Using Dental Implants as Replacement Tooth Roots

Your natural teeth have two important parts to their structure. The crown is the top of the tooth, visible in your smile above the gum line. The root is the bottom portion, below your gums and embedded into your jawbone. These tooth roots provide vital stimulation to the jawbone when you bite or chew, keeping your jaw healthy and full.

When you lose your teeth, you lose this stimulation as well, resulting in bone resorption! Over time, your jawbone will lose mass and volume, leading to various undesirable consequences. Not only will your facial structure change, but as your jawbone shrinks, it actually becomes more difficult to replace your missing teeth! Traditional lower dentures rely on your jawbone for stability. As your bone shrinks and your denture stays the same, the prosthetic will become loose in your mouth.

Unfortunately, no amount of relines can prevent ill-fitting dentures, as your jawbone will continue to shrink over time. Traditional dentures only replace the crowns of your teeth, not the roots, leaving your jawbone unstimulated. However, dental implants provide a solution! These implants replace both the crown and the root of your missing teeth, restoring your smile while keeping your jawbone healthy.

Dental Implants Secure Your Lower Denture

Dental implants are titanium posts that Dr. Aristodemo places in your jawbone to secure restorations, such as your lower denture. With these reliable screws in place, you can be confident that your smile will stay put while you eat.

Conventional dental implants are around 5 mm in width and consist of many parts. Due to their various components, the process for these implants involves multiple appointments. To place traditional implants, Dr. Aristodemo will make an incision in your gums and drill a hole in your bone using a series of increasingly large drills. Once she places the implant body, she will stitch the gums back up to facilitate healing.

Over 3 to 6 months, your implant will bond with your bone, and Dr. Aristodemo will then place the abutment. This piece allows your lower denture restoration to attach to the implant, providing an incredibly secure smile!

Unfortunately, the sheer size of these implants makes many patients like you ineligible for the procedure if you’ve suffered bone resorption. Traditional dental implants require ample jawbone structure, and although dental implants prevent bone resorption, people without enough bone are ineligible for the procedure. Using an additional procedure called a bone graft, we can restore some of that lost bone structure. However, bone grafts add to the price and length of your procedure.

Fortunately, Dr. Aristodemo provides another solution!

The Difference a Mini Dental Implant Makes

Mini dental implants are less than 3 mm in width and have a single-piece design. Because they are so sleek, these implants offer many benefits and require much less bone than traditional implants. Often, patients who are ineligible for traditional implants are still eligible for mini implants, even without a bone graft!

Their smaller size also allows Dr. Aristodemo to use a minimally invasive procedure. With no incisions necessary, she simply creates a small pilot hole in your gum and jawbone tissue and gently secures the implant in place. Additionally, mini implants are one piece, which means she can place the entire implant in one appointment. After placement, mini implants are remarkably stable, allowing Dr. Aristodemo to secure a temporary restoration on your implants immediately.

Due to their minimally invasive nature, mini implants heal much faster. Rather than waiting the full 3-6 months, you can often have your final implant-supported denture on your implants in just a few weeks!

Happy Smiles Family Dentistry has a wide range of implant-supported denture options with unique designs and uses, all of which allow you to eat the foods you love. At your free consultation, Dr. Aristodemo will perform a thorough dental exam and take an X-ray of your smile to determine which implant and restoration is the right choice for your smile!

We Stabilize Your Lower Denture With Mini Implants!

Don’t let loose dentures hold you back from eating the foods you love. With dental implants, you can secure your lower denture and keep your smile in place! Dr. Aristodemo provides both traditional dental implants and mini dental implants, depending on your needs. She will help you throughout your entire journey to a secure smile.

Book a free implant consultation today to determine your eligibility for dental implant restorations.

Follow Happy Smiles Family Dentistry on Instagram and Facebook for more dental implant-related information!

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Understanding Mini Dental Implants

Dental implants are titanium posts we secure in your jawbone to restore your smile. By acting as artificial tooth roots, these implants help keep your jawbone healthy while supporting restorations like dental crowns, bridges, or dentures.

At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, we offer two types of dental implants.

Traditional dental implants are the larger of the two and have many components. These implants need a sufficient amount of jawbone for placement, which, unfortunately, many patients don’t have. To remedy this, we offer additional procedures like bone grafts that replace lost bone material, which adds to the cost.

Mini dental implants are smaller in diameter and consist of only one piece. Their narrow diameter allows us to place mini implants in patients with minimal jawbone structure in just one appointment! Using a minimally invasive procedure, we secure your implant in place, where it’s instantly stable enough to support a temporary restoration.

Additionally, due to their single-piece design, one-appointment placement, and lack of bone graft, mini implants are around half the cost of traditional implants! A lower cost and many additional benefits make mini implants a reliable tooth replacement option for most patients. However, these implants are still made from high-quality titanium, which is expensive.

Fortunately, we’re here to break down that cost and help you understand what your treatment is worth.

Breaking Down the Cost of Mini Implants

The number one determining factor in the cost of mini implants is how many implants you require. While mini implants are one-piece rather than two (already reducing the price), the more implants you use, the more expensive your procedure will be!

For example, if you need to replace one missing tooth, we can easily accomplish that with one mini implant. However, if you need to replace all of your teeth for a denture restoration, we will use as many as 12 implants, depending on the implant denture you’re looking for!

Another cost factor to consider is if your insurance covers dental implants. Most insurance companies consider dental implants cosmetic, meaning they won’t cover the procedure. However, you won’t know what your insurance will cover until you check with your provider! Some companies understand the restorative properties that implants provide and will cover at least part of the procedure. In some cases, you may even have coverage on the restoration, if not the actual implant.

For those without insurance—or whose insurance companies won’t cover their procedure—we provide flexible financing options! We partner with various third-party financing companies that help break your costs into manageable monthly payments, allowing you to afford treatments on your budget!

Additionally, we offer the Happy Smiles Family Dentistry Discount Plan. This exclusive membership is for clients without insurance who need assistance paying for procedures. With no waiting periods, annual maximums, or deductibles, you get discounted rates on all dental services—including dental implants!

To learn more about our discount plan or any of our financing partners, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Next Step: Schedule a Free Consultation Today!

The first step to replacing your teeth with dental implants is understanding your options and determining which is best for your smile. However, the next step is to schedule a free implant consultation with us at Happy Smiles Family Dentistry! We will help formulate a custom treatment plan and provide estimations of your potential costs.

If you are interested in mini dental implants, please book your free consultation with us today to get started!

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to learn more about how replacing your teeth with implants is beneficial for your smile. 

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What Services Can a Dentist in Schaumburg, IL Offer You?

At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, Dr. Aristodemo offers various services ranging from the field of cosmetic dentistry to general dentistry to implantology! These procedures include:

• Orthodontic treatment: Dr. Aristodemo offers various ways to improve your smile, including traditional metal braces and Invisalign. At your free consultation, she will discuss your goals and which alignment method is best suited for your treatment.
• Emergency dentistry: You can never truly prepare for every emergency, but Dr. Aristodemo is always ready to handle dental emergencies. With treatments like root canals, gum disease treatments, and tooth extractions, she will work with you to provide pain relief and healthy smiles.
• Laser dentistry: Gum disease is a common oral health issue in America. However, its commonality doesn’t diminish its potentially serious effects! Dr. Aristodemo provides innovative laser treatment to help restore oral health and prevent the spread of gum disease.
• Dental veneers: When it comes to cosmetic dentistry, nothing improves the appearance of your smile like dental veneers. Dr. Aristodemo uses veneers to customize your teeth down to the very last detail, ensuring you can smile confidently.
• Dental implants: It’s incredibly important to replace missing teeth as soon as possible. Tooth loss doesn’t just affect your ability to eat and the aesthetics of your smile. It also has unfortunate consequences on your jaw, making replacing your teeth down the line more difficult. Dr. Aristodemo offers both traditional and mini dental implants to keep your smile healthy and beautiful.

The Importance of Innovative Technology

Dr. Aristodemo values her connection to patients like you above all else. Your comfort and care are the top priority, as demonstrated through her patient-centered techniques and care.

Happy Smiles Family Dentistry believes that innovative technology is integral to effective care. Fortunately, Dr. Aristodemo continues expanding her knowledge and tools to provide the best care possible.

A CBCT is an X-ray machine that takes 3D electronic images of your mouth, allowing her to view every detail. With this technology, Dr. Aristodemo is able to better detect any developing issues like gum disease or decay. Additionally, she utilizes a CBCT scan to assess the quality of your bone for dental implants. With the ability to manipulate the image and see your smile up close, she can better determine which implants to use and where to place them for maximum efficiency!

Dr. Aristodemo also uses laser dentistry, a new and exciting field of dentistry that has many potential benefits. With her expertise in laser procedures, she is able to use a concentrated light beam to perform oral surgery, remove cavities, and treat gum disease! By using a laser, rather than traditional tools, there is often less bleeding, less pain, and much faster healing. However, it’s important to note that laser dentistry is not suitable for all patients. At your consultation, Dr. Aristodemo can help determine whether using laser dentistry is possible for your treatments.

Lastly, Happy Smiles Family Dentistry is proud to offer mini dental implants, a smaller and sleeker version of traditional dental implants. Mini implants are less invasive, expensive, and time-consuming and have a much faster healing period! With these many benefits, mini implants are an excellent option for patients looking for a less expensive and simpler way to restore their smile.

Trust Dr. Aristodemo as Your Dentist in Schaumburg Today!

If you are in need of a dentist in Schaumburg, IL, trust Dr. Aristodemo at Happy Smiles Family Dentistry! With compassionate care, innovative solutions, and the skills to match, she is an excellent choice to care for your smile.

Book a consultation today (free for implants and orthodontics) to start your journey to a healthier smile!

Follow Dr. Aristodemo on Instagram and Facebook to learn more about the innovative services she provides.

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Why Use Implants for Denture Stability?

Losing a tooth means a lot more than just a gap in your smile. Missing teeth can lead to difficulties eating, speaking, and even socializing for those who feel embarrassed about the state of their smile, especially with total tooth loss. Unfortunately, the problems don’t stop there.

Even if you replace your smile with traditional dentures, your jawbone will begin to shrink over time from a lack of stimulation. This bone resorption—or loss of mass and volume—is due to the missing tooth roots of your natural teeth. These roots play a vital role in jawbone health; without them, your jaw will shift and shrink.

Unfortunately, traditional dentures use your lower jawbone for support, making an unstable foundation. As your jaw changes shape and volume, your denture no longer fits how it used to. Loose dentures make eating and speaking more difficult and also cause painful denture sores on the insides of your mouth.

However, at Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, we provide a solution. Located in Schaumburg, IL, we offer dental implants for dentures, which provide amazing stability and prevent bone loss! Acting as artificial tooth roots, your implants keep your jaw healthy and restoration secure. With dental implants in place, your denture will stay still in your mouth, allowing you to live life more comfortably.

Understanding Dental Implants

Dental implants are titanium posts we secure in your jawbone to stabilize restorations like dentures. Happy Smiles Family Dentistry provides two types of dental implants depending on your needs.

Traditional dental implants are usually around 5 mm in diameter and have multiple components. Due to their large size, these implants require an invasive procedure that involves making an incision in your gums and using a series of large drills. Once the implant screw is in place, we stitch your gums up for healing. During this period of 3-6 months, your implant will bond with your jawbone, creating a stable connection. After every component is secure, we attach a final denture restoration on your implants, providing you with an implant denture!

Mini dental implants are less than 3 mm in diameter and have a sleek single-piece design that allows us to place them in one appointment. Because of their smaller diameter, we can use a minimally invasive approach that doesn’t require incisions or stitches. With a small pilot hole, we carefully screw the implant through the gums and into the jawbone. Once in place, mini implants become instantly stable enough to support a temporary restoration!

While traditional dental implants are sometimes necessary, we often prefer mini implants when possible, as they provide incredible benefits for patients like you!

Our Implant Denture Solutions

Happy Smiles Family Dentistry offers three innovative mini dental implant denture options for stability.

• Snap-on denture: Unlike a traditional denture, this prosthetic is secure on 4-8 mini implants! These implants are strategically placed in your mouth, and your denture is designed to easily “snap” on and off at your convenience. In some cases, if your traditional denture is in excellent condition, we can even transform it into a snap-on denture!

• 

  Semi-removable roundhouse bridge: Though technically a bridge, a roundhouse bridge acts as a denture because it replaces the entire arch of your smile. This restoration is semi-removable, as while you never take it off, we will remove it at routine cleanings. Staying secure on 6-10 mini implants, it provides a much more stable bite.

• Non-removable roundhouse bridge: Roundhouse bridges have a sleek design that doesn’t require a base. Instead, they feature a horseshoe-like design, creating a seamless and natural-looking appearance. With 10-12 mini implants for denture stability, you can enjoy a strong bite similar to your natural teeth, as this prosthetic never comes out.

Trust Happy Smiles Family Dentistry With Your Implants for Denture Stabilization

Don’t let your denture rest on an unstable foundation. At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry in Schaumburg, IL, we provide dental implants for denture security, keeping your smile in place and your jawbone healthy. With our innovative techniques and effective implant denture solutions, you can trust us with your smile!

Book a free implant consultation to determine which implant will be the best option for you to replace your missing teeth.

Follow Happy Smiles Family Dentistry on Instagram and Facebook today to learn more about mini implants and what we can do for your smile!

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Traditional Dental Implants

Traditional dental implants are a reliable method for replacing missing teeth. Stabilized in the jawbone, they support restorations like crowns, bridges, or dentures. The implant is made of titanium, a strong, biocompatible material that interacts safely with the body. Unfortunately, traditional implants have a few drawbacks that make them less suitable for many patients.

These drawbacks include:

• Large diameter: Traditional dental implants are about 5 mm in diameter. Due to their large size, they require ample jawbone space, which many patients don’t have due to bone resorption! As a result, many patients require a bone graft before they’re eligible for traditional dental implants. Unfortunately, these additional processes add to your procedure’s cost and length.
• Invasive procedure: To place traditional implants, we first make an incision in your gum tissue to access the bone. Then, using a series of large drills, we create a hole in the bone tissue. Once we carefully insert the implant body inside, we stitch your gums back up for healing.
• Slow healing: The invasive placement process disturbs the tissues and bone that surround the implant. This makes the healing period longer and less comfortable as your gums and bone have more recovery to do. Between the extensive healing period and the many appointments required to place a traditional implant, the process can take several months to complete.
• Expensive price: Traditional dental implants involve multiple appointments, several components, and additional procedures like bone grafts—all of which can drive up the overall cost.

Fortunately, Dr. Aristodemo of Happy Smiles Family Dentistry has a more affordable, comfortable, and inclusive solution!

Mini Dental Implants: Comfortable and Affordable

In contrast, mini dental implants are under 3 millimeters wide and are one solid piece of titanium. Unlike traditional implants, mini dental implants are comfortable and affordable for most patients! These advantages are due to some unique factors in the mini implant construction and process.

What Makes Mini Implants Comfortable?

Because of their smaller size, we need a much tinier hole for mini implants. Rather than creating an incision in the gums and using a series of drills, we can simply create a pilot hole through the gums and into the jawbone. Once we secure the implant in place, it is instantly stable enough to support a temporary restoration, so you never have to go without teeth!

This minimally invasive process has many benefits for patients like you, such as faster healing! Because the placement technique is gentle on your gums and bone, they heal much faster after the mini implant procedure. In fact, most people are able to return to their normal daily routines in just a day or two.

What Makes Mini Dental Implants Affordable?

Mini dental implants offer comfort in more ways than one—they’re gentler on your mouth and easier on your budget. But what makes mini implants more affordable than traditional implants? It comes down to three important factors:

• Simpler design: Unlike traditional implants that involve multiple parts (post, abutment, and restoration), mini implants are a single, streamlined piece. This not only enhances stability and longevity—since there are no connecting seams where bacteria can collect—but also reduces overall cost. With mini implants, you’re paying for fewer components.
• Fewer appointments: Traditional implants typically require a separate appointment to place each component, increasing costs. Thanks to their single-piece design, Dr. Aristodemo places mini implants in just one appointment rather than several, saving you money!
• Smaller diameter: Because these implants are smaller, they use much less bone. Patients who have less available bone structure are often still eligible for mini dental implants, even without a bone graft! This saves you both time and money on your implant procedure.

Restore Your Smile With Affordable Dental Implants!

Dr. Aristodemo believes no one should go without teeth, even those on a budget. If you want to restore your smile but have been concerned about the price of dental implants, we encourage you to try mini dental implants! They are a much more affordable option for replacing your missing teeth while keeping your jawbone healthy.

Trust Dr. Aristodemo with your care and schedule a free implant consultation today to learn if mini implants are right for you!

Follow Happy Smiles Family Dentistry on Instagram and Facebook to explore how mini implants can help your smile. 

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For a stable and reliable bite, visit Happy Smiles Family Dentistry in Schaumburg, IL.

Understanding Dental Implants

Dental implants are titanium posts that Dr. Aristodemo places in the jawbone to secure restorations like dentures! Instead of dealing with unstable traditional dentures, you can have a secure implant denture that provides excellent chewing function! Happy Smiles Family Dentistry offers two dental implant options.

Traditional dental implants are large in diameter and require an invasive procedure. Unfortunately, due to their size, many patients with less jawbone structure aren’t eligible for traditional implant procedures. Often, a bone graft is required to get a traditional implant supported denture, which adds to the cost and length of your procedure.

In contrast, mini dental implants are smaller in diameter and require a minimally invasive procedure. Their narrow diameter makes these implants much more accessible to patients, while also facilitating faster healing! Unlike conventional implants, mini implants are instantly stable once Dr. Aristodemo places them, so she can secure temporary restorations on the same day.

When looking to replace your missing teeth, mini dental implant-retained dentures are the ideal tooth replacement option because of the amazing benefits they provide!

Mini Dental Implant Denture Solutions

There are three distinct mini dental implant denture options Dr. Aristodemo provides.

• Snap-on dentures: These dentures have a pink base like traditional dentures, but instead of using your jawbone for support, they rely on mini dental implants! For easy maintenance, you can snap these dentures on and off your implants when necessary, and secure them back on with ease.
• Semi-removable roundhouse bridges: Unlike traditional dentures, these prosthetics don’t need the pink base for support. With their innovative horseshoe design, they can secure directly onto your implants. These restorations are semi-removable because while you never remove them, Dr. Aristodemo will for routine cleanings.
• Non-removable roundhouse bridges: These restorations are incredibly natural looking, as they require no base and provide a seamless appearance. Non-removable roundhouse bridges are cemented in place and never taken out. Their strong bite, permanent nature, and beautiful appearance make these dentures about as close to your natural teeth as possible!

Breaking Down the Cost of Dental Implant Dentures

Because mini implants require fewer appointments, have fewer components, and rarely require a bone graft, they cost about half as much as traditional implants! Even so, Dr. Aristodemo recognizes that some patients are on a budget. Fortunately, she offers various ways to make your treatments more affordable.

Dr. Aristodemo works with multiple insurance companies, though they often don’t cover dental implant procedures. For those without insurance, she has an in-house dental savings program designed to help make your dental care more affordable!

