Are Dental Implants Safe?

Posted on February 3, 2022 | by sharon.boyd

If you have missing teeth and plan to put something permanent in their place, you want (and need) to know whether that item is safe or not. In this case, we’re talking about dental implants.

Dental Implants are Minimally Invasive

Getting dental implants is “safer” for your smile because they don’t alter the healthy teeth next to them. If you’re getting a traditional dental bridge, the healthy teeth on either side of your missing tooth have to be cut down for the bridge to fit over them.

Whenever you place a dental implant, you’re looking out for the best interest of your overall smile. Since you’re not altering the adjacent teeth, you’re essentially protecting them and helping them to last longer than if you were getting a dental bridge.

Even the installation of dental implants is considered a minimally invasive procedure. While a lot of people prefer to have sedation during the appointment, you can technically install implants only using a small amount of local anesthetic. It’s that safe of a process!

Implants are Made From Biocompatible Materials

Dental implants are made out of some of the very same materials that surgeons use for joint and bone repair because they encourage healthy, dense bone where they’re installed. They’re completely hypoallergenic and don’t trigger an immune response from your body, like you would see in an organ transplant, for example.

Since dental implants are installed inside of your bone, they need to be biocompatible. But they actually go beyond just being safe for your body. The titanium materials trigger your jaw bone to stimulate an osseointegration process, where new bone is formed onto the implant, anchoring it in place. This is what makes implants so strong and predictable. No other type of tooth replacement offers the same type of biocompatibility or integration the way dental implants do.

Are You Worried About a Metal Allergy?

Titanium is ultra-gentle and safe, even for people who have extreme metal allergies. If you have concerns, be sure to let us know. There are also ceramic implant designs out there that are an option if we need to take extra precautions.

When someone has sensitive skin and breaks out easily—such as if they wear cheap or costume jewelry—they might wonder whether it’s safe to install a “metal” dental implant in their mouth. But just like wearing sterling silver or 14-carat gold jewelry, a titanium dental implant is gentle on your skin.

With the movement to get away from metal fillings or products that contain mercury, it’s natural to ask whether or not dental implants are safe. We’re here to assure you that they are!

Are There Risks Associated with Dental Implants?

Dental implants have about a 98-99% success rate. Which means there is about a 1% chance of risks or complications associated with this tooth replacement procedure.

Nearly all dental implant complications are caused by peri-implant infections (similar to gum disease) or faulty dental implant placement on the part of an inexperienced dentist.

To prevent complications, you need to clean and care for your implants as if they were natural teeth. That means daily brushing and flossing, as well as regular checkups.

Choosing the best DFW implant dentist is also an important step to take. You need to make sure that your providers are well-versed in implant therapy, especially if you have significant tooth and bone loss.

Everyday Health of Implants vs. Dentures

If you aren’t getting dental implants, you’re probably getting dentures or partials. But one of the biggest complications of dentures is accelerated bone loss. Whenever you wear a removable prosthesis full-time or make the mistake of sleeping in one, it puts pressure on your jaw and stimulates accelerated bone resorption (shrinkage.) That may not seem like a problem now, but it will cause your denture to fit more loosely and feel uncomfortable, not to mention change the shape of your face.

Since implants stimulate bone integration, you don’t have to worry about the risk of shrinking bone in your facial profile. That way you have a stronger bite to chew with, and a more youthful-looking appearance.

You’re Not Rushing Through the Process

Getting dental implants is relatively safe, as long as you’re not rushing through the placement. If you get implants today and immediately install a same-day permanent crown or bridge, those implants are likely to fail. They often take months to integrate with the bone around them. If you rush the process, your success rate is extremely compromised.

Fortunately, there are ways to install dental implants and get temporary teeth in a day restoration to wear while they integrate. These healing prostheses are meant for aesthetic purposes so that you don’t have to go around with any missing teeth. But once your implants are fully integrated, we would then fix a permanent restoration like an All-on-4, All-on-6, or multi-tooth dental bridge.

A Lifelong Investment

When it comes to finances, dental implants are a “safe bet” too. Your investment in implant therapy is something that’s designed to last the rest of your life. So, you won’t have to play a guessing game as to how long they’ll last or whether or not you’ll need to replace them in 5-10 years. Because implants are made to last forever.

Just remember, you get out of dental implants what you put into them. Great home care and an experienced treatment team are the best way to ensure you protect your new smile.

Dental Implant Specialists in DFW

ARCHPOINT Implant Dentistry provides our clients with safe, predictable tooth replacement options in DFW. As specialists, we understand which type of dental implant and treatment techniques are best and safest for our patients. We work side-by-side with each of our patients to develop a care plan that fits their lifestyle, oral health needs, and long-term goals.

If you’re considering dental implants to replace your missing teeth, contact ARCHPOINT in Dallas or Ft. Worth today to request a no-obligation, one-on-one evaluation with one of our specialists.

All-on-4 vs. All-on-6 Implants

Posted on January 25, 2022 | by sharon.boyd

All-on-4 vs. All-on-6 Implants: The Breakdown

When you’re looking to replace all of your teeth at one time, an “all on” implant system is an excellent solution to consider. “All on” concepts replace all of your teeth in one arch by anchoring a single prosthesis—such as a streamlined hybrid denture—permanently on top of dental implants.

“All-on-4” implants are by far the most popular. But “All-on-6” is another option to consider.

All-on-4 vs. All-on-6 Implants: What’s the Difference?

What’s the difference between an All-on-4 and All-on-6 dental implant system? If you’re ready to invest in new dental implants but aren’t sure how many or which design you need, it can be helpful to learn more about these two popular choices and the pros and cons of each. Before you make any concrete decisions, always discuss your goals with your implant dentist so they can help you decide which route is best for you!

The main—and really only—difference between All-on-4 and All-on-6 implants is how many implants are being used for the full arch prosthesis. Four is the absolute minimum. But sometimes your bite needs extra stabilization, so additional implants are needed. In this case, six.

Both All-on-4 and All-on-6 dental implants offer patients a way to get back to normal by replacing their missing teeth with minimal surgery and recovery time. Which one is right for you?

