Tag Archives: dental implants

Tooth Replacement Option: Dental Implants Can Restore Your Smile

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on February 23, 2021

Missing teeth are more than just an aesthetic problem that affects the look of your smile. Missing teeth also have a major affect on your oral health. Although there are a number of ways you can enhance your smile, dental implants are a product of great progress in the dental industry! In a nutshell, dental implants are a tooth replacement option that can replace missing teeth, restore damaged teeth, and improve your oral health.

What Are the Advantages of Dental Implants?

There are many advantages to dental implants as a tooth replacement option, including:

Improved appearance. Because they are designed to fuse with bone, dental implants become permanent and they look and feel like your own teeth.
Improved speech. Dental implants allow you to speak without the worry that teeth might slip. Unlike when wearing poor-fitting dentures, the teeth can slip within the mouth causing you to mumble or slur your words.
Improved comfort. Dental implants eliminate the discomfort of removable dentures, because they become part of you,.
Easier eating. Dental implants function like your own teeth, allowing you to eat your favorite foods with confidence and without pain. Unlike sliding dentures that can make chewing difficult.
Improved self-esteem. Dental implants help you feel better about yourself and can give you back your smile.
Improved oral health. Dental implants don’t require reducing other teeth, as a tooth-supported bridge does. Because nearby teeth are not altered to support the implant, more of your own teeth are left intact, improving long-term oral health. Individual implants also allow easier access between teeth, improving oral hygiene.
Durability. With proper care, implants are very durable and will last many years; many implants last a lifetime.
Convenience. Removable dentures are just that; removable. Dental implants eliminate the embarrassing inconvenience of removing dentures, as well as the need for messy adhesives to keep them in place.

A Permanent Solution for Missing Teeth

Dental implants are an extremely natural-looking replacement for real teeth. It can fill in any gaps where missing teeth are and restore the look, feel and function of your smile. Dental implants are also strong and long lasting. Unlike bridges or dentures, dental implants integrate into the jawbone to replace a missing tooth’s root. The top four benefits of dental implants include:

The look and feel of natural teeth.
Dental implants last a lifetime.
They protect your facial bones and oral health.
They also restore your smile and your confidence!

This creates a more permanent solution to fix missing teeth. With dental implants, you’ll be able to chew, bite, and smile with confidence. However, this process does take time and doesn’t happen in one appointment.

Learn why it’s done and how HERE.

Related Articles:

What Can I Expect During a Dental Implant Procedure?

Now that we know the numerous benefits of dental implants, it’s important to also know how dental implant procedures work, and what you should expect. You’ll need to allow time for healing in between each step of the process, but the end results will be wonderful and worth it. Healing time also depends on how many dental implants you will be needing. During the steps, you will be given an appropriate form of anesthesia, so you don’t feel any pain or discomfort.

Learn more about the procedure HERE.

A damaged tooth is removed correctly.
Sometimes the jawbone will be strengthened with a bone graft.
Titanium screws will then be placed into the jawbone and gum tissue.
Your tissue and jawbone will bond with the implant and heal, beginning to form more tissue around the implant.
Abutments are then placed.
Crowns are placed to serve as your new, artificial teeth.
You can now enjoy your restored smile and improved oral health!

At GPS Dental, we’re experts on dental implants. If you have any questions, or want to schedule an appointment, give us a call today.

Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek’s experienced and friendly team at GPS Dental offers affordable dental care for all ages in San Antonio, TX area. Our Brooks City Base dentist office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we promote dental health awareness to our patients and provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at 210-633-3477 to make an appointment.

Tooth Replacement Options at GPS Dental: Dentures & Dental Implants

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on September 15, 2020

It’s easy to take our natural teeth for granted. We’re born with them, and we get used to their form and function. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, by age 17, 7 percent of people in the United States have lost at least one permanent tooth because of decay. So, what happens when you lose a natural tooth? At GPS Dental, we offer two wonderful solutions to missing teeth; dental implants and dentures. Both options will restore the health and look of your smile!