Additionally, she works with multiple third-party financing companies to help break down the costs of your procedure into manageable monthly payments. Regardless of your payment strategy, Dr. Aristodemo and her team will help guide you through the process!

Book a Free Implant Consultation With Dr. Aristodemo Today!

With mini dental implant dentures, you don’t have to settle for a soft food diet. These implants provide reliable stability that you can trust to keep your smile strong and secure. Dr. Aristodemo can restore your smile with her innovative and secure implant denture options so you can smile, laugh, and eat freely again.

Book a free implant consultation at Happy Smiles Family Dentistry today for a secure smile!

Follow Dr. Aristodemo on Facebook and Instagram to learn more about our mini implant services.

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What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are titanium posts we place into your jawbone to secure restorations like crowns, bridges, and dentures. At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, we provide two types of dental implants.

Traditional Dental Implants

Traditional dental implants average about 5 millimeters in diameter, and consist of many separate pieces. Unfortunately, because of their large diameter, many patients who have lost jawbone structure due to bone resorption aren’t eligible for these implants.

Often, they require a bone graft—or a procedure that replenishes lost bone. However, this procedure adds to both the price and length of the traditional dental implant process, making them inaccessible to many patients.

To place these implants we first make an incision in the gums to access your jawbone. Then, we use a series of increasingly large drills to create a hole roughly 5 millimeters wide in your jawbone.

This process is invasive and time consuming, as each piece of your implant is placed at a different appointment. On average, the traditional implant process takes 3-6 months in total, as your bone has to heal and your implant needs time to integrate fully.

While this tooth replacement method is successful, we often prefer mini implants for the numerous benefits they provide patients!

Mini Dental Implants in Schaumburg, IL

Mini dental implants are small titanium posts less than 3 millimeters in diameter and consist of one solid piece of titanium. Due to their narrow diameter, patients with less available bone structure are often still eligible for mini implants—even without a bone graft!

Their smaller design also allows us to use a minimally invasive procedure to place these implants. Instead of making an incision in the gums, we create a small pilot hole about the width of a toothpick. Then, we carefully screw the implant into your jawbone, where it is instantly stable enough to support a temporary—or insome cases final—restoration!

Because of their sleek one-piece design, we can place these implants in just one appointment. These unique mini implant features allow more patients to restore their smiles, promote faster healing, and provide an affordable cost!

The Cost of Dental Implants in Schaumburg, IL

Mini dental implants cost almost half as much as traditional implants, which makes them the ideal tooth replacement solution for patients on a budget. Additionally, Happy Smiles Family Dentistry offers flexible financing options through third party financing companies! With these companies, you can split your costs into manageable monthly payments.

While many insurance companies don’t cover dental implants, some will cover portions of the procedure! For patients without insurance, we offer an in-house discount plan as well! The Happy Smiles Family Dentistry Discount membership plan offers unique discounts on all of the services we provide.

Visit Happy Smiles Family Dentistry in Schaumburg Today!

If you have missing teeth, don’t hesitate to replace them using our innovative dental implant procedures! We offer both traditional and mini dental implant solutions, allowing you to restore your smile with either crowns, bridges, or dentures. Get dental implant-supported restorations in Schaumburg, IL, for a happier and healthier smile at Happy Smiles Family Dentistry!

Book a free mini implant consultation today to get started.

Follow Dr. Aristodemo on Facebook and Instagram to learn more about how we use mini dental implants!

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Procedures Dr. Aristodemo Provides

At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, Dr. Aristodemo offers comprehensive cosmetic procedures that revitalize your smile. These procedures include:

• Teeth whitening: Dr. Aristodemo provides three teeth whitening options. The first is the in-office solution, which takes about 90 minutes in the chair using innovative whitening lasers. This solution provides immediate and beautiful results. The second option is customized take-home trays that she creates to fit perfectly in the contours of your mouth. You use these trays at home for about 20 minutes a day for two weeks to achieve a whiter smile. These trays are reusable and will last you for years! Finally, Dr. Aristodemo offers disposable trays that you throw away per use.
• Dental veneers: For a more dramatic and permanent enhancement, Dr. Aristodemo recommends dental veneers. These thin slivers of porcelain are custom-designed to match your ideal shape, size, length, and color. With dental veneers, Dr. Aristodemo has the ability to provide you with a perfect smile that you can wear proudly! To place veneers, she uses a minimally invasive procedure to prepare your teeth. When you decide your smile is perfect, she cements the veneers in place. However, it is important to note that this procedure is irreversible.
• Smile makeover: Utilizing a combination of different cosmetic procedures, Dr. Aristodemo provides a comprehensive treatment plan to perfect your smile down to every last detail! By correcting issues like cracks, chips, gaps, and stains, she can create a beautiful smile that fits your preferences and suits your facial structure. A smile makeover is a complete transformation of your smile, allowing you to smile confidently.

Understanding a Smile Makeover

The smile makeover process begins with a consultation. At this initial appointment, Dr. Aristodemo will discuss your smile goals, perform a thorough dental examination, and take an X-ray to create a custom treatment plan.

This treatment plan is tailored to your needs, utilizing many innovative procedures. While she may utilize teeth whitening and dental veneers in a smile makeover, she may also use procedures like orthodontic treatments or dental implants.

How a Cosmetic Dentist Uses Orthodontics

Dr. Aristodemo utilizes metal braces and Invisalign, both of which slowly shift your teeth into their ideal position. Each method has its own benefits and drawbacks, so which treatment you need depends on personal preferences and the complexity of your case!

Traditional metal braces are less comfortable and bulky but provide constant pressure on your teeth and can handle complex misalignment cases. In contrast, Invisalign cannot handle some of the more complex cases. Additionally, clear aligners don’t apply constant pressure, as you can remove them anytime. However, Invisalign provides excellent comfort and a faster and more discrete way to move your teeth, fixing your smile without drawing attention to it.

How a Cosmetic Dentist Uses Dental Implants

At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, Dr. Aristodemo provides two implant options. One is a traditional implant. These implants are larger and require a more invasive procedure, replacing missing teeth with crowns, bridges, or dentures. Placing traditional implants involves creating incisions in the gums as well as waiting 3-6 months for your final restoration.

Dr. Aristodemo also offers mini dental implants, a traditional implant alternative for those without enough jawbone or afraid of invasive procedures. Mini implants require a minimally invasive procedure that uses no incisions or stitches. Additionally, due to their smaller size and one-piece design, she places these implants in one appointment using minimal bone structure!

While some cases call for traditional implants, Dr. Aristodemo often prefers mini implants for the amazing benefits they provide patients like you!

If you have missing teeth, trust Dr. Aristodemo to use dental implants to complete your smile during the smile makeover process.

Trust a Cosmetic Dentist To Revitalize Your Smile

If you feel insecure about the appearance of your smile, don’t hesitate to seek help from a cosmetic dentist like Dr. Aristodemo! Using innovative cosmetic procedures and a comprehensive smile makeover, she revitalizes your smile! This beautiful new smile can make you look younger, boost your self-confidence, and help you smile again proudly.

Book a consultation to learn more about these cosmetic procedures and how Dr. Aristodemo uses them to enhance the appearance of your smile!

Follow Happy Smiles Family Dentistry on Instagram and Facebook today to understand how mini implants work.

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As your jawbone shrinks over time, your denture stays the same, often resulting in ill-fitting dentures. Loose dentures create various problems, as their instability negatively affects a patient’s quality of life! Issues like gum irritation, denture sores, and difficulty eating are all too common for those with traditional dentures. Thankfully, Dr. Aristodemo at Happy Smiles Family Dentistry offers implant-retained dentures! Using mini dental implants, she can provide a more comfortable and secure alternative for patients like you to keep your smile happy and healthy!

The Dental Implant Difference

Dental implants are titanium posts Dr. Aristodemo secures into the jawbone to support restorations like dentures. At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, Dr. Aristodemo offers two types of implants.

Conventional dental implants are around 5 mm in diameter and require a surgical procedure for her to place. First, she must make an incision in the gums to access your jawbone underneath. Then, using a series of drills that increase in size, Dr. Aristodemo creates a hole in your bone that is big enough to fit the implant. Unfortunately, as the hole is quite large, not all patients are eligible for this procedure. Those who lack sufficient bone density often need a bone graft to qualify, rebuilding their jawbone structure.

Additionally, conventional dental implants have a multi-piece design, requiring various appointments for Dr. Aristodemo to place them. The whole process generally takes around 3-6 months, as the implant needs time to bond to your jawbone. Once your implant is ready, she will secure your final denture to provide an incredibly stable and beautiful smile!

The other implant is a mini dental implant, which differs from conventional implants in many important ways. Mini dental implants are less than 3 mm in diameter but just as secure! Instead of making an incision or using stitches, Dr. Aristodemo uses a minimally invasive procedure that preserves the surrounding tissues for faster healing. To place mini implants, she makes a small pilot hole through the gums and into the jawbone. After carefully screwing the implant in place, it becomes instantly stable enough to support a temporary—or in some cases final—restoration!

The Advantage of Mini Dental Implants

Due to their small diameter and one-piece design, mini implants have many amazing benefits. These advantages include:

• Smaller diameter: Because their diameter is smaller than that of conventional implants, mini implants require less bone and disturb less of the surrounding tissues. This not only saves you time on your procedure but also money—as you likely won’t need a bone graft.
• Fewer components: The one-piece design of mini implants allows Dr. Arostodemo to place them in just one appointment! Additionally, it reduces your risk of peri-implantitis—or an infection of the area surrounding an implant—as your implant doesn’t have seams where bacteria can gather.
• Less expensive: Due to their one-piece design and smaller diameter, these implants are much more affordable than conventional implants! The one-piece design means you have to pay for fewer components and appointments! Additionally, their smaller diameter allows Dr. Aristodemo to place these implants using less bone structure so that you won’t require additional procedures like bone grafts.

Denture Options With Mini Dental Implants

Dr. Aristodemo provides several denture options using mini dental implants. These implant dentures include:

• Snap-in dentures: This restoration is the most similar to traditional dentures, as you can remove it anytime. However, the 4-8 mini implants that secure a snap-in denture make it much more secure! With mini implants keeping your denture in place, Dr. Aristodemo can remove the bulky upper denture plate and ensure security and comfort.
• Semi-permanent roundhouse bridge: Though in the denture family, this restoration is technically a bridge as it doesn’t need the pink denture base. While we can use the base for lip support, the 6-10 mini implants that secure it provide a strong enough anchor for your artificial teeth! While you never take the semi-permanent roundhouse bridge out, Dr. Aristdemo will remove it for routine cleanings.
• Permanent roundhouse bridge: This denture is supported by 10-12 mini implants that permanently secure it in your mouth. Additionally, it doesn’t require a denture base, making it look seamless in your mouth. For an incredibly strong bite and natural-looking appearance, a permanent roundhouse bridge is the denture option for you!

For Secure and Comfortable Denture Options: Visit Happy Smiles Family Dentistry

While there are many denture options to choose from when restoring your smile, implant-retained dentures provide the best security. At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, Dr. Aristodemo offers two types of dental implants to secure your dentures. While conventional implants are stable and strong, mini implants provide that same stability without the hassle. Dr. Aristodemo recommends mini dental implants for most patients because of their incredible benefits!

Book a free implant consultation today with Dr. Aristodemo to discover what mini implants can do for you.

Connect with Happy Smiles Family Dentistry on Facebook and Instagram to learn more about the denture options available to you!

The post Denture Options That Enhance Security and Comfort appeared first on Happy Smiles Family Dentistry & Mini Dental Implants.

Qualifications To Look for in the Best Implant Dentist

When looking for someone to care for your smile, you want to find someone you can trust! Here are several key qualifications to look for in an implant dentist:

• Experienced: When visiting a dental practice for any procedure, you want to ensure you can trust the staff. Always check the dentist’s credentials and qualifications, how many years they have been practicing, and any areas of specialty they hold.
• Compassionate: Dental work can be very personal or scary for some patients, so it’s always beneficial to work with an understanding dentist. Ensure your implant dentist is open and honest with you, providing both insight and reassurance when needed.
• Innovative: Check out what innovative procedures they offer and any state-of-the-art technology they provide. The best implant dentists often use the best quality materials and products, ensuring you get the treatment you deserve.
• Reputable: Always check an implant dentist’s reviews before visiting their practice or scheduling an appointment. Most dentists have their reviews publicly available; if they don’t, that may be a red flag! Read through testimonials or ask people in your neighborhood their experiences at a particular dental practice.
• Affordable: Before committing to any dental procedure, especially implants, ensure the dentist works with your insurance company or offers flexible financing options. Dental implants can be expensive, and you should always have an idea of the price and how you will afford them.

Meet the Best Implant Dentist in Schaumburg: Dr. Amelia Aristodemo

In Schaumburg, IL, there is only one practice for the highest-quality care. Dr. Amelia Aristodemo of Happy Smiles Family Dentistry is the best implant dentist in the area and offers her patients a wide variety of services.

Dr. Aristodemo has been practicing dentistry for over 15 years, with Happy Smiles Family Dentistry open since 2008. She graduated with her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from The University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry in 1997. She has since demonstrated a commitment to providing patient-centered dental care. Dr. Aristodemo offers general dentistry and specializes in various other fields, such as orthodontics, dental implants, and laser dentistry!

At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, the patient’s needs and comfort always come first. Dr. Aristodemo values communication and long-term relationships more than anything else in her work. At her dental practice, you aren’t just a name on a list. To her, you’re an important patient she wants to help and listen to.

To provide the best care for her patients, Dr. Aristodemo continues to grow and learn, furthering her education to offer only the best care. She provides innovative laser dentistry treatments for your comfort, treating ailments like gum disease and cavities with a minimally invasive approach. Additionally, she has trained extensively to place mini dental implants, an alternative to traditional implants, because of the many incredible benefits they offer patients!

If you want to know how patients feel about Dr. Aristodemo and her staff, read her testimonials! These accounts from real patients can give you a better idea of the Happy Smiles Family Dentistry experience.

What Sets Happy Smiles Family Dentistry Apart?

So why trust Dr. Aristodemo with your smile?

With her extensive expertise in various procedures, you can go to Happy Smiles Family Dentistry for all your care! Not only will Dr. Aristodemo handle even the most complex of implant cases, but she will also provide any general or family dentist needs, treating all cases with the same level of care and attention.

What sets Happy Smiles Family Dentistry apart is that Dr. Aristodemo believes everyone, regardless of budget, deserves a beautiful smile. To alleviate some of your financial stress, she works with insurance companies to maximize your coverage and provides an in-house discount plan for those without insurance! Additionally, Dr. Aristodemo offers amazing financing opportunities through multiple third-party financing companies. These flexible financing options allow you to split your costs into manageable monthly payments.

If you have any questions about insurance or financing, please don’t hesitate to reach out! Dr. Aristodemo and her skilled team will gladly assist you.

Trust the Best Implant Dentist in Schaumburg, IL, With Your Smile!

When replacing your teeth with dental implants, you should only trust the best. In Schaumburg, IL, the best implant dentist resides at Happy Smiles Family Dentistry! Dr. Aristodemo is experienced, compassionate, and committed to providing only the best care to her patients.

For an implant dentist you can trust with your smile, book a free implant consultation with Dr. Aristodemo today!

Follow Happy Smiles Family Dentistry on Facebook and Instagram today to learn more about mini dental implants.

The post The Best Implant Dentist in Schaumburg, IL appeared first on Happy Smiles Family Dentistry & Mini Dental Implants.

Why Traditional Dentures Lack Stability

Depending on your needs, you can replace an entire arch of teeth with a lower full denture, an upper full denture, or both.

An upper full denture relies primarily on suction to stay in place. The roof of your mouth (or the palate) provides a broad surface that allows the denture to form a seal with saliva, helping to keep it secure! However, many older adults lack the saliva necessary to keep their prosthetics in place.

Additionally, the bulky denture plate used for suction is often uncomfortable and blocks the taste buds of your upper palate! Without these important taste buds, your ability to fully savor the foods and drinks you love is lost.

A lower full denture relies on your jawbone for stability. Using impressions of your smile, we craft your denture to fit the contours of your mouth perfectly. This tight fit allows your prosthetic to stay secure on your jawbone. Unfortunately, a lower full denture won’t fit forever. Because traditional dentures only replace the crowns of your teeth and not the roots, your jawbone will begin to resorb.

As your jawbone loses mass and volume, it changes shape over time, no longer fitting to your lower denture! While a reline or denture replacement can fix instability, they’re just temporary solutions, as your jawbone will continue to lose density.

The functional limitations of traditional dentures can negatively affect a patient’s quality of life! Thankfully, Dr. Aristodemo has a more stable solution.

Secure Your Floating Denture With Dental Implants

At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, Dr. Aristodemo uses dental implants for a more stable denture replacement. She secures these titanium posts into the jawbone, acting as artificial tooth roots. When you bite or chew with implant-supported dentures, the implants stimulate your jawbone, helping to maintain its health and shape. Dr. Aristodemo uses two kinds of implants at her practice.

Traditional Dental Implants

Traditional dental implants are around 5 millimeters and consist of various parts held together with an implant screw. To place these implants, Dr. Aristodemo will make an incision into your gums and drill a hole in your jawbone using a series of drills that increase in size. Each component is placed separately, with healing periods throughout the procedure.

After placement, the implant needs time to secure to your jawbone through osseointegration! This process allows the implant to bond with the bone, creating a strong foundation for your denture replacement. In a few months, your traditional implants will be ready to support a brand-new and beautiful smile!

Mini Dental Implants

Mini dental implants are less than 3 millimeters in diameter and have a sleek, one-piece structure! Because of their smaller size, Dr. Aristodemo can place these implants in a single appointment without incisions or stitches. This minimally invasive approach not only speeds up healing but also makes the procedure much more comfortable for patients. Additionally, their threaded design enhances stability immediately after placement, enabling Dr. Aristodemo to secure a temporary denture the same day!

Another advantage of mini implants is that they osseointegrate—or affix to your jawbone—faster than traditional implants. Instead of waiting months for your final denture, you can receive your permanent restoration much sooner! Because mini implants require less healing time, fewer appointments, and fewer components, they offer a more affordable alternative to traditional implants—making them an excellent option for patients on a budget!

Mini Implant Retained Denture Replacement Options

Dr. Aristodemo offers three mini implant-supported denture replacement options at Happy Smiles Family Dentistry. These include:

• Snap-on denture: Because of the support mini implants provide, this denture doesn’t need the bulky upper denture plate, freeing your taste buds! It also offers excellent stability for your lower denture while allowing easy maintenance. You can “snap” this denture off your 4-8 implants at any time, all while knowing it will stay secure in your mouth when on your implants.
• Semi-permanent roundhouse bridge: This denture option needs 6-10 mini dental implants for support and only comes out at the dentist’s office. During routine cleanings and checkups, Dr. Aristodemo will take your dentures off. Otherwise, a semi-permanent roundhouse bridge stays secure on your implants to provide a beautiful and functional smile.
• Permanent roundhouse bridge: While snap-on dentures and semi-permanent roundhouse bridges come off your implants when needed, this denture will never come off! Dr. Aristodemo cements the denture in place on 10-12 mini implants without needing the bulky pink base associated with dentures. Instead, roundhouse bridges provide a seamless and natural look with an incredibly strong bite! Permanent roundhouse bridges are the perfect tooth loss solution for those looking to get as close as possible to their natural smile.

