How Do One Day Dental Implants Work?

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.

Periodontics is a specialty in the field of dentistry. A periodontist is a dentist first, who then receives extra training in periodontics. What is periodontics? 

Periodontology is the study of the supporting structures for teeth and the diseases and conditions that affect them. A periodontist treats the gums, jaw bone, and ligaments that support the teeth. The most common issue with these supporting structures is periodontal disease, more commonly known as gum disease. Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the gums caused by excessive plaque buildup on the teeth. 

Your dentist may refer you to a periodontist if you have severe or acute/chronic gum disease that does not respond to typical treatment.

What Dental Procedures Does a Periodontist Perform?

Periodontists may perform a range of different procedures to treat gum disease or other gum conditions, such as:

• Scaling and Root Planing. Scaling and root planing are actually two different procedures, but they are most often performed together. Scaling is the removal of plaque and calculus (hardened plaque) from the tooth surfaces underneath the gums. This is the main cause of gum disease, and because it is below the gum line, your toothbrush won’t reach it. Once the scaling is done, root planing is performed next. Root planing smooths the surface of the tooth root once the plaque and calculus have been removed, also eliminating altered and contaminated root structure caused by the bacterial endotoxins. This allows the gums to adapt/ adhere to the roots of the teeth with no spaces between for bacteria to accumulate and cause gum disease.
• Osseous (bone) Surgery. Sometimes it is necessary for a periodontist to reshape the bone structure that holds your teeth in place. The jaw bone and ligaments are the support structures for your teeth. If there are gaps or pockets between the gums and teeth, it allows room for bacteria to enter and cause an infection. Bone surgery can be done to reshape the bone and ligaments to prevent these pockets from forming.
• Bone Graft. A bone grafting procedure is sometimes done in preparation for a dental implant. If the jaw bone is not thick enough to support an implant, a bone graft can increase it. When a tooth is missing or in the case of severe gum disease, the jaw bone deteriorates and eventually disintegrates. A bone graft procedure involves surgically placing bone graft material under the gums on top of the existing bone. This fortifies the existing jaw bone and helps it to regenerate and grow to increase the size on its own. Once this process is complete and the bone has had a few months to grow, a dental implant can be placed.
• Gum Graft. A gum graft procedure may be necessary if the gums have receded too far away from the teeth. Receding gums allow the tooth root to be exposed, which can cause sensitivity and loss of bone support. This procedure involves removing tissue from another place in the mouth and grafting it over the roots of the teeth where the gum tissue has receded. The gum tissue regenerates and bonds with the teeth.
• Dental Implant Placement. Periodontists are experts at dental implant placement. While many general dentists also perform this procedure, a periodontist specializes in the placement of dental implants. 

A dental implant is an artificial tooth and root system. The implant root is a titanium post that is surgically placed in the jaw bone. It fuses with the bone to form a strong bond. Once the implant is anchored to the bone, a crown is attached to the top. The entire dental implant looks and functions like a natural tooth.

Trust Your Oral Care to Periodontal Associates

If you’re in need of advanced oral care for gum disease, gum conditions, or any problems with the support structure for your teeth, a periodontist has specific training to provide you with the treatment you need. Periodontal Associates consists of two highly trained, experienced periodontists who can provide the care you need to improve and preserve your oral and dental health. 

Call 508-875-6185 to schedule a consultation at our Framingham office or 508-875-6185 for our Newton office. You can also request an appointment. We look forward to providing you with the periodontal treatment you need.

You are familiar with what a dentist does, but what exactly is a periodontist? Perhaps you’ve been referred to a periodontist due to severe gum disease or to have a dental implant placed. A periodontist is a specific type of dentist with a specialty in periodontics, which refers to the health of the gums and bones that support the teeth.

When should you see a periodontist in addition to a regular dentist? Here are some possible scenarios.

Situations That Might Lead to a Referral to a Periodontist

These are some examples of cases where a dentist may refer you to a periodontist for specific or advanced treatment.

