508-875-6185

Newton Office 617-964-6185
Or, request an appointment online.

Do you have one or more teeth that need to be replaced? Whether they are missing or severely decayed beyond the point of saving, a dental implant is the highest quality tooth replacement option. If you need to replace just one or a few teeth, dental implants are an affordable option. But if you need to replace an entire arch of teeth, implant supported dentures are a more cost effective option. 

The traditional dental implant procedure can take a few weeks or even a few months. But advancements in technology have made it possible to get dental implants in just one appointment. How do one day dental implants work? Here’s a basic explanation of the process. 

Step 1: The Consultation

Before you can get a one day dental implant, you must first have a consultation with your dentist. The dentist will evaluate your mouth where the missing tooth needs to be replaced to determine whether or not a one day implant will work for you. It is necessary for your gums to be healthy and your jaw bone to be adequate enough to support an implant. Radiographs of the area will be necessary to verify the bone quality/quantity.  If all looks well, your appointment will be scheduled for receiving your implant. You and your dentist will discuss the procedure and your preferred type of anesthesia ahead of time in preparation for your appointment. 

Step 2: The Procedure

On the day of your appointment the dental implant root will be surgically placed in your jaw. Anesthesia makes the process pain free. After the implant is placed, a temporary crown will be attached to the top while your permanent crown is created. The temporary crown looks natural and restores your smile until the permanent crown can be placed. 

Step 3: The Finishing Touch

Once the permanent crown is created and sent back to your dentist, usually in a few weeks, you can return to your dentist for the permanent fitting. As long as the crown fits properly and you are satisfied with the way it looks, the process will be complete at this time. 

How Much Faster Are One Day vs Traditional Implants?

Traditional implants can take up to a year to complete. The implant root is placed, then allowed to heal for a few months. Then the abutment is attached and you’ll wait another few months. Finally the crown is attached and the process is complete in somewhere between 6 months and a year. The biggest advantage to the longer process is that it gives your body more time to heal between each step. But the entire process for one day dental implants only takes a few weeks from the consultation to the final result. 

Benefits of One Day Dental Implants

One day dental implants have many benefits: 

• Faster process. You won’t have to sit in the dental chair as long in total as you would for the traditional dental implant process, although you will sit for longer in one day. 
• Less trips to the dentist. You avoid the inconvenience of making trips back and forth to the dentist and taking time off work to go.  
• Get your smile back sooner. If you’re missing a tooth that is noticeable, you want your dental implant as soon as possible to restore your smile. One day dental implants will have you smiling again sooner. 
• Works for implant supported dentures as well. The one day dental implant process can also be used to receive implant supported dentures. Get your full smile back in a much shorter time. 

Periodontal Associates Provides One Day Dental Implants

If you’re looking for a dentist who can provide you with one day dental implants, Periodontal Associates can help. Our skilled periodontists can place one or more dental implants in a single appointment after an initial consultation. Many patients are ideal candidates for this procedure and would benefit from the convenience. We provide this service for our patients who want to save time and money. 

Call 508-875-6185 today to schedule a consultation at our Framingham office or 617-964-6185 for our Newton office. You can also request an appointment and someone will be in touch shortly to schedule. We look forward to restoring your smile.  

According to the CDC, Periodontal disease impacts about 47.2% of adults 30 years of age and older, with its prevalence increasing with age. In fact, for those 65 years of age and older, 70.1% will experience some form of periodontal disease. 

As you can tell, it is a very common dental disease, but it surely isn’t a pleasant one. From bleeding gums to loose teeth and bone loss, it can severely decrease one’s quality of life. To know how to personally reduce the incidence of this disease, we need to know how you get it. Which leads us to the question: What causes periodontal disease? 

What is Periodontal Disease? 

Periodontal disease comes in four stages, with the earliest stage – gingivitis – affecting only the gums. During this stage, the gums become inflamed and may bleed. If caught early, this is the only stage of periodontal disease that can be reversed. 

If treatment is not sought, the disease will progress to the next stages which means the infection spreads from the gums to the surrounding tissue and bone that support your teeth. The gums may pull away from the tooth, bone loss begins to occur, teeth will get loose due to lack of support, and eventually, tooth loss happens. 

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Symptoms of periodontal disease will vary based primarily on the stage of the disease you are in. But knowing what to look for can help you make smart decisions about your oral health. Some of the most common symptoms you will encounter are: 

• Red gums that may be swollen and tender. 
• Bleeding gums. 
• Loose gums that pull away from the gum line. 
• Sensitivity along the gum line. 
• Pain when chewing. 
• Loose teeth. 
• Bad breath. 

What Causes Periodontal Disease? 