Looking for a Denture Replacement? Visit Happy Smiles Family Dentistry!

Traditional dentures can’t replace the entire structure of a tooth, but fortunately, Dr. Aristodemo offers a more secure solution! Using dental implants, she can replace your denture with a stable prosthetic that allows you to eat, talk, and live freely. Mini dental implants provide amazing benefits, making them the ideal implant for replacing teeth!

Book a free implant consultation at Happy Smiles Family Dentistry today to learn what Dr. Aristodemo can do for your smile!

Dr. Aristodemo is on Facebook and Instagram! Follow along for the latest updates on Happy Smiles Family Dentistry.

The post Try a Denture Replacement With Dental Implants! appeared first on Happy Smiles Family Dentistry & Mini Dental Implants.

Why You May Need an Emergency Dental Extraction

Most of the time, Dr. Aristodemo performs an emergency tooth extraction to relieve pain or prevent further infection. The following afflictions may be a sign that you need a tooth pulled:

• Severe tooth decay: When your enamel wears down, bacteria can breach the inner portion of your tooth. If your dental pulp, which lies in the pulp chamber, is infected, this causes many problems. Dental pulp is made of nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues. When infected, it becomes extremely painful and sensitive. In some cases, Dr. Aristodemo can save your tooth with a root canal. In other cases, an extraction is the only way to relieve pain and prevent the spread of infection.
• Dental trauma: Accidents can happen anytime, but fortunately, Dr. Aristodemo and her team are here! For treatable fractures, Dr. Aristodemo will attempt to save your tooth. When the tooth splits, however, it isn’t saveable, and she will need to extract it to prevent infection.
• Severe gum disease: In the more advanced stages of gum disease, your gums and teeth spread the infection. If necessary, Dr. Aristodemo will extract infected teeth beyond saving to prevent bacteria from spreading!
• Severe pain: Persistent and severe tooth pain may not respond to other treatments like root canals or gum disease treatment. In that case, an extraction may be the only option to relieve your pain!

If you feel you may need an emergency dental extraction, contact Happy Smiles Family Dentistry right away! Even if our office isn’t open, we have after-hours protocols that will help us reach you as soon as possible when we open. After an extraction, the most important step is to listen to Dr. Aristodemo’s instructions. As a dental professional, she knows the best way to care for your smile!

Restore Your Smile With Mini Implants

Once you lose a tooth, you don’t just lose the crown—or the part visible above the gum line. You also lose your tooth root, which lies below the gums embedded in your jawbone! This tooth root is not only responsible for securing your teeth in place but also stimulating the jawbone when you bite or chew. Without these roots, your jawbone deteriorates over time! A shrinking jawbone changes the shape of your face, causes excessive wrinkling around your mouth, and makes replacing your teeth more difficult.

We often use dental implants to replace teeth, which are titanium posts that support artificial crowns, bridges, or dentures.

Traditional dental implants are about 5 millimeters in diameter and require a hole in your jawbone about that size. Many people who need to replace teeth have lost much of their jawbone over time, making using traditional implants a hassle! Those with diminished bone will likely require a bone graft to get a traditional dental implant, which adds to procedure time and price. Additionally, some areas, like your front teeth, may be difficult to replace with a traditional implant due to their large diameter.

In contrast, mini dental implants are less than 3 millimeters in diameter and can fit in small spaces with minimal bone! These implants need much less bone for Dr. Aristodemo to place them, making them an ideal tooth replacement option for those with bone loss! Using a minimally invasive procedure, Dr. Aristodemo places these one-piece implants in just a single appointment! With mini implants, you’ll never have to go without teeth. You can go from having a hole in your smile to a beautiful, complete smile in just one day!

Trust Dr. Aristodemo With Your Emergency Dental Extraction!

If you believe you may need an extraction, contact Happy Smiles Family Dentistry immediately for emergency treatment. Dr. Aristodemo has extensive experience saving smiles with emergency dental extractions. She provides excellent quality dental care you can trust, even offering same-day solutions to replace the tooth you’re missing!

For dental emergencies, contact Happy Smiles Family Dentistry as soon as possible. You can also schedule a free consultation to learn more about mini implant solutions.

Follow Dr. Aristodemo on Instagram and Facebook to explore what she can do for you with mini implants!

The post Emergency Dental Extraction: We Provide Effective and Compassionate Care appeared first on Happy Smiles Family Dentistry & Mini Dental Implants.

Why Look for Teeth Replacement Options?

While missing teeth as an adult can have unfortunate social, professional, and personal consequences, it also significantly affects oral health!

When you lose a tooth, you don’t just lose the crown visible above the gum line. Underneath the gums lies the tooth root, the bottom portion of the tooth embedded in the jawbone, which secures the tooth in place. When you bite or chew your tooth root stimulates the jawbone, helping to maintain its density and structure. After losing a tooth, you also lose that stimulation, causing your jawbone to resorb, losing mass and volume.

Jawbone resorption dramatically affects your appearance, causing excessive wrinkling around the mouth and changes in your facial structure! Additionally, shrinking bone significantly reduces your options for effective teeth replacement!

At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, Dr. Aristodemo offers a variety of teeth replacement options at an affordable price. She also cooperates with many insurance companies and provides flexible financing options to help you afford the dental work you need. If you have any questions regarding the cost of replacing your teeth, Dr. Aristodemo and her experienced team will gladly assist you!

Teeth Replacement Options

There are four main teeth replacement options Dr. Aristodemo provides her patients. These include:

Traditional Bridges

If you have a consecutive row of missing teeth, a traditional bridge may be the restoration for you!

With a crown attached on either side, this restoration “bridges” the gap between your remaining teeth. To place a traditional bridge, Dr. Aristodemo must remove some enamel from healthy teeth on either side of the gap, placing a crown on top of them to support the bridge restoration in between.

Unfortunately, this procedure does not replace tooth roots, so your jawbone will still resorb, and your remaining teeth may shift in your mouth.

Traditional Dentures

This restoration is one of the most common replacement methods for tooth loss, as it is more affordable.

Traditional dentures can be either partial or full, replacing rows of teeth or all of your teeth, depending on your needs. These require a bulky pink base resting on your gums for the lower denture and suctioning the roof of your mouth for the upper. While they do replace crowns, traditional dentures fail to replace the tooth root, often leading to instability and difficulty chewing certain foods.

Dental Implants

Traditional dental implants are titanium posts around 5 millimeters in diameter and consist of various parts. These posts anchor artificial crowns, bridges, and dentures to replace teeth. Amazingly, these implants also act as artificial tooth roots, stimulating the jawbone and maintaining its shape and density!

To place traditional dental implants, Dr. Aristodemo makes an incision in the gums to reveal the jawbone underneath. Then, she uses a series of drills increasing in size to create a hole large enough for the implant to fit. Each component must be placed at a separate appointment, generally with a 3-6 month healing period.

While traditional implants successfully replace missing teeth and tooth roots, their invasive procedure and multi-piece design make them costly and time-consuming. Additionally, those with diminished jawbone may not be candidates for traditional implants, as the large titanium post requires ample bone for support.

Mini Dental Implants

Mini dental implants are less than 3 millimeters in diameter and consist of only one component. Despite their smaller size, these titanium posts are just as strong as their larger counterparts. Mini implants also secure crowns, bridges, or dentures to replace teeth, with their post acting as artificial tooth roots to maintain the health of your jawbone.

To place these implants, Dr. Aristodemo uses a minimally invasive procedure with no incisions or stitches. Instead, she creates a small pilot hole in the gums and jawbone and carefully places the implant inside. Once in the bone, these implants are remarkably stable. Instead of waiting months for the implant to integrate into the bone, mini dental implants support temporary restorations the same day Dr. Aristodemo places them! With mini implants, you never have to leave Happy Smiles Family Dentistry without teeth.

Their one-piece design and minimally invasive procedure make mini implants much less expensive than traditional implants and less time-consuming. For a simple, effective, and affordable teeth replacement procedure, try mini dental implants!

Restore Your Smile With Our Teeth Replacement Options Today!

Missing teeth as an adult can negatively affect your confidence, personal life, and oral health. Thankfully, Dr. Aristodemo provides a variety of effective and affordable teeth replacement options. Whether you want to replace a few teeth with a traditional bridge or all of your teeth with a denture secured by mini implants, she will help restore your smile! Dr. Arsitodemo believes a budget shouldn’t be a barrier to receiving the dental care you need. She provides flexible financing options allowing you to replace teeth without breaking the bank.

Book a consultation today to learn more about how Dr. Aristodemo can restore your smile!

Follow Happy Smiles Family Dentistry on Facebook and Instagram to learn more about how Dr. Aristodemo performs these procedures.

The post Teeth Replacement Options Made Easy and Affordable! appeared first on Happy Smiles Family Dentistry & Mini Dental Implants.

The Problems With Traditional Dentures and Implants

Both traditional dentures and traditional implants bring a lot of issues that make them unfavorable to many patients.

Traditional Dentures

Traditional dentures replace the crowns of your teeth, restoring your smile and allowing you to chew again. Unfortunately, they don’t replace the other essential part of the tooth: the tooth root!

The root is the bottom half of your tooth that lies under your gum line. They are embedded into the jawbone and stimulate the bone when you bite or chew. Without stimulation, your jawbone will begin to resorb, or lose mass, which causes a whole host of problems! With a deteriorating jawbone, your dentures will never stay secure, as lower dentures rely on the bone for support. Ill-fitting dentures create functional limitations that negatively affect a patient’s quality of life!

Additionally, jawbone resorption changes facial structure and appearance over time. The only way to combat the continuous loss of bone density is to replace not just the crown but the root as well!

Traditional Implants

Dental implants replace both crowns and tooth roots. They are titanium posts that secure into the jawbone and support restorations like dentures. With a secure dental implant, you can be sure your dentures will never slip in your mouth, allowing you to eat the foods you love and laugh without fear of embarrassment or mishap.

These implants, however, can be expensive. They consist of multiple components that we have to place over many appointments. To receive traditional dental implants, you must pay for each component and the various appointments they take to place.

Additionally, due to their large size, traditional implants need a lot of jawbone structure to be secure in your mouth. However, with bone resorption, many patients lack sufficient jawbone to house these implants. The only solution for those with diminished bone density who want a traditional implant is to receive a bone graft. This procedure both increases healing periods and adds to the cost of replacing your teeth.

Dr. Aristodemo offers mini implants to combat high costs and to make implant dentures more accessible to all!

Affordable Dentures Secured by Mini Implants

In contrast to traditional implants, mini dental implants are much smaller and require only one component. Due to their sleek design, Dr. Aristodemo can use a minimally invasive procedure to place these implants. Requiring no incisions or stitches, she instead creates a pilot hole in the gums and jawbone. She then places the implant through the hole and gently screws it in place. This whole process is done in one appointment and restores your smile with ease!

With mini implant retained dentures, Dr. Aristodemo ensures you have a secure smile that is more affordable and accessible to all her patients. These implants are less than 3 millimeters in diameter, which means they require very little bone to place. For those who have suffered bone resorption, mini implant dentures are a viable option in most cases, rarely requiring bone grafts and saving you money.

Mini implants are also less expensive because of their single-piece design. Dr. Aristodemo places these restorations in one appointment, and you only have to pay for a single implant piece rather than the many pieces of a traditional implant.

With mini dental implants, you have stable and beautiful dentures at a price that won’t break the bank!

Restore Your Smile With Affordable Dentures

You don’t have to settle for the stress of unstable dentures or expensive dental implant procedures. By offering mini implants, Dr. Aristodemo allows more patients to replace their teeth for less money!

If you struggle with ill-fitting dentures but don’t have the funds for a traditional dental implant, try a more affordable denture option with mini implant retained dentures. Schedule a free implant consultation today to explore how we use mini implants to restore your smile!

Dr. Aristodemo of Happy Smiles Family Dentistry offers many mini implant procedures. Follow her on Facebook and Instagram to learn more about her comprehensive services!

The post Affordable Dentures With Mini Implants Restore Your Smile appeared first on Happy Smiles Family Dentistry & Mini Dental Implants.

What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?

When you think about a visit to the dentist, routine checkups or fillings might immediately come to mind. But that’s only part of what we do! While restorative treatments focus on improving oral function, cosmetic procedures are designed to enhance your smile’s appearance, giving you the confidence to show it off.

Cosmetic dentistry is for everyone—whether you’re deeply troubled by the state of your teeth or want subtle enhancements. Whatever your needs may be, our goal is to help you love your smile because we know the difference it can make in your life.

For someone who struggles to be themselves around others, a beautiful smile means the world. Going from hiding your smile behind your hand to laughing openly with friends drastically improves your quality of life. Dr. Aristodemo knows how transformative these cosmetic procedures are, so she offers numerous treatments that will leave you smiling confidently!

What Services Do We Utilize in Cosmetic Dentistry?

At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, Dr. Aristodemo provides a variety of cosmetic (and non-cosmetic) procedures that rebuild your smile. Whether you need a chipped tooth fixed or an entire tooth replaced, she is dedicated to providing quality care and patient-centered solutions.

Some procedures Dr. Aristodemo may include in your cosmetic dentistry treatment plan are:

• Dental veneers: These thin white porcelain shells cover dental imperfections. With a minimally invasive procedure, Dr. Aristodemo uses veneers to hide stains, chips, cracks, and even gaps between teeth. She can either match your veneers to your surrounding teeth for a seamless look or make your smile more brilliant. Veneers offer a high level of customization, giving you the chance to create your ideal smile.
• Teeth whitening: Dr. Aristodemo offers three kinds of teeth whitening treatments. One is an in-house treatment involving innovative laser technology that treats intrinsic and extrinsic stains. Another is custom-made trays that she tailors perfectly to your teeth—and they’re reusable! Dr. Aristodemo also offers pre-made trays that you throw away after each use.
• Orthodontic procedures: While orthodontics primarily improve oral function, they also enhance the appearance of a smile. At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, Dr. Aristodemo offers both Invisalign and traditional metal braces. With these tried-and-true solutions, she can straighten teeth, close gaps, address overcrowding, and correct bite misalignments.
• Dental implants: Dr. Aristodemo offers two kinds of implants: traditional and mini dental implants. While she does use traditional dental implants in some cases, mini implants are the ideal implant option for replacing teeth. Due to their sleek design, one-piece construction, and minimally invasive procedure, mini implants provide secure, natural-looking, and comfortable new teeth.

The first step to completing your smile makeover is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Aristodemo. At this appointment, she will examine your smile, discuss your goals, and create your personalized treatment plan. With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Aristodemo has helped countless patients like you restore their confidence through cosmetic dentistry.

Restore Your Confidence With a Beautiful Smile!

At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, we recognize the value of a confident smile. If you’re unhappy with the appearance of your teeth, cosmetic dentistry could be the life-changing solution you’ve been looking for!

Dr. Aristodemo offers a range of specialized services designed to transform your smile and help you feel your best. Schedule a consultation for a smile makeover today, and learn how we help you smile confidently!

Follow Happy Smiles Family Dentistry on Facebook and Instagram to explore the world of cosmetic dentistry!

The post Cosmetic Dentistry: Feel Confident in Your Smile Again appeared first on Happy Smiles Family Dentistry & Mini Dental Implants.

What Are Mini Dental Implants?

Dental implants are titanium posts secured into the jawbone that support artificial teeth. When facing total tooth loss, we suggest using dental implants to replace your teeth, as they are a stable and long-lasting solution that revives your smile! While we offer two types of dental implants, we recommend using mini dental implants for most cases. Mini implants provide many benefits that traditional implants just can’t offer.

Mini implants are narrow, single-piece posts that measure less than 3 millimeters in diameter. Despite their compact size, they are remarkably sturdy and provide instant stability.

Thanks to their innovative design, Dr. Aristodemo can place mini implants with a minimally invasive procedure that eliminates the need for incisions and stitches. First, she will create a small pilot hole in the gums to reach the jawbone underneath. Then, she will carefully screw the implant into the hole, securing it in the jawbone. Due to their ease of placement and single-piece design, we place mini implants in just one appointment. After placing the implants, we will secure your temporary restoration, providing functional teeth immediately!

Unlike other implant options, mini implants offer a shorter healing period, a less invasive procedure, and faster results! Additionally, mini dental implants are half the cost of conventional implants—their larger, more time-consuming counterparts.

With so many benefits, we often suggest using mini dental implants to secure dentures and bring your smile back to life!

The Advantages of Mini Implant Dentures

Traditional dentures are notorious for slipping or even falling out of the mouth. With mini implants, that’s never a problem! By strategically placing these narrow-diameter implants, we provide a stable foundation for your teeth that will keep you smiling with confidence.

At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, we offer three mini implant denture options:

• Snap-in dentures: As their name suggests, these dentures “snap” in and out of your mouth with ease. While they are completely secured to 4-8 mini implants, you’re able to pop them off whenever you need to. This makes cleaning your dentures and maintaining oral hygiene a snap!
• Semi-permanent roundhouse: This denture option is only removed by Dr. Aristodemo during routine cleanings, so it feels almost like having your natural teeth again. Stabilized with 6-10 mini implants, the roundhouse restoration stays securely in place without the need for the bulky pink base found in traditional dentures.
• Permanent roundhouse: These dentures feel the most like your natural teeth, as they never come out once we put them in. We attach these beautiful artificial teeth to 10-12 mini implants and then cement them in place! The restoration looks seamless in your mouth and is made of zirconia, an incredibly durable material. If you want to feel like you have your natural teeth back, a permanent roundhouse is your best choice.

Using any of these mini implant dentures, we can restore your smile so you feel like yourself again!

Start Your Journey to a Younger Looking Smile With a Free Consultation!

Getting older doesn’t mean you have to settle for the challenges of aging. With mini dental implants, you can have your smile back! At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, we use mini dental implants to secure dentures to your jawbone, ensuring a stable and beautiful smile.

Schedule a free consultation today to learn more about how we revitalize your smile with mini implant dentures!

If you want to understand more about mini implants and how they work, follow us on Instagram and Facebook!

The post Mini Implant Dentures Rejuvenate Your Smile appeared first on Happy Smiles Family Dentistry & Mini Dental Implants.

The Cost of Mini Dental Implants

Did you know that mini dental implants are about half the width and half the cost of conventional dental implants? Traditional implants can be an expensive option because they have more parts, require a more complex procedure due to their large size, and need more appointments. In contrast, mini implants have a slim one-piece design that significantly lowers costs. Because of this design, Dr. Aristodemo can place mini implants in a single appointment, further reducing the overall price.

Mini dental implants provide high-quality tooth replacement at a more affordable cost than their multi-piece counterparts. Plus, we offer convenient third-party financing options that help make the cost of mini dental implants more manageable.

Companies like CareCredit, Alphaeon, and Proceed Finance allow you to select a payment plan that best suits your budget. Depending on which financial plan is right for you, you may be eligible for up to short-term interest-free financing for your mini implant procedure.

No matter your financial situation, Happy Smiles Family Dentistry is committed to providing excellent dental care at affordable prices so you can have the smile you deserve.