Gum disease, tooth decay, injury, or a genetic condition can all cause a missing tooth. Regardless of the cause, dentures and dental implants can replace a lost tooth or multiple teeth. Learn more HERE.

Missing Tooth Replacement Options

According to The American Dental Association (ADA), missing teeth can have a great impact on your speech and function of your teeth and the surrounding teeth. Depending on the location of a lost tooth, chewing can become more difficult, and the look of your smile may be affected negatively. Let’s dive into the two most common tooth replacement options, both offered by Dr. Skrobanek at GPS Dental in San Antonio, TX.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are an extremely common and effective tooth replacement option for a missing tooth. They also feel and look like a natural tooth and don’t require any extra tooth maintenance besides your daily oral health routine. Think of dental implants as artificial tooth roots. Here’s how they work:

First, your dentist will need to assess the area where the tooth is missing. Impressions of your teeth and a CT scan may be necessary to scan the area and simulate the implant on a computer before the actual procedure. If your jawbone cannot support the artificial root, your dentist may add in a bone-like material before your dental implant can take place.
After everything is prepped and ready, your dentist will then place a titanium screw in your jaw. This screw is your root replacement. A cap is placed over the screw. Your jawbone will naturally grow around the screw and anchor it. The area will heal within the next several weeks.
Finally, your dentist will check to make sure the implant is secure and remove the screw cap. The screw cap will be replaced by a post. A dental crown will be cemented onto the post and your dental implant is complete.

Learn more from WebMD about Dental Implants HERE.

Dentures

Dentures are a wonderful option for a single missing tooth or multiple missing teeth. Complete dentures will replace all of your teeth, and partial dentures can replace some of your teeth. A partial denture will be removable and is often an inexpensive option.

Natural-looking teeth will be fitted to a pink base that looks like your gums.
Your natural teeth stabilize and hold the removable plastic base in place, although some dentures have a clasp that adjoins to natural teeth.

Want to know more about Partial Dentures? Click HERE.

Dentures and Dental Implants: Which is Best for YOU?

Dr. Skrobanek and his team of experts will help guide you through the tooth replacement process, beginning with a consultation. Whether you are a candidate for dentures or dental implants, Dr. Skrobanek will explain your options and customize a treatment plan, based on your needs. Please call to schedule your consultation at GPS Dental and begin your journey to a healthy, beautiful smile.

Dental Implant: 5 Facts About this Tooth Replacement Option

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on June 23, 2020

A dental implant can do wonders for your smile, especially if you are self-conscious about any missing teeth.

Dental Implant: Overview

Simply put, a dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is surgically placed into your jaw to hold an implant (replacement tooth or bridge). The implant will match the surrounding teeth and blend into your smile seamlessly.

Read more HERE about Dental Implant Procedure Information.

Dental Implant: The Facts

If you’re curious about dental implants as a tooth replacement option, these 5 facts will help you understand more about this procedure, including a bit of history you’ve probably never heard before.

Ancient Implants. Dental implants as we know them today were first invented back in 1952 by Swedish orthopedic surgeon, Per-Ingvar Branemark. However, historians have been able to trace dental implants all the way back to 600 AD. Ancient Mayans would hammer shells into their mouths as replacement teeth. Clearly, these ancient dental implants are nothing like the implants we are familiar with now – thank goodness!! Check out our previous blog, The Evolution of Dental Implants as Tooth Replacements. Today, in fact, dental implants are one of the most common and safest procedures in dentistry. It’s a dentistry marvel!
Tooth Loss is Very Common. According to the Foundation for Oral Rehabilitation, over 240 million people in the world have experienced tooth loss. By 35, most adults will lose at least one permanent tooth. This means that it is common to need a tooth replacement and to have a dental implant procedure.
Restorative Treatment. A common misconception about dental implants is that they’re similar to crowns. However, this is incorrect. Dental implants are restorative treatments and can actually help stimulate bone growth. Dental implants are actually artificial roots. They are placed inside the jawbone, are shaped like a hardware screw and have a success rate of 95%. Check out our blog, What Are Your Tooth Replacement Options, for more information.
AAID Formation. Dental implants are the main reason the AAID, American Academy of Implant Dentistry was formed. In 1951, there was a group of dentists who were very successful with the outcome of their implant techniques. So, they formed the AAID to help spread their knowledge of implant technology and advancement.
Care Required. Once a dental implant is performed, the risk of getting a cavity in that tooth is gone, but care is still required. Daily brushing and flossing are so important for dental implants and can help the dental implant last a lifetime.

