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Advanced cosmetic and general dentistry

Archives for May 2018

When I get dental implants, should I request an immediate denture?

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I’m going to have my remaining teeth extracted and get 6 dental implants put in. I need dentures and I am finding that there are more types of dentures than I knew about. It’s good in a way because I am hoping for something that will look half way like natural teeth and that won’t leave me walking around toothless. It is also a little scary because I want to be sure that I make the right choice for dentures. Can you give me information on an immediate denture? What is involved? Should I ask for an immediate denture for my implants? – Robin

Robin – An immediate denture is received on the same day that your natural teeth are extracted, or on the same day you receive dental implants. In advance of the extraction, the denture is made. The denture is crafted based on an impression of your mouth. It will be secured to your dental implants as a form of temporary tooth replacement.

What to Expect with Dental Implants and Immediate Dentures

Diagram of a dental implant bar placed in the bone with a denture hovering over it and ready to be secured to the implants.

Bar-retained implant overdentures

The advantages of an immediate denture are that it will look natural because it is based on impressions of your natural teeth. Of course, you can request a different look for your final prosthesis. Also, the dentures are placed immediately, so you don’t have to go without teeth for any period. Whether it’s a temporary denture or your permanent prosthesis, it will be immediately loaded on your dental implants.

If your immediate denture will be your permanent denture, it will cost more than conventional dentures because it will need to be adjusted as your jawbone shrinks after your teeth are extracted. The denture will need to be refit and relined. It is possible that you will need a new denture altogether. It is wise to receive dental implants because they slow the progression of jawbone shrinkage.

If you need a complete set of dentures, your molar teeth may be extracted before the dentures are made. This will give the extraction site time to heal, and it will help the denture fit better. Sometimes, implant overdentures are recommended, because they can be placed over your remaining natural teeth.

We recommend that you visit a dentist who is experienced in restoring dental implants with dentures and in cosmetic dentistry. The teeth of cosmetic dentures will look natural, and a cosmetic dentist will customize the dentures to match your preferences and facial features. He or she will also thoroughly explain your options for dentures, as well as which options will be most compatible with your needs.

This post is sponsored by Dr. Michael Szarek, a Lowell, MA accredited cosmetic dentist.

Can my porcelain veneers be reshaped and darkened?

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In February, I went to a large dental practice for porcelain veneers because I saw commercials that said they specialize in veneers and that I could get the best results possible. I went in for a consultation and even got a computerized before and after picture taken. The veneers were more affordable than I expected, but they also look horrible. The dentist there assured me that I would get a completely natural look, but the teeth really look generic. They look like off the shelf veneers that really don’t belong in my mouth. The teeth are also too straight and too white. If you could have seen how happy the dentist was about the look of my smile, you would probably laugh. He even asked me if I was willing to do a photo for the company with the chances of it being published in one of their brochures or commercials. I refused so quickly. I feel like my smile has no personality and that it is detracting from my looks. Is there any way a cosmetic dentist can correct my veneers or will I have to start all over? – Lizi

Photo of dental forceps holding a single porcelain veneers, from the office of accredited cosmetic dentist Dr. Szarek of Lowell, MA.

Porcelain veneer

Lizi – Your experience is unfortunate but common. Although mega dental practices can quickly provide you with porcelain veneers, the results might not reflect your personality. A cosmetic dentist will provide you with a smile makeover that compliments your facial features, personality, and preferences.

Can Your Porcelain Veneers Be Corrected?

  • After porcelain veneers are made and bonded to your teeth, no changes can be made to them. The shape and color are permanent.
  • Attempts to change your porcelain veneers would likely ruin them.
  • Your veneers will need to be replaced with new ones.

You can request a consultation with an experienced cosmetic dentist. If you have pictures of your smile before you received porcelain veneers, it will help the dentist design a complimentary smile for you. Check the credentials of several dentists and request consultations. Be prepared to take notes and compare your options.

The good news is that you can receive a natural-looking smile that you’re completely comfortable with. A well-balanced smile can improve your social life and your quality of life.

This post is sponsored by Lowell accredited cosmetic dentist Dr. Michael Szarek.

 

Are you interested in advances in cosmetic dentistry? Learn how San Diego cosmetic dentist Dr. Doan uses Bioclear as an alternative to porcelain veneers for enhancing smiles.