Why Replacing Missing Teeth is Crucial for Your Oral Health and Confidence

Losing a tooth is more than just a cosmetic concern. It can impact your ability to eat, speak, and even compromise your long-term oral health. At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park, MI, we understand how vital every tooth is in creating a functional, confident smile. That’s why we proudly serve patients in Grand Rapids, Rockford, and surrounding communities with effective tooth replacement options that enhance both health and self-esteem. Here’s why replacing missing teeth is essential and how we can help.

The Importance of Replacing Missing Teeth

When a tooth is missing, the effects ripple through your mouth and beyond. Here are some major reasons to address tooth loss promptly:

1. Preserving Jawbone Health

Your teeth play a crucial role in keeping your jawbone strong and healthy. Without the natural stimulation provided by tooth roots, the jawbone can begin to deteriorate, leading to a sunken facial appearance over time. Replacing missing teeth helps prevent bone loss, especially with options like dental implants, which mimic the function of natural roots.

2. Restoring Chewing and Speaking Abilities

A missing tooth can make daily functions like eating and speaking more challenging. For instance, it may force you to favor one side of your mouth when chewing, putting undue strain on certain teeth. This imbalance can eventually lead to further dental issues.

3. Preventing Teeth From Shifting

When a gap is left in your smile, the neighboring teeth may start to drift into the empty space. This change can alter your bite alignment, increasing your risk of uneven wear, gum disease, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems.

4. Boosting Confidence

It’s hard to feel your best when you’re self-conscious about your smile. Filling gaps in your teeth can restore that sense of self-assuredness, helping you focus on what really matters in life, whether it’s your career, relationships, or personal goals.

Tooth Replacement Options

At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, Dr. Eric Hull is committed to providing solutions tailored to your unique needs. Here are the three leading options available in our practice:

1. Dental Implants

Regarded as the gold standard in tooth replacement, dental implants are long-lasting and highly effective. An implant is surgically placed into your jawbone, where it integrates, mimicking the function of a natural tooth root. Once healed, a crown is added to create a natural-looking, fully functional tooth. Dental implants not only preserve your jawbone but also deliver unmatched stability and durability.

2. Maryland Bridge

For patients not suited for implants, a Maryland Bridge offers an excellent alternative. This option involves attaching a replacement tooth (or teeth) to the back of neighboring teeth using metal or porcelain wings. It’s minimally invasive and an ideal solution for smaller gaps.

3. Traditional Bridge

A traditional bridge is another effective choice for filling in gaps. It relies on adjacent teeth to support the replacement tooth and is particularly useful for patients whose surrounding teeth are strong enough to hold the restoration securely. This option restores function while blending seamlessly with your natural smile.

Dr. Eric Hull’s Commitment to Your Smile

Our mission at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry isn’t just to replace missing teeth—it’s to rejuvenate your smile in a way that enhances your overall well-being. Dr. Hull and his team are dedicated to restoring not only the function of your teeth but also the confidence that comes with a healthy, vibrant smile.

If you’re dealing with tooth loss, don’t wait. The sooner you address the issue, the better your long-term oral health and quality of life will be. Schedule a consultation today at our office in Comstock Park—proudly serving Grand Rapids, Rockford, and communities nearby. Together, we’ll design a tooth replacement plan that suits your needs, preferences, and lifestyle.

CONTACT ERIC HULL AESTHETIC & GENERAL DENTISTRY:

616-784-2377

LOCATION (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
49321

Why Dental Implants Are the Ideal Choice for Tooth Replacement in the Grand Rapids Area

Missing teeth can do more than just impact your smile. They can affect your confidence, oral health, and even your overall well-being. If you’re in the Grand Rapids area and seeking a solution, dental implants might just be the perfect choice. Here at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park, MI, Dr. Eric Hull specializes in providing dental implants to help restore both the beauty and function of your smile.

Why Replacing Missing Teeth Is Critical for Oral Health

Tooth loss isn’t just a cosmetic issue; it can lead to a host of oral health problems. When a tooth is missing, the surrounding teeth can shift, leading to misalignment. Additionally, the bone in the jaw where the tooth was lost can begin to deteriorate over time due to lack of stimulation, which can result in changes to your facial structure and even further tooth loss. Replacing a missing tooth is essential to maintaining oral health, preserving jawbone density, and ensuring proper function when chewing and speaking.

