Pros and Cons of Dental Implants

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In St. Louis, MO dental implants have become a go-to treatment for missing teeth. They’re popular for many reasons; one of them being their permanence. Once you get dental implants, you no longer need to worry about your missing natural teeth. But for all their benefits, there are also cons to consider. It’s worth it to weigh the pros and cons of dental implants before committing to this dental treatment.

Pros of Dental Implants

Natural Look and Feel – Dental implant manufacturers have gone to great lengths to ensure that the dental implants look authentic. Most people will have no clue that you have dental implants.

Durability – Dental implants are made to withstand the rigors of chewing and biting, and they can last a lifetime with proper care.

Low-maintenance – No special maintenance is required of dental implants beyond common sense. You treat them as you would your natural teeth, brushing, flossing and rinsing as usual.

Cons of Dental Implants

Procedure – The most off-putting aspect of dental implants is that they require oral surgery, sometimes multiple surgeries over a period of several months.

Not Suitable for All – Even when requested, dental implants aren’t suitable for everyone. They require a certain level of oral health and sufficient bone density to start with.

Complexity

Dental implants are a more complex dental treatment than, say dentures. If you’re looking for simplicity, then dentures or bridges may be a better option.

As you can see, there are lots of things to consider with dental implants. Your best course of action is to consult with your St. Louis, MO dentist to discuss all the pros and cons of dental implants as they relate to your individual circumstances. Contact us today to book your appointment!

How All on 4 Dental Implants Work

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Replacing lost teeth as quickly as possible is a key way to protect your jawbone. Implants can protect against bone loss and spacing problems. Dentures can help, but dental implants are the better choice, especially if you have strong bones in the jaw. At Smile Now STL, Dr. Thomas O’Connor offers the All on 4 dental implant procedure that uses fewer implants to replace the teeth with a complete set. Here’s a closer look at how this procedure works and why many patients prefer it over dentures or individual implants.

Full Set of Teeth with Just Four Implants

The All on 4 procedure allows your dentist to add a full set of teeth connected to just two implants. The implants, which fit in the rear of the mouth, are placed at a 30 to 45-degree angle. This technique allows for the placement of implants even if the bone structure is not conducive to traditional implants. These new implants support artificial teeth, keeping them permanently in place, just with fewer implants.

What to Expect from the All on 4 Dental Implant Procedure

All on 4 is designed for people who have no natural teeth left. If you have natural teeth, they need extraction before the implants can go in. Your dentist will do this while placing the implants.

On the day of your procedure, you will receive anesthesia, and your dentist will place four implants in the back of the mouth, two on the bottom and two on the top. You will then receive temporary dentures for several months while the implants graft to the bone. Once you heal completely, your dentist will place the permanent tooth replacements on the implants, and you will be as good as new.

Are you interested in this less invasive but still effective procedure? Contact your St. Louis dental team at Smile Now STL to learn more.

Dentures vs. Dental Implants

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Everyone is looking for a perfect smile. While braces or clear aligners can help, so too can dentures and dental implants. Used to replace teeth, dentures and dental implants can provide several benefits for your life.

If you’re interested in one of these popular dental treatments, look no further than Smile Now STL! With our skilled team of dental experts, we can give you the smile you’ve always wanted! Call us today to book your appointment for high-quality dentures or dental implants in St. Louis, MO.

In this post, we’ll compare these two common dental solutions.

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are removable tooth replacement devices. They’re made of materials like acrylic, resin, porcelain, nylon, and metal.

One popular type of denture is called a full or complete denture. These appliances replace an entire arch of missing teeth. A full denture is supported by your lower jawbone ridge or palate, the roof of your mouth.

Another option is particle dentures, which replace multiple teeth but not an entire arch. These appliances feature special clamps that connect to your natural teeth for added support.

Other types of dentures include immediate dentures, implant-retained dentures, and implant-supported dentures.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are artificial tooth structures that replace teeth. These devices consist of three parts; a metal post, an abutment, and a dental crown. During dental implant surgery, your provider will surgically place the metal post into your jawbone. Next, you’ll need to wait until enough bone grows around the post, which can take several months. Once the waiting period ends, your dentist places the abutment and dental crown, leaving you with a gorgeous new smile!

Which Option Is Best?

While dentures can be effective, they don’t offer the superior durability you see with dental implants. Furthermore, dental implants allow you to eat your favorite foods, while dentures usually require certain dietary restrictions.

If you’re ready to improve your smile with dentures or dental implants, contact Smile Now STL! We’re happy to have the top dentist in St. Louis, MO.

Dental Implants vs. Dental Bridge

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While losing teeth when we’re kids is common, this can also happen into adulthood. However, it’s less of a normal occurrence and more of a reason for concern. If you lose a permanent tooth, this is usually caused by an injury or decay. When this issue happens, finding a high-quality tooth replacement is essential. A few common options include dental implants and a dental bridge.