• Severe Gum Disease. Gum disease is quite common. Adults over 30 are likely to experience gum disease to some extent. But not everyone’s case is severe enough to require a periodontist. In some instances gum disease can be treated and managed by your dentist. It is considered severe when it causes extreme discomfort, is recurring or chronic despite treatment, or if it will require more complex forms of treatment such as scaling or root planing.
• Loose Teeth. If your teeth are loosening in your mouth, it can be the result of severe or untreated gum disease. Your gums and jaw bone are the supportive structures that help to keep your teeth in place. The bone that supports the teeth,  can weaken due to gum disease. When the supportive structure starts to deteriorate, the teeth can become loose, requiring the help of a periodontist to restore or replace the loose teeth.
• Missing Teeth. Teeth can be lost for a variety of reasons from gum disease to severe decay or trauma. But there are many tooth replacement options available, such as dental implants. A dental implant is an artificial tooth and root system that is surgically placed in the jaw bone. The placing of a dental implant is a complex procedure that is often performed by a periodontist.
• Bite Pattern Issues. If you experience sudden or gradual changes in the way your teeth feel when you bite down, it could be an indication of gum or jaw issues. You may think that bite issues would be handled by an orthodontist, but not necessarily. An orthodontist may correct bite issues that have always been there, but a change in bite pattern would be referred to a periodontist.
• If you have Diabetes. Studies have shown a correlation between gum disease and diabetes. One doesn’t necessarily cause the other, but they are unmistakably related. If you have diabetes, it may be necessary for you to see a periodontist regularly to avoid or get treatment for gum disease.

Signs You May Have Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is characterized by a variety of symptoms:

• Bleeding gums. If your gums bleed, even a little bit when you brush or floss your teeth, it indicates that your gums may be infected.
• Swollen gums. Swelling is another sign of infected gums, as the inflammation tends to trigger swelling.
• Abscessed gums. Severe infection sometimes leads to oozing of pus from the gums. 
  
• Pain. When you feel pain in your gums it indicates that they are inflamed and irritated from infection. 
  
• Bad breath. Gum disease can cause bad breath. If you or a loved one notice a change in your breath it may indicate an infection. 
  
• Loose or missing teeth. Severe gum disease can lead to teeth becoming loose and even falling out.

Do You Need a Referral To See a Periodontist?

No, you do not need a referral from your dentist to see a periodontist. You can make an appointment for a consultation at any time. It can be helpful to request that your dental records be sent to your periodontist so that they have background information about your general dental health. If you have dental insurance you may want to check with your provider to find out what is the best course of action to ensure you get the maximum amount of benefit toward periodontal services.

Schedule a Consultation with Periodontal Associates

If you have symptoms of gum disease or your dentist or physician has recommended that you see a periodontist, Periodontal Associates is here to help. We offer a wide range of periodontal services from scaling and root planing to dental implants. If you need additional care beyond what your dentist is able to provide, contact Periodontal Associates.

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 at your most convenient location. We look forward to providing you with top quality periodontal care.

Dental implants are considered to be the gold standard of tooth replacement options. Replacing a lost or damaged tooth with a dental implant is as close as having your own natural tooth. Dentists and periodontists recommend this option first, only resorting to other options by patient request or in special cases.

Thinking of replacing a tooth with a dental implant? Consider the top 4 benefits of this procedure.

• Natural Function. A dental implant consists of a titanium post that is surgically implanted in the jaw bone with a crown attached to the top. Titanium is biocompatible with human bone so that it can osseointegrate (bond with) the existing jaw bone for a solid hold. This allows your implant to function as closely as possible to your natural teeth. You can eat whatever foods you like without worrying about potential damage. You may even be able to eat foods you couldn’t eat before when your tooth was missing or damaged. You floss and brush your teeth just as you would have before getting your implant.
• Natural Appearance. Another major benefit of a dental implant is the natural look it gives you. An implant crown is designed to match your existing teeth almost perfectly in color, size, and shape. If you are replacing a front tooth, an implant will be undetectable to others when you smile and talk. Back teeth are even easier to replace with similar-looking implants as they are less visible. If you’re looking for the most realistic-looking option, a dental implant is the way to go.
• Bone Preservation. When you lose a tooth or have a tooth extracted without replacing it, the part of the jaw bone that once held it in place will begin to deteriorate. The bone will weaken gradually and can eventually dissolve altogether. A dental bridge or dentures can replace your teeth, but will not be able to preserve the bone underneath. A dental implant, however, preserves the existing bone structure by bonding with the jaw bone and supporting it. Bone loss can even be reversed via a bone graft procedure in preparation for a dental implant.
• Longevity. When properly placed and maintained, a dental implant can last for many years. The average lifespan of an implant is 15-30 years, sometimes even longer. The average age of patients receiving dental implants is 52, meaning an implant that lasts for 30 years will likely be with you forever. To get the most years out of your implant, it is necessary to have it placed by an experienced dentist or periodontist who knows how to properly handle the procedure. It is also important to maintain good oral hygiene so that your teeth, gums, and jaw bone remain healthy to support your implant.