We know what it is and what to look for, but what actually causes periodontal disease? Simply put, this disease can be caused by poor oral hygiene or a buildup of too much bacteria via the plaque buildup in the mouth. This leads to plaque bacterial  toxins – which can spread below the gumline. As a result, it irritates and destroys the gums, tissues, and bones meant to support your teeth. 

Developing a healthy regimen for your oral care can help reverse periodontal disease (if caught early) or at least reduce the chance of further damage. Brush and floss regularly and see your dentist every 3 – 4  months. This is the best way to reduce the buildup of the toxic plaque that can lead to periodontal disease. 

Periodontal Associates For All Your Periodontal Needs

If you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease or you think you may have it, then you must take the appropriate steps for your dental health. And that means getting a thorough examination by a dentist – and the treatment necessary to address the disease. 

Periodontal Associates is a leader in periodontal care in the New England area. And we strive to help restore your smile and increase your quality of life.

Call our office today to schedule an appointment at one of our two convenient locations. 

Framingham Office: [df-phone-number1 dflink=”true”]
Newton Office: [df-phone-number2 dflink=”true”]

Or schedule an appointment online.

Getting one or more dental implants requires a minimally invasive surgical procedure. It may take a few days to a few weeks to completely heal, and a few months for the implant to fully bond with the jaw bone. During this time, it may be necessary to be careful about what you eat and avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the implant was placed. 

Following your dentist’s instructions carefully will help your dental implant heal faster and last longer. What can you eat after dental implant surgery? Here’s what dentists recommend. 

What to Eat the Day Of or the Day After Dental Implant Surgery:

Immediately following your dental implant surgery you may have some mild discomfort and swelling. Cold liquids and soft foods are best, such as: 

• Smoothies. The best thing about smoothies is that they can consist of many different types of foods, giving you essentially all of your food groups in one glass. Chia seeds provide protein and grains, also serving as a thickening agent. Yogurt is another option for protein and good fat. Use whatever fruits you prefer. You can even add spinach or kale to get your leafy greens. Peanut butter is another good protein-filled ingredient. 

*Avoid drinking through a straw. 

• Applesauce. A good source of vitamins, applesauces, especially those combined with other fruits and vegetables, can provide a range of nutrients with a soft, cold texture. 
• Yogurt. As long as you have no issues with dairy, yogurt is another protein-rich option with good dairy fat to help you feel full. Avoid options that include fruit chunks or granola, which will be too hard to chew at this time. Dairy is also rich in calcium, which is good for bone strength. 
• Cold soups. Hot foods and beverages are best to avoid for the first few days, but cold soups are perfectly fine. Gazpacho and other soups served cold provide nutrients and offer a savory option in place of sweets. 

What to Eat After the First Week:

After the first week your mouth should be a lot less sensitive, but it is still necessary to eat soft foods while your implant is bonding with the jaw bone. Try these: 

• Eggs. Eggs are an excellent source of protein and can be made in a variety of ways with other nutritious ingredients added. Scramble eggs with spinach or make an omelet with cheese and other soft vegetables.
• Potatoes. Potatoes can be made in a range of textures. Start with mashed potatoes and work up to chewier forms as you are ready. 
• Cheese. Cheese is a soft dairy food that can be eaten in a variety of ways. It can be added to food or eaten alone. And cheese is rich in calcium to promote healthy bones. 
• Chicken. When you’re ready to try meat, chicken can be made soft enough to chew without too much trouble. Be careful that you don’t cook it until it is tough. Slow cooker recipes often make chicken very tender. 
• Fish. A naturally soft meat, fish is an excellent source of protein. Just be on the lookout for bones, especially in certain types of fish. 
• Ground beef. The best way to introduce red meat back into your diet is through ground beef. It is soft and easier to chew than a steak or other cuts of beef. 

When in Doubt Ask Your Dentist 

If you’re really unsure about what to eat or whether or not you should eat a certain food, ask your dentist. It is always better to be sure before you eat something to avoid potential damage to your implant. 

Periodontal Associates Provides Dental Implants in Framingham and Newton

Are you looking for a periodontist in the Framingham or Newton area to get one or more dental implants? Periodontal Associates skillfully places dental implants using minimally invasive technology to help you recover faster and get back to eating the foods you love. With our expertise and your dedication to your own dental hygiene, your dental implant can last a lifetime. 

Contact us at either of our two convenient locations to request an appointment: 

Framingham: 508-875-6185

Newton: 617-964-6185

Are you in need of a periodontist? Many people require periodontal services at some point in addition to regular dental care. Periodontists specialize in conditions of the gums and support structures of the teeth. Periodontists treat gum disease, place dental implants, perform bone grafting procedures, and more.

