Q: My dentist wants to place four implants to hold my dentures in place. To save money, why can’t I have just two like other friends of mine had? Sol in Lake Worth.
A: Trust me on this one. It’s not because your dentist needs to recoup his losses from betting on the Patriots. It is always recommended to place at least four implants to create adequate retention to secure full dentures. IF (and this is a big “IF”), you have an adequate amount of bone to accept the implant.
Four allows a back up: If one implant should be rejected, you still have three left to serve as a source of good retention. Another benefit to four is that if they are placed far enough apart on the upper jaw, the thick, bulky palate of an upper denture can be cut out, allowing you to have the luxury of feeling the roof of your mouth again with your tongue. The surface of the palate actually helps in taste sensation. The February 2012 Consumer Report showed 91% of patients had no pain or problems with implants. For a free consumer guide on Implant Overdentures, contact us or attend our next seminar.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Dr. Mitchell Josephs will be giving a FREE LECTURE on Incision-Free Dental Implant Surgery, Digital Crowns & Veneers and Choosing a Dental Office, at the Ross Jewish Community Center on Jog Road in Boynton Beach on Wednesday February 22nd at 10:00 am. Attendees will receive a FREE copy of his book: “Tooth Talk”. Seating is limited. Call “Shawn” at 561-259-3016 to register.
Dr. Mitchell Josephs practices Cosmetic, Implant and General Dentistry in Palm Beach and hosts the “Tooth Talk” radio on WBZT AM1230. (www.radiotoothtalk.com) Dr. Josephs is a Faculty Advisory Board member at McGill University’s Faculty of Dentistry.
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drjosephs@palmbeachdentist.com
44 Cocoanut Row, Palm Beach, FL 33480
888-DRTOOTH (888-378-6684)
www.palmbeachdentist.com