All-on-6 Dental Implants

The All-on-6 procedure is ideal for patients who are missing all of their teeth but might not have quite as strong or dense of bone as what we want for only four implants. To maximize your situation, two additional dental implants are added onto what would otherwise be “All-on-4” treatment, turning it into All-on-6.

Since this system uses six implants, it offers additional stability and biting strength for your smile rehabilitation. We can also adjust where each of them is placed, taking advantage of the strong, healthy bone you already have. But from the outside, your smile will look exactly the same as an All-on-4 treatment.

Both All-on-4 and All-on-6 are very strong options for people who have missing teeth. The main difference with adding two more implants is stability; which one is right for you really depends on your oral anatomy and bone health. Our DFW implant specialists will need to fully evaluate your entire mouth and jaws before recommending one or the other for your specific circumstances.

Which Type of Implant Treatment Should I Choose?

If you’re in search of dental implants for a missing tooth, it can be difficult to choose which treatment option is best for you. At first glance, it may seem like all dental implants are pretty much alike—and many people assume that all they really need is one implant to replace each individual tooth. But when you look closer, you’ll realize that there are different types of implant treatments available and each has its own unique features and benefits. In order to determine which type of implant system is best for your unique situation, keep in mind that a lot of it has to do with how many teeth are missing, how long they’ve been missing, and the type of prosthesis you want in the end.

Get A Dentist’s Recommendation

While it’s tempting to do your own research, your implant specialist is an expert on the topic. They will help you determine which type of implant system works best for you and recommend how many implants you need (only 4 or up to 6 in this case).

Working with a team of specialists who have 3D state-of-the-art technology on hand puts you at an advantage. Particularly when it comes to digitally scanning and mapping out your implant placement. With 3D imaging, we can virtually install your implants at various locations to determine the best one. So, if you’re trying to decide if you need 4 or 6 implants, this information can be extremely beneficial. It could mean the difference between “you don’t qualify for dental implants at all” and “let’s use two extra implants to make sure you have the stability that you need.”

Do Two More Implants Matter All That Much?

Going from All-on-4 to All-on-6 implants may not seem like a huge adjustment. But let’s put it into perspective. Say for instance that you have a three-legged stool that you’re sitting on. If you lean one way or the other, there’s a chance it could tilt over. Adding a fourth leg to your stool keeps you more stable when you’re moving around.

Even though four implants are completely fine for a full-arch hybrid device, sometimes we need extra stability for biting and chewing. Especially if we have fewer choices about where those implants can be installed in your jaw. If the installation sites aren’t ideal, adding two more helps stabilize the overall prosthesis so that it can handle normal biting and chewing pressure. That way you can enjoy all of the advantages of implants without regretting your investment.

Consider Your Budget

Do All-on-6 dental implants cost more than All-on-4 implants because of the two additional implants that are being used? It depends. Remember, your treatment fee includes things like sedation, surgical procedures, and your fixed prosthesis. The fee for two extra dental implants might be minimal or nothing at all, depending on the circumstances at hand. The only real way to get a firm idea of how much it will cost is to see your implant dentist and get an individual care plan breakdown. The fee is different for every individual because the process is phased out in various stages to fit the person. It’s not a gimmick to get you through the door and make you feel obligated to get treatment. It’s just that everyone’s circumstances are unique and require a personalized care approach.

DFW All-on-4 and All-on-6 Implants

ARCHPOINT offers both All-on-4 and All-on-6 dental implant treatments in Dallas and Ft. Worth. If you’re still considering your options, we encourage you to give us a call to request an exam. We’ll discuss all of the choices that fit your smile so that you can make a confident, educated choice about your oral health.

What are Zygomatic Dental Implants?

Posted on January 18, 2022 | by sharon.boyd

Even though dental implants are one of the best ways to restore missing teeth, not everyone qualifies for traditional implant treatment. Particularly if there is excessive bone loss. Fortunately, zygomatic dental implants can be used in extreme cases of bone loss when someone still wants to get implant treatment.

Instead of using the bone in your jaw, zygomatic designs allow for a modified treatment that uses your cheekbones (zygomatic arch), just above your missing teeth. These implants are longer than conventional versions and are placed at an angle instead of straight up and down. When fully integrated, zygomatic implants can be used to anchor full-arch restorations.

Switching from a traditional implant design to zygomatic options opens up a ton of possibilities for someone who had gone a long time with missing teeth or needs more specialized care.

A zygomatic dental implant is much longer than a traditional design, as it reaches up a bit further into your bone structure. At the gumlines, a small abutment is attached to extend through the gum tissues, which then support the fixed prosthesis on top of them.

Zygomatic vs. Traditional Dental Implants

Traditional dental implants closely match the shape and size of an anatomical tooth root. They’re also placed in the jawbone in a similar position to natural teeth. Zygomatic implants, on the other hand, are more extensive and require specialized care to install. These implants are not limited to your immediate jaw structure like natural tooth roots. The longer design will go through the jaw and up into the bony area that makes up your cheekbones. Zygomatic implants allow you to take advantage of the other bone structures in your mouth when jaw bone density isn’t strong enough for traditional implant treatment. This makes them very useful for individuals who might not be eligible for implants due to bone loss.

Unfortunately, not all implant dentists offer zygomatic implants. You’ll need to see an implant specialist to perform the oral surgery, which is usually completed under sedation, because of the extra training and technology they have on hand in their practice. If your dentist has told you that you don’t qualify for dental implants, be sure to ask them about zygomatic designs or call an implant specialist like the ones at ARCHPOINT to explore all of your options.

How Are Zygomatic Implants Placed?

Zygomatic dental implants are placed in a patient’s mouth during a brief, in-office surgical procedure. The dental surgeon will make an incision and use special tools to prepare your bone for the implant installation. Once the implant is installed, we may prescribe antibiotics and pain medication if necessary. Applying a cold compress on and off every 20 minutes can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Even though you’ll likely be sleeping during the implant surgery, we’ll still use local anesthetic to numb the immediate area around the installation site.

Why Choose Zygomatic Implants?

If you’re missing all of your teeth in your mouth or have worn dentures for an extended period of time, there’s a good chance that you’ve also experienced moderate to severe bone loss. While these circumstances would contraindicate traditional implants, having an option like zygomatic dental implant designs means you can still undergo full mouth rehabilitation for treatments like All-on-4 or full-arch implants.