Learn More HERE About Dental Implant Surgery.

Related Resource from WebMD: A Guide to Dental Implants

GPS Dental Can Help

As you can see, a dental implant can do wonders for your smile, especially if you are self-conscious about a missing tooth. If you’re curious about whether a dental implant is a tooth replacement option for you, please give us a call – we’d love to discuss dental implants with you.

Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures can Enhance Your Smile

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on January 21, 2020

It’s award season and we’ve seen the glitz and glamor of Hollywood on the red carpets! Over the years, we’ve seen the styles of dresses change … from over the top creations to more subdued looks. They’re all gorgeous, just like their hair styles … changing from beautiful up-dos to long, wavy locks. Either way, they’re gorgeous!

But the one thing that really catches our eye is their SMILES! Yes, we love the makeup and shoes, but those gleaming white, perfect Hollywood smiles … WOW!!

Do you think they all had perfect smiles earlier in their careers? Nope. Check out this article from Self Magazine, The Celebrity Secret to a Perfect Smile or this one from Seventeen, 10 Celebrity Tooth Transformations that will Make You Smile.

Celebrities from Miley Cyrus to Tom Cruise have had chipped, gapped, stained, crooked and misshapen teeth in the past, but not in current photos. If you look back at images over the years of your favorite actor or actress, you can tell they’ve had cosmetic dentistry procedures completed to enhance their smile. It’s not magic and it’s not only for the Stars … you can have the smile of your dreams too and GPS Dental can help!

Related Article: GPS Dental Offers Cosmetic Dentistry Options

We’ve listed below a few of the natural-looking cosmetic dentistry procedures that Dr. Gary Skrobanek and his expert team at GPS Dental in San Antonio, TX offer:

Cosmetic Bonding

Cosmetic Bonding is a process where Dr. Skrobanek attaches or “bonds” materials directly to your tooth in order to change the color and shape and used most often to repair chipped teeth. The natural tooth enamel is then fused together with bonding materials such as porcelain and resins to create a strong structure that still feels like your original tooth.

Enamel Shaping (Contouring)

One of the few instant cosmetic dentistry treatments is tooth reshaping, or contouring. This procedure can correct chipped or cracked teeth, crooked teeth, even overlapping teeth during one appointment. Under certain circumstances, dental contouring can be a substitute for braces and is used to slightly alter the shape, length or position of your teeth.

Teeth Whitening

Brushing and flossing are everyday ways to keep your teeth bright, white and healthy. If you still feel like your smile is lacking some sparkle or is more yellow than it used to be, you’re not alone. We offer several in-office teeth whitening options, just ask Dr. Skrobanek which option is best for you. (Read more, Brighten Your Smile with Whitening Trays)

Porcelain Veneers

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells crafted of tooth-colored materials designed to cover the front side of teeth. They are an option for correcting stained, chipped, decayed or crooked teeth. A small amount of your existing tooth structure is removed to accommodate for the very thin, yet strong porcelain veneer. (Read more about Smile Makeovers using Porcelain Veneers, Are You Ready for a New Smile?)