Why Mini Dental Implants Are Worth the Cost

With many benefits over conventional implants, mini dental implants provide excellent value at a reduced cost.

While conventional implants are about 5 mm wide and have multiple components, mini dental implants are less than 3 mm in diameter and have a single titanium post.

Besides contributing to a more affordable procedure, the one-piece design of mini implants has other advantages. For example, Dr. Aristodemo can place these implants in just one appointment, and the procedure itself requires no incisions or sutures. Due to the size of conventional implants, Dr. Aristodemo must make an incision into the gums to reveal the bone underneath. Then, she places the implant into the bone using a series of larger and larger drills.

The mini dental implant process is minimally invasive, as Dr. Aristodemo only has to thread the implant through a small pilot hole in the gums. Because of their less invasive nature, healing after mini dental implant placement is very straightforward.

These implants also offer a more modern design than conventional implants, as they’re similar to a self-tapping screw. Mini implants screw right into the bone and are instantly stable. Unlike a traditional implant, a mini implant can immediately support restorations. While both conventional and mini implants anchor crowns, bridges, or dentures, mini implants allow you to leave our office with functional teeth the same day! After placing your implants, Dr. Aristodemo will attach a temporary restoration to maintain function until your final restoration is ready.

While conventional implants are preferable in certain scenarios, mini implants are more accessible as they require less bone for support. Many patients needing tooth replacement don’t have enough jawbone for conventional implants. Because mini implants require less space, they’re often the ideal solution

Schedule a Free Mini Implant Consultation Today!

At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, we focus on making dental care affordable without compromising on quality. Dr. Aristodemo offers mini implants at nearly half the cost of conventional implants, with flexible financing options to make them accessible for patients on a budget. Mini implants also come with added benefits—they’re minimally invasive, require less jawbone, and allow for same-day restorations, making them an ideal choice for many. For affordable, high-quality dental care, schedule a free consultation for mini implants with us today!

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Dental Care Made Easy With Your Family Dentist in Schaumburg

At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, we believe that going to the dentist should be a simple, stress-free experience for every family member. From the moment you walk in, our team is dedicated to making dental care easy, comfortable, and convenient. As your family dentist in Schaumburg, we offer a wide range of services to meet the needs of patients of all ages—all under one roof.

Convenient and Compassionate Care

“The atmosphere is warm and welcoming. The staff goes above and beyond. Dr. Amelia took control of a very nervous patient, and made me feel extremely comfortable and pain free. Wow!!!” – Jay G.

We’re all about providing convenient and compassionate dental care! We know life gets busy, so we offer extended hours on Wednesdays and Thursdays to fit your schedule—perfect for those with work or family commitments. Our office is designed to feel welcoming and comfortable, with a clean, inviting atmosphere that immediately puts you at ease. If you’re feeling anxious about treatment, you’re in good hands! We specialize in helping nervous patients feel relaxed, even offering oral sedation for extra peace of mind.

Family-Friendly Dentistry in Schaumburg

“My kids love the dentist. Yes, I said that. The entire staff is friendly, professional, informative and accommodating.” – Georgina W.

We take pride in being a truly family-friendly practice, treating patients of all ages—from your littlest ones to grandparents. Our team loves working with kids and truly believes it’s possible for children to love the dentist! We work hard to make every visit fun and stress-free for them. As Georgina put it, “My kids love the dentist. Yes, I said that!”

Our goal is to build lasting relationships and provide continuity of care so that your family feels comfortable and confident coming to us for years to come. Whether it’s routine cleanings or fluoride treatments for little ones, Invisalign or braces for teens, or advanced care like periodontal treatment and dental implants for adults, we’re here to support your family’s dental health at every stage.

Comprehensive Treatment

As a family dentist, we offer a wide range of services, making it easy for you and your family to get all the dental care you need in one place. We offer a full range of services, including routine care, cosmetic and restorative dentistry, orthodontics, implant dentistry, and even emergency care.

Need a straighter smile? Our orthodontic services, including braces and Invisalign, help kids, teens, and adults achieve a beautifully aligned smile comfortably and effectively. For patients with missing teeth, our implant dentistry services provide a strong, natural-looking solution that restores both function and confidence. And when a dental emergency strikes—whether it’s a painful toothache, broken tooth, or sudden injury—we’re here to provide fast, compassionate care to get you back to feeling your best!

Affordable Solutions

High-quality dental care should be accessible and affordable for everyone. We participate with many dental insurance providers, so you can get the most out of your benefits and keep costs manageable. We also understand that insurance coverage varies significantly, and out-of-pocket costs can be a concern. That’s why we partner with several third-party financing companies to offer flexible payment options that fit your budget. Plus, we have an annual dental savings membership for patients without insurance, helping you save on routine care and treatments throughout the year. And to make things even easier, we offer free consultations for both dental implants and orthodontics. These consultations allow you to explore your options without any obligations.

Dental Implant Expertise

At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, we know that dental implants are the best way to replace missing teeth. Implants provide a long-lasting, natural-looking solution to tooth loss and help preserve jaw health by preventing bone loss over time.

We offer mini dental implants for patients who may not have enough bone for traditional implants or are looking for a simpler option. This innovative alternative is less invasive, more affordable, and requires less healing time!

Dr. Aristodemo is a diplomate of the International Academy of Mini Dental Implants (IAMDI), which means she has specialized training in advanced mini implant techniques. With Dr. Aristodemo’s expertise, we’re able to provide personalized, effective implant solutions to help you regain a healthy, confident smile.

Need a Family Dentist in Schaumburg? We Can Help!

Finding a dentist you can trust with your family’s care makes all the difference, and at Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, building that trust is our top priority. From our welcoming environment and convenient hours to our comprehensive range of services, we’re here to make dental care as easy and stress-free as possible. Whether you need to arrange a routine checkup for your child, orthodontic care for your teenager, or dental implants to restore your smile, you’ll find compassionate, expert care all in one place.

If you’re looking for a family dentist in Schaumburg who understands what your family needs, we’d love to welcome you to our practice. Schedule a consultation with us today!

Follow us on Facebook to learn more about our comprehensive dental treatments in Schaumburg, IL.

The post Why Families Choose Happy Smiles as Their Family Dentist in Schaumburg, IL appeared first on Happy Smiles Family Dentistry & Mini Dental Implants.

Think of it like building a bridge. All-on-4 is like using four large, sturdy pillars that require a solid foundation, making it ideal for patients with sufficient bone density. Fix-on-Six, on the other hand, is like using six smaller pillars that work together to provide reliable support—even when the foundation is a bit thinner. Both options offer excellent stability, but they achieve it in different ways to suit different patient needs.

All-on-4 Dental Implants

To understand the All-on-4 approach, it helps to first know a bit about conventional dental implants. A conventional implant is a titanium post that we place in the jawbone using surgical techniques. The implant replaces the missing tooth root and supports a restoration. Once it’s in place and has integrated with the bone over a few months, the implant provides a stable base for a crown, bridge, or denture. Traditional implants are strong and reliable, but because of their size, they require a good amount of healthy bone for support. For patients missing multiple teeth, replacing each one with a separate implant would be a lengthy, costly process. Fortunately, full-arch solutions like All-on-4 provide better solutions.

All-on-4 uses four traditional implants to support a full arch of teeth, offering the stability of implants without needing one for each missing tooth. It’s like that bridge with four large, sturdy pillars: each implant (or “pillar”) is strong enough to bear the pressure of daily biting and chewing. But, just like large bridge pillars need a firm foundation, these implants need a healthy jawbone for long-term stability. Additional groundwork, like bone grafting, is sometimes required to create that stable foundation. This approach works well for patients who want a reliable, full-arch replacement solution with fewer implants, as long as they have the bone density to support it.

All-on-4 Key Points:

• Full-arch support with four traditional implants
• Strong, stable foundation for biting and chewing
• Best for patients with adequate bone density
• Bone grafting may be required

Fix-on-Six Dental Implants

Fix-on-Six offers an alternative approach to full-arch replacement for patients who may not have enough bone for traditional implants. Instead of using large, conventional implants, Fix-on-Six relies on mini dental implants. These implants are smaller and require less bone density, making them a good choice for patients with reduced bone volume. The mini implants act as anchors for a full-arch denture, delivering stability and support without the need for extensive preparation or bone grafting.

Think of Fix-on-Six like building a bridge with six smaller—but still highly effective—pillars. These implant posts are slimmer than traditional implants, so we can place them in areas with less bone. By distributing the support across six mini implants, Fix-on-Six provides a solid foundation for a full arch of teeth, even when your bone density is lower. This approach is less invasive than traditional methods, allowing for quicker placement and a faster recovery.

Fix-on-Six is an excellent choice for patients seeking a stable, full-arch solution, especially those who may not be candidates for All-on-4 due to bone limitations. It’s also ideal for those looking for a quicker, more efficient procedure with faster results. Mini dental implants are “immediate loading implants,” meaning they provide remarkable stability right after placement. We can secure your final restoration as soon as it has been fabricated at the dental lab—no extended recovery period needed! Plus, the minimally invasive placement technique makes for a smoother healing process. Our patients appreciate the convenience, quality, and lasting results that Fix-on-Six delivers.

Fix-on-Six Key Points:

• Uses six mini implants for full-arch support
• Ideal for patients with lower bone density
• No need for bone grafting in most cases
• Minimally invasive procedure with faster recovery
• Immediate stability with “immediate loading” implants

Secure Your Smile With Dr. Aristodemo!

Deciding between All-on-4 and Fix-on-Six is all about finding the right foundation for your unique smile. All-on-4 relies on four traditional implants, making it a great choice if you have enough bone density to support them. With six mini implants, Fix-on-Six offers dependable support even when bone is limited. Both options deliver a secure, lasting smile, but the best fit depends on your specific needs. We’ll help you decide which option suits you best. Schedule a free implant consultation with Dr. Aristodemo today to take the first step toward a secure and confident smile!

Unhappy with your dentures? Need full-arch tooth replacement? Learn even more about our unique procedures by following us on Facebook!

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Dental Implants

Dental implants are titanium posts Dr. Aristodemo places through the gums and into the jawbone to anchor crowns, bridges, and dentures. There are two primary types of implants that differ in their size, construction, and procedure:

Traditional Implants

Traditional dental implants are about 5 millimeters in diameter. They require an incision in the gums to reveal the bone underneath and a larger hole to fit the implant post. Traditional implants have multiple components, each placed at a different appointment. With several visits and a long healing period following the invasive procedure, traditional implants can be both costly and uncomfortable.

While these implants are reliable, they lack the distinct comfort and convenience that mini implants can provide.

Mini Implants

Mini dental implants are an innovative alternative to conventional implants. These small titanium posts measure less than 3 millimeters in diameter and use a sleek one-piece design. These features allow Dr. Aristodemo to place mini implants in just one appointment!

Because mini implants don’t require incisions into the gums or stitches, the process is minimally invasive. Instead, Dr. Aristodemo drills a slim pilot hole and screws the implant into the bone. As a result, mini implants provide a more comfortable solution to tooth loss without sacrificing reliability.

One-piece implants are just as strong as traditional implants, with a 95% success rate. Backed by experts in the industry, these implants are a preferred choice for many patients.

The Benefits of Mini Dental Implants

Mini implants provide extensive benefits for patients seeking the best tooth replacement solutions:

• More comfortable: Mini implants use a much less invasive procedure than traditional implants, making them a more comfortable option. The solution is virtually painless, performed with a local anesthetic, and typically takes just one appointment.
• Shorter healing period: Traditional implants require months of healing and multiple appointments. Mini implants, on the other hand, allow for a much shorter healing period. If you’re already missing a tooth, the procedure is very straightforward and gentle. However, even with extractions, the healing time for mini implants is still much faster than that of traditional implants.
• Fewer appointments: Thanks to their minimally invasive nature, mini implants offer the convenience of just one appointment for placement and another for anchoring your final restorations. While your permanent restorations are being prepared, Dr. Aristodemo will provide a temporary one. With mini implants, you’ll never have to go without teeth!
• More affordable: Mini dental implants are significantly less expensive than traditional implants because of their simpler procedure, fewer appointments, and streamlined design. In many cases, mini implants are about half the price of traditional ones, offering a budget-friendly tooth loss solution!

Book a Free Implant Consultation for Mini Implants in Schaumburg, IL

Mini dental implants offer a comfortable, convenient, and affordable solution for replacing missing teeth. With their minimally invasive procedure, quicker healing time, and fewer appointments, mini implants are an ideal choice for those looking to restore their smile without the hassle of traditional implants. At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, Dr. Aristodemo is dedicated to providing high-quality, reliable care with a focus on your comfort. If you’re ready to experience the benefits of mini implants for yourself, schedule a free consultation today!

Follow Happy Smiles Family Dentistry on Facebook for more information on mini implants and the other treatments we offer!

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What Is an Implant Dentist?

An implant dentist is a dentist who specializes in dental implants. Dental implants are titanium posts that are inserted into the jawbone, serving as a foundation for artificial teeth.

We might recommend dental implants for replacing one or more teeth or for full mouth reconstruction. However, the type that is best for you depends on your unique needs.

Traditional dental implants are about 5 millimeters in diameter and require enough jawbone for secure placement. Though effective, conventional implants can be invasive and costly, and they require a lengthy healing process.

Mini dental implants are a sleeker version of traditional implants, with a diameter of less than 3 millimeters. The main difference between the two implant types is their size, which plays a key role in the procedures. Dr. Aristodemo can use a much less invasive process to place mini dental implants, eliminating the need for incisions or stitches. This gentle technique leads to a shorter, less painful recovery and a quicker overall process. Mini implants also cost about half as much as traditional implants, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a faster, less invasive, and more affordable solution.

Implant Dentists Can Prevent Long-Term Oral Health Problems

If you are considering dental implants, you likely need an extraction or have already lost a tooth. While losing an adult tooth may not seem too serious a problem, it can actually cause some major issues. One such issue is the loss of bone in your jaw. Every natural tooth has a root that sticks into your gums and stimulates the jawbone when you chew. This stimulation is what prevents the bone from resorbing or losing volume and mass. Without stimulation, the jawbone will deteriorate, leading to changes in your facial structure over time. These can include sunken cheeks and excessive wrinkling.

Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that counters bone resorption because they act like tooth roots. When you chew and bite, an implant will stimulate the bone and maintain the natural shape of your jaw.

Implants also prevent other teeth in your mouth from shifting, as they close spaces between remaining teeth. Shifting teeth can misalign your bite and increase your risk of gum disease. They can also make eating certain foods difficult, resulting in dietary changes and potential nutrient deficiencies.

With their unique structure, dental implants are crucial for restoring your smile and preserving your jawbone health, facial structure, and overall wellness!

What Can an Implant Dentist Do for You?

There are several options for replacing missing teeth. At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, Dr. Aristodemo can help you decide which option is best for you!

• Crown: When you need to replace just one tooth, an implant-supported crown may be your best option. This restoration is a high-quality artificial tooth that we cement onto your implant. Dr. Aristodemo can restore your smile with implant crowns, allowing you to talk and chew normally—two common tooth loss problems.
• Bridge: A bridge is a row of artificial teeth that fill in a line of missing teeth. This restoration acts like its namesake and forms a bridge between healthy natural teeth or dental implants. Implant-supported bridges, however, provide a more secure option to complete your smile.
• Denture: Dentures replace a complete set of teeth. Our cutting-edge implant dentures are great for those who want to restore their entire smile but feel discouraged by the limitations of traditional dentures. Traditional dentures can be bulky and a hassle, but implant dentures offer a stable and seamless smile! An implant dentist specializes in placing these implant dentures professionally and with care.

Don’t Let Dental Anxiety Rule Your Life: Contact Dr. Aristodemo Today!

Regular dental checkups and promptly replacing missing teeth are crucial for maintaining your oral and overall health. Missing teeth can lead to issues like bone loss, shifting teeth, and difficulties with eating and speaking. An implant dentist like Dr. Aristodemo is trained to not only provide expert care but also to ease any dental anxiety you may have, ensuring you feel comfortable and informed every step of the way!

Contact us today to schedule a free mini dental implant consultation and learn how dental implants can restore your confident smile!

Are you curious about what other services an implant dentist can provide? Follow us on Facebook to learn more!

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Fortunately, just as you can tighten a guitar string to refine its sound, we can stabilize loose dentures to improve your oral function. At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, we offer dental implant solutions to provide a more secure fit and a better overall denture experience.

The Causes and Consequences of Loose Dentures

Dentures can become loose over time for several reasons. One of the primary causes is bone loss, which naturally occurs after teeth are lost. When teeth are missing, the jawbone no longer receives the stimulation needed to maintain its density, causing it to shrink or resorb. This bone loss reduces the support for dentures, leading to a poor fit. Additionally, gum tissue shrinking or dentures wearing down can also contribute to loosening. Factors like frequent removal, improper cleaning, and general wear and tear over time may also accelerate the issue.

Loose dentures, especially lower ones, can lead to painful ulcers and sores as they rub against the gums. Beyond discomfort, they can make it difficult to chew properly, cause speech problems, and lead to embarrassing situations if the dentures shift or slip while talking or eating. Over time, the poor fit may worsen bone loss, further complicating the issue​​.

When your denture no longer fits properly, daily activities become challenging, leading you to look for solutions.

Traditional Fixes for Loose Dentures

People have worn dentures for thousands of years, so it’s no surprise that certain fixes have become popular for stabilizing loose prosthetics. Today’s denture wearers often apply adhesives to keep their dentures in place or have their dentures relined or rebased to restore fit. However, these temporary fixes mask underlying issues that lead to ill-fitting dentures, such as continuous changes in the jawbone.

Denture Adhesive

Many denture wearers turn to adhesives for a quick fix when their dentures loosen. It’s common to see patients asking for tips and tricks in social media groups and forums to figure out how to get adhesives to stick better or last longer. Unfortunately, many feel forced to rely on these short-term solutions while the real issue—a poor fit—goes unaddressed.

While adhesives might seem like an easy answer, they come with several downsides. First, they can be incredibly messy and difficult to remove, leaving a sticky residue that clings to your dentures. Beyond the hassle of cleanup, many adhesives have a chalky, metallic taste that can make meals less enjoyable. Additionally, some adhesives contain zinc to improve adhesion, but excessive use of these products can lead to zinc toxicity. While the body needs small amounts of zinc, overuse can cause nerve damage, stomach problems, and other health issues.

The long-term use of adhesives can also cause dependency. Instead of seeking a permanent solution, many patients fall into the cycle of constantly reapplying adhesive to compensate for their ill-fitting dentures. Unfortunately, loose dentures can speed up bone loss in the jaw. The uneven pressure they place on the gums and jawbone often leads to discomfort, sore spots, and tissue damage. As the dentures continue to shift, this pressure worsens bone deterioration, making the jaw less stable and future treatments, like dental implants, more difficult.

Denture Reline or Rebase

When dentures become loose, a common solution is to either reline or rebase them. A denture reline involves adding material to the underside of the denture to improve its fit against your gums. A rebase replaces the entire base of the denture, keeping the original teeth. Both methods can help stabilize your denture, but they aren’t long-term fixes.