In this post, we’ll discuss some key differences between these two restorative dentistry solutions.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants can take your appearance and oral health to new heights. These incredible devices take the place of missing teeth. Dental implants feature a metal post, an abutment, and a dental crown. After the post is surgically placed into your jawbone, the abutment and crown are placed on top. This implant-to-bone fusion is what makes the device incredibly strong and durable. Some people have their implants for over 30 years!

Want to get started with dental implants in St. Louis, MO? Contact Smile Now STL to learn more!

What Is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is also a popular tooth replacement solution, but it’s less durable than dental implants. However, a bridge is still effective. These devices consist of an artificial tooth connected to dental crowns on either side of the missing space, making a “bridge.” In order to place the oral appliance, your dentist must remove a small amount of enamel from your teeth on either side of the missing tooth.

Which Option Is Best?

While most patients prefer dental implants, they’re more costly. However, they’re also more durable, so the extra money may be worth it. We recommend talking with your dentist to find the right option for your needs and budget.

If you’re ready to boost your dental health, call Smile Now STL to work with the leading dentist in St. Louis, MO!

Dental Implants vs. Dentures

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You want something dependable and long-lasting when searching for a tooth replacement solution. Look no further than dental implants and dentures! Both of these options provide several benefits. If you want to see a professional about these offerings, contact Smile Now STL today! We carry the most reliable dentures and dental implants in St. Louis, MO. Call us today to get started!

In this post, we’ll discuss the key differences between dental implants and dentures.

Dental Implants: Brief Overview

Dental implants are a durable form of artificial teeth. They consist of three parts; a metal post, an abutment, and a dental crown. To start the process, you’ll have to undergo dental implant surgery, which primarily involves placing the metal post into your jawbone. Once the implant is placed, you’ll have to wait a certain amount of time for the bone to grow around the appliance. This is what creates its incredible strength. After the healing time is finished, your provider will attach the abutment and crown to finish off the process.

Dental implants are comfortable and long-lasting, and they look great! In fact, many patients say their dental implants give off a very natural appearance.

Dentures: Brief Overview

Dentures are another dependable tooth replacement option, and they consist of a device full of prosthetic teeth. Rather than being fixed to your mouth, these dental devices are removable. Another great feature is that dentures can be used no matter the health or strength of your jawbone. With dental implants, you must have enough healthy bone in your jaw to accommodate the device.

Dentures are considered comfortable to many, but not as comfortable as dental implants. Also, properly caring for your dentures can be a hassle, while dental implants don’t require any special maintenance tasks.

Dental Implants and Dentures at Smile Now STL

Contact Smile Now STL today to get started with dentures or dental implants! We have the most trusted dentist in St. Louis, MO, so you’ll always be in good hands with us. Call us today!

3 Reasons to Consider Adult Dental Implants

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An adult dental implant is an effective tool that fills a gap left in your mouth when a permanent tooth is lost. Your dentist in St. Louis, MO, can help with this. At Smile Now STL, we install adult dental implants for patients. Below are three reasons our patients choose adult dental implants to replace missing permanent teeth.

1. Adult Dental Implants Look Natural

Each adult dental implant is topped with a crown that looks like a real tooth. Your dentist will customize your adult dental implant to fit perfectly in the space in your mouth. Your dentist will even choose the crown color to match the color of your other teeth so the dental implant won’t stick out or look unnatural in your mouth.

2. Adult Dental Implants Function Like Real Teeth

Adult dental implants can do all the same things natural teeth can do. With an adult dental implant, you should be able to speak normally and enjoy the foods you enjoyed before your permanent tooth was knocked out. This enables you to maintain a good quality of life with your adult dental implant.

3. Adult Dental Implants Are Easy to Maintain

Adult dental implants in St. Louis, MO, are easy to maintain. Brush your adult dental implant twice daily. Use non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristle toothbrush. See your dentist twice annually for dental checkups, and if your dentist discovers a problem with your tooth, get it addressed as soon as possible.

Are you interested in adult dental implants? Contact the professionals at Smile Now STL to get started with the installation process.

Should I Get All On 4 Dental Implants?

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If you need replacement teeth, you may choose between all on 4 dental implants and dentures. They may not look different in the mouth, but they are. Knowing those differences can help you choose the best one for you. Your dentist in St. Louis MO can help you decide which is best. All on 4 dental implants can help patients like you restore their smiles. Here’s what you need to know.

What Are All On 4 Dental Implants?

All on 4 dental implants are a type of denture supported by implants. During installation, the dentist installs four implants in the jaw. Next, the dentist installs an arch of teeth on the implants.

All on 4 dental implants are similar to dentures because they replace a whole arch of teeth or all teeth in the mouth. All on4 dental implants are different in one important way: they stay in the mouth and aren’t removed for cleaning or other purposes.