Common Questions About Zygomatic Implants Answered

How do zygomatic dental implants work?

Zygomatic implants use the bone adjacent to your jaw when severe bone loss inhibits the placement of traditional implant designs.

Does it hurt to get zygomatic dental implants?

Getting zygomatic dental implants is just as comfortable of a process as other full arch implant treatments. Sedation options will help keep you as comfortable as possible.

Are zygomatic dental implants just for tooth replacement or can they be used to support dentures as well?

Typically, we only use zygomatic implants for All-on-4 full-arch restoration. Since they’re installed at an angle, we use their abutments to anchor hybrid prosthetics that span the entire width of your jaw.

How long does it take to get a zygomatic implant after losing a tooth?

If you’re having all of your teeth extracted, we can coordinate your dental implant installation at the same time or shortly thereafter.

Can I use zygomatic implants even if I have other teeth, crowns, or bridges?

Zygomatic implants are usually reserved for full-arch tooth replacement. If you have existing teeth or other fixed restorations, zygomatic implants probably aren’t necessary.

Is it Possible to Replace All of My Teeth with Zygomatic Dental Implants?

Yes. Zygomatic implants are stable and predictable enough to use for full-arch reconstruction. Our DFW implant specialists can put as few as four implants in place, and use them to anchor a prosthesis such as an “All-on-4” or “All-on-6” hybrid denture. All-on-4 is a streamlined, full arch design that replaces all your upper or lower teeth with only four implants to support it.

Keep in mind that zygomatic dental implants are installed inside of the zygoma bone. Since there is no zygoma bone in the lower jaw, zygomatic implants are only applicable to restoring your upper arch.

This expanded service is only available with a team of specialists like the implant experts at ARCHPOINT. Our facility features state-of-the-art technology and a complete team of dental specialists who provide a full range of implant services in the Dallas and Fort Worth areas. Since we specialize in implant therapy, we’re able to provide care beyond what’s usually accessible in a traditional family practice.

Where Can I Get Zygomatic Implants in DFW?

If you live in or around Dallas, Fort Worth, or the greater DFW area and want to know where you can get zygomatic dental implants, we encourage you to call ARCHPOINT. Our implant specialists will take all of your concerns into consideration and provide you with the relevant information you need about this state-of-the-art treatment.

If you’re interested in learning more about how zygomatic dental implants work, contact ARCHPOINT in Dallas or Ft. Worth today to request a no-obligation consultation. We look forward to helping you achieve a beautiful smile!

Financing and Affording Dental Implants

Posted on January 11, 2022 | by sharon.boyd

There are several significant purchases we make during our lifetimes. Our homes and cars are excellent examples. If you’re considering an investment like how to pay for dental implants, you’re probably wondering, “How am I going to pay for them?” In reality, most people don’t leave large amounts of money laying around to make big purchases like buying a car or completing a smile makeover.

After you’ve found the best dental implant provider and finally gotten a treatment plan outlining the total cost of your smile makeover, you’ll know exactly how much the process will cost and can start figuring out how to make everything happen financially.

How to Pay for Dental Implants: Is it Like Buying a Car?

Even though plenty of people compare getting dental implants to buying a car, the two are extremely different from one another. For one—even though buying a car is the second biggest expense most people have in their lifetimes—most of us usually only keep our cars for 5 or 6 years. There will be circumstances where people drive their cars into the ground, but at some point or another, they will need to be replaced. And our society has us conditioned to fall back into a 6 or 7-year financing plan and car payment just about every time our previous car is paid off.

But dental implants last forever. The investment in a smile will be with you for the rest of your life. And when you think about it, you rely on your teeth far more than you ever do a car. The majority of us drive our cars about 15,000 miles a year, which averages out to about 250 hours a year or just under 5 hours a week. But teeth are something that we rely on 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. We use them for chewing, speaking, and smiling. They impact everything from our health to our self-esteem.

All of that being said, affording dental implants can still be a challenge for a lot of people. Thankfully there are proven ways to pay for your smile makeover and unique financing options available. When you know where to turn, you can enjoy the benefits of healthier teeth without having to wait years to save up and make over your smile.

How Do I Afford to Pay for Dental Implants?

Once you’ve got a quote (treatment plan) for your individual dental implant needs, it’s time to determine the best way to pay for them. Most of us don’t have extra money just lying around collecting dust. Still, there are several practical options available that you can use to cover the cost of your dental implants, such as:

Pay for Dental Implants Up Front and Write it Off on Your Taxes

When you look at your annual tax return, locate your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) and multiply it by 7.5%. For someone with an income of $40,000 a year, that amount is $3,000. This number is the amount you can write off on your tax return for any health-related expenses such as medical bills or in this case, dental implants.

Using Credit Cards to Pay for Dental Implants

Like earning airline miles? Us too! We’ve had patients pay for their dental implants and then fly to Hawaii afterward, using some of the airline miles that they earned. You just want to make sure that you know the numbers ahead of time since credit card interest rates can sometimes be extremely high.

Financing Through Your Dentist, Bank, or 3^rd Party

Some dental implant financing plans are available with 0% interest, as long as you’re able to pay them off within a 6-12 months or less. That works great for some people, but not everybody. Other financing plans can give you lower interest rates for up to 90 months, which allows you to have smaller payments over time.

Health Savings Account (HSA)

A Health Savings Account allows you to set aside pre-tax money every year toward health expenses and medical bills.

Flex Spending Account (FSA)

Although not as great of an option as an HSA, Flex Spending Accounts (FSA) still allow you to use pre-tax dollars toward planned health expenses. The only downside is that you have to use it by the end of the year or it expires.

401k Loan to Pay for Dental Implants

A great way to borrow money with the lowest interest possible is to take out a loan against your 401k. You don’t owe money to anyone other than to yourself and you can pay it back as you’re ready. Usually, there’s only a small fee that you pay to the administrator of the account to process your loan.

Home Refinance or Equity Line of Credit

With rising home values in DFW, cash-out refinancing is an easy way to get a home equity loan or line of credit in a fairly short period of time. Using your home as collateral can get you a much lower interest rate on your loan and give you the upfront cash you need at the same time, whether it’s for dental implants or something else.

