missing teeth Archives - Coleman Dental

Is there a designation required to place dental implants?

August 27, 2021 by Brian Sartin

My teeth are in bad shape and it sounds like I am going to need dental implants to restore my smile. I know it is best to replace missing teeth with dental implants and I have done a lot of research. The timing if finally here for me to consider moving forward. Do I need to be looking for an implant specialist or a certain designation in order to find the best dental implant dentist?

– Rod in Arizona

Rod,

You are correct that dental implants are the best solution to replace missing teeth. They are natural-looking, they function just like your normal teeth, and they also prevent facial collapse. It is also great to hear that you are doing your homework and asking the right questions as you consider making this investment.

It can be confusing when you start investigating dentists. What you may not realize is that implant dentistry is not a recognized specialty area within dentistry. That means that any dentist can make the claim to place dental implants with little advanced training on the subject. So how do you know you have found the best implant dentist in your area? Well, you need to find an implant dentist that has pursued extensive coursework and continuing education in implant dentistry. They will be able to have a thorough portfolio and patient testimonials available. A well-known and reputable organization is the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID). This group is an excellent resource to help you located a reputable dentist in your geographic area. Yet, just because a dentist is on the AAID site, doesn’t guarantee their work. So don’t skip the step of personally interviewing and investigating a dentist’s experience and credentials. Yet AAID dentist’s are members because they are typically passionate and have undergone additional training in the area. Another prestigious implant affiliation is the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI).

Hopefully this information is beneficial as you continue your research.

Why Is My Insurance Company Calling Dental Implants a Cosmetic Procedure?

August 21, 2021 by Brian Sartin

I was in an ATV accident and lost both of my front teeth as a result. My dentist recommends dental implants and I’m all for it, but they said insurance isn’t going to cover much. Supposedly it’s cosmetic? I’m confused. Isn’t having teeth necessary? How on earth can they consider replacing them to be a cosmetic dentistry procedure? Is there a way to get insurance to pay more for dental implants?

-Randolph in Minnesota

Dear Randolph,

Yes, having teeth is necessary, especially if you like eating. It’s also important to get going on replacing them fast, because your remaining teeth will start to slide into the empty space they left behind. The problem is that most insurance companies recognize the need to replace them, but not to restore your smile with the best possible solution. Because there are less expensive methods that are, in their opinion, good enough, the better method is considered “cosmetic.” What they’ll generally do is cover the cost of a less expensive procedure, like a dental bridge, and have you pay the difference. Or they’ll pay for a just a portion of the dental implant, such as the crown that sits on top.

With that said, it doesn’t sound like your office requested a preauthorization or a predetermination of benefits from your insurance company. With larger procedures like this, it’s not a bad idea to have the office send off all the details to the insurance company and get them to officially state what they will and won’t pay for with your procedure. Depending on how your policy is written, you may have benefits that other plans don’t, or they may pay more for your treatment if they receive a letter from your dentist saying why the more expensive procedure is necessary. So, although dental implants are not really a cosmetic dentistry procedure, some insurance companies may process them as such because it means they’ll pay less.

Snapped Two Teeth Off Near Gumline- Dental Implants Only Option?

August 15, 2021 by Brian Sartin

I’ve been holding off on going to the dentist because I’m afraid dental implants are my only option and I already know I can’t handle all that treatment. About a month ago, I was playing softball and I took a spill. I broke two lower teeth, sort of near the front, but the teeth broke off almost all the way at my gums. I have no idea how it doesn’t hurt, but I really don’t feel anything unless I eat something I shouldn’t on that side. I’m tempted to just leave well enough alone, since I’m not up for lengthy appointments that I’d need to endure for dental implants and it doesn’t hurt, but I just thought I’d check in and see what other options are available.

Thanks in advance for the help,

Ron in Arizona

Dear Ron,

There is a myriad of options in your case, and it’s probably not a good idea to wait too long. It’s surprising that you’re not in pain, but even if the nerves were dead before your accident, you’re still at a very high risk of developing an infection. If there isn’t enough tooth left to place porcelain crowns on the teeth, the root and remaining tooth structure should be removed very soon.

As far as replacement options go, you could probably have a dental bridge done there. Though they usually only replace a single tooth, they can replace two adjacent ones as well. You could also consider a partial denture.

You didn’t really get into why dental implants put you off. They’re generally the best choice because they help slow the bone loss that naturally occurs when you’re missing a tooth, plus they are strong and durable. The amount of time spent in the chair per visit is on par with the amount of time you might spend for a crown, though the process, itself, is lengthier. If anxiety is stopping you from getting dental implants, you may want to look for an office that does sedation dentistry as well, so you can be sure you’ll stay comfortable and relaxed throughout the procedure.

Your best bet right now is to get in for an exam, though, before those teeth have a chance to flare up. You can talk to the dentist about which options are right for you while you’re in. It’s possible, though not likely based on your description, that you can still have crowns done. If you still won’t consider dental implants, a bridge or partial denture are your next best options.