Who Is a Good Candidate for All On 4 Dental Implants?

You’re a good candidate for all on 4 dental implants if you need to replace an entire arch (or both arches) of teeth with a dental prosthetic. You should also have a healthy jawbone where all on 4 implants can be installed. If necessary, your dentist can perform a bone graft to help with this.

What Are the Benefits of All On 4 Implants Over Dentures?

Unlike dentures, all on 4 implants don’t slip out of place when talking or eating. All on 4 implants are supported by dentures. They stay in the mouth unless removed by the dentist. Are you interested in all on 4 dental implants in St. Louis MO? If so, call Smile Now STL to get started with your dental implant installation.

Am I A Good Candidate for Adult Dental Implants?

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Adult dental implants restore your smile after the loss of a permanent tooth. Your dentist in St. Louis, MO, can provide you with adult dental implants.

An implant can fill a gap and perform like your natural teeth. Smile Now STL helps patients determine whether they’re a good candidate for implants. We offer adult dental implant installation to those in need.

What Are Adult Dental Implants?

Adult dental implants are a type of prosthetic tooth that is inserted directly into the jaw. Dental implants are surgically installed, and when the site heals, the implant is fused with the bone.

Once the implant is in place, a crown is installed. The crown looks like a real tooth. The implant allows you to enjoy the functionality and appearance of a healthy smile, even after a permanent tooth is lost.

Who Needs Adult Dental Implants?

Anyone who is missing a tooth can benefit from getting a replacement tooth. You may be a good candidate for a dental implant if you have a healthy jaw and good oral health.

If you have periodontal disease, your dentist will take action to improve your oral health before installing an implant. If your jaw lacks sufficient volume, your dentist may recommend a bone graft first.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?

Dental implants have many benefits. Dental implants can:

  • Make your smile whole, thus improving your confidence.
  • Look and function like natural teeth.
  • Prevent your other teeth from shifting in your mouth.

Interested in Dental Implants? Call Today

At Smile Now STL, we offer dental implants in St. Louis, MO. Call today to make an appointment to learn more about whether dental implants are right for you.

4 Benefits of Adult Dental Implants

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A missing tooth can be a problem in so many ways. When you’re missing a tooth, you may find producing certain sounds while talking hard. You may feel self-conscious when you smile and interact with others. You may even have a hard time eating certain foods. As your dentist in St. Louis, MO, the professionals at Smile Now STL are here to help. We provide adult dental implants to patients who are missing teeth and want to restore their smile.

Below, we’ve listed five benefits of adult dental implants.

1. Natural Look
Dental implants look just like natural teeth. In fact, if you get one, it will be made from an impression of your mouth, so it will fit perfectly and look just right once it’s in place. Your dental implant will also be color matched to your other teeth, so no one will be able to tell that the tooth was installed by the dentist.

2. Functionality Similar to Natural Teeth
Dental implants are attached to your jaw, just like your real teeth. Your dental implant will serve the same function as your other teeth when you eat and talk. In this way, dental implants can make your mouth whole after losing a permanent tooth.

3. Easy to Maintain
Dental implants are easy to maintain. They need to be brushed just like your natural teeth and require no special care.

4. Restore Your Smile
Some people change how they smile or even when they smile when missing a tooth. Installing a dental implant can give you the confidence to smile big once again.

Are you missing a tooth? You may be a good candidate for dental implants in St. Louis, MO. Call Smile Now STL to make an appointment.

Adult Dental Implants

What Are All-On-4 Dental Implants?

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All-on-4 implants are a popular choice for people who need an entire set of teeth replaced. Whether you’re missing an upper or lower set (or both), we’ll examine how the procedure works and what you can expect.

What Is All-on-4?
The term all-on-4 refers to the number of actual implants that a dentist uses to replace your teeth. With standard dental implants in St. Louis, MO, the dentist will implant one metal post for one artificial tooth. However, doing individual posts with many missing teeth can stress your jawbone and gums. With all-on-4, dentists only use four posts for up to 8 implants in a row. This speeds up the procedure and reduces the recovery time and the costs for the patient.

How It Works
This procedure was introduced in the 1990s by changing the angle of the implants. After shifting it to 45°, it opened the doors for more people to use the technology. People who may not have been approved for implants before, whether due to gum recession or bone deterioration, may have a better chance of approval thanks to the all-on-4 option.

Dental Implants in St. Louis
Dental implants have long been considered the best way to replace a missing tooth, thanks to their ability to replicate the natural tooth’s structure. Better than bridges or partial dentures, they’re highly recommended to patients who can tolerate the process and the recovery time.

If you’re interested in implants, whether traditional or all-on-4, it helps to talk to a dentist with plenty of expertise in the subject. At Smile Now STL, our dentists in St. Louis, MO, are here to evaluate your eligibility and recommend the best treatment plan from there.