Other Ideas to Pay for Dental Implants

We’ve seen dental implant patients come up with some fairly unique ways to pay for their new smile. Some of them borrow money from family members because they don’t have the credit scores they need to get a loan through their bank. Others have gone through their homes to find things that they can sell, whether online or by holding a garage sale. We’ve even seen someone sell a sword from the battle of the Alamo to a collector to cover the cost of their dental implants!

Implants Offer an Amazing Return on Investment

Your dental implants improve your quality of life, appearance, confidence, and diet. They’re designed to last a lifetime, making them a one-time investment that’s worth every penny. To learn more about the dental implant process in Dallas/Ft. Worth or to request an individualized treatment plan, reserve a no-obligation consultation at ARCHPOINT today.

Dentures or Dental Implants – Which is Better?

Posted on January 6, 2022 | by sharon.boyd

Tooth loss can have multiple negative effects on our everyday lives. Losing a healthy set of teeth can result in changes in our appearance, behavior, and even how we eat. Fort Worth dentures or dental implants can help you restore your smile and feel like you again. But which one is best?

Dentures: Fast, Affordable Missing Tooth Treatment

Dentures are known for being a fast and affordable way to replace all your missing teeth at one time. You can choose from partial (specific teeth) or full (complete arch) dentures. Both are removable.

Unfortunately, there are some downsides that outweigh the “advantages” dentures have to offer. For example, a full denture exerts pressure on your soft tissues and bone, which can lead to changes in the shape of your mouth and facial profile. Partial dentures use small clasps that wrap around adjacent teeth to provide additional security, which can weaken them over time.

Both types of dentures can also make a huge impact on your speech, diet, and self-confidence.

With dental implants you have the choice to restore all of your missing teeth at once. Implants can be used to support numerous restorations, such as All-on-4, All-on-6, or a stabilized overdenture. And instead of needing a partial, a pair of implants can anchor a multi-tooth dental bridge.

When you compare dentures vs. implants, a dental implant cost tends to be the best long-term investment. Both financially and physically. Our Ft. Worth and Dallas implant dentists can help you weigh your options if you’re still unsure of the specifics related to your case.

Dental Implants Function Like Natural Teeth

Dental implants are the best option for permanent tooth replacement because of their function and longevity. Additionally, they’re non-invasive to any healthy teeth that you still have. That means nothing needs to be extracted in order to fit you with a denture.

Implants are designed to function like anatomical tooth roots, stabilizing fixed restorations such as crowns, bridges and permanent hybrid dentures. This means you won’t have to worry about an appliance shifting, rubbing, or causing slurred speech.

Some of the most notable advantages of implants are that they

Last for your entire life
Are permanent
Can be used with full-arch appliances (hybrid dentures, All-on-4, etc.)
Prevent unnecessary tooth extractions
Appropriate for single or multiple tooth replacement
Easy to care for
Facilitate better bone health
Stronger than removable dentures
More comfortable to talk and eat with

Combining the Two: Implant Secured Dentures

Overdentures can be a cost-effective alternative to traditional implant treatment if you want to avoid a traditional “plate.” An overdenture prosthesis attaches to 2-4 implants looks like an exact replica of a traditional denture. However, it doesn’t rely on suction to hold it in place. Instead, it snaps or clips onto corresponding dental implants. This design makes it a more affordable option for anyone who isn’t ready to invest in full arch rehabilitation but still doesn’t want to wear a regular denture.

With implant-stabilized dentures you’ll never need messy adhesives or pastes. The dentures snaps onto the implants and is locked in place for the day.

Using implants to support your overdenture will help you feel more at ease sharing meals with friends, laughing around others, and smiling in public.

Hybrid Ultimate Fit Implant Dentures

A “step up” from overdentures is a hybrid, ultimate fit prosthesis. Ultimate fit dentures combine the best of both hybrid denture designs and the stability of the implants beneath them. Instead of using a plate to cover the roof of your mouth, these full-arch implants are a U-shaped restoration that’s more comparable to an extended dental bridge.

Ultimate Fit denture options and treatments like All-on-4 or All-on-6 give you complete smile reconstruction using only as few as four or six dental implants per arch. That way you can replace all of your upper or lower teeth (usually 14 at a time) while maximizing the integrity and reliability of dental implants.

These full-mouth implant systems are more comfortable to wear because they take up less space and never rub the inside of your mouth. It’s essentially like having real teeth all over again, making them far superior to a conventional removable denture.

“Do I Qualify for Dental Implants?”

Over the past several years a lot of people have been told that they don’t qualify for dental implants. So instead, they settle for dentures. But even if you’re already wearing dentures or had a dentist tell you that implants aren’t a great choice doesn’t mean you don’t qualify for more modern types of implant therapy.

One of the things that makes ARCHPOINT implants different is that your entire case is completed by a team of specialists. There’s no back-and-forth between multiple offices. And as a specialized practice, we have access to state-of-the-art equipment that might not be available in a family dental office. Such as 3D imaging and scanning. These resources allow us to digitally map out your smile reconstruction and implant placement in advance. That way we can maximize the structure of your bone and expand the options you have to consider.

A Permanent Solution for Your Smile

One of the main reasons why DFW dental implants are far superior to dentures is because your investment goes with you for the rest of your life. You can simply wake up every morning and get on with your day. There are no bulky appliances to set out on your nightstand. And if you’re meeting friends for lunch, you won’t have to worry about cutting your food up into tiny little bites.

As long as you care for your dental implants the same way you would natural teeth—which includes brushing, flossing, and regular checkups—you can keep them healthy for decades.

DFW Implants Near Me

ARCHPOINT Implant Dentistry is Fort Worth’s top choice for overdentures and hybrid dental implant systems. Our DFW implant experts offer a wide range of implant services to meet the goals and expectations of our clients. Flexible payment options are available! Are you missing all of your teeth? Dentures are a thing of the past. Call our Dallas/Ft. Worth implant experts today to learn more.

How Dental Implants Impact Your Appearance

Posted on December 28, 2021 | by sharon.boyd

If you’ve ever thought about getting a smile makeover, chances are your mind turns to things like dental veneers, teeth whitening, gum recontouring, or porcelain crowns. But you probably don’t think about dental implants.