A major limitation is that dental insurance often restricts how frequently you can get a reline or rebase. For example, some plans allow only one procedure every five years, yet relines are often needed every one to two years—and sometimes more frequently. This can lead to significant out-of-pocket costs and inconvenience, as frequent adjustments disrupt daily life.

Unfortunately, adjustments are an inevitable part of life with traditional dentures because bone and gum changes over time continually affect the fit. Some individuals may even try to reline or rebase their dentures at home, but this can cause improper fit, damage the dentures, and lead to additional oral health problems.

Soft relines are a widely used solution to ill-fitting dentures because they can make them more comfortable and stable. However, they can lose adhesion over time and may harbor bacteria, increasing the risk of infection.

While relines and rebases offer temporary relief, they cannot stop the ongoing bone loss or discomfort caused by loose dentures.

Mini Dental Implants: The Permanent Solution for Denture Stability

So, what solution can prevent bone loss, make dentures more comfortable, and keep them from becoming loose? Implant dentures!

Mini dental implants are particularly valuable for those with loose dentures and bone loss. Because mini implants are about half the width of conventional dental implants, we can place them in patients with less bone. If you were previously told you weren’t a good candidate for traditional implants, you may be eligible for mini implants instead.

Mini implant stabilized dentures are a much more permanent solution to loose dentures. That’s because we place the implants into the jawbone, where they integrate with the bone tissue. This process of osseointegration creates a firm and long-lasting foundation, allowing us to securely anchor your dentures. It also has long-term benefits for your jaw health. As artificial tooth roots, the implants provide essential stimulation to the jawbone, keeping it healthy and preventing bone loss.

When you choose mini implant dentures, we’ll place the mini implants strategically throughout your jawbone to provide robust support for the prosthetic teeth. Because the procedure is minimally invasive, you can look forward to a faster recovery, quicker results, and a less costly treatment than conventional implant dentures.

The result? More stable and comfortable dentures that allow you to eat your favorite foods and speak with confidence—without messy adhesives or frequent adjustments! Plus, because the implants are embedded in the jawbone and provide exceptional support, you can expect your implant dentures to last for many years.

Stabilize Your Dentures at Happy Smiles Family Dentistry!

Loose dentures can cause discomfort, frustration, and a decline in your quality of life, but there are solutions that offer lasting relief. While temporary fixes like adhesives, relines, and rebases may provide short-term stability, they can’t prevent the bone loss that causes dentures to loosen over time. Mini dental implants, on the other hand, offer a permanent solution by securely anchoring your dentures and protecting your jawbone health.

If you’re tired of dealing with loose dentures, we invite you to schedule a free implant consultation at Happy Smiles Family Dentistry to learn more about how mini implants can transform your denture experience!

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Common Dental Emergencies

Dental emergencies encompass a range of issues that require immediate attention. These are common emergency scenarios we see often:

• Severe toothaches, often a sign of infection or decay, can cause unbearable pain.
• Knocked-out teeth demand swift action, as reinsertion within an hour can save the tooth.
• Badly cracked, chipped, or broken teeth, especially when painful or sharp, need prompt care to prevent further damage.
• Loose or displaced fillings and crowns expose sensitive areas, necessitating quick repair.
• Abscesses, characterized by swelling and acute pain, pose serious health risks if left untreated.
• Deep tissue injuries, such as cuts to the tongue or inside of the cheek, may require immediate treatment to control bleeding and prevent infection.

Understanding what constitutes an emergency can empower you to seek urgent dental care.

The Importance of Prompt Treatment

Timely intervention in dental emergencies is crucial. Delaying treatment can escalate pain, increase the risk of infection, and potentially cause irreversible damage. Swift action often results in more favorable outcomes, preserving dental health and minimizing long-term complications.

Seeking urgent dental care can also reduce overall treatment costs by addressing issues before they worsen. In cases of dental trauma, such as knocked-out teeth, prompt action significantly improves the chances of saving the tooth. Finally, quick resolution of dental emergencies helps patients return to normal daily activities sooner, minimizing disruption to work or personal life.

Here are some of the most common treatments we perform when you have an emergency:

• Tooth extractions: We may need to remove severely damaged or decayed teeth to alleviate pain and prevent complications.
• Dental fillings or repairs: We can treat painful cavities, replace fillings, and repair chipped teeth to restore function.
• Root canal therapy: A root canal can save an infected tooth and prevent bacteria from spreading.
• Treatment for dental infections: We can drain abscesses and prescribe antibiotics to manage infections.
• Temporary restorations: Temporary restorations like crowns can protect damaged teeth until a permanent solution is available.

Remember, when it comes to urgent dental care, time is of the essence!

Urgent Dental Care When You Need It

Dental emergencies don’t adhere to a 9-to-5 schedule. Expanding access to care is crucial for managing urgent dental issues that arise outside regular business hours. At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, we recognize this need, which is why we offer extended hours—staying open until 7 PM on Wednesdays and Thursdays and opening as early as 6:30 AM on Thursdays and Fridays. This flexibility allows patients to seek professional care when unexpected dental problems occur in the evening.

Choosing the Right Urgent Dental Care Provider

“Happy Smiles to my rescue on short notice” – C.U., Happy Smiles Family Dentistry patient

At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, we understand the importance of choosing the right provider when faced with a dental emergency. Our practice has a proven track record of successfully managing urgent cases, with a reputation for high-quality care. We prioritize accessibility, offering extended hours and the ability to accommodate emergency appointments, ensuring we’re available when you need us most!

We offer a wide range of services and comprehensive care for various dental emergencies. Plus, our use of modern technology and advanced techniques helps enhance treatment outcomes.

At Happy Smiles, you can count on prompt attention, expert care, and a patient-focused approach to any dental emergency.

Happy Smiles Family Dentistry: Your Emergency Dentistry Partner

In our fast-paced world, where we expect instant solutions, it’s reassuring to know that professional help for dental emergencies is readily available. At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, we understand the urgency of dental pain and emergencies and are committed to providing prompt, compassionate care. Whether you’re dealing with a severe toothache, a broken tooth, or any other urgent dental issue, our goal is to get you back to feeling your best!

If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, please call us as soon as possible so we can provide the care you need.

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What Are Snap-In Dentures?

Picture your life before you were missing teeth: you ate your favorite foods, spoke confidently, and smiled without hesitation. If you think those days are behind you, it’s time to reconsider. Snap-in dentures, which we also refer to as snap-on dentures or implant overdentures, can make this possible again! Designed for enhanced security, these revolutionary dentures offer an effective solution for replacing a complete arch of missing teeth.

The Role of Dental Implants

Traditional dentures have long been a go-to option for severe tooth loss. However, they come with many drawbacks. Fortunately, implant dentures resolve these issues, providing better outcomes for our patients. At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, we offer mini dental implants, a sleeker and more refined dental implant technology. When you opt for snap-in dentures, Dr. Aristodemo will place 4-8 mini dental implants in your jaw to form the foundation for the prosthetic. The false teeth are made to snap firmly onto the implants. While you can remove them for cleaning and maintenance, they’ll feel secure whenever you wear them.

Here’s what you can look forward to when you upgrade to implant dentures:

• Restored chewing power: With dental implants, you can once again enjoy all the foods you love, helping you to maintain a more nutritious diet.
• Enhanced speech: Missing teeth can make it difficult to speak clearly. With snap-in dentures, this is a thing of the past. Because dental implants stabilize the dentures, you can articulate more confidently. No more slips or lisps!
• Better bone health: As artificial tooth roots, dental implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing the bone deterioration that comes with tooth loss. As a result, implant dentures can maintain your jaw strength and preserve your facial structure.
• Improved comfort: Snap-in dentures fit securely onto implants, eliminating the discomfort and irritation often caused by traditional, loose dentures. With a snug fit, you’ll feel more comfortable throughout the day.
• Increased self-confidence: With stable, natural-looking dentures, you can smile, laugh, and speak without worrying about your teeth shifting or falling out. Snap-in dentures restore not only your smile but also your confidence in social situations.

Snap-In Dentures vs. Traditional Dentures

Among the various denture options, snap-in dentures provide a more stable and durable alternative compared to traditional dentures. Let’s take a closer look at how they differ:

• Size: Conventional dentures look and feel bulky because of their pink base, which helps provide support at the expense of comfort. On the other hand, snap-in dentures significantly reduce the pink acrylic because it’s not needed to retain the denture. As a result, you can taste your food better and eat and speak with greater comfort.
• Design: Because they rest on the gums and rely on suction, traditional dentures feel unstable, like they are floating in your mouth. They may slip out of position when you speak, eat, cough, or laugh. However, snap-in dentures offer a secure fit because they firmly connect to the implants.
• Durability: Patients tend to remove traditional dentures often, increasing the possibility of loss or damage. Snap-in dentures, however, stay securely in place and are less likely to be misplaced or broken, providing a more durable, long-term solution.
• Retention: Say goodbye to messy, metallic-tasting adhesives! Snap-in dentures connect firmly to mini dental implants without additional adhesives.

If you’re looking for dentures that closely mimic the feel and function of natural teeth, snap-in dentures may be right for you!

Snap-In Dentures Insurance and Financing

The cost of implant dentures can be a concern for our patients. At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, we don’t want financial stress to prevent you from accessing high-quality dental care. In addition to determining your dental insurance coverage and filing a claim on your behalf, we work with multiple finance partners to ensure there’s a payment plan that works for you. No matter your financial situation, we’ll help you find a solution that fits your budget.

Take the First Step Toward a Secure Smile

Don’t let the stress and embarrassment of missing teeth keep you from living a fulfilling life. At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, we are eager to show you the transformative power of today’s modern denture solutions.

Contact us today to schedule a free implant consultation and learn how snap-in dentures can change your life. The first step toward a life-changing smile is just a “snap” away!

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We understand how challenging and disheartening it can be to live with missing teeth, especially when it begins to impact your life in such significant ways. It’s important to know that you’re not alone in this. Many people face similar struggles, and there are reliable solutions that can help you regain your confidence and improve your quality of life.

Patients often visit us believing they are not good candidates for dental implants. Fortunately, dental implants aren’t “one size fits all.” There are many variations that allow us to tailor our solutions to each patient’s unique needs. In fact, with narrow-diameter implants like mini dental implants, more patients than ever before are eligible for advanced tooth replacement options.

Mini Implants: A Solution for Patients With Bone Loss

At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, we proudly offer mini dental implants, a remarkable innovation in implant dentistry that may provide exactly what you’re looking for. These slim implants require much less jawbone than a conventional implant because they are less than 3 millimeters wide. Unlike larger conventional implants, they don’t require us to perform an implant osteotomy to remove a portion of your jawbone. Instead, we make a small pilot hole through the gums and screw the implant into the jaw.

Mini implants are a valuable tool for patients like you who have experienced bone loss in their jaws. Their narrow design allows us to place them successfully in bone that has lost volume or density. Plus, once the implants are in place, they can prevent further bone deterioration. Because implants are prosthetic tooth roots, they stimulate the bone when you bite and chew, keeping it healthy and strong.

While your jawbone condition may prevent you from qualifying for conventional dental implants, you could be a good candidate for mini implants!

Additionally, most patients don’t need a bone graft to prepare for mini implants. This is a substantial advantage for those who are unable to undergo invasive oral surgery or simply want a quicker and less invasive path to a confident smile.

The Many Benefits of Mini Implants

Not only do mini implants allow more patients to access high-quality dental care, but they also offer unique advantages due to their size and design.

• Less invasive: Using Dr. Todd Shatkin‘s patented minimally invasive technique, we can typically place mini implants in just one visit.
• Less discomfort: Because of their less invasive procedure, you can expect much less bleeding and discomfort.
• Less expensive: Mini implants tend to cut treatment costs significantly compared to conventional implants.
• Less healing time: Less disruption to the gum and bone tissues means quicker healing.
• Less time spent at the dentist: A mini implant’s one-piece structure and sleek design streamline the procedure, reducing the number of appointments needed for new teeth.

How We Can Replace Your Missing Teeth With Mini Implants

You mentioned preferring dental implants over a partial denture, which suggests you’re missing one or more teeth, but not all of them. Mini dental implants can support individual dental crowns, a dental bridge, or even a combination of both. However, we’ll need to evaluate you in the office to determine the best approach based on your specific needs.

At your free consultation, we’ll take a 3D scan of your mouth and jaw to assess the quality and quantity of the bone available. We’ll also discuss your concerns and goals, review your insurance plan to maximize your coverage, and explain our flexible financing options. This conversation and evaluation allow us to design your personalized treatment plan and set you on the path to a confident smile.

Missing Teeth? Schedule a Free Consultation With Dr. Aristodemo

We understand that gaps in your teeth can make you hesitate to smile and even make eating and maintaining a balanced diet difficult. Mini implants offer a reliable solution by filling those gaps and restoring your ability to eat comfortably and smile confidently. Although conventional dental implants may not have been a good fit for you, we’d love to see if mini implants are a better option.

We invite you to schedule a free consultation today to explore how mini implants can improve your quality of life!

The post Missing Teeth Q&A: Who Qualifies for Mini Implants? appeared first on Happy Smiles Family Dentistry & Mini Dental Implants.

We’d argue that as long as you were deciding upon the type of full denture based on your needs, preferences, lifestyle, and budget, then of course it’s your smile! To make an informed decision, you need to know the type of full dentures available and how they affect your oral health, daily routine, and appearance.

Full Denture Options

Selecting the appropriate type of full dentures is critical for individuals who have experienced significant tooth loss. Full dentures are artificial replacements for all your teeth in either the upper or lower jaw, providing a solution to improve oral function and aesthetics.

Traditional Full Dentures

This tried-and-true denture option has been widely used for decades and recognized for restoring some functionality and aesthetics. Their pink acrylic base sits atop the gums and is removable for easy cleaning and maintenance. We customize traditional dentures for each individual, but over time, you’ll need to bring them in for relining to maintain their fit. This is because they do nothing to replace your missing tooth roots and prevent the jawbone deterioration that comes with tooth loss, so as your jawbone changes shape, they’ll begin to move around in your mouth.

Implant-Supported Dentures

Representing a significant advancement in denture technology, we anchor implant dentures directly onto dental implants or mini dental implants that we place into the jawbone. This option offers increased stability, eliminating the likelihood of the dentures slipping or shifting while in use. Furthermore, the implants act as artificial tooth roots, stimulating the jawbone to prevent deterioration. There are several varieties of implant dentures, depending on your desired levels of removability and functionality.

• Snap-on dentures: Do you want dentures that are more stable and functional while still being removable? Snap-on dentures, sometimes called overdentures, connect to 4-8 mini implants during the day and are removable at night for cleaning. Their acrylic base is smaller than traditional dentures and doesn’t cover the roof of your mouth, giving you a more comfortable fit and allowing you to taste food more completely.
• Semi-removable roundhouse bridge: A roundhouse bridge is not like a traditional bridge—it’s designed to replace all your teeth. A roundhouse also eliminates the pink acrylic base, giving them a more natural look and feel. They’re made from zirconia, a material ten times stronger than enamel, so they’ll last a lifetime with proper care. This bridge is “semi-removable” because only a dentist like Dr. Aristodemo will remove it for professional cleaning. You might hear this option referred to as Fix-on-Six®, as it uses 6-10 mini implants for improved stability.
• Non-removable roundhouse bridge: Also known as permanent dentures, this zirconia roundhouse provides the highest levels of stability and functionality. We cement the denture to 10-12 mini implants and do not remove it, making this the closest option to your original teeth we can offer.

Making an Informed Decision

Selecting the right type of dentures involves considering several factors, including:

• Stability and fit: Implant-supported dentures provide a more secure fit, minimizing movement and improving comfort.
• Lifestyle considerations: Traditional dentures require daily maintenance and limit what you can eat. Implant dentures are more of a “set it and forget it” way to replace your teeth.
• Oral health impacts: Implant-supported dentures can preserve jawbone health by providing stimulation similar to natural tooth roots.

How Much Do Full Dentures Cost?

The cost of full dentures varies depending on the type chosen. Traditional full dentures are generally more affordable upfront but require adjustments or replacements over time. Implant-supported dentures offer greater durability and less maintenance and can be a more cost-effective solution in the long term. When you come for a free consultation, we can perform an examination, take X-rays, and customize a treatment plan to give you a better idea of the final cost. We’ll also review your insurance coverage and explain your financing options through our outside lending partners.

Schedule a Consultation for Full Dentures Today

Full dentures offer a viable solution for those looking to replace all their teeth, with options ranging from traditional to implant-supported dentures. Each option presents its own benefits and considerations, particularly regarding stability, oral health impacts, and cost. Call Happy Smiles Family Dentistry today to schedule your free consultation and learn more about the type of full denture that’s right for you.

Follow us on Facebook to learn more about full dentures and the benefits of stabilizing your teeth with mini dental implants.

The post Full Dentures: Options for a Complete Smile Restoration appeared first on Happy Smiles Family Dentistry & Mini Dental Implants.

How Does Implant Dentistry Work?

Implant dentistry involves using dental implants to replace missing teeth or stabilize loose dentures. Since the mid-20th century, dental implants have transformed how dentists have approached missing teeth. These titanium posts act as prosthetic roots for artificial teeth, offering stability that mimics your natural teeth. Whether you’re missing one tooth or several, implant dentistry can bring back the full function and aesthetic of your smile.

The secret behind implant dentistry lies in the medical-grade titanium used to create the implants. This material is also used in many other medical prosthetics, like hip replacements. Its compatibility with the human body allows dental implants to reliably fuse with the jawbone, creating a sturdy base for implant-supported restorations, such as crowns, bridges, and dentures.

Why Choose Implant Dentistry?

Choosing implant dentistry is opting for a solution that feels and functions like your natural teeth. It stands out over other, more traditional tooth replacement methods for several reasons:

• Stability and comfort: Dental implants are directly anchored to your jaw, eliminating the discomfort and insecurity of traditional removable dentures. They’re a permanent fixture that won’t slip or move, offering peace of mind alongside better functionality and comfort.
• Natural look and feel: Designed to blend with your existing teeth, dental implants support restorations that look, feel, and function just like natural teeth. You can enjoy your favorite foods and smile confidently, knowing your dental work is virtually undetectable.
• Long-term oral health: Unlike traditional bridges and dentures, implant dentistry preserves and stimulates your jawbone, preventing the deterioration that follows tooth loss. This maintains your facial structure and promotes better overall oral health.

Mini Dental Implants Provide Even More Benefits

Like most technologies that have been around for over 50 years, implant dentistry has evolved. One of the most important innovations has been mini dental implants. As their name suggests, these are smaller, sleeker versions of traditional dental implants. Their small size allows for plenty of benefits in implant dentistry, including:

• Minimally invasive placement: We can place mini implants quickly and with minimal discomfort, using only a local anesthetic and a tiny pilot hole. Larger implants require incisions, stitches, and sometimes bone grafts. This means mini implants also cause less soreness and have a quicker immediate recovery period.
• Faster healing time: Traditional implants need many months to fully heal, while mini implants can fuse with your jawbone in just a few weeks. You’ll be able to use and enjoy your new teeth much faster!
• Increased versatility: Thanks to their small size, we can place more mini implants in a given area, providing your dental prosthetic with increased stability and reliability. Their thin diameter also makes them perfect for patients with smaller jawbones.
• More affordable options: Mini implants are less expensive than conventional implants, thanks in part to simpler placement and healing and fewer required appointments.