Trust Periodontal Associates With Your Dental Implant Procedure

As stated above, one of the biggest factors affecting the length of time your dental implant lasts is the experience of your dentist or periodontist. At Periodontal Associates, we use the latest technology and techniques to place dental implants accurately and efficiently. You can expect a successful procedure and an implant that will last a lifetime.

Call or request an appointment at either of our convenient locations:

Framingham Office

508-875-6185

Newton Office

617-964-6185

We look forward to providing you with the best possible tooth replacement option.

When a tooth is damaged or severely decayed, there are different options for restoration. A dental implant replaces the entire tooth, root and all. A crown simply covers the tooth with a protective cap to protect the existing tooth and root. Which option is used depends on each individual patient and their needs. Consider the pros and cons of each option for tooth replacement.

Pros of Dental Implants:

Dental implants have a lot of benefits, such as:

• Jaw bone preservation. One of the biggest benefits of dental implants is the fact that the implant replaces the root of the tooth in the jaw bone, subsequently preserving  bone structure in the jaw. When a tooth is pulled or a bridge is fitted, the part of the jaw bone that once held the tooth root in place will atrophy and eventually resorb. An implant prevents this from occurring.
• Secure hold. The implant/ root osseointegrates (bonds with) with existing bone in the jaw, forming a solid anchor for the artificial tooth to attach to. This is what helps to preserve the jaw bone as well. Dental implants can last a long time once the implant is anchored to the bone.
• No chance of further decay. A dental implant is completely artificial, therefore it is not susceptible to decay the way natural tooth material is. Once you get a dental implant placed, you no longer have to worry about whether or not that tooth will get a cavity or need a root canal.

Cons of Dental Implants:

Dental implants also have disadvantages, such as:

• High cost. Dental implants are on the high side when it comes to the cost of dental procedures. Insurance will sometimes cover a portion of a dental implant and sometimes not. Sometimes dental insurance covers the tooth portion and medical insurance covers the implant root. It all depends on the situation and your insurance plan.
• Longer procedure. A dental implant requires a few different procedures, thus taking longer than getting fitted with a crown. The placement of the implant root is slightly more invasive than a crown fitting.
• Possible preparatory work. Before a dental implant can be placed, there must be sufficient jaw bone to support it. If the bone is too thin or weak, a bone graft procedure may be required first, adding time and cost to the overall process.

Pros of Crowns:

Crowns, when possible, have many benefits, such as:

• Preserves the natural tooth root. When the root of the tooth is still viable, the existing tooth can be shaved down and a crown can be placed over the remaining tooth. This keeps your natural tooth root in place so that your crown functions naturally.
• Saves existing healthy tooth material. In many cases a lot of the healthy tooth material can be saved when a crown is placed. This preserves what is left of the tooth so that it will not continue to decay.
• Costs less than an implant. A crown is a less  expensive procedure because it doesn’t require surgery to place.

Cons of Crowns:

There are certain disadvantages to crowns, such as:

• Problems can still occur with the existing tooth root. When the natural tooth root is kept intact, there is still a possibility of decay or an infection of the root that could require a root canal.
• Crown can come loose from the existing tooth. In some cases the crown will become loose and need to be reattached. When a crown is first placed it is cemented to the existing tooth material. Over time that cement can deteriorate and need to be reapplied.
• Crowns may not last as long as implants. On average, crowns can last for 5-15 years. But dental implants can last 15-30.

Choosing the Best Option

If the existing tooth root is still intact, it is usually in your best interest to have a permanent crown placed. The procedure is less invasive and costs less than a dental implant. However, if the existing tooth root cannot be saved, a dental implant is the best option for replacing the entire tooth and root system.

Need a Professional Opinion? Periodontal Associates Can Help

If you have a tooth that may need to be replaced, Periodontal Associates can help you determine which replacement option would be best for you.

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 most convenient location. We look forward to helping restore your smile.