Dental Implants: A Permanent, Healthy, and Beautiful Solution

Dental implants are widely regarded as the gold standard for tooth replacement, and for good reason. Unlike other solutions such as dentures or bridges, a dental implant mimics the natural structure of a tooth, with a titanium post acting as the tooth root. This post is surgically embedded into the jawbone, which integrates with the bone in a process called osseointegration, creating a secure and permanent foundation.

Once the implant has fused with the bone, it is topped with a custom-made crown that is designed to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth. The result? A tooth replacement that not only looks stunning but feels and functions just like the real thing.

What Makes Dental Implants Ideal for Tooth Replacement?

There are a number of reasons why dental implants are an excellent option for adults in the Grand Rapids area:

  • Longevity: Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime with proper care, making them a long-term investment in your oral health.
  • Natural Appearance: The customized crowns are virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth, giving you a seamless, confident smile.
  • Improved Comfort: Because they are securely anchored to your jaw, dental implants eliminate the discomfort often associated with traditional dentures.
  • Better Oral Health: Implants preserve the health of your jawbone and prevent the shifting of adjacent teeth, both of which are common problems after tooth loss.
  • Enhanced Functionality: Enjoy eating, speaking, and laughing without worrying about your replacement tooth moving out of place.

Are Dental Implants Right for You?

Dental implants are a versatile solution that can work for anyone with good oral health and sufficient jawbone density. During a consultation at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, Dr. Eric Hull will assess your needs and determine if implants are the best option for you. Even if you’ve experienced some bone loss, additional treatments like bone grafting can be performed to prepare your jaw for implants.

Teeth Implants – The Roots of a Beautiful Smile

At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we understand how important your smile is. Our team is committed to providing patient-centered care and crafting solutions that fit your unique needs. That’s why Grand Rapids residents trust us for high-quality, lasting dental implants that restore confidence and improve oral health.

If you’re ready to learn more about how dental implants could transform your smile, contact us today to schedule your consultation. Reclaim the beauty and functionality of your smile with the trusted expertise of Dr. Eric Hull!

CONTACT ERIC HULL AESTHETIC & GENERAL DENTISTRY:

616-784-2377

LOCATION (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
49321

The Advantages of Implant-Retained Dentures

implant dentures Comstock Park

Are you trading your traditional dentures for implant-stabilized dentures? Implant-retained or implant-stabilized dentures both provide numerous benefits over standard dentures. At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, our team can help determine if implant-retained dentures are right for you.

Secure in the mouth—no slipping

Provides up to 100% natural chewing function

The upper denture doesn’t cover as much of the palate

This helps patients taste food more easily. (Hooray!)

More comfortable

When dentures are fixed in place, they don’t slip around, allowing the wearer to feel more self-assured in social or professional situations.

Little or no gum irritation

Mouth sores lower the quality of life and can make eating painful.

Doesn’t impair speaking power

Denture wearers recognize how frustrating it is to not be able to speak appropriately. With implant-stabilized dentures, you can regain the ease of talking and laughing.

Stronger

Implant-retained dentures are durable and long-lasting.

Prevents bone loss

When bone recedes, you can get that “sunken face” look. Nothing ages a person more than hollowed-out cheeks.

Allows wearer to eat any type of food

Has it been a while since you’ve taken a bite of a juicy steak or crisp, red apple? It’s time to experience your favorite foods again!

No adhesive required

You won’t miss gluing your dentures into your mouth.

What Are The Differences Between Fixed and Removable?

Fixed implant-retained dentures (sometimes called screw-in) necessitate more implants than the removable type. However, they can restore 100% chewing capacity.

Removable implant dentures (sometimes called snap-in) may require just 4 implants to stabilize the upper arch and just 2 for the lower denture. Removable implant-stabilized dentures can restore up to 90% of chewing ability.

Should I get removable or fixed implant-anchored dentures?

The following factors will affect your determination.

Bone Health

Implants require the patient to have an adequate amount of healthy bone structure for placement. The condition of your jawbone influences whether it can support implants and where the posts can be inserted.