How Much Does Implant Dentistry Cost?

Despite the lower cost of mini implants, we know the price of dental care is always a concern. Our practice believes that everyone deserves affordable access to high-quality dental treatment. That’s why our staff will help you navigate your insurance and financing options so you can make an informed decision. At your free consultation, we’ll review your insurance plan to get the most out of your coverage. We also partner with reputable outside financing companies to help make treatment affordable for any budget.

Schedule Your Free Consultation Today

Dr. Aristodemo and our Happy Smiles Family Dentistry team want to see you achieve the smile of your dreams through implant dentistry. We understand the frustrations of missing teeth and the desire for a natural and lasting solution. That’s why we invite you to schedule a free implant consultation with us. Together, we can explore how implant dentistry can transform your smile and life.

The post Implant Dentistry Provides A Strong Foundation for Your Smile appeared first on Happy Smiles Family Dentistry & Mini Dental Implants.

The Limitations of Traditional Dentures

Many old-fashioned denture wearers face challenges. While traditional dentures can restore some of the mouth’s basic function and aesthetics, they often lack a secure fit, among other issues.

Over time, the once-snug fit of a conventional denture will begin to change. This stems from the natural process of jawbone deterioration after tooth loss, a problem traditional dentures can’t prevent. These loose dentures will lead to soreness and discomfort and will negatively affect your eating and speaking abilities. Denture wearers live with a constant fear of the prosthetic “floating” out of place or even falling out of their mouth!

What Are Implant Dentures?

Implant dentures are an innovative solution to the pitfalls of traditional dentures. By anchoring to the jawbone with titanium screws called dental implants, these prosthetics offer unparalleled stability and significantly improved functionality. This connection ensures that the dentures do not shift or slip, giving patients confidence in their smiles.

Perhaps most importantly, implant dentures replace missing tooth roots, preventing the jawbone deterioration that comes with missing teeth. This keeps your bone structure intact and preserves facial appearance.

At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, we want to offer the most modern, efficient denture solutions possible. That’s why we secure our dentures with mini dental implants, a smaller, less invasive, but equally reliable implant. We can place these slim titanium posts in just one appointment without incisions, stitches, or bone grafts. Their slim profile allows for much faster healing and fewer follow-up appointments than traditional implants, and this efficiency helps make them an affordable option.

Why Opt for Affordable Implant Dentures?

The reasons extend beyond stability and jawbone preservation:

• Enhanced comfort and confidence: Securely fixed dentures mean you can talk, laugh, and eat without worry. You won’t experience soreness or irritation from loose dentures, and you can eat all your favorite foods again.
• More natural look and feel: Traditional dentures’ bulky pink base looks awkward, and the large palate area prevents you from fully tasting your food. Implant dentures significantly reduce—or eliminate—this base, giving you a much better aesthetic and restoring your full tasting ability.
• Cost-effectiveness: Implant dentures will never need to be relined or adjusted and can last a lifetime if properly taken care of. This makes them an excellent long-term investment in your oral health and functionality, especially with the reduced cost of mini implants.

Types of Implant Dentures

Not all implant dentures are created equal, and they have different levels of removability and functionality:

• Snap-in dentures: Known for their ease of use, these overdentures snap onto 4-8 mini implants, offering stability and convenience. They are an excellent entry point for those seeking affordable implant dentures. In certain cases, we can turn an existing denture into a snap-in denture if the prosthetic meets the requirements.
• Semi-removable and non-removable bridges: For those desiring a more permanent solution, these roundhouse zirconia bridges provide durability and a natural appearance without the need for nightly removal.

How Much Do Affordable Dental Implants Cost?

The perceived cost is one of the most significant barriers to choosing implant dentures. However, “affordable implant dentures” isn’t just a marketing term at our practice. For starters, using mini dental implants significantly reduces the implant cost. When you come in for your free consultation, our staff will work with your insurance company to ensure you get all the benefits and reimbursements you’re entitled to. We also offer outside financing with affordable monthly payment plans to help make implant dentures affordable to all budgets.

Schedule Your Consultation

Are you ready to explore how affordable implant dentures can transform your smile and life? Contact us at Happy Smiles Family Dentistry in Schaumburg, IL, to schedule your free consultation. Our team, led by Dr. Aristodemo, is here to guide you through every step of the process, from understanding your financial options to enjoying the unparalleled stability and comfort of your new implant dentures.

The post Affordable Implant Dentures: A Complete Guide for Cost-Conscious Patients appeared first on Happy Smiles Family Dentistry & Mini Dental Implants.

Mini Dental Implants Are Restoring Teeth in Schaumburg

For many patients, the journey to addressing missing teeth can seem full of daunting procedures and financial uncertainties. Enter mini dental implants, an innovative solution that has made tooth replacement in Schaumburg faster, more reliable, and more affordable. These tiny but powerful implants are less than 3 mm wide, less than half the size of their traditional counterparts, making them a much less intimidating option for many. They can replace a single tooth with a crown, a row of teeth with a bridge, or a full set with implant dentures. Dr. Aristodemo at Happy Smiles Family Dentistry has been leading the way in using these implants, offering patients a comfortable, quick, and efficient restoration process.

The Benefits of Mini Dental Implants

Mini dental implants are more than just a slimmed-down version of a conventional implant. Their design and functionality bring a host of advantages:

• Minimally invasive: Their small size allows for a simpler placement procedure without incisions, stitches, or bone grafts. All we need is a tiny pilot hole, which we create quickly and painlessly thanks to Dr. Aristodemo’s experience and the help of local anesthetic.
• Quick recovery: The streamlined process ensures less discomfort afterward, letting patients resume their daily activities with minimal downtime. Most patients return to their normal routine within 24-28 hours.
• Immediate results: We can often attach temporary restorations on the same day, offering instant aesthetic and functional benefits.
• Faster osseointegration: Your implant needs time to fuse with the jawbone, a process called osseointegration. With traditional implants, this can take anywhere from three months up to a year, but mini implants only need about three weeks to complete the process.
• Cost-effective: Because they take less time to place and heal, mini implants also require fewer appointments. This helps make them much more affordable than larger implants.

Why Bother Replacing Missing Teeth?

Missing teeth significantly impact your daily life, from dietary restrictions to social insecurities. They can make certain foods difficult or impossible to eat, change your speech patterns and sounds, and will certainly affect your smile and appearance.

However, the real cost is how they affect your long-term oral health. Empty spaces in your mouth allow the remaining teeth to move and shift, and an empty tooth socket can be a breeding ground for bacteria. Most importantly, when you lose your tooth, you also lose the root that connects it to your jawbone. Without that constant stimulation from the root, your jawbone will quickly deteriorate. This will change the shape of your face, causing it to sag. Replacing your teeth with mini implants will solve all these problems, from the daily annoyances to your total oral health.

How Much Do Mini Dental Implants in Schaumburg Cost?

We understand that financial considerations play a crucial role in the decision-making process for dental care. That’s why we focus on making mini dental implants accessible and affordable. Our experienced staff will help you navigate your insurance to get the most out of your coverage. Our in-house discount plan offers lower prices on most dental services if you don’t have insurance. By collaborating with financing companies, we strive to help our patients receive the care they need while providing affordable monthly payment plans that fit your budget.

Ready To Transform Your Smile?

If missing teeth have been a source of discomfort or embarrassment, it’s time to explore the transformative world of mini dental implants. Dr. Aristodemo and the dedicated team at Happy Smiles Family Dentistry are here to guide you through the process and ensure you receive the highest standard of care. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how mini dental implants can offer a swift, affordable, and enduring solution to restore your smile and confidence.

The post In Schaumburg, Mini Dental Implants Provide Functional and Aesthetic Benefits appeared first on Happy Smiles Family Dentistry & Mini Dental Implants.

The Problems With Missing Teeth

Missing a tooth or two might not seem like a big deal to some, but a gap in your smile impacts everything from daily activities to long-term oral health. Without a full set of teeth, eating crunchy, chewy, or tough foods becomes challenging, if not impossible. A missing tooth can also cause lisps or fuzziness in your speech, making communication harder.

However, the most significant long-term issue is the loss of the tooth root. The root stimulates the jawbone, keeping it strong. Without this stimulation, your jawbone begins to deteriorate and lose its functionality. A receding jawbone can also alter your facial structure and make you look older than you are.

Traditional tooth replacement solutions, like old-fashioned dentures or bridges, will replace your tooth and restore some eating and speaking functionality. However, they cannot stop bone resorption, which only worsens over time. To solve this problem, you need something that will replace the missing tooth root: something like mini dental implants.

Why Choose Mini Implants?

Mini dental implants represent a significant leap forward, providing a secure foundation for dental restorations. Unlike larger conventional implants, which average 5 mm wide, mini dental implants are less than 3 mm in diameter. This narrow width makes them an ideal solution for patients with limited bone density or those seeking a less invasive option.

Their smaller size does not compromise their effectiveness—mini dental implants are just as reliable as traditional implants. Like conventional implants, mini implants can also support various dental prosthetics and prevent jawbone deterioration.

Some additional benefits of choosing mini dental implants are:

• Minimally invasive procedure: Placing mini implants requires no incisions or stitches, allowing for a quicker and more comfortable procedure.
• Immediate stability: Mini dental implants are considered “immediate loading implants,” which means that they are stable as soon as Dr. Aristodemo secures them in the jawbone. This feature allows you to get new teeth in a day!
• Faster results: Mini implants fuse with the jawbone in weeks rather than months, significantly reducing the waiting time for a final restoration.
• Enhanced stability: They provide a secure base for full-arch prosthetics, eliminating the worry of slipping or floating dentures.
• Cost-effectiveness: Mini implants are more affordable than conventional implants, so they’re a viable option for a wider range of patients.

The “Teeth in a Day” Process

It’s important to replace missing teeth as quickly as possible to prevent bone loss. As you consider your options, you may be intrigued by the “teeth in a day” process.

Here’s what you can expect when you choose mini dental implants from Happy Smiles Family Dentistry:

1. Consultation: At your free implant consultation, we’ll determine if mini dental implants are right for you. We’ll also design your personalized treatment plan and discuss insurance and financing options.
2. Implant placement and temporary restoration: When you come in for your procedure, we’ll first administer local anesthesia to ensure you are comfortable. Then, Dr. Aristodemo will create small pilot holes in your gums for each mini implant. She’ll screw in the implants, take impressions, and secure a temporary restoration, ensuring you never go without teeth. You’ll leave our office with a complete and functional smile.
3. Final restoration fabrication and placement: The dental lab will use the impressions to customize your final restoration, which typically takes a couple of weeks. During this time, your implants will heal and settle. At your final fitting, Dr. Aristodemo will remove your temporary teeth and replace them with your custom restoration!

While the entire process generally takes more than one visit, the process is much faster with mini dental implants.

Transform Your Smile With “Teeth in a Day”

If you’re tired of the limitations imposed by traditional dentures or are seeking a more stable and natural-looking solution to tooth loss, mini dental implants may be the answer. These innovative implants provide a quick, effective, and affordable dental solution.

Contact Happy Smiles Family Dentistry in Schaumburg, IL, to schedule your free implant consultation. With our expertise, commitment to affordability, and personalized care, we can help you achieve a beautiful and secure smile.

The post New Teeth in a Day? Mini Implants Provide Fast, Effective Results appeared first on Happy Smiles Family Dentistry & Mini Dental Implants.

Dental implants are titanium posts inserted into the jawbone. They offer a firm foundation for restorations like crowns, bridges, and dentures. Partial dentures, in contrast, clip to remaining teeth. Both are options for replacing missing teeth, but only an implant-supported bridge gives you the stability, reliability, and functionality of dental implants.

Understanding Partial Dentures

Partial dentures can replace one or more missing teeth by attaching to your remaining natural teeth with metal or acrylic clasps. Unlike full dentures, which replace an entire arch of teeth, partial dentures are ideal for individuals who still retain some healthy teeth. We customize them to fit your mouth and match your existing teeth, providing both functional and aesthetic benefits.

Like many older tooth replacement solutions, partial dentures come with certain challenges. A partial denture is removable, and you need to clean it nightly. Some see this as a convenience, others as a daily chore. While they restore some eating and speaking functionality, they can’t match your original teeth. This is largely due to their limited stability, reduced biting force, and sensory differences.

A partial denture also does nothing to address the issue of tooth loss that comes with missing teeth. When you lose a tooth, the jawbone is no longer stimulated by the roots. As a result, it begins to deteriorate. Eventually, this leads to functional problems and changes in your facial structure that make you look older than you are.

Implant Bridges: The Partial Dentures Alternative

If the drawbacks of partial dentures sound like dealbreakers, then an implant-supported bridge may be more what you’re looking for. An implant bridge is different because it’s supported from below by dental implants. These titanium screws go directly into the jawbone and provide much stronger support for replacement teeth. The connection to the jawbone means an implant bridge functions like your natural teeth, offering better functionality than partial dentures.

The implant also replaces your missing tooth root and stimulates the jawbone to prevent bone loss. It keeps your facial structure intact, and the firm connection to the jaw helps your teeth look and feel more natural. Finally, it prevents your other teeth from shifting, keeping your smile and bite aligned while offering a more secure tooth replacement solution.

The Mini Dental Implant Advantage

Traditional dental implants are great for stabilizing dental restorations but have a few downsides. They require an invasive placement procedure, months of healing times, and potentially a bone graft before we can even begin. To solve those problems, Dr. Aristodemo offers mini dental implants. These smaller, more modern implants provide the same strength and reliability as their larger predecessors at a fraction of the size.

Mini implants are approximately the width of a toothpick. This means we can place them by creating a tiny pilot hole through the gums. No incisions or stitches are needed! Their minimal invasiveness makes mini implants a wise choice for patients with dental anxiety or those looking for a more efficient tooth replacement avenue. While traditional implants take months to heal, mini implants fully fuse with your jawbone in just a few weeks.

Finally, because mini implants use a quicker, minimally invasive procedure that requires fewer visits to the dentist, they are also more affordable than traditional implants.

The Cost of Tooth Replacement

When choosing between tooth replacement options, it’s important to consider both the immediate and long-term costs. The cost of replacing missing teeth depends on the type of prosthetic, the complexity of the case, and whether additional procedures are required.

Our experienced team will work with your insurance company to ensure you’re maximizing your benefits. For those without insurance, we have an in-office savings program that offers discounts on most dental services. We also partner with financing companies that offer monthly payment plans, making tooth replacement accessible on any budget. Our team is here to help patients navigate these financial options to find a solution that meets their needs without causing undue stress.

Schedule a Consultation Today and Get Your Smile Back!

If you’re considering partial dentures or implant bridges as a solution for tooth loss, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with us. Dr. Aristodemo is here to guide you through the process, helping you achieve a restored smile with the comfort and confidence you deserve. Contact us today to learn how you can transform your oral health and quality of life with mini dental implants.

The post Partial Dentures or Implant Bridges? Understanding the Differences appeared first on Happy Smiles Family Dentistry & Mini Dental Implants.

Low Cost, Small Size Makes Mini Implants a Preferred Option

Mini dental implants are a modern, effective way to replace missing teeth. They can support a crown, bridge, or denture in a way that facilitates greater stability and functionality than traditional methods, like conventional bridges and dentures.

Mini implants are also an excellent alternative to conventional implants. At less than 3 mm wide, mini implants are much slimmer, allowing us to place them without cutting into the gum. This reduces discomfort and significantly shortens the healing process, allowing for much quicker improvements in oral function and aesthetics.

The unique features of mini implants make them a more cost-effective tooth replacement solution than conventional implants. In fact, the cost of mini implants is about half that of traditional implants, largely due to the simple and efficient placement procedure and the much shorter healing timeline. That means fewer visits to the dentist’s office and more money kept in your wallet. This affordability, combined with the benefits of improved oral health, function, and appearance, makes mini dental implants an attractive choice for many.

The Hidden Cost of Missing Teeth

Investing in mini dental implants not only enhances your smile in the short term but also benefits your long-term oral health. Did you know that when you lose your teeth, your jawbone begins to deteriorate? A major benefit of mini and traditional dental implants is their ability to prevent bone resorption and keep your facial structure intact. By stimulating the jawbone, these implants help maintain its health and integrity. This ensures that your facial structure remains supported and unchanged.

You won’t need to worry about developing the “saggy face” that comes with missing teeth if you replace them with mini implants. That’s beneficial for everyone, but some patients who have already experienced a degree of bone loss may not be suitable candidates for traditional implants without undergoing bone grafting procedures first. Mini implants’ smaller size makes them a viable option for these patients, making them more accessible than their larger predecessors.

The Mini Implant Process Keeps Costs Low

The process of receiving mini implants is remarkably streamlined. After a detailed consultation, patients undergo a minimally invasive procedure where Dr. Aristodemo carefully secures the implants in the jawbone. In many cases, we can attach a temporary restoration the same day, allowing patients to leave the office with a functional and improved smile after just one visit.

The recovery period is brief, with most patients experiencing minimal discomfort that quickly subsides. The implant takes a few weeks to fuse with your jawbone, and you’ll return to receive your final custom restoration. When compared to larger traditional implants, which have a much longer healing timeline and require additional follow-up visits, the mini implant process ends up being less expensive.

Why Choose Happy Smiles Family Dentistry?

At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, we specialize in using mini dental implants as part of our tooth replacement solutions. With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Amelia Aristodemo expertly creates personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs and goals.

Our practice also offers a free implant consultation to help patients better understand their treatment options. The consultation includes a thorough examination, discussion of available treatments, and transparent information about insurance coverage, financing options, and our in-house savings program. This ensures patients can make informed decisions about their care.

Call To Learn More About the Cost of Mini Implants

Don’t allow missing teeth to negatively affect your life anymore. If you’re considering dental restoration options, mini dental implants offer a blend of affordability, effectiveness, and convenience that traditional implants just can’t match.

Schedule a free implant consultation at Happy Smiles Family Dentistry to take the first step towards improved oral health. Discover how mini dental implants can offer a cost-effective, long-lasting solution to missing teeth, allowing you to smile, eat, and speak confidently again!

The post Mini Implants Cost Less Than Traditional Implants appeared first on Happy Smiles Family Dentistry & Mini Dental Implants.

The Trouble With Floating Dentures

Floating dentures, a term used to describe dentures that move or slip out of place, can have a significant negative impact on your quality of life. Traditional dentures rest on the gums and rely on suction or adhesive to stay in place. Over time, however, they can lose their fit due to changes in the jawbone’s shape, leading to discomfort and the risk of the dentures slipping or falling out unexpectedly. This movement of the prosthetic leads to embarrassment and can cause sores and irritation due to the changing fit.

This problem will only worsen as your jawbone continues to deteriorate and your denture suffers wear and tear. The only ways to solve this problem used to be getting a denture relined or constantly using adhesive, both of which can be frustrating and ineffective solutions. But now, thanks to the innovation of implant dentures, there’s a solution that secures your loose dentures and stops your jawbone from deteriorating any further.

