What Are the Symptoms of TMJ Disorders?

TMJ disorder is a common medical condition affecting the jaw. It can come and go with frequent flare ups that cause discomfort and inconvenience.

Sometimes the symptoms of TMJ disorder can be confusing, making it difficult to determine what the problem is. Learn the common signs of TMJ disorder and when you should seek treatment.

What is TMJ Disorder?

TMJ disorder is a condition affecting the temporomandibular joints, the place on each side of the head where the lower jaw connects to the skull. When one or both of these joints becomes irritated or inflamed, it is considered to be TMJ disorder.

TMJ Signs and Symptoms

The following signs and symptoms often indicate that TMJ disorder is present:

Pain in the jaw. Often the first sign of TMJ disorder is pain in or around the jaw. This comes from inflammation of the tissues in the jaw.

Tight facial muscles. TMJ disorder can cause swelling, which can make the facial muscles feel tight.

Limited movement of the jaw. TMJ disorder can make it difficult to open and close your mouth. You may find that you can’t open your mouth as widely as you are used to.

Popping or clicking sound when moving the jaw. When you move your jaw you may hear a popping or clicking sound, which is the sound of ligaments slipping over bones and possibly even bones grinding together due to misalignment or lack of cushioning.

Headache. TMJ can often cause headaches, especially in the temple region of the head.

Locked jaw. Your jaw may lock up completely due to TMJ disorder, meaning you can’t open your mouth at all.

Ear pain. The TMJ is so close to the ear canal, that the pain can often resonate in the ears. TMJ disorder is commonly mistaken for an ear infection.

When to Seek Treatment

If you experience any of the above symptoms, start by self treating the condition at home. Apply ice to the sides of your face in the area of the TMJ. Take anti-inflammatory pain medication to relieve pain and reduce the swelling and irritation from inflammation. Rest your jaw as much as possible by avoiding talking and eating a liquid or soft diet. If your symptoms don’t improve or subside in a few days to a week, contact your dentist for diagnosis and treatment.

Causes of TMJ Disorder

There are a number of potential causes of TMJ disorder, such as:

Teeth grinding. Grinding your teeth can put strain on your TMJ, causing irritation.

Excessive chewing. If you are constantly chewing, whether it's gum or snacks, your jaw may be overworked and become inflamed.

Eating hard or chewy foods. You may notice TMJ symptoms after chewing something hard or particularly chewy, such as nuts or jerky.

Chewing or biting non-food items. If you tend to chew on pens or other items, or if you use your teeth to open things, it can cause irritation to your jaw.

An injury to the jaw. A blow to the side or underside of your jaw can cause TMJ disorder or a flare up.

Arthritis. Arthritis can affect any joint in your body, including your TMJ.

Autoimmune diseases. Some autoimmune diseases can cause inflammation in the body that may spread to the TMJ.

Have Symptoms of TMJ Disorder? Seek Treatment Today

If you have persistent symptoms of TMJ disorder that don’t go away or keep coming back, Oakland Dental Care can help. We provide diagnosis and treatment for TMJ disorder that gets to the source of the problem for lasting relief of your symptoms.

Call 201-337-7733 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions About TMJ Disorder

Why see a dentist for TMJ disorder?

In addition to teeth, dentists specialize in the support structures for the teeth, including the jaw. A dentist can not only diagnose TMJ disorder, but analyze the cause to determine the best course of treatment to provide lasting results.

What treatments do dentists provide for TMJ disorder?

Dentists can provide injections such as Botox that relaxes the tensed up muscles in the jaw to relieve pain and improve range of motion. We can also provide you with a custom bite splint to help realign your jaw to relieve TMJ symptoms.

How Long Does A Dental Bridge Last?

Dental bridges are artificial teeth attached to neighboring crowns or implants. They help fill in gaps in patients' smiles, preventing other teeth from moving and improving appearance and chewing function.

A standard crown-supported dental bridge will usually last five to seven years. However, with proper care, patients may be able to preserve their bridges for ten years and more.

About Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are a useful option for patients missing one to three adjacent teeth. To place a bridge, the dentist first installs crowns or implants on either side of the gap. The artificial tooth or pontic attaches to both sides, creating a smooth, natural look.

Advantages of Dental Bridges

Prevent Facial Sagging

Missing teeth cause facial muscles to sag, aging a person's appearance. A dental bridge can preserve the natural look of your face.

Restore Your Smile

Gaps in your smile can lead to self-consciousness. A dental bridge can restore your healthy smile. You will feel free to laugh and talk freely again.

Better Chewing Function

With missing teeth, chewing can be challenging. Rather than chewing around the gaps in your teeth, you can confidently eat most foods.

Clear Speech

Missing teeth make pronouncing words difficult. With a new bridge, you will be able to form clear sounds.

Keep Natural Teeth in Place

With missing teeth, the remaining natural teeth often slip out of place. This problem can make it more difficult to keep your teeth clean, making you vulnerable to tooth decay and gum disease.

Extending the Life of Your Dental Bridge

Avoid Chewing Hard Foods and Objects

While dental bridges can provide excellent chewing function, you should avoid hard objects like ice and foods like nuts and hard candy.