Dental Implants

Dental implants may be an option for people who have lost a tooth or teeth due to an injury, periodontal disease, or some other reason. Dental implants are connected to the gum tissues and underlying bone in the mouth. Expert dentists, like Dr. Skrobanek, who specialize in implants have the training, experience, special knowledge, and technology to help you have teeth that look and feel just like your own after your implant is finished. (Read more in this Dental Implant FAQ)

Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures at GPS Dental

If you want to improve your smile or have questions about cosmetic dentistry procedures, we’d love to answer them. Just give us a call and schedule your consultation!

Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek’s experienced and friendly team at GPS Dental offers affordable dental care for all ages in San Antonio, TX area. Our Brooks City Base dentist office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we promote dental health awareness to our patients and provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at 210-633-3477 to make an appointment.

FAQ: Dental Implants as a Tooth Replacement Option

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on July 9, 2019

For some people, dentures or bridges are not comfortable or viable options to repair or replace a damaged tooth. Perhaps you suffer from sore spots, poor ridges, or dentures trigger your gag reflex. Dental implants as a tooth replacement option might be a great solution.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are metal posts or frames surgically implanted into your jawbone under your gums. As the implant bonds with your natural bone, it becomes a strong mount for replacement teeth that feels more natural than dentures or bridges.

There are two common types of dental implants, endosteal and subperiosteal implants.

Endosteal implants are surgically inserted into the jawbone. Once the bone and surrounding gums heal, a post is inserted into the implant and the artificial tooth is attached to the post. If multiple teeth are being replaced the artificial teeth might be grouped on a bridge or denture.

A subperiosteal implant is made with a metal frame fitted over the jawbone just under the gums. As the gums heal they root the metal frame to the jawbone. Posts attached to the frame stick out from the gums and the dentist mounts the artificial tooth to the protruding post.

Advantages of dental implants

The primary benefit of dental implants as a tooth replacement option is that they feel more natural than dentures or bridges. They look, feel, and function like normal, healthy teeth and you can brush and floss normally. You won’t have to worry about any slipping or clicking when you speak or eat.

Dental implants can last for decades if properly maintained. Many dentures and bridges, on the other hand, must be replaced every 5 to 10 years, driving up the price and time cost.

They also preserve natural bone and actually can stimulate bone growth. Dentures can cause bone and gum deterioration over time, especially if they fit poorly. Leaving empty spaces between teeth can cause other dental issues down the line. Dental implants also don’t require any grinding down or drilling into adjacent teeth like bridges and partial implants typically demand.

What to expect from dental implants?

The process of receiving dental implants as a tooth replacement option lasts anywhere from three to nine months depending on the extent of work required. It begins with a consultation meeting with your dentist to develop a plan of action. At your next appointment the dentist will place the implant in your jawbone.

Most patients only require local anesthesia during the procedure, though IV sedation may be used to keep you comfortable depending on the extent of the procedure. After the surgery you can expect swelling, bruising, minor bleeding, and pain but most people can manage the pain with over-the-counter pain medications. Many people feel well enough to return to work the next day.

Osseointegration is the process of the implant fusing with your jawbone. This healing process takes up to a few months but results in a strong bond. You will probably be limited to a diet of soft foods for the first few weeks to make sure the implant does not move during the initial healing process. Sometimes the dentist places temporary teeth while your mouth heals.

After osseointegration is complete, the abutement (a small connector) is attached to the implant just above the gum line. Sometimes the abutement is placed at the same time the implant is set in the bone.

The last stage is to make and set the new teeth. Using molds of your mouth and remaining teeth, your dentist will create artificial teeth to attach to the abutement. You will be able to care for the artificial teeth the same way you care for your natural teeth with regular brushing, flossing, and routine check-ups.

How much do dental implants cost?

There are many factors that impact the total cost of dental implants as a tooth replacement option. Some of the main considerations are how many teeth require replacement, the type of artificial teeth that will be implanted, the health and quality of the jawbone, and other considerations.