Implant Dentures Can Replace Your Floating Denture

Implant dentures offer a groundbreaking solution to the problem of floating dentures. Unlike traditional dentures, we anchor implant dentures directly to the jawbone through small titanium screws called mini dental implants. Despite their small size, mini implants provide a strong and stable anchor point, ensuring the dentures remain firmly in place. Patients can enjoy their favorite foods, speak clearly, and perform daily activities without their dentures slipping out of place.

Choosing implant dentures comes with several benefits over traditional dentures:

• Enhanced stability and comfort: By directly anchoring your denture to the jawbone, we ensure that implant dentures never shift or slip.
• Preservation of jawbone: Mini dental implants stimulate the jawbone and prevent bone deterioration, which is commonly seen with traditional dentures.
• Improved oral health: With a more solid and comfortable connection to the gums, implant dentures reduce the risk of sores and infections.
• Natural appearance and function: Implant dentures significantly reduce and sometimes eliminate the bulky pink plastic base of traditional dentures. They’re designed to look and function like natural teeth while offering a more aesthetically pleasing and practical solution.

Types of Implant Dentures

There are different types of implant dentures available, catering to various needs and preferences:

• Snap-on dentures: Also known as implant-supported dentures, snap-on dentures attach to mini dental implants through special O-ring housings. They allow for easy removal for cleaning while offering improved stability over traditional dentures.
• Semi-removable and non-removable roundhouse bridges: For those seeking a more permanent solution, these options provide a more powerful fixed solution that closely mimics the look and feel of natural teeth. They use a greater number of mini implants for improved stability and durability.

How Much Does It Cost To Fix Floating Dentures?

One of the primary hurdles for many considering implant dentures is the cost. At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, we want all our patients to have access to the transformative procedures they need. At your free implant consultation, our experienced team will work with your insurance company to help you get the most out of your dental coverage. For those without insurance, we offer an in-office discount plan to ensure that financial constraints don’t prevent anyone from receiving the care they need. We also work with three lending companies to provide flexible payment plans, making this treatment accessible to a broader audience.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

If you’re sick of the frustration, embarrassment, and constant worry over floating dentures, it’s time to make a change. Contact Happy Smiles Family Dentistry in Schaumburg, IL, to schedule your free consultation today. Discover how implant dentures secured by mini dental implants can restore your smile, confidence, and quality of life.

The post Floating Dentures Can Be Secured With Mini Implants appeared first on Happy Smiles Family Dentistry & Mini Dental Implants.

Mini Dental Implants: Revolutionizing Dental Care

At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, we understand the impact missing teeth can have on your oral health and self-esteem. However, traditional dental implants, which most dentists have used to replace teeth for many years, require an invasive procedure. This has led to anxiety for many patients before and during the procedure. They also have lengthy healing times, which might be increased by the need for additional bone grafting procedures.

That’s why we’re proud to offer mini dental implants as a non-surgical, cost-effective solution for restoring smiles. Unlike the larger traditional implants, mini implants are less invasive, and we can place them in a matter of minutes. With a diameter under 3 mm, they’re suitable for a wider range of patients, including those with limited bone density.

The Advantages of Non-Surgical Dental Implants

Mini dental implants are smaller than conventional implants but also come with several benefits that make them an attractive option for those considering dental replacement:

• Minimally invasive procedure: Placing mini implants doesn’t require extensive surgery. Dr. Aristodemo skillfully drills a tiny pilot hole in the jaw, significantly reducing discomfort and recovery time.
• Less discomfort: Patients experience minimal post-procedure discomfort, with most reporting only mild soreness for a day or two afterward.
• Faster healing: Traditional implants can take 3-6 months to fuse fully with the jawbone, longer if a bone graft is needed. Mini implants will fuse in 3-4 weeks and be ready to support their final restoration.
• Fewer visits: Because of their simple placement and faster healing, mini implants require fewer visits to the office. They’re a more convenient option for those with a busy schedule or who are nervous about visiting the dentist in the first place.
• Affordability: The cost of mini dental implants is considerably lower than their traditional counterparts. This, combined with their smaller size, makes them a more accessible option for many patients.

The Mini Dental Implant Process

Choosing mini dental implants at Happy Smiles Family Dentistry involves several steps as we work to restore your smile. The process begins with a free implant consultation, where Dr. Aristodemo assesses your dental health, discusses your goals, and crafts a personalized treatment plan. You’ll also receive a CBCT scan to give us a 3D picture of your mouth to assist with implant placement. The placement procedure is swift, often taking as little as 15 minutes per implant. You’ll receive temporary restorations immediately after placement, ensuring every patient walks out the door with a new smile. Recovery is quick, with most patients resuming their daily activities almost immediately. Once your implants fully fuse with the jawbone, you’ll return to the office for your final custom restoration.

How Much Do Non-Surgical Dental Implants Cost?

The affordability of non-surgical dental implants is a significant consideration for many patients. By choosing mini implants, patients enjoy considerable savings thanks to fewer office visits and the simplicity of the placement procedure. At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, our staff will help you navigate your dental insurance to ensure you’re maximizing your coverage. We also offer an in-house discount plan for those without insurance to help our patients access the dental care they need without financial strain. And for any out-of-pocket expenses, we partner with three lending companies offering competitive plans that fit any budget.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Don’t let the opportunity to enhance your smile and improve your oral health pass you by. At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry in Schaumburg, IL, we can help you achieve a beautiful, functional smile with mini dental implants. Contact our office today to schedule your complimentary consultation to discuss the ways non-surgical dental implants can be a part of your tooth replacement plan. Your journey to a confident, radiant smile starts here.

The post Non-Surgical Dental Implants: Minimal Disruption, Maximum Results appeared first on Happy Smiles Family Dentistry & Mini Dental Implants.

Why Do Dentures Lose Their Fit?

The traditional dentures you see on your grandparent’s nightstand have difficulty maintaining their fit over time. This is largely due to our jawbone’s natural deterioration after tooth loss, which traditional dentures do nothing to prevent. Since conventional dentures sit on your gums for support, they lose their fit as bone loss increases. The prosthetic will start to move or “float,” causing discomfort, difficulty eating and speaking, and embarrassment in social situations.

There are three ways to fix this problem. One is to have a dentist reline your existing dentures. Another is to use gobs of messy adhesive to hold your dentures in place. Both solutions are temporary, cost extra money, and will test your patience over time. The third and most effective way is to secure your loose dentures with mini dental implants, affixing them to your jawbone and turning your old floating dentures into a stable set of snap-on dentures.

Understanding Snap-On Dentures

Snap-on dentures, a form of implant dentures, have emerged as an effective solution to the challenges of loose dentures. Utilizing mini dental implants, snap-on dentures are anchored directly to the jawbone, offering stability that traditional dentures cannot match. Sometimes referred to as overdentures, this innovative approach ensures that dentures stay firmly in place, eliminating the fear of dentures slipping or falling out at inopportune moments.

Choosing snap-on dentures comes with numerous benefits over conventional dentures:

• Increased stability and comfort: Because we anchor snap-on dentures to the jawbone, they won’t shift or slide and provide a comfortable fit all day.
• Improved oral functionality: The implants that hold your denture provide increased biting and chewing power compared to missing teeth or old-fashioned dentures. You’ll enjoy a broader range of foods, improving nutrition and overall enjoyment of meals.
• Enhanced aesthetics: Snap-on dentures are designed to look more like natural teeth, giving you a confidence boost thanks to their smaller plastic base and tighter connection to your gums.
• Bone preservation: By stimulating the jawbone, the mini implants used in snap-on dentures help prevent bone deterioration, a common issue after tooth loss.

The Advantages of Using Mini Dental Implants

Dentists have used dental implants to support tooth restorations like crowns and bridges for many years. However, they have drawbacks, including an invasive procedure and lengthy healing times. Snap-on dentures are supported by mini dental implants, which offer several advantages over larger traditional implants:

• Less invasive procedure: Mini implants don’t require surgical incisions or stitches, making the placement procedure less daunting.
• Quicker healing time: Thanks to the simple, fast procedure, patients can expect minimal discomfort afterward and a speedier recovery. Mini implants fuse with your jawbone in 3-4 weeks compared to 3-6 months, which means you’ll be using your new teeth much sooner.
• Impressive reliability: Mini implants boast a 97% success rate and will last a lifetime if taken care of properly.
• More affordable: The efficiency of the mini implant procedure translates into fewer appointments and significant cost savings, making snap-on dentures a more accessible option for many patients.

Addressing Financial Concerns

At Happy Smile Family Dentistry and Mini Dental Implants, we understand that the cost of dental care, particularly for more comprehensive solutions like snap-on dentures, can be a concern. Our team is committed to helping patients access the care they need with minimal financial stress. At your consultation, we’ll work with your insurance company to help you maximize your benefits. If you don’t have insurance, we offer an in-house discount program to help make treatment more affordable. We also work closely with multiple financing companies to provide options that can work for any budget.

Schedule a Consultation for Snap-On Dentures

If you’re tired of the challenges posed by loose dentures, snap-on dentures are the solution you’ve been searching for. We invite you to schedule a free implant consultation at our Schaumburg, IL, practice to learn more about how snap-on dentures can enhance your dental experience.

The post Snap-On Dentures Will Secure Your Smile appeared first on Happy Smiles Family Dentistry & Mini Dental Implants.

What Is a Mini Implant Dentist?

A mini implant dentist specializes in stabilizing and replacing teeth using mini dental implants. Their extensive knowledge, training, and experience make them trusted authorities on the use of implants in restorative dentistry.

Mini implants are slim titanium posts that can replace a single tooth with a dental crown, a small row of teeth using an implant-supported bridge, or an entire set of teeth with implant dentures.

At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, we’re proud to have a trusted, friendly, and experienced mini implant specialist like Dr. Aristodemo. We’re also pleased to offer a full range of dental treatments to complement her specialty services. Our practice offers everything from root canals and metal braces to cosmetic treatments like porcelain veneers and teeth whitening. Think of our office as a one-stop shop for all your oral health needs.

Mini Dental Implants Explained

Mini dental implants are an innovative tooth replacement method. Their smaller size gives them several quality-of-life advantages over larger traditional dental implants. Both implant types provide a stable base for attaching an artificial tooth or dental prosthetic. The implants offer exceptional stability because they screw directly into the jawbone.

While they serve a similar function, mini implants offer additional benefits due to their size. They are less than 3 mm thick, in contrast to the 5 mm width of conventional implants. This narrow diameter contributes to a simpler and more efficient placement and healing process.

Additional advantages of mini implants include:

• Less invasive placement: Are you nervous about incisions or other surgical procedures? Mini implants don’t require any of that; their quick and easy placement only requires a tiny pilot hole.
• Faster healing time: Because their placement procedure is minimally invasive, the healing time for mini implants is significantly reduced. Traditional implants require a healing period of 3-6 months, while mini implants heal in about 3-4 weeks.
• Instant results: Dr. Aristodemo can often place mini implants and load them with new teeth in one visit. That means you’ll leave your appointment with a functional smile.
• Impressive durability: You may think that mini implants are more fragile because of their smaller size. Think again; mini implants boast just as high a success rate as larger implants. If properly cared for, they can last a lifetime.
• More affordable: Because mini implants require less time and fewer visits to the dental office, they are about half the price of traditional implants.

The Mini Implant Process

The procedure for mini implants is straightforward and efficient. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Consultation: Every mini implant procedure begins with a free consultation. At this visit, Dr. Aristodemo will examine your mouth and answer questions. She will then take thorough X-rays so that we can plan the implant placement with precision. We’ll also take an impression of your mouth to send to our lab, where technicians create your custom dental restoration.
2. Placement procedure: On the day of your procedure, we’ll begin by numbing the target area with a local anesthetic to keep you comfortable. Next, Dr. Aristodemo will drill a tiny pilot hole in your gums and carefully secure the implant into your jaw.
3. Temporary teeth: While we wait for your final restoration, you’ll receive a temporary tooth or teeth. You can use this “trial smile” immediately and experience what life will be like with your new prosthetic.
4. Final restoration: Once your custom teeth are ready, we’ll remove the temporary set and load your final restoration.

Any discomfort from the procedure should be mild and subside within a few days. Although your implants and artificial teeth will not stain or get infected, the surrounding areas can, so good oral hygiene is essential!

Consult a Mini Implant Dentist Today!

If you’re seeking high-quality tooth replacement for your missing teeth or want to stabilize loose dentures, we invite you to speak with our mini implant dentist. Dr. Aristodemo has over 25 years of experience in the dental field and has received advanced training in the specialized area of mini implants. Call us to schedule a free implant consultation today and discover what mini implants can do for you!

The post Dr. Aristodemo Is a Leading Mini Implant Dentist appeared first on Happy Smiles Family Dentistry & Mini Dental Implants.

The Issues With Removable Dentures

Any prosthetic that can be frequently removed, such as full dentures or partial dentures, carries with it the risk of loss or damage. An accidental bump off the table or a reckless grandchild can spell disaster for your dental prosthetic. A moment of forgetfulness can mean your dentures are lost, or you may leave the house without your teeth. With permanent dentures, there’s never any risk of leaving your teeth behind or accidental damage that can be costly and time-consuming.

Another problem with traditional dentures is that they lose their fit over time. Because they don’t replace your missing tooth roots, traditional dentures do nothing to prevent the deterioration of your jawbone. As the bone changes shape, your face begins to sag, and the dentures move or float inside your mouth. Dentures that slip and slide unexpectedly will make eating and speaking more challenging and can fall out of your mouth if you’re not careful.

Permanent Dentures With Dental Implants

Permanent dentures provide a much more solid and secure solution than traditional dentures. They eliminate the fear of dentures slipping during conversations or meals, boosting your confidence. Plus, they’re designed for long-term use, reducing the need for frequent replacements or adjustments. This means a much more comfortable fit and potential savings in the long run.

They have such a strong and stout reputation because they use dental implants, specifically mini dental implants, to secure your teeth directly to the jawbone. Permanent dentures use a zirconia roundhouse bridge to replace all your upper or lower teeth. Zirconia is a material ten times stronger than natural tooth enamel, so this prosthetic is built to last. With the stability of 8-10 mini implants supporting them, this implant denture is the most stable, powerful tooth replacement option available. Permanent dentures are the closest way to replicate the look, feel, and function of your natural teeth.

The Mini Implant Process

The mini implant process, which is the foundation of permanent dentures, is straightforward and efficient. Mini implants are a versatile tool, as they are often a viable option when the larger traditional implants are not.

1. Consultation: Every mini implant procedure starts with a free consultation with Dr. Aristodemo. She’ll examine your mouth and take 3D digital X-rays to determine your implant placement and eligibility. She’ll also take an impression of your teeth to create your custom restoration.
2. Placement: We’ll apply a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. Next, Dr. Aristodemo will drill a tiny pilot hole and carefully secure the implant into your jawbone.
3. Temporary restoration: While we wait for your custom restoration, we’ll give you a temporary set of teeth to use.
4. Final restoration: Once the final prosthetic is ready, we’ll remove the temporary teeth and attach your custom restoration, giving you a secure, functional, natural-looking smile.

You can care for your new teeth just as you’d for your original ones. Although they won’t stain or get infected, you must maintain good oral hygiene to keep the rest of your mouth healthy and help your implants to last for a long time.

What Do Permanent Dentures Cost?

We understand that every dental procedure comes with a cost. While it’s true that permanent dentures can be more expensive than other options, our practice strives to make every procedure as affordable as possible. We’ll help you get the most out of your dental insurance, maximizing your plan’s benefits. If you’re looking for financing help, we partner with multiple lending companies so you can find a monthly payment plan that works for your budget. We even offer an in-house savings program, allowing those without insurance to get discounts on their procedures throughout the year.

Schedule Your Permanent Dentures Today

Permanent dentures provide a worry-free solution to the problem of missing teeth. If you’re on the fence about solidifying your smile, schedule a free consultation with us today. Let Dr. Aristodemo and the Happy Smiles Family Dentistry team show you how permanent dentures can be the transformative tooth replacement option you’ve been looking for.

The post Permanent Dentures Provide Superior Stability appeared first on Happy Smiles Family Dentistry & Mini Dental Implants.

The Secret Of Same-Day Teeth: Mini Dental Implants

Mini dental implants are a versatile way to replace missing teeth, as they can support several dental restorations. These thin titanium screws connect directly to the jawbone and give prosthetics like dental crowns, implant-supported bridges, and implant dentures a sturdy foundation to latch onto.

A hidden benefit of dental implants is their ability to replace missing tooth roots. When you lose a tooth, your jawbone quickly starts to deteriorate. By replacing the missing roots, mini implants stimulate the jawbone and prevent the loss of bone and tissue. Filling this space also prevents the adjacent teeth from shifting and causing misalignment of your bite. Not only do same-day dental implants fix your smile, but they also provide oral health benefits.

How It Works

The mini implant process is more straightforward than placing traditional implants, thanks to its minimally invasive procedure and fast healing process.

1. The first step to any mini implant procedure is to come in for a free consultation. Dr. Aristodemo will examine your mouth and take X-rays to help determine the implant placement. We’ll also take an impression of your teeth, which we’ll send to the lab to create your final custom restoration.
2. Once it’s time to begin the placement, we’ll apply a local anesthetic to ensure you remain comfortable throughout the procedure. Dr. Aristodemo will drill a tiny pilot hole in your gums to guide the implant.
3. We proceed by carefully placing the implant and securing it to the jawbone. It will need a few weeks to osseointegrate with the bone, but we can load it immediately with virtually no negative impacts on its healing process.
4. Dr. Aristodemo will attach your temporary restoration while we wait for your customized version to return from the lab.
5. Once your final restoration is finished, we’ll remove the temporary one and attach your new teeth.

Afterward, you may experience mild discomfort, which should be gone within 48 hours. You can care for your implants and artificial teeth just like your natural teeth. A solid oral hygiene routine and regular dental checkups will help your new teeth last for many years to come.

The Mini Implant Advantage

At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, we’re proud to specialize in mini implant placement. Mini implants provide several advantages over both traditional implants and other dental restorations.

• Less invasive procedure: If you’re anxious about needing incisions or stitches for mini dental implants, don’t worry. These 3 mm screws can be placed with a simple, small pilot hole.
• Faster healing process: Mini implants are fully fused with the jawbone after a few weeks. Traditional implants take 3-6 months or more. Immediately after the procedure, any soreness can be handled with over-the-counter medication and should be gone in a day or two.
• Immediate results: Your new teeth can be used right away. While you will be advised to avoid hard or sticky foods for a few days, you’ll walk out the door with a complete set of teeth.
• More affordable: Because they require so much less time and fewer appointments, mini implants are about half the cost of traditional implants.

What Do Same-Day Dental Implants Cost?

We understand that all dental procedures come with financial concerns, but at Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, we strive to make transformative procedures like same-day dental implants affordable to everyone. We’ll help you understand what’s covered and what isn’t when it comes to your dental insurance. For financing options, we work with multiple lending partners to offer flexible payment plans that can fit your budget. If you don’t have insurance, we even offer an in-house savings plan that discounts almost every procedure.