Price

Fixed implant dentures cost more but some people believe the merits outweigh the extra expense.

Convenience

Fixed implant-stabilized dentures don’t have to be taken out for cleaning. Patients who have found it inconvenient to clean traditional dentures would face the same issue with removable implant-retained dentures.

Preferred Foods

Fixed dentures are stronger than removable dentures. Patients who prefer foods that are harder to chew should consider this.

Sleep Conditions

Individuals with TMJ or sleep apnea may find it more onerous to manage these conditions if they have to remove their dentures at night.

Now denture wearers have a better option.

 

CONTACT ERIC HULL AESTHETIC & GENERAL DENTISTRY:

616-784-2377

LOCATION (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
49321

Can I Get a Metal-Free Tooth Implant?

are metal-free tooth implants better? Comstock Park

Many Comstock Park dental patients are turning to metal-free dentistry from Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry. Instead of amalgam fillings, they select composite and porcelain restorations. Non-metal fillings and crowns can be matched exactly to your natural tooth color. Some men and women are sensitive to the metals used in conventional fillings. Non-metal materials can prevent potential tooth sensitivity.

Controversy Over Whether Dental Amalgam is Toxic

Another one of the issues with dental amalgam is that it contains a small amount of mercury. Some dental patients are concerned that mercury is toxic or harmful to one’s health.

Both the American Dental Association and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration have reviewed volumes of research and concluded that dental amalgam does not pose a health risk.

“FDA has reviewed the best available scientific evidence to determine whether the low levels of mercury vapor associated with dental amalgam fillings are a cause for concern. Based on this evidence, FDA considers dental amalgam fillings safe for adults and children ages 6 and above. The weight of credible scientific evidence reviewed by FDA does not establish an association between dental amalgam use and adverse health effects in the general population.” (FDA)

Is There a Metal-Free Dental Implant?

That said, many men and women do not want any metal in their mouths, regardless of what the FDA and ADA say. This leads to the question “Is there a metal-free alternative to titanium for dental implant procedures?”

Some implant dentists offer Zirconia implants.

What Are Zirconia Implants?

Zirconia tooth implants are regularly advertised as a non-metal alternative to titanium posts.

Is Zirconia Metal-Free?

As it turns out, the answer to this question is involved. You will get different answers depending on whether you consult a manufacturer of Zirconia tooth implants, an implant dentist who prefers titanium, or a scientist who has no ties to the dental industry.

Consider the following:

“Zirconia crowns are made from zirconium dioxide, a very durable type of metal that’s related to titanium, although it’s categorized as a type of ceramic crown.” (Healthline.com)

“Is it misleading when we call zirconium restorations “metal free”? We all agree that titanium is a metal. Zirconium is chemically a metal and has been used in alloys. Its atomic number is 40. To say that Titanium is a metal and that Zirconium is not is showing a poor knowledge of chemistry. Zirconium dioxide, an oxidized form of Zirconium that is used for restorations, is a metal. We would not call rust — iron oxide — anything but a metal. Now we have a new generation of zirconium dioxide implant fixtures and they are advertised as “metal-free” and calling them ceramic.” (Osseonews.com)

“Zirconium is a silver-gray transition metal, a type of element that is malleable and ductile and easily forms stable compounds.” (LiveScience.com)

How are Zirconia and Titanium Implants Similar?

Both materials are FDA-approved, biocompatible, and safe to use for dental implants.

Why Don’t all Dental Implant Dentists Offer Zirconia Implants?

There are several reasons.

  • Some dental implant dentists don’t believe they are as strong as titanium implants.
  • Some dental implant dentists don’t offer them because they can’t be used in a variety of configurations. For example, they are not suited for complete mouth restorations and implant-anchored dentures.
  • Some dental implant dentists don’t offer them because they believe they have a slight risk of fracture–especially narrow-diameter Zirconia implants.
  • Some dental implant dentists believe they haven’t proven to provide long-term success.

“A 2017 study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association, concluded, “Survival rates and marginal bone loss of zirconia implants are promising, but more evidence on long-term outcomes is needed.” (JADA)

So what do you do if you are interested in getting a dental implant but don’t want titanium in your mouth? Talk to Drs. Hull.