The truth is, even though dental implants are a restorative treatment, they also play unique roles in enhancing your appearance. They essentially serve both a therapeutic and cosmetic role as they rebuild your smile.

How can implants improve the way you look? Here are just a few examples:

Dental Implants Replace Missing Teeth

Any time you have a visibly missing tooth in your smile zone, it tends to detract from your appearance. Typically, most of us like to see a perfect set of healthy teeth from one side of your smile to the other. But even if a back tooth is missing, it can cause your front teeth to start to tilt or shift, leaving gaps between them or changing how your enamel wears down.

The primary role of dental implants is to replace missing teeth. Regardless of where they’re set in your smile, your implant will be custom-designed to look and feel like a natural tooth. When you smile, no one should know anything different. And if the implant is further back in your mouth, it will help you avoid gaps or tooth misalignment in the months and years ahead.

The “tooth” on top of your new dental implant will be matched to blend in with all of the teeth surrounding it.

Adding Fullness to Your Cheeks and Lips

Missing teeth create a void behind your lips and cheeks. When looking at your profile from the outside, those areas of your face may start to appear sunken-in or more sullen-looking than the skin around it.

By installing an implant in the space where your tooth is missing, you’re adding the support behind your soft tissues to bring fullness to your face. In turn, your profile will look healthier and more youthful. The symmetry is also naturally appealing, as our eyes tend to look for consistency across people’s faces from side to side. Asymmetrical areas of sunken-in lips or cheek tissue (because of missing teeth) can detract from your appearance, even if you’ve always felt attractive. Thankfully, dental implants can fix that!

Prevent Premature Aging and Bone Loss

Every time a tooth is extracted or falls out, the bone in that area of your jaw naturally starts to shrink away. We call this process “resorption.” As the bone resorbs, it causes your jaw to shorten and become thinner than it’s supposed to be.

Over time, all of these physical changes in your jaw bone will also change how your facial profile looks. From the outside, your face typically starts to look shorter and more sunken in than before. Even the skin in your cheeks will start to sag or develop creases in them because there’s no longer any reinforcement behind them.

Here’s the great news. Dental implants naturally help prevent bone resorption. In fact, they promote new bone integration in those areas, strengthening your jaw. When topped off with your fixed implant restoration, you’ll be able to enjoy a completely rejuvenated bite and facial appearance.

Dental Implants Boost Your Confidence and Attitude

When you look great, you feel great. And there’s nothing that makes an impression quite like an attractive, healthy smile. When you’re proud of your teeth, you’ll be all the more likely to smile around other people whether you know them or not. And numerous studies have shown when someone smiles often and has healthy-looking teeth, they tend to be seen as happier and friendlier. It’s exactly what you need when you’re interviewing for a new job, getting back into the dating scene, or just want to re-vamp your social life.

If you find that you’re not smiling in photos anymore or avoid social interactions because of your teeth, investing in DFW dental implants is one of the best gifts you can give yourself. Chances are you won’t realize just how confident you feel until you see your smile staring back at you in the mirror.

You’ll Never Need to Remove Your “Teeth”

Have you ever avoided an overnight trip with friends because of having to “take your teeth out at night” while you’re there? Is it embarrassing to remove your dentures before bedtime in front of your spouse? If so, you’re not the only one that feels that way. Having missing teeth can cause self-consciousness even if you’re with your closest family members and friends.

With dental implants, you get to enjoy the confidence and convenience of a permanently affixed set of teeth. Nothing is coming in and out, so you can go to bed without a set of dentures sitting on your nightstand. Traveling is easier and you’ll be able to focus on what’s really important: having a great time with your loved ones.

Not Just Your Appearance, But Your Lifestyle

Another way dental implants change how you look isn’t physical, but more related to the activities you tend to keep up with. Like dining out with friends, enjoying foods that have a firmer texture (like steak or corn on the cob), and how small you have to cut up your meals. When you’re free to eat whatever you want, suddenly your day-to-day schedule opens up for more dinner dates, lunch meetings, and other social activities.

And while we’re on the topic, even your speech patterns can benefit. Unlike larger removable dentures that are difficult to talk with, hybrid implant designs feel more natural and shaped to your mouth. When you speak on the phone or in a group of other people, you’ll be able to articulate words more clearly and won’t have to work as hard to form certain sounds.

ARCHPOINT Dental Implants

Dental implants can give you back the confidence you need and the healthy smile you deserve. At ARCHPOINT our implant specialists work with each individual patient to customize a smile plan that works for their specific mouth and lifestyle.

It’s time to put your best face forward. Discover which implant treatment is right for you. Contact ARCHPOINT Implant Dentistry in Dallas or Ft. Worth today to reserve a consultation.

A Brief History of Dental Implants

Posted on December 21, 2021 | by sharon.boyd

The modern dental implants that we use today have come a long way over the past few decades, centuries, and yes, even millenniums. What is now regarded as the standard for tooth replacement started out with experimentation, seemingly harebrained ideas, and some not-so-sterile practices dating back thousands of years.

For as long as people have been missing teeth, there has been a need and desire to replace them. When we don’t have a healthy dentition, we can’t eat. And proper nutrition is crucial to maintaining a typical lifespan. So, as you might guess, people started out replacing teeth with all sorts of different objects just to get by. Some of them were removable—like George Washington’s dentures, which, surprisingly, were actually made out of hippopotamus ivory and real teeth, not wood—while others were implanted down into the tooth socket and gums themselves.

Earliest Types of Dental Implants

Depending on who you ask, the earliest types of dental implant treatments date back anywhere from 300BC to 2000BC. Some of the best-known early dental implant designs come from the ancient Mayan and Egyptian civilizations, but discoveries have been made in other places such as Celtic graves.

Some of the different “styles” of implant/tooth replacement included examples like:

Seashells embedded into the jaw bone
Gems placed into the mouth where teeth were missing
An artificial tooth made out of iron and implanted into the jaw
Using other human or animal teeth (it was not uncommon to purchase teeth from lower socioeconomic classes, or for them to be stolen off cadavers by grave robbers)
Copper pegs hammered into the bone
Bamboo pegs placed into missing tooth sockets

As you might guess, none of these examples had the potential to last for the duration we see with today’s modern implant designs. There was typically a high risk for infection or all-out rejection by the body’s immune system. And if the implant did stay put like it was supposed to, it still wasn’t as durable or as functional as a natural tooth.