Schedule Your Free Consultation Today

The longer you wait to replace missing teeth, the longer you’re depriving yourself of the benefits of improved health, confidence, and quality of life. So why wait any longer? Schedule your free consultation to choose the “one-day shipping” option and learn more about how same-day dental implants can improve your life.

The post Same-Day Dental Implants Are Possible With Mini Implants appeared first on Happy Smiles Family Dentistry & Mini Dental Implants.

Understanding Dental Implants

Dental implants and mini dental implants are small but incredibly strong titanium posts. We place them directly into your jawbone, where they serve as a foundation for replacing missing teeth. Over a few months, they naturally bond with your jawbone and become a permanent part of your mouth. These durable screws are incredibly versatile. Depending on your needs, they can support dental crowns (for single teeth), implant-supported bridges (for several missing teeth), or implant dentures (for all teeth).

Benefits of Dental Implants

Consider dental implants a long-term investment in your smile, health, and confidence. They’re not just about replacing teeth; they’re about restoring your ability to enjoy life’s simple pleasures, like savoring your favorite meal or laughing freely with friends. When you restore teeth with dental implants, you’ll be able to:

• Achieve a natural look and feel: They mimic your natural teeth so well that others won’t be able to tell which teeth are the implants.
• Speak and eat with ease: You won’t have to worry about dentures slipping while you speak or experiencing difficulty chewing your favorite foods. Implants let you talk and eat just like you would with your natural teeth.
• Enjoy a long-lasting solution: Implants can last a lifetime with proper care. They’re a one-time investment in your oral health and overall well-being.
• Protect facial structure and bone: Missing teeth can lead to bone loss, which affects your facial structure. Implants stimulate bone growth, helping to maintain your face’s natural shape.
• Not affect your surrounding teeth: Unlike traditional bridges, implants don’t rely on neighboring teeth for support. This means we don’t have to alter your other teeth, keeping more of them intact.

Claiming Dental Implants As Tax Deductible

Under Topic No.502, Medical and Dental Expenses, the IRS states that “payments for treatments affecting any structure or function of the body” can be deducted from your taxes should they meet certain thresholds. So, how do you calculate how much you can deduct? You need to start by being comfortable itemizing your deductions rather than taking the Standard Deduction. If you’re not comfortable with this process or are unsure of how it works, we highly recommend seeking the guidance of a certified tax professional. Next, you need to calculate a few numbers:

• Adjusted Gross Income or AGI: This number is your total income, including wages, investments, capital gains, pensions, etc., minus your adjustments, which can include HSA and IRA contributions, self-employment tax, student loan interest, and more. H&R Block has a helpful guide on calculating your AGI here. You can also find your AGI on your taxes on Line 11 of Form 1040.
• Minimum Threshold: You cannot deduct any amount until you meet the minimum threshold of 7.5% of your AGI. For example, if your AGI is $50,000, your minimum threshold would be 7.5% of that, which is $3,750. You can only deduct the part of your Adjusted Implant Expenses that exceed $3,750.
• Adjusted Implant Expenses: This is what you spent on your implant procedure, minus any payments from dental insurance or a Health Savings Account.

Calculating Your Deduction

Once you’ve calculated the numbers above, the formula for your deduction is relatively simple. It’s Adjusted Implant Expenses – Minimum Threshold = Your Deduction. Continuing the previous example, let’s say your net expenses after insurance and HSA payments were $15,000, and we’ve already established that the minimum threshold calculated from your AGI was $3,750. When you plug those numbers into our formula, you get $15,000 – $3,750 = $11,250 as your potential deductible. Remember that these are only example figures; your exact calculations will change based on your variables.

Learn More About Tax Deductible Dental Implants

If you’ve been considering replacing your missing teeth with dental implants, the fact that they’re tax deductible may make the financial aspect more palatable. At Happy Smile Family Dentistry, Dr. Aristodemo and her experienced staff are happy to answer your questions and help walk you through any financial concerns at your consultation. So why wait? Schedule your free consultation today, and see how dental implants can restore your quality of life.

The post Unlock Savings: Are Dental Implants Tax Deductible? appeared first on Happy Smiles Family Dentistry & Mini Dental Implants.

At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, Dr. Amelia Aristodemo specializes in placing mini implants to improve the overall well-being of her patients who use dentures.

Denture Stabilization With Mini Implants

Dental implants are titanium screws that connect directly to the jawbone. They provide a sturdy base for various tooth restorations, including dentures. Mini dental implants are innovative implants that offer additional benefits for patients with severe tooth loss.

These slimmer, sleeker dental implants provide the same reliability as conventional options but are significantly easier and faster to place. Dr. Aristodemo can place mini implants without incisions, and this minimally invasive process allows her to place the implants and secure new teeth in the same visit. When you opt for mini implants, you can also expect a quicker recovery. Any discomfort only lasts a day or two and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Traditional dental implants typically require 3-6 months to fully bond with the jawbone and provide stable support. In contrast, mini dental implants are stable immediately upon placement and achieve complete integration with the jawbone within just a few weeks.

Stabilizing your dentures is a transformative procedure that allows you to regain the lifestyle you once knew. You’ll be able to eat your favorite foods again, speak clearly, and never worry about your dentures slipping, sliding, or falling out again. When you stabilize your dentures with mini implants, you effectively turn them into implant dentures.

Can My Existing Denture Be Stabilized With Mini Implants?

In some instances, if your existing dentures meet particular criteria, we can convert them into implant dentures. The only way to know for sure is to schedule a free consultation with Dr. Aristodemo. At this initial visit, she can examine your dentures and determine whether they can accommodate mini implants. If not, we can create new dentures for you that meet your exact needs.

Types of Implant Dentures

Implant dentures come in different styles, both removable and non-removable, offering various levels of stability and functionality. Regardless of the option you select, you’ll enjoy improvements over traditional dentures.

• Snap-on dentures: Also known as overdentures or implant-retained dentures, this option uses the same materials as conventional dentures but snaps onto 4-8 mini implants for enhanced stability. Like a standard denture, snap-in dentures are removable at night for cleaning.
• Semi-removable roundhouse bridge: Like a denture, a roundhouse bridge replaces an entire arch of teeth. This option is only removed by a dentist like Dr. Aristodemo for professional cleaning. What’s sometimes called the Fix-on-Six® option uses 6-10 mini implants to anchor the prosthetic, providing more security and functionality.
• Non-removable roundhouse bridge: The most robust and permanent option, Dr. Aristodemo cements this zirconia roundhouse bridge to approximately 10 mini implants for the highest level of stability and power. This denture option closely replicates the look, feel, and performance of natural teeth.

The Benefits of Mini Implants

At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, we’re proud to specialize in mini dental implants. We prefer mini implants because they provide several benefits over their older, larger counterparts.

• Gentle, minimally invasive procedure: Traditional implants often require a bone graft procedure to strengthen the jawbone before the implants can be secured. Placement also requires cutting the gums and closing the incision with stitches. On the other hand, inserting mini implants only requires a tiny pilot hole. For patients who are anxious about more invasive procedures, mini implants provide peace of mind. We can complete the placement process in about 15 minutes or less per implant.
• Immediate results: Mini implants are ready to use as soon as we place them, so they’re sometimes referred to as “same-day implants.” You’ll walk in for your implant appointment and walk out with new, functional teeth.
• Smoother healing process: Traditional dental implant procedures can cause post-operative discomfort because they are more invasive. With mini implants, discomfort is minimal and diminishes in a day or two,
• Quicker jawbone integration: Over time, dental implants fuse (or osseointegrate) with the jawbone. Traditional implants take 3-6 months to do this. Mini implants stabilize much more rapidly, allowing you to enjoy the use of your final, custom-made teeth more quickly and with fewer dental visits.
• Affordable alternative: Because the process takes less time and requires fewer visits, mini implants cost about half as much as traditional implants. For those seeking implant dentures, mini implant options provide budget-friendly solutions.

Learn More About Denture Stabilization

If you’re sick of dealing with the frustration of floating dentures, mini implants can be the solution you’re looking for. At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, Dr. Aristodemo and her experienced team are here to guide you through the process. Call to schedule your free consultation and see how denture stabilization can transform your life.

The post Convenient Denture Stabilization With Mini Dental Implants appeared first on Happy Smiles Family Dentistry & Mini Dental Implants.

Dental Implants Explained

Traditional dental implants have been around for decades and have become a staple in tooth replacement. They are powerful screws that we implant directly into the jawbone, providing a sturdy base for various prosthetics. They can replace one tooth with a dental crown, a row of teeth with an implant-supported bridge, or an entire set of upper or lower teeth with implant dentures. Made of FDA-approved medical-grade titanium, they can withstand daily use and will last a lifetime if maintained properly.

One lesser-known benefit of dental implants is that they halt the deterioration of your jawbone. When you lose a tooth, your jawbone and surrounding tissue begin to wither from lack of stimulation. This changes your facial structure, making you look older than you are. It also weakens the jaw. Replacing the lost roots with dental implants can halt this degeneration and prevent other teeth from shifting into the empty space where your tooth used to be.

With many functional, cosmetic, and oral health benefits, dental implants are an effective approach for replacing missing teeth.

Mini Dental Implants Are More Efficient and Affordable

While traditional dental implants are effective, many people are ineligible for them due to their large size and invasive procedure. Mini dental implants are smaller versions of dental implants that serve the same purpose. They measure less than 3 mm, while conventional implants are about 5 mm. This size difference may seem small, but it yields significant benefits, including:

• Minimally invasive procedure: Are you nervous about surgical procedures? While the placement of conventional implants requires incisions and sutures, we can place mini implants with only a tiny pilot hole. Think of it in the same vein as getting your ears pierced. Dr. Aristodemo drills a hole through the gums and screws the mini implant into the jawbone. With local anesthetic, the whole process is pain-free.
• Instant results: As soon as Dr. Aristodemo finishes placing the implants, she can attach new teeth immediately. You’ll walk in for your procedure and walk out with brand-new teeth.
• Quick healing process: Because of their large size, conventional implants often require patients to undergo bone graft surgery to strengthen the jawbone. This adds months to the treatment timeline. Once the implants are placed, they take another 3-6 months to heal. On the other hand, mini implants generally don’t require a bone graft, and they heal in just a few weeks. Plus, the discomfort after the procedure diminishes within 48 hours.
• Half the cost: Mini dental implants are about half the cost of traditional implants. This affordability comes from their more streamlined placement process that requires fewer dental visits. If you are looking for a highly effective and budget-friendly tooth replacement solution, mini implants are a great choice.

The Mini Implant Process

Mini implants are an efficient and reliable procedure that provides immediate results. While smaller than traditional implants, they demonstrate an extremely high success rate that exceeds 95%. If you are interested in getting mini dental implants, here’s what you can expect:

1. Free consultation: Every mini implant procedure begins with a free consultation. Dr. Aristodemo will discuss your needs and preferences and examine your mouth to ensure you’re a good candidate. She’ll take a 3D CT scan to evaluate your bone density and plan the exact placement of your implants. Your free consultation will also include a discussion of insurance and financing so you know exactly what to expect.
2. Placement and loading: On the day of your procedure, Dr. Aristodemo will thoroughly review your treatment plan. After applying a local anesthetic, Dr. Aristodemo will drill a tiny pilot hole and carefully place the mini implant in your jaw. The process is remarkably quick—Dr. Aristodemo can secure a single implant in just 15 minutes. After placement, there’s no need to wait before securing the restoration. With mini implants, you can use your new teeth immediately.
3. Recovery and aftercare: You’ll receive specific instructions for immediate aftercare, such as avoiding especially hard or sticky foods for a few days, but otherwise, you can care for your new teeth with a standard oral hygiene routine. While implants won’t stain or get infected, you must have good oral hygiene to keep the surrounding areas healthy.

Get Dental Implants in Schaumburg Today

If you’re ready to replace your missing teeth, we’re eager to help! For over 25 years, Dr. Aristodemo and the experienced team at Happy Smiles Family Dentistry have been transforming smiles. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and learn how mini dental implants from our Schaumburg, IL, practice can complete your smile, strengthen your bite, and boost your self-esteem.

The post Dental Implants in Schaumburg: The Many Benefits of Mini Implants appeared first on Happy Smiles Family Dentistry & Mini Dental Implants.

The Problems With Dentures

Traditional dentures sit atop the gums and offer a way to regain your smile and some chewing power after losing your teeth. However, their bulky acrylic design constantly pushes against the gums and jawbone, essentially working against your mouth rather than with it. Combine this with the fact that your jawbone quickly begins to deteriorate once you lose your teeth, and your traditional dentures will lose their tight fit over time. This leads to “floating dentures,” where the false teeth begin to slip and slide inside your mouth at unexpected times.

Not only will unstable dentures inevitably lead to embarrassing moments, but they can also affect your oral health and quality of life. Without a solid foundation for your teeth, eating certain foods like raw vegetables becomes more challenging, if not impossible. Thanks to unwanted lisps and slurring, you may find it suddenly more difficult to speak clearly. And finally, loose dentures can cause irritation and soreness in the gums.

So, what’s the solution? Some people try to have their dentures relined or turn to messy adhesives for extra support. However, both are temporary solutions that must be repeated, costing you time, money, and patience. The real solution to these denture problems comes from alternatives known as implant dentures.

An Implant Denture Offers Stable Alternatives

Implant dentures use dental implants as stable anchors for a set of artificial teeth. This allows them to function and look much more like your natural teeth. Most importantly, it means there’s no risk of them slipping, sliding, or falling out of your mouth at unexpected times.

Implant dentures with mini dental implants provide many benefits. These are smaller versions of traditional implants that are just as strong. We can place mini implants in patients with less bone density and use more of them when supporting an entire arch of teeth. This helps spread out the pressure from biting across more implants. It also means that if one implant doesn’t work as expected, there are others in place to take over, ensuring your dental work remains secure.

Implant dentures come in several varieties, each offering a different level of removability and stability:

• Snap-on dentures: We sometimes refer to this option as overdentures or implant-retained dentures. They’re removable teeth that snap onto 4-8 mini implants but come off at night for cleaning. This option is a hybrid between traditional dentures and permanent dentures.
• Semi-removable roundhouse bridge: Want a more stable option that is only removed by a dentist like Dr. Aristodemo for cleaning? A semi-removable roundhouse bridge that connects to 6-10 mini implants might be the right choice for you. Even though this is called a bridge, it still replaces all your teeth in the upper or lower arch. You may hear this option referred to as Fix-on-Six®.
• Non-removable roundhouse bridge: Known as permanent dentures, these zirconia bridges are cemented to 8-10 mini implants, making them the most stable and functional option available. They also look and feel the most like natural teeth.

The Cost of Mini Implants

We understand that every dental procedure comes with a cost, which can be a source of financial anxiety. One benefit of using mini dental implants is that we can place them in one visit using an efficient, minimally invasive technique. This compressed timeline saves you money compared to many other restorations. For example, they cost about half as much as traditional dental implants. Still, our practice will do everything possible to make implant dentures affordable. We’ll review your dental insurance so you know exactly what your plan covers. We also offer financing through our lending partners, with some plans having interest rates as low as 0%.

Learn More About Denture Alternatives

If you’re looking for a reliable tooth replacement solution or are tired of dealing with floating dentures, consider our alternatives that leverage the stability of mini dental implants. Dr. Aristodemo and the experienced, caring team at Happy Smiles Family Dentistry are ready to help you take that first step. Contact us to schedule your free consultation and see if one of our denture alternatives suits you.

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The Impact of Missing Teeth

Losing your teeth does more than give you a quirky smile. To start, missing teeth can make it challenging to eat your favorite foods and maintain a balanced, nutritious diet. Gaps in your smile can also affect how you speak, adding unwanted lisps and making it difficult for others to understand you during a conversation. From an aesthetic perspective, missing teeth make some people reluctant to smile in social settings or photos.

These functional problems can make simple activities frustratingly difficult. However, missing teeth also come with lesser-known oral health issues. For example, the empty tooth socket can become a breeding ground for bacteria to gather and grow, as these areas are difficult to clean well. Speaking of the empty tooth socket, the lack of a tooth root will cause your jawbone to deteriorate quickly, which can lead to gum recession and chewing discomfort. Jawbone loss also affects your facial structure, making you look older than you are. Finally, when a tooth is lost, the remaining teeth shift toward the space, causing bite misalignment.

Dental Implants: A Versatile Solution

It’s hard to find a more versatile, effective solution when replacing missing teeth than dental implants. These titanium screws are placed directly into the jawbone and provide a sturdy base to secure various tooth restorations. They can replace a single tooth with a dental crown, multiple teeth with a dental bridge, or a complete set of teeth with implant dentures. Dental implants are incredibly durable and reliable. They provide your new teeth with excellent stability and functionality compared to other dental restorations.

But that’s not all; they also come with oral health benefits. Remember those missing tooth roots we mentioned? Dental implants replace those roots, preventing the surrounding teeth from shifting. They also stimulate the jawbone, preventing the loss of bone and tissue density and preserving the shape of your face. While dental implants come with all of these benefits, mini dental implants are an innovative implant technology that provides additional advantages.

Mini Dental Implants Are More Efficient, Affordable

Mini dental implants are an advancement in dental implant technology. These implants are remarkably slim, measuring less than 3 mm wide (or about the size of a toothpick). This makes them narrower than traditional implants, which are about 5 mm wide. The small size and streamlined design of mini implants offer several advantages:

• Minimally invasive placement: Dr. Aristodemo can place mini implants without incisions or stitches. Instead, she’ll make a tiny pilot hole through the gum tissue into the bone. With the help of a local anesthetic, your procedure, which takes only minutes to complete, will be painless.
• Short healing period: Traditional implants are large, and, as a result, they must fully fuse with the jawbone before they are secure. This process of osseointegration takes 3-6 months. Mini implants heal fully in just a few weeks and are immediately stable. After the procedure, you may feel some slight discomfort, but that will dissipate within 24-48 hours.
• Instant results: Mini implants are ready to use immediately after placement. You’ll receive temporary teeth while we wait for your custom restoration from the lab, but you’ll walk out after your procedure with a ready-to-use smile.
• Enhanced durability and reliability: Just because they’re smaller doesn’t mean that mini implants are weaker. They boast a 95% success rate and can last for decades if cared for properly.
• Greater affordability: Because their process is so streamlined and requires fewer visits to the dentist, mini dental implants are more affordable than traditional implants—about half the cost!

Insurance and Financing for Mini Implants

While mini dental implants are more affordable than traditional implants, we understand that dental procedures can cause financial strain. Our practice actively participates with many dental insurance providers and will help you maximize your benefits. Additionally, we offer financing assistance through third-party lending companies to complement your insurance coverage. These flexible financing options are particularly valuable for our patients without insurance. To make high-quality dental treatment affordable and accessible to a wide range of patients, we also offer an in-house discount plan for reduced rates on services. No matter your budget goals, we will help you access the treatment you need without breaking the bank.

Learn More About Affordable Dental Implants Today

If you’ve been struggling to find an affordable solution for missing teeth, it’s time to consider mini dental implants. At Happy Smiles Family Dentistry, Dr. Aristodemo and her experienced, caring team are here to guide you through the process, from your initial consultation to walking out the door with a brand-new smile. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and discover how mini dental implants can transform your life.

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