Don’t depend on marketing hype to make critical decisions about dental implants. Schedule a consultation with Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry.

 

CONTACT ERIC HULL AESTHETIC & GENERAL DENTISTRY:

616-784-2377

LOCATION (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
49321

What Is More Valuable Than A Diamond?

Comstock Park cosmetic dentistryEvery tooth in a man’s head is more valuable than a diamond.” -Miguel de Cervantes, Don Quixote, 1605

When Cervantes wrote Don Quixote, there was no way to replace teeth that were lost to decay or injury. We are fortunate to live at a time when there is a permanent state-of-the-art replacement for missing teeth performed by Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry: the amazing dental implant.

A dental implant, or tooth implant, is anchored into the jaw bone. It does not slide around like a removable denture. It functions just like a natural tooth.

With a dental implant, you can talk, chew, and brush like normal. Eat that steak. Laugh out loud. Sing at the top of your lungs!

Dental implant placement is not an experimental treatment. Dental implants have been available for many years. You can be sure it has been fully tested and tweaked to perfection.

If you have a missing tooth and want to get a tooth implant, it is critical to decide on an experienced dental specialist to perform your implant procedure. To schedule a dental implant or cosmetic dentistry consultation at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, call 616-784-2377.

We offer the full spectrum of restorative, cosmetic, and general dental services. If you need a gentle family dentist to put your kids at ease or a precision smile design artist, we invite you to speak with us today by calling 616-784-2377. We are dedicated to providing singular dental care for our valued patients.

 

CONTACT ERIC HULL AESTHETIC & GENERAL DENTISTRY:

616-784-2377

LOCATION (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
49321

How Do Implant Dentures Work?

implant dentures Comstock Park

Many individuals know that a tooth implant is an ideal tooth restoration. Some don’t realize, however, that two or more can support a partial or full denture. This can be a less expensive option than having many implants while still providing many advantages as compared to conventional dentures.

Today’s post answers the most frequent questions about implant dentures.

The first thing to know is that a fixed implant denture is called an “implant-supported” denture while a removable one is called an “implant-retained” denture.

What Are Implant Dentures?

Like traditional dentures, implant-supported dentures replace missing teeth. The difference is that they are attached to titanium posts which are surgically inserted into the jawbone.

Each post is called an implant. The implant fuses with the surrounding bone structure to create an incredibly secure restoration. These posts are similar to the implants that hold a crown, except instead of a crown, they have a clip that attaches to the denture, partial denture, or metal bar that holds the denture connectors. Implants can be used for both upper and lower dentures.

Bar-Retained and Ball-Retained Systems

There are two types of implant stabilization methods: bar-retained and ball-retained. For both, the denture is created with gum-colored acrylic for the base to which porcelain (or acrylic) false teeth are attached. The denture necessitates, at a minimum, two implants for stabilization.

With the ball-retained system, each post holds an attachment (male or female) that fits into a corresponding connector on the denture. These are sometimes called “stud-attachment.”

With bar-retained dentures, a metal bar is anchored to two to five implants. The bar holds the clips that connect to the denture.

If you are currently wearing standard dentures, talk to us about superior restoration procedures.

 

CONTACT ERIC HULL AESTHETIC & GENERAL DENTISTRY:

616-333-6445

LOCATION (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
49321

How Do You Choose a Dental Practice For a Dental Implant?

implant dentist Comstock ParkToday’s message is for men and women who have decided to replace a damaged tooth with a tooth implant. Great choice!

Now you need to choose the right dental implant dentist to perform the procedure.

This is a key decision. A dental implant is permanent. It involves oral surgery. It requires a significant financial investment. Making a bad choice of provider can lower your chances for success.

Here are the vital factors to consider:

Experience

  • How many years has the dentist been performing implants?
  • How many tooth implants has he/she done?
  • How many years has the dentist been practicing dentistry?

Patient Reviews

Online reviews are a great resource. Former patients not only give a five-star rating, but some of them share details about their experience. Be sure to check out the reviews for any dentist you are considering. Visit multiple online platforms.