Some of these tooth replacements were installed when people were living and breathing, while others are thought to have been placed postmortem as part of the burial process.

The Discovery That Changed it All

It’s impossible to talk about dental implants without mentioning a researcher from the 1950s by the name of Dr. Per-Ingvar Brånemark. Dr. Brånemark studied bone healing and regeneration, and in this case, specifically, he found that titanium materials would permanently integrate within the femur bone of a rabbit. A little over a decade later, Dr. Brånemark used a titanium appliance to replace one of his patient’s teeth. The rest is history! Dr. Brånemark lived to see significant transformations in dental implantology living until the ripe old age of 85, passing away in 2014.

Today, titanium is the predominant material used in dental implantology; it’s also used throughout medicine for surgical procedures because of how highly successful and safe it is. Not only is titanium known for promoting bone integration, but it’s also hypoallergenic and more durable than tooth enamel.

Changes in Implant Shape Over Time

Even early dental implant treatments just a few decades or more ago were extremely invasive and complex. Only certain people ever went on to try them, because of the highly involved nature of the surgical process. Installation and recovery were lengthy, and the implant device itself wasn’t nearly as minimalist as today’s are. Oftentimes, they featured a large blade or mesh device that had to be placed on top of or inside of the jawbone, distributing wide amounts of pressure throughout the mandible.

Thankfully, it didn’t take very long for things to change. With a greater understanding of biocompatible materials, tooth anatomy, and bone integration, dental implants began taking on a more lifelike, anatomical tooth shape. Even the more complex full-arch cases transformed into minimalistic prosthetics that were more predictable and comfortable to install, offering a permanent solution for oral rehabilitation.

Today, dental implants are the next best thing to natural teeth. They take up the same amount of space, rest directly alongside other teeth in your mouth, and function identical to the rest of your smile.

Dental Implants Offer More Options Than Ever

In the past few decades alone, modern implants have evolved from an experimental, rarely-performed procedure that wasn’t covered by dental insurance into an everyday, predictable treatment for people with missing teeth.

From single tooth replacement to full-arch hybrid appliances like All-on-4, implants set the bar for oral function, aesthetics, and wellness. They’re more predictable than any other dental restoration (including fillings and crowns) and outlast every single one of them. All you have to do is take care of them like you would your natural smile.

Even if you’ve been told in the past that you don’t qualify for dental implants, that may not actually be the case anymore. Especially when you’re working with a team of specialists like the ones at ARCHPOINT. With advanced techniques, technology, and expert care, more patients qualify for dental implants than they ever have before.

Best of all, you don’t necessarily need an implant for every tooth that’s missing. We can pair them together for 3 or 4-unit dental bridges so that you don’t need to wear a partial denture. Or when you want to anchor a full-arch prosthesis, only 4-6 implants are required instead of 14! They truly offer the best return on investment of any traditional or modern tooth replacement alternative.

Dental Implant Treatment in Ft. Worth, Dallas

ARCHPOINT Implant Dentistry brings board-certified specialists and expert implant providers together into one location. There are no back-and-forth referrals necessary when you need to rebuild your smile. Everything—from tooth removal and sedation to implant installation and placement of your prosthesis—is completed under one roof. By developing relationships with our patients and valuing high-level communication, we can ensure a relaxing and predictable process for all of our clients.

To find out more about dental implants in DFW and learn if they’re right for you, contact ARCHPOINT today. Flexible payment options are available, so there’s no need to wait another moment. Call now!

Why Choose a Prosthodontist?

Posted on December 14, 2021 | by sharon.boyd

Are you planning to have your entire smile made over or completely reconstructed? When you need full mouth rejuvenation, prosthodontists are the architects of oral rehabilitation. Even if your general family dentist has 30-40 years of experience and additional training in oral implantology, they may never have the full understanding of reconstruction and occlusion to the same extent that a prosthodontist does.

What is a Prosthodontist?

Prosthodontists are different than general dentists when it comes to the extent of training they have for complex patient cases like full-mouth restoration. All general dentists have a basic foundation for reconstructive treatments. But prosthodontists complete additional, intensive clinical training to perfect their skill to a highly-tuned level of specialized care.

All prosthodontists were once general dentists, but they have an additional 2-3 years of formal education after dental school to specialize in prosthodontics.

When you’re planning something as complex as full mouth reconstruction, prosthodontists have an intense understanding of how occlusion—that is, the biting relationship between each of the teeth in the mouth—plays a crucial role. Even a detail as being half of a millimeter off can cause you to “miss the entire mile” of oral rehabilitation.

Does that mean it’s not worthwhile to see a general dentist? Not at all. General practitioners play a key role in providing routine reconstructive care and preventative services. But prosthodontists are specialized dentist who has additional levels of expertise in smile rehabilitation. You still want to see your family dentist for checkups, basic fillings, and other routine general treatments.

How Does a Dentist Become a Prosthodontist?

During the 2^nd or 3^rd year of dental school, all dental students are exposed to various specialties. Some develop a love for specific types of procedures and services. Prosthodontics is highly hands-on with extensive work in the lab, pushing the boundaries and performance of a person’s oral anatomy.

There are a couple of different pathways that dentists may take to become a prosthodontist. Some are certification based while others are a formal master’s program. Any dentist can choose to go through the prosthodontics residency, whereas those hoping to go into teaching may prefer a master’s after dental school. A typical master’s program will consist of four comprehensive full mouth rehabilitation cases where all lab work is completed from start to finish, additional research is conducted, clinical cases are presented to a board of prosthodontists who evaluate the dentist’s critical thinking, treatment planning, and deconstruction/reconstruction of the patient’s oral anatomy to achieve the desired end result.

To become board certified, prosthodontists have to pass rigid tests and complete specific numbers of surgical cases to present to their peers.

What Types of Treatments do Prosthodontists Offer?

