One of the most common alternative to dentures is dental implants. Dr Mark Cull, our most experienced implant dentist, sees many patients each month that are completely and utterly "over" their dentures.
These are some of the things our dental patients say:
"I hate my dentures".
"I'm worried my dentures will fall out when I sneeze".
"I hate smiling because I hate my denture teeth".
"I can't speak properly with my old denture".
"My denture is loose and gets food underneath it all the time".
"I don't want to go out because I am embarrassed".
The good news is that you definitely have options and alternatives to wearing dentures.
Dental implants are quite common these days. In fact, Dr Mark Cull places on average one implant a week. He is very skilled and knowledgeable in this type of dentistry. He has 41 years in dentistry, and over 16 years experience placing implants. He was at the forefront of this type of technology, and embraced this type of tooth replacement.
I have missing teeth, what should I do?
So, you have missing teeth and you have come to a point in your life where you need to find a better alternative.
Dentures can make a young person feel old, self conscious and effect your social life.
For some people, speaking and eating can be difficult . Some people feel embarrassed when they have dentures that don't fit properly or aren't well made.
We will also point out that a lot of people are completely happy wearing dentures, in fact, we know some patients who have had dentures for most of their life and they are completely comfortable with this type of tooth replacement.
We never encourage anyone to do something that they don't want - If you are happy with dentures, we are more than happy to support this type of teeth replacement.
So, we like to make sure that our dental patients know what all the alternatives are, there is no "one size fits all" solution here. We listen to your needs, concerns and worries and try to find a solution that you will love.
Dr Mark Cull has 16 years experience placing dental implants and helped 100s of people throw their dentures in the bin!
Here are some common denture and implant questions we get asked:
1. How do you replace missing teeth without dentures?
We can provide several different alternatives to dentures, your options depend on your overall health, dental health, financial situation and personal preferences. So what are some examples of options - Implants, Bridge, Same Day Cerec Crowns, Crown and All on 4 Denture Implants to name a few.
2. Is there a cheaper alternative to dental implants?
Yes and no. Yes you can replace teeth for less money initially with a crown or bridge, but lifetime value can vary. One of the main reasons we love placing implants is because of the lifetime value that they provide. You might find that the initial costs might be more, but over say a 10 year period, implants are a low maintenance and highly durable option.
3. Can you get false teeth that don't come out?
Yes. The most common options are Crowns, Fixed Bridges, All on 4 Denture Implants and Implants.
4. What if I can't afford dental implants?
Everyone has a different financial story and situation. In Gympie, in our local rural farming community we live in, we are aware of good seasons and bad. We offer fair prices that are affordable by most people in our area. We also realise that life happens and people can find themselves in financial situations that make dental options difficult. We are proud to work with Humm.
Humm allows you to get the dental treatment you need and pay for it over time in fortnightly instalments with no interest ever! Your payments will be made in instalments meaning it won't hit your bank balance straight away. Interest Free* finance gives you and your family flexibility and peace of mind. Read More Here.
5. Am I suitable for dental implants?
There may be some limitations for the following patients:
• Patients with medical preconditions like uncontrolled diabetes; clotting disorders, osteoporosis;
• Patients on Bisphosphonates;
• Pregnant women; or
• Smokers
We make sure to check the suitability of patients who are interested in implant procedures. We take into consideration all types of people and health issues. We deal with patients who have experienced bone loss and who might require bone grafts prior to implant surgery. We also deal with patients with diabetes and work with people with chronic illnesses.
We work very hard to provide services to everyone. It's important to share your complete medical and health history so that we can gain a full picture. We have developed our own Health Protocol that starts three weeks prior to any implant surgery. We want you well, fit, healthy and happy! If you have health concerns, Dr Mark will be as helpful as he can be and honest and up front. At Channon Lawrence Dental we try to do our absolute best for everyone.
6. I have lost a tooth, (or several teeth) should I do nothing and just leave it?
No.
Please don't ignore your dental health, this will often and very likely lead to more serious problems down the track. For example bone loss and other teeth might move and cause issues.
Talk to us. We will always do our best to help you as best we can.
In summary
Yes, you have alternatives to dentures. If you are totally over yours and need to do something about it, then we would love to help you!
We communicate really clearly with our patients and understand that everyone is unique and they always have options. We are there for our patients, it is our job to help you make the best dental decisions that feels right for you.
Talk to Dr Mark Cull about implants or book with any of our Gympie dentists here at Channon Lawrence Dental - 07 5482 7688.