Office Atmosphere

A modern dental practice with the latest technology helps ensure an effective outcome. When you visit the office, ask about their patient amenities. Observe the cleanliness of the office and the friendliness of the team.

What About Price?

You may wonder why we didn’t list price as one of the factors. This was intentional. Choosing an implant dentist by price alone is a bad idea. In the Grand Rapids area, most implant dentists’ prices are comparable. If you find a provider that has slashed the price for implants, be cautious. Find out exactly what is covered. A dental implant consists of a post, abutment, and crown (or denture). Some implant-only clinics advertise the price for the post alone. This is misleading.

How much does a tooth implant cost at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry? Call 616-784-2377 to schedule a consultation. We can take a look at your specific implant needs and discuss financing options.

Contact Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

616-784-2377

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
49321

What If My Dental Insurance Doesn’t Cover Dental Implants?

Categories: Dental Implants

dental implant financing Comstock Park

For years, the dental industry has been advocating implants as the preferable tooth restoration option in most circumstances.

But many dental insurers don’t cover teeth implants. The dental insurance industry seems to be stuck in 1970. For example, many insurers will cover dental bridges.

Clearly, dental insurance providers rarely make coverage decisions based on what is best for the patient.

However, you shouldn’t give up on dental implant procedures if your dental insurance provider doesn’t cover them. You may be able to get coverage for part of the procedure. Or your medical insurance may cover part of the treatment plan.

What to do if your dental insurer doesn’t cover dental implant procedures

  • Have your implant dentist provide a detailed implant treatment plan in writing
  • Armed with your treatment plan, talk to both your dental insurance company and your medical insurance provider
  • Ask your dental insurance provider if they will give you an allowance equal to the price tag of a bridge or conventional dentures
  • Ask your dental insurance provider if they will cover the cost of the crown(s)
  • If your tooth loss has medical complications, your health insurance provider might cover some elements of the implant treatment
  • Consider switching dental insurance companies–if your employer offers more than one dental option, contact the other provider(s) to find out if they cover implants
  • Pay for dental implants instead of premiums: consider not renewing your dental insurance and use the money saved toward the cost of implants
  • Look into dental implant-specific insurance–some businesses are filling a need in the industry by offering dental insurance created specifically for tooth implants and related procedures
  • Ask Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry about financing and payment options

Tooth implants are a wise investment in your health and quality of life. If you need implants but your insurance doesn’t cover them, talk with us at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry.

 

Contact Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

616-784-2377

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
49321

What is the Recovery Time for a Dental Implant?

dental implant recovery time Comstock Park

What is the recovery time for a permanent tooth implant procedure?

There isn’t a standard timeline because there are many variables involved.

Each patient’s treatment plan is unique.

Here are some factors that affect the recovery time for a dental implant procedure.

  1. Is a tooth extraction necessary?
  2. Will I need to have a bone graft (and/or sinus lift) before getting the implant?
  3. Will I receive anesthesia during the procedure?

Tooth extraction

If you need a non-viable tooth pulled, it may be possible to receive a tooth implant on the same day. As long as you have enough strong, healthy jawbone in which to anchor the implant.

Bone graft

As soon as a tooth is removed, the bone begins to recede. A dental implant is the only tooth replacement procedure that prevents or (greatly reduces) bone deterioration.

If teeth at the implant site have been gone for a while, the bone may have shrunk. Bone can also be weakened or destroyed with a severe infection.

An important decision is whether an implant patient needs bone augmentation.

In a bone grafting procedure, an oral surgeon or dentist packs bone material into the area where the implant will be placed.

If the implant will be placed in the upper arch, you may need a sinus lift treatment. When bone matter shrinks in parts of the upper jaw, it may cause the floor of the sinus cavity to fall into the space created.

A sinus lift procedure is done in conjunction with a bone graft. The goal is to raise the floor of the sinus cavity to make room for the additional bone material.

After the bone graft, you need to wait until the new bone has integrated with the existing bone. This will create a strong and stable foundation for the implant.

Recovery after a bone graft procedure

Day of procedure: Though bone grafting requires oral surgery, don’t let the term “surgery” give the impression that it has a long recovery time. The site will be sore, but most patients can take care of it with Ibuprofen or aspirin.