Prosthodontists can wax up intensely detailed full mouth restorations, understanding the full capabilities of how the dental lab can work with their patients’ needs. Since no two patients are alike, prosthodontists are attuned to the limitation of each dental procedure and how they can aid in modifying the unique needs of each respective patient.

Ultimately, a prosthodontist is one of the best dental specialists to see when you’re aiming for the ultimate goal of a smile you’ve always wanted.

Prosthodontists perform a high number of All-on-4 cases consisting of dental implant therapy and fixed hybrid appliances. Anytime full arch or full mouth reconstruction is required—in addition to treatment in the aesthetic zone of someone’s smile—a prosthodontist plays a crucial role in understanding what’s in the best interest of the patient. Both in terms of function as well as cosmetics.

Are Prosthodontists Better Than Dentists?

There are certain types of treatments that prosthodontists are specialists at, which general dentists receive less in-depth training for. You might think of a prosthodontist as a “super dentist” when it comes to specializing in dental implants or complex reconstructive cases involving natural teeth. The bulk of their expertise is surgical in nature, with intense knowledge of the boundaries of the smile.

For example, prosthodontists know the limitations on existing conditions and how best to use them—or push them—to achieve ideal results in non-ideal conditions.

When you have a complicated smile case, prosthodontists have the level of training you can depend on. Their intense focus not the clinical aspect of your bite and tooth reconstruction allows them to both deconstruct as well as reconstruct your smile from a surgical point of view.

Some people look at prosthodontists as the quarterback of the dental team. They work closely with dentists and patients to understand the specific needs of the case, and then maximize communication between the patient and lab to achieve the optimal results the patients are looking for. The field requires a combination of skill, expertise, artistry, and accuracy. Not even the tiniest of details can be omitted. After all, no two patients’ smiles are alike; putting the same beautiful teeth on one individual could look and feel completely unnatural on someone else.

Choosing a Prosthodontist

Finding a prosthodontist is important when you need full mouth reconstruction. Not only do these experts understand the high level of deconstruction/reconstruction required for full arch rehabilitation, but they have an intense accuracy for knowing what’s best for each individual. No two smiles are alike. Your specialist will work with your unique oral foundation of gum and bone tissue, combined with your unique preferences, to give you exactly what you’re looking for.

Be sure to select a prosthodontist you can relate to and communicate with, as their level of attentiveness is vital to the results you hope to achieve. You can always ask your general dentist or cosmetic dentist for a referral to a prosthodontist, or you can check through online recommendations and ratings to find one that’s well known in your area.

Smile Experts at ARCHPOINT

ARCHPOINT features a team of board-certified dental specialists, including prosthodontists, to provide the absolute best smile reconstruction experience possible. If you’re considering dental implant treatment or a full arch restoration, contact our DFW smile experts to request a consultation.

How Long do Dental Implants Last?

Posted on December 7, 2021 | by sharon.boyd

Dental implants are one of the most effective, long-lasting ways to replace missing or damaged teeth. But how long dental implants last is one reason why they’re so popular. The average lifespan of an implant can vary, depending on several factors like your overall health, oral hygiene habits, and what type of implant you choose (traditional or mini). Understanding the specifics of how long dental implants last can help you to make an informed decision about your long term oral health and well-being in the decades ahead.

Average Lifespan of Dental Implants

With proper care and maintenance on your part—and by choosing a great, experienced implant provider—your dental implants can last a lifetime. There’s no limit to how long dental implants can last. If properly cared for, there’s almost no reason why an implant shouldn’t continue to be useful decades from now. The key is to make sure you’re doing everything you need to keep the gums and bone around them healthy, to hold them into place.

Of course, modern dental implants haven’t been around for more than a couple of decades. So, to say they can last another 80 or 90 years is, truthfully, a bit hypothetical. But we can tell by the way they integrate with a person’s body and the nature of hypoallergenic materials used for other purposes–such as joint replacements–that your dental implants can, by nature, last the rest of your life.

Since physicians and surgeons use some of the same materials dental implants are used for, we know they can integrate for a person’s entire lifespan. They’re some of the safest and most durable items to help repair bones and reinforce natural human anatomy. That’s one reason why we say that dental implants are stronger than natural teeth; they can withstand tons of pressure that would otherwise break a single tooth.

How Long Dental Implants Last vs. Other Treatments

While all tooth replacements (dentures, bridges, etc.) have limited lifespans, implants can easily outlast them—provided you keep up with regular dental visits and care. But is it worth it when there may be seemingly more affordable alternatives, such as bridges, partials, or dentures?

Although any restoration can last several years, you’ll typically see a replacement rate somewhere in the vicinity of 5-10 years for things like dentures or a dental bridge. The better you care for them (and your mouth) the longer they can potentially last you. But they aren’t permanent.

Bridges, for example, rely on healthy teeth to support them. If one of those teeth gets a cavity or develops gum disease around it, the entire bridge will fail and need to be replaced. And every time you re-prep the teeth for a new bridge, it weakens them further. You might make it through two bridges, but there might not be a very good chance that you’ll be able to get a third.

Dentures can wear out too. Neither option comes close to competing with the long-term success of dental implants.

What is the Success Rate for Dental Implants?

Dental implants have the highest success rate of any tooth replacement treatment. With good home care, they are at or just above about a 98% success rate. And yes, that’s higher than everyday dental procedures like fillings, crowns, or even root canal treatment. The failure rate is extremely low, especially when you work with a specialist like one of our DFW dental implant providers or similar board-certified professional.

The key to getting the most out of how long implants last is to take good care of them: Brush and floss regularly, visit your dentist for checkups on a regular basis, and don’t eat anything too hard or sticky. And don’t use your new teeth as tools! The bottom line is, when you take good care of your dental implants, they can last for many years—even decades—or a lifetime!

Life of Dentures Compared to Implants

New materials and better designs are making removable prosthetics like dentures and partials more durable than ever before. But they still didn’t compare to dental implants. A typical denture might last 10 years if you’re lucky. However, it’s extremely likely that the materials will wear out before then and the shape of your mouth will change making the denture uncomfortable to wear.

You see, anytime you lose teeth and wear a denture, the gum and bone tissue underneath your prosthesis slowly resorbs or shrinks back. This shortens your bone ridge and causes your denture to feel loose or rub sores on your gums.