Do you need to know how to find a qualified periodontist near you? Here are some tips for finding an office in the Framingham or Newton Centre, MA area to meet your periodontal needs.

Certifications and Credentials

Determining whether or not a periodontist is qualified starts with certifications and credentials. A periodontist must complete the basic education and training requirements of a general dentist first. Then, in addition to their dental certification, a periodontist completes additional training and education in periodontology. Be sure that any periodontist you consider has at least the basic certification requirements to practice periodontics.

Awards and Associations

In addition to the basic requirements, look for additional awards and associations that may set them apart from other periodontists. Are they an active member in the American Academy of Periodontology or other professional organizations? Maintaining memberships in professional organizations helps periodontists keep up to date with current evidence based practices and techniques in the field. This suggests that they are invested in their practice, their patients, and the field of periodontology.

Experience

Someone could have all the academic knowledge about periodontology that there is, but without field experience they would be ill equipped to provide periodontal services. Look for a periodontist that has plenty of experience in the field. Don’t just consider the number of years the practice has been open, but how long the individual periodontist/s has been practicing. General dentistry experience is also helpful, but experience in periodontics is what you should be looking for.

Technology

Advancements in technology have revolutionized periodontics. Through technology like laser dentistry, procedures have been made less invasive and more accurate. Recovery times are faster with less down time for the patient. If you want to be treated with the latest techniques and current best practices, look for a periodontist who applies current technology in every way possible.

Anesthesia or Sedation Options

Word of mouth is still one of the best ways to find reliable services of any kind, including periodontal services. Ask friends, family, coworkers, neighbors, or anyone else you know if they have ever seen a periodontist and if they would recommend who they see. You can also ask your general dentist if they would recommend a certain periodontist. Dentists often refer patients to a periodontist due to specific issues or procedures, such as gum disease or dental implant placement.

Find Out if They Are In-Network With Your Insurance

Another way that a periodontist can be considered “qualified” is if they participate with your insurance provider. Your insurance provider may even provide you with a list of qualified periodontists with whom they have dealt with in the past.

Anesthesia or Sedation Options

You may want to know what type of anesthesia is offered by any periodontist you are considering. This is especially important if you are anxious about dental procedures in any way. Most periodontal offices will offer a range of anesthesia and sedation options depending on the type of procedure and your preferences. If they offer IV sedation, make sure that there is a qualified anesthesiologist available.

Periodontal Associates Provide Top Quality Services

If you want to know how to find a qualified periodontist near you, look no further than Periodontal Associates. Our periodontists, Dr. Feuerman and Dr. Castellucci, have been practicing since the mid 1980s. Both doctors are members of the American Academy of Periodontology among other professional organizations. We incorporate the latest technology and current best practices to provide our patients with top quality periodontal care.

Call 508-875-6185 today to schedule an appointment at our Framingham office or (617) 964-6185 for our Newton Centre office. We look forward to providing you with top quality periodontal care.

If you have a missing tooth or need to have a tooth removed, a dental implant is one replacement option. A dental implant can replace one tooth, two or more teeth, or serve as an anchor for a bridge or dentures. Dental implants are the best quality tooth replacement option, but they come at a price.

How much do dental implants cost in Middlesex County, MA and the surrounding area? It depends on a number of factors. Here’s an overview of what you can expect for a dental implant quote and what contributes to the cost.

What is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is an artificial tooth and root system. A titanium post is placed in the jaw bone to serve as the anchor for a porcelain crown. It looks and functions as closely as possible to a natural tooth and can last for a lifetime.

Average Cost of a Dental Implant

One dental implant to replace one tooth can cost between $3,000 and $4,500. Depending on where you go, you could get a slightly higher or slightly lower quote. Many different factors affect the cost of a dental implant, and the price may not be the same for every patient.

Factors that Contribute to the Cost of Dental Implants

The price of a dental implant may vary depending on the following factors:

• Location of the missing tooth. Where the dental implant will be placed in your mouth is a factor in the cost. The easier it is to access, the lower the price may be. On the other hand, if the tooth is a highly visible front tooth, it may cost more to ensure it looks natural.
• Preparatory procedures. Before a dental implant can be placed, there must be sufficient bone density in the jaw to support it. If there isn’t, which is likely if the tooth has been missing for a while, a bone graft procedure may need to be performed first. A bone graft involves surgically placing a bone graft on top of the existing jaw bone under the gums to fortify it and encourage regeneration. This adds to the total cost of a dental implant.
• The quality of the materials. Most dental implants and the abutment / connection post are made of titanium, with a porcelain crown. These are considered to be the best quality materials for dental implants. Anything less may come at a lower cost, but may not last as long or look as natural.
• The location of your dentist’s office. The geographic location of your dental office plays a part in the cost of a dental implant. The cost of living in an area affects all kinds of services, and dental care is included.
• Your dentist’s level of experience. The more experienced your dentist is at placing dental implants, the higher the cost may be. With experience comes a better reputation, a wider base of patients, and the ability to charge more for their expertise.