It doesn’t take much longer than filling a cavity. Most patients can return to work the next day.

If swelling or pain increases a few days after the procedure, contact Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry.

After a bone graft, how long until I can get my implant?

The fusing process can take several months. You don’t want to rush this because successful implantation requires a sturdy foundation.

Recovery after implant placement

Just as with the bone graft procedure, the implant placement procedure can be completed in less than two hours. If you elect to have IV sedation, however, you will need to wait until the effects of the sedation have worn off.

You will probably experience the following post-procedure:

  • Pain at the implant site
  • Minimal bleeding
  • Swelling and/or bruising of the gums and cheeks

These effects should subside after a few days. Ice packs used on the outside of the face can alleviate swelling. Call our office if these symptoms persist.

NOTE: It is not necessary for a permanent tooth implant recipient to be unconscious for the dental process. A local painkiller is usually sufficient. However, people with dental anxiety may elect stronger sedation.

Healing abutment

Your dentist may mount a temporary healing abutment to the post during the initial surgery. A healing abutment is sometimes called a ‘healing cuff’ or ‘healing cap.’

Make sure you practice daily oral hygiene but be extra careful when cleaning around the surgical site.

It’s vital to follow all post-procedure instructions. And be sure to make the recommended follow-up visits.

Smoking can make it harder to heal from any type of oral surgery.

After a permanent dental implant has had time to fuse with the bone, you will have an appointment to attach the abutment.

Attaching the abutment

This is a fairly quick and easy service. Your dentist will make an incision in your gum tissue at the implant site to expose the post. Then the abutment is attached. Your dentist may place the prosthesis (artifical tooth crown, dental bridge, or denture/partial denture) at the same time. Or your dentist may wait until your gums have healed.

Tooth implants can give you a beautiful new smile. To keep it beautiful and avoid further issues (like decay or an infection):

  • Practice proper oral hygiene—keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy
  • Eat a nutritious diet
  • Don’t chew on hard foods or other items
  • If you grind your teeth, seek treatment.
  • Have a twice-yearly dental exam and cleaning

At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park, we restore missing teeth with dental implant procedures. Dental implant placement studies have found a five-year success rate of 98%.

Contact Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

616-784-2377

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
49321

Implant Dentures: Fixed or Removable?

implant dentures Comstock Park

Today, dental patients with missing teeth are fortunate to have a tooth replacement choice that is far better than both traditional dentures and dental bridges. Implant-retained or implant-stabilized dentures both provide numerous advantages over traditional dentures.

  • Secure in the mouth—no slipping
  • Offers up to 100% natural chewing function
  • Upper denture doesn’t cover as much of the palate
  • Comfortable
  • Little or no gum irritation
  • Doesn’t impair speaking ability
  • Strong and durable
  • Implants prevent bone loss and “sunken face”
  • Allows user to eat any type of food—even steak
  • No adhesive required
  • Minimally invasive oral surgery for implant placement

What Are The Differences Between Fixed and Removable?

Fixed implant-retained dentures (sometimes called screw-in) require more implants than the removable type. They can restore 100% of chewing capacity.

Removable implant dentures (sometimes called snap-in) may require just 4 implants to stabilize the upper arch and just 2 for the lower denture. Removable implant-stabilized dentures can restore up to 90% of chewing ability.

How Do I Choose?

Call 616-784-2377 to schedule an implant denture consultation with Drs. Hull. The following factors will impact the recommendation.

Bone Condition

Implants require the patient has a sufficient amount of healthy bone structure for placement. The condition of your jawbone affects whether or not it can support implants and where the posts can be inserted.

Cost

Fixed implant dentures cost more but some men and women believe the advantages outweigh the extra expense.

Convenience

Fixed implant-stabilized dentures don’t have to be removed for cleaning. Patients who have found it inconvenient to clean standard dentures would face the same issue with removable implant-retained dentures.

Diet

Fixed dentures are sturdier than removable dentures. Patients who choose foods that are harder to chew should consider this.

Sleep Conditions

Men and women with TMJ or sleep apnea may find it more difficult to manage these conditions if they have to remove their dentures at night.

For an implant denture consultation, call us at 616-784-2377.

Contact Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

616-784-2377

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
49321