A single tooth implant may cost between $3,000 and $4,500. A full or partial set of implants can cost as much as $45,000. These high up-front costs are staggering, but not necessarily higher than dentures or bridges over the lifetime of the implants.

An increasing number of dental insurance plans cover at least part of the cost of dental implants. Those insurance plans that do not cover implants may offer an allowance toward dental implants equal to the cost of a bridge or traditional dentures. You should also consult with your dentist about financing and payment options.

Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek’s experienced and friendly team at GPS Dental offers family dentistry for all ages in San Antonio, TX area. Our Brooks City Base dentist office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we promote dental health awareness to our patients and provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at 210-633-3477 to make an appointment.

Dental Implants as Tooth Replacement

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on December 18, 2018

dental-implants

Dental implants are becoming a primary choice for individuals with missing teeth. They provide a lasting solution due to their robust nature. It is implanted into the jaw bone, does not shift and remains in place sturdily. They offer a very natural appeal as they closely resemble natural teeth, with a metal post that remains concealed in the jaw.

This form of tooth replacement can last forever, especially if proper oral hygiene is implemented. Dental implants are very resilient and resistant to tooth decay. However, if neighboring natural teeth and gums are not cared for, plaque can stick to these teeth and cause deterioration. Overall though, dental implants are an ideal permanent solution for people suffering from the effects of missing teeth.

How Do Dental Implants Work?

After an X-ray and evaluation have been performed, and your eligibility has been determined, the process will begin. There are various stages involved. During the initial phase, a titanium post will be inserted into the jawbone. Time will be given for surrounding gum tissue to heal and for the implant to attach and bond with the bone and gum. Once healed, an abutment is attached to hold the artificial tooth in place. It may take a few appointments for the artificial tooth to be created and secured to the abutment. However, once connected, security and stability is not an issue.

Implants Offer the Same Comfort and Function as Natural Teeth

For individuals with missing teeth, the concern is finding a solution that enables them to function normally. Choosing a tooth replacement option that is durable, limits concerns and offers comfort is necessary. For this reason, dental implants are very popular.

They offer the same appearance as natural teeth, due to its permanency and inability to move and shift, which are typical causes of discomfort and worry for persons with dentures. Dental implants as tooth replacement are very comfortable and allow individuals to eat, chew, and speak without apprehension.

Unlike other solutions such as dentures, which have food restrictions, dental implants do not. Patients with this form of tooth replacement can eat sticky substances or whatever they prefer with confidence, as the appearance and structure of their implant will not be compromised.

Stability, Comfort, Support & Lifetime Results

The advantage to dental implants as tooth replacement is that they limit bone loss as a result of being installed into the jaw. They remain in place and limit the impacts of shifting teeth. Hence, any adverse effects on adjacent teeth are negligible. Existing oral structures and teeth will remain strong and unmoved.

Dental implants as tooth replacement offer lifetime results. Unlike other tooth replacement options, like bridges and dentures, that require replacement after several years, dental implants rarely have to be replaced, unless severely impacted and damaged. As a result, dental implants make an excellent choice to fill in the gaps created by missing teeth.

GPS Dental Offers High-Quality Dental Implants

GPS Dental believes in helping individuals restore their smile. If you are struggling with missing teeth and wish to regain your smile, we encourage you to contact our office. Our professionals will respond to your inquiries and provide you with further information on dental implants as tooth replacement.

Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek’s experienced and friendly team at GPS Dental offers family dentistry for all ages in San Antonio, TX area. Our Brooks City Base dentist office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we promote dental health awareness to our patients and provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at 210-633-3477 to make an appointment.

The Skinny on Dental Implants

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on April 24, 2018

Dental Implants: What are they?

While the term “Dental Implants” is likely to ring a few bells, chances are that the exact purpose and meaning behind this term might not be so familiar. Although an increasingly common and well-known practice within the dental community, dental implants continue to remain an aura of mystery among the general public. Today dental implants are probably one of the most advanced and efficient methods of tooth replacement available in modern dentistry.