Does Insurance Cover Dental Implants?

In most cases dental insurance will not cover dental implants. Insurance providers consider dental implants to be a cosmetic procedure, even though they serve a dental health purpose. In some cases medical insurance will cover just the implant root when there is a medical need for it. Insurance providers also tend to cover the least expensive option rather than what is best for the patient.

How to Make Dental Implants More Affordable

If a dental implant is in your best interest, it is worth the cost. Financing is one way to make the cost of dental implants more affordable, allowing you to make affordable monthly payments. CareCredit and other credit options are available to help you pay for medical costs not covered by your insurance.

Periodontal Associates Specialize in Dental Implant Placement

If you’re looking for an experienced periodontist to place your dental implant, contact Periodontal Associates. Our skilled surgical specialists have over 30 years of experience placing Dental implants and performing other dental procedures. You can rest assured that we have your best interest in mind when it comes to your dental health.

Call 508-875-6185 today to schedule a consultation at our Framingham office or 617-964-6185 for our Newton Centre office. You can also request an appointment at your convenience. We look forward to providing you with top quality periodontal services.

Dental implants are the current best option for tooth replacement. A dental implant can replace a single tooth or act as an anchor for a bridge or dentures. There are many benefits of dental implants, including their longevity. Implants are the longest lasting tooth replacement option available. 

How long do dental implants last? Here’s what you can expect. 

Dental Implants Can Last a Lifetime 

The average lifespan of a dental implant is anywhere from 10 -30 years. This means that most likely, depending on your age when you get an implant, it will last for the rest of your life. No other tooth replacement option has the ability to last that long. When you get a dental implant, you are making an investment in your dental health for your lifetime. 

Why Do Dental Implants Last So Long?

What is it about dental implants that make them last? Why do they outlast other tooth replacement options? It’s because of their design.

A dental implant is an artificial tooth and root system. It consists of an implant root, an abutment, and a crown. The implant root is a titanium post with threads (ridges) like a screw. The implant root is surgically placed in the jaw bone. Titanium is a biocompatible material that will fuse with the bone through a process called osseointegration. This process takes a few months, but once a solid bond is formed, it can last for many years. 

The Crown May Not Last as Long 

A few months after your implant root is placed and has had time to fully bond with the bone, an abutment and crown can be attached. The abutment is just a post that extends from the root up through the gums for the crown to attach to. The crown is typically made of porcelain, which is durable and resembles natural tooth enamel. 

While the implant root can last  many years, the crown portion of your dental implant may not. The crown may only last 10-15 years before it will need to be replaced due to typical wear and tear. It may last longer for some, but this is the average timeframe. The cost of the crown is much less than the cost of the whole dental implant, so replacing the crown once or maybe twice in your lifetime isn’t too significant. 

What Can I Do to Make My Dental Implant Last Longer?

For a dental implant to last for many years, it does take some basic maintenance on your part. For example:

• Brush and floss your teeth. Keep up with good dental hygiene habits. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day. This is recommended for all people, not just those with dental implants. But taking care of your teeth is important for maintaining your dental implant. While your dental implant is not susceptible to decay, preserving your other teeth and your gum health which directly supports it. 
• Go to the dentist every 6 months. Routine dental appointments are also important for helping your implant last. Keeping your teeth clean and your gums healthy will help your implant stay solidly in place. These exams also identify any potential issues that could jeopardize your implant, such as gum disease. 
• Avoid smoking. Smoking is one of the biggest detriments to the health of your dental implant. It restricts the blood flow in vessels in the gums which can affect the healing process as well as osseointegration, so your implant may never solidify. 
• Live a healthy lifestyle. Keeping yourself healthy is an important part of your dental health as well. Bone health is key, because if your bones weaken your jaw may not be able to support your implant as well as your other teeth. Take vitamins and supplements, especially calcium and potassium for bone health, with approval from your doctor. 

Dental Implants at Periodontal Associates 

If you’re in need of one or more dental implants, Periodontal Associates can provide you with this long lasting tooth replacement option. We place dental implants for single tooth replacement as well as dental implant supported bridges and dentures. With careful, accurate placement your dental implant can last forever. 

Call (508) 875-6185 to schedule a consultation with our periodontist at our Framingham office or (617) 964-6185 for our Newton Centre office. You can also request an appointment. We look forward to providing you with a lifelong tooth replacement solution.