On the other hand, dental implants actually promote healthy bone tissue, preserving the shape of your jaws and facial profile. With all of that healthy bone around them, there’s a lower risk of your restorations needing to be replaced anytime soon.

To put it bluntly, you might go through five dentures or more compared to one set of dental implants. If you’re relining or replacing your dentures every five years, it would probably be more than that!

Long-Term Dental Implant Maintenance

How can you make sure you’re doing everything possible to keep your dental implants for life? By following these tips you can extend how long dental implants last.

Keep your gums healthy:

Infected gums that are swollen or bleed can develop gum disease—or in this case, peri-implantitis—causing your dental implants to fail because of lack of physical support.

Use a water flosser every day:

Water flossers reach underneath your implant restorations and down under the gumlines, especially in hard-to-floss spaces.

Clean your implants and other teeth with an electric toothbrush:

Electric toothbrushes tend to be more efficient when it comes to removing plaque and preventing tartar buildup, which can lead to peri-implantitis.

Schedule regular checkups:

Just like your natural teeth, dental implants need to be professionally cleaned and examined at least twice a year.

Yes, Dental Implants Can Last a Lifetime

Contact ARCHPOINT today to learn more about our state-of-the-art dental implant restorations and find out how they can change your lifestyle for the better. Reserve your consultation now.

What is Full Mouth Reconstruction?

Posted on November 22, 2021 | by sharon.boyd

One of the common acronyms we use in dental implant dentistry is “FMR”. Depending on who you ask, FMR can stand for “Full Mouth Reconstruction”, “Full Mouth Restoration”, or “Full Mouth Rehabilitation”. No matter which one you prefer, they all share the same goal: repairing damage to your teeth and helping you enjoy a healthy smile again.

Most FMR patients struggle with conditions like multiple missing teeth, gum disease, or teeth that need to be removed because of extensive decay. At ARCHPOINT we think of Full Mouth Rehabilitation as a way to completely transform the way your mouth looks and functions, giving you a completely blank slate to work with and enjoy.

Getting Your Mouth Healthy Again

The first step to any FMR case is stabilizing active disease. If you have teeth that are extremely damaged because of periodontal infections and decay, we’ll want to see what we can do to stop the cycle. Maybe you want to try to save some of your teeth or take them out and start from scratch. We’ll want to identify the source of infections so that you know how to stop it from spreading to adjacent teeth.

Addressing Teeth That Need Attention

Even though dental implants are an amazing solution for replacing missing teeth, we want to help you retain healthy, natural teeth whenever possible. Perhaps you have a moderate cavity that could easily be repaired with a filling, as opposed to removing it and placing an implant. Or if you have a tooth that’s fractured, a dental crown could be all you need. We’ll let you know what we see during your exam so that you can understand what type of “game plan” you’ll want to keep in mind.

Replacing the Teeth That are Missing or Need to be Removed

Most full mouth rejuvenation cases involve replacing a large number of missing teeth and removing teeth that are otherwise non-restorable. As in, there’s no other options to repair or retain them. Performing root canals, crowns, or bridges would still be fairly iffy, considering the structural status of those teeth. In that case, we recommend therapeutic extractions and then replacing those teeth with dental implants.

Finding a Restoration Plan that Works for You

The beauty of rehabilitating your smile with dental implants is that it allows you to have ultimate control of what your new smile looks and feels like.

Work with Your Own Budget.

One great thing about full mouth restoration with dental implants is that you get the best return on investment. Implants outlast and outperform every other type of dental restoration out there, so they’re the best option when you want to use your financial investments wisely.

Every smile plan incorporates your dental insurance coverage, if applicable. Our treatment coordinators will help to break down your benefit schedule so that you have an estimate of what’s covered and how much is included in your plan. You always know what you’re committing to. Any balance that isn’t covered by insurance can easily be financed through one of our affordable payment plan options. Easily start on your smile transformation as soon as you’re ready.

Establish a Timeline That Works for You.

Not ready to rush into things? No problem. We can work at your pace. Your customized care plan will map out the stages of treatment required to help you achieve the smile you’re looking for. A healthy, strong smile isn’t something that happens overnight. But if you do need fast or even temporary options, we can make those work too! Some people prefer a same-day solution to get them by, while they plan for a durable and permanent prosthesis in the future. ARCHPOINT will explain the time commitment for various implant therapies so that you can plan accordingly and never have to go around with missing teeth.

Choose the Treatment Most Appealing to You.

There’s no “one” perfect smile plan for everyone. The beauty of using dental implants for your full mouth reconstruction is that you can pick and choose the right types or restorations for your lifestyle. For instance, you may prefer something as simple as a stabilized overdenture that snaps in and out of place. Or maybe you want All-on-4 permanent dental implants to replace your entire upper arch of teeth. And if you have a few teeth that are still perfectly healthy, you can use single dental implants or pairs of implants between them, to support matching crowns and bridges. At ARCHPOINT we review all of the applicable options with you, so that you can play a key role in your smile’s reconstructive process.

Financing Your Treatment

ARCHPOINT dental implant centers work closely with our patients’ insurance carriers to help them maximize their existing coverage on all smile rejuvenation treatments. If you prefer to make affordable monthly installments on your FMR case, easily take advantage of one of our 0% or low-interest financing options. Apply for immediate coverage on any procedure.

Choosing the Best Implant Dentist

A lot of dentists can help you plan your dental implant treatment and even deliver the restoration that goes on top of them. But they frequently refer you out of the office to a specialist to have your actual implants installed. Or they have to arrange for another provider to come into their practice on certain days each month to perform the procedure in their office. All of the extra people involved can create some restraints and barriers. Especially if you really want to have a relationship with your provider or need to make sure your insurance plan can be applied to treatment.

At ARCHPOINT, we walk you through the complete full mouth reconstruction process step by step. Each stage of your dental implant therapy is completed right here in our office, so there’s no confusion about who to see next, how much it’s going to cost, or the number of appointments involved. Everything is clearly defined with the same team from day one, so if you have any questions, we’ll be more than happy to help!

Contact ARCHPOINT Implant Dentistry in Dallas or Ft. Worth today to reserve a no-obligation appointment with our team of implant specialists.