This patient of The Gentle Dentist had lost some teeth because of a failed root canal and a fractured tooth.  Rather than adding more teeth to a failed system she and her husband studied the options and decided to give us a call.  They searched on the internet for options and decided to give Dr. Robert Antolak, The Gentle Dentist,  the opportunity to surgically place dental implants to eventually replace the missing teeth.  She wants to eat normal food without pain or something removable.  The most natural way to replace these missing teeth are with dental implants.  They are small titanium screws that are inserted into the jaw bone.  The bone then grows into the implant and when healed teeth can be screwed into place.  The crowns that are placed can be treated like natural teeth because of the direct attachment to the bone.  The problem with both fixed bridges and partial dentures is that food can accumulate under them.  Dental implant crowns act like natural teeth so food doesn’t build up and you can use the same biting force as if the teeth were natural.

After 1 week there was great healing and in a couple of months she will have crowns to eat on.  This is important so that adjacent teeth don’t move into improper relationships.

The surgical cost of an implant, abutment and porcelain crowns are about $3,000 for the entire procedure.  This may seem like a lot, but the value to be able to have teeth to chew on again is beyond mention.

There are some dental insurances that do cover the placement and restoration of these procedures.

Dr. Antolak treats his dental patients in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere where you are treated like a guest in the home.  His motto is to “relax while we take care of your smile”. He specializes in cosmetic dentistry, implant dentistry and general dentistry using sedation dentistry if necessary for his high fear patients. He has been treating patients for the past 21 years and is located in Shelby Township, Macomb County, Michigan.

Give us a call at (586)247-3500 or email DrAntolak@TheGentleDentist.com for more information.