The dental implant simply put; is a synthetic custom-fitted tooth that is placed within your mouth, specifically to replace the natural tooth. Once successfully fitted and applied, the implant provides a durable, aesthetically pleasing and often permanent replacement. Although still a relatively new concept for those outside the realm of professional dentistry, dental implants have quickly become a hit among both patients and practitioners alike and continues to take the world of dentistry by storm!

Dental Implants: The Purpose

While obviously your teeth are very tough, but did you know that your teeth are in fact harder than any bone in your entire body? To some, this may come as a surprise. To others it makes a great deal of sense, as your teeth have the extremely important task of breaking down your food for consumption. Unfortunately, even as tough as your teeth are, there are many factors such as hard foods, acidic substances, or simply neglect and old age, that can potentially damage or destroy your teeth. Additionally, it’s important to realize that if you are missing one or several teeth, the hindered ability to properly chew and break down food may likely put additional wear and tear on your remaining teeth and surrounding gums. Therefore, it is imperative to replace a tooth if damage or decay has begun to occur, as the condition may worsen over time.

Dental Implants: The Process

If elected to receive dental implants, you may find yourself somewhat anxious to receive the treatment, due in part to its namesake. While indeed a name like “dental implant” does sound somewhat off-putting and perhaps even intimidating, the procedure itself is quite benign in nature. The process begins with inserting a small screw within the empty gum space from where the tooth is missing, thereby acting as a substitute for the tooth’s roots. Once in place, the top half of the screw is fitted with a custom abutment that can be adjusted to match the exact size, shape, and color of your teeth, thus rendering it virtually unnoticeable. Although relatively simple and straight forward, the time required to complete the procedure may vary from one patient to another and might require additional appointments to fully complete.

Related Article: Dental Implant Dentist in San Antonio

Dental Implants: A Fan Favorite!

Although dental implants have yet to truly become a household name among the non-dental community, the popularity of the modern dental implant continues to grow at a steady rate, while simultaneously providing patients everywhere with a seemingly flawless smile! So, please remember, if you or someone you know suffers with broken, rotten, or missing teeth, perhaps the highly favored dental implants are the right answer, and who knows? Maybe you’ll become a fan too!

Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek is a dental implant dentist and his experienced, friendly team at GPS Dental offer affordable family dentistry and gentle dental care in the San Antonio, TX area. Our Brooks City Base dentist office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at (210) 633-3477 to make an appointment.

Dental Implants – the Lasting Fix for Front Teeth

Posted by Genny Skrobanek on January 31, 2016

You’re in good company if you’re missing one or more of your natural teeth. Just under half of adults between the ages of 18 and 64 are missing at least one of their original teeth due to disease or trauma. While missing any of your teeth can hurt your self-esteem, this is especially true of the front teeth. These are the teeth that others tend to notice the most when you smile. The good news is that dental implants are the lasting fix for front teeth. The team at GPS Dental has put together this list of information about the benefits of getting implants.

Related Article: Are Dental Implants Right for You?

What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?

Dental bridges and dentures replace teeth as well, but they come with one major drawback. They do not replace missing roots as implants do. This is important because roots prevent bone loss in addition to the shifting of remaining teeth. Some of the other reasons why dental implants are a great choice for your front teeth include:

They remain in your mouth permanently and look completely natural
No need for special cleaning as with dentures and replacement teeth secured by dental bridges
Unlike your natural teeth, implants do not stain, decay, or require procedures like root canals
You can feel confident smiling because you know the implants won’t fall out
Dental implants return your full bite strength

If you have a missing tooth, dental implants are the best option for a natural looking replacement.

Related Article: Top 3 Tooth Replacement Options

Contact us online or call us at (210) 633-3477 to make an appointment or find out more. We will let you know if you are a good candidate for dental implants after an oral exam and brief consultation with Dr. Gary Skrobanek.