Keep Gums and Teeth Clean

Brushing multiple times each day is best to keep your bridge and the adjacent teeth clean. If you do not brush enough, plaque and tartar may build up, triggering the onset of periodontal disease. The natural tooth under your bridge-anchoring crown may also decay.

Floss As Recommended

Flossing around a bridge may seem challenging, but most pharmacies carry flossing aids to help you navigate the process. Interproximal bridges are small and inexpensive. They can help remove food and plaque in and around your dental bridge.

Quit Smoking

Tobacco use hinders healing and can contribute to gum disease and tooth decay.

Make All Follow-Up Visits

Dr. Kook will need to check on the condition and attachment of your dental bridge at each appointment. Do not skip appointments after having a bridge installed.

Call Oakland Dental Care

You don't have to live with a gap in your teeth. If you want to know whether a bridge could improve your smile and oral health, call Oakland Dental Care at 201-337-7733. We can explain your options and schedule a consultation with Dr. Kook.

How Much Does Teeth Whitening Cost in Bergen County?

If you’re concerned about discolored teeth, you might want to pay a visit to the dentist for a professional whitening treatment. This cosmetic service offers immediate results, giving you an instant makeover by whitening your teeth several shades.

It’s an easy way to boost your confidence in your smile — but how much will it set you back? Here’s what you should know about how much teeth whitening costs in Bergen County.

Types of Teeth Whitening Solutions

There are many different ways to whiten teeth. Over-the-counter products include whitening toothpastes, strips, pens, and trays. All are formulated to brighten your smile, but they generally produce far less noticeable results than professional whitening solutions.

There’s a risk with using over-the-counter whitening products, too. They often contain elevated amounts of peroxide, which can increase sensitivity significantly and cause pain when you eat or drink.

By contrast, professional whitening involves bleaching the teeth with a specific amount of peroxide to brighten your smile to your desired level. Before the service begins, you’ll choose your preferred shade. Your dentist can usually whiten your teeth by several shades in a single appointment, although it may take a couple of visits to achieve your desired color if your teeth are especially stained.

Cost of Teeth Whitening in Bergen County

How much you’ll pay for teeth whitening in Bergen County depends largely on a few factors. Here’s how each affects your costs and your teeth.

Degree of Discoloration

The more stained your teeth, the longer it may take to whiten them. You’ll likely need to come back for a few sessions until you reach your desired shade of white. Plus, your dentist may decide to scale your teeth to remove hardened calculus plaques from your teeth before whitening. This can build up and leave teeth stained yellow.

If you don’t have too much discoloration, the process is straightforward and quick. Your dentist will usually clean your teeth, then bleach them. More stains means more bleaching, along with possible scaling. As it’s more time-consuming, it’s likely to cost more.

Whitening Preparation

Everyone’s needs are different. Extrinsic stains that sit on the surface of the teeth are easier to remove, take less time, and don’t require any preparatory work. By contrast, stains that are deep-set or intrinsic can take a considerable amount of effort to break down.

That means you might need some extra treatments before the actual whitening process begins. Scaling, for example, may be necessary to remove the tartar, plaque, and other buildup on and around your teeth. Your dentist may follow that up with polishing to get your teeth as ready as possible for the whitening solution.

Some people have more sensitive teeth than others, too. In that case, you might be asked to undergo fluoride treatment or apply a desensitizing agent to your teeth before the bleaching process begins.

Payment Plans

Some dental offices offer the option for financing your services, usually with no interest when the treatment is over a certain amount or when you pay at least the minimum every month. Be sure to ask about this possibility if you’re concerned about the cost of teeth whitening.

Teeth Whitening in Bergen County

Oakland Dental Care offers a variety of cosmetic dentistry solutions to improve the appearance of your teeth and restore confidence in your smile. If you’re interested in learning more about teeth whitening, visit the website to find out more about how Dr. Kook and his skilled team can make your vision of the perfect smile a reality. Call 201-337-7733 to schedule an appointment today.

Can A Dental Bridge Be Removed And Recemented?

Having a missing tooth is a bigger deal than just aesthetics. Without a replacement, that empty space offers no support to surrounding teeth, allowing them to drift. This can lead to crooked teeth, overcrowding, gaps, misaligned bites, and, eventually, the need for complex dental care.

There are many ways to avoid all of this - and a dental bridge is one of the most popular options to do so. While they work beautifully, sometimes issues can arise that impact the integrity of it. Removal may be necessary, but can a dental bridge be removed and recemented? Let’s find out.

What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is an oral appliance that fills in the empty space where a tooth once was. There are many different types, but typically it involves two crowns, one on either side of the open space, that fit upon anchoring teeth. This is what holds the fake tooth, formally known as a pontic, in place.

Cement is used to secure the dental crowns as they attach to strong, healthy anchor teeth. This allows the dental bridge to look and function just like a real tooth or teeth - and gives you biting strength back, as well.

When Would a Dental Bridge Need to Be Removed?

If placed well and diligently cared for, dental bridges can last for several years. Unfortunately, for one reason or another, a dental bridge may fail and need to be removed. Below are a few of the most common reasons this happens.

Poor-Fitting Bridge. A bridge that is too loose will not only function poorly, but it will allow bacteria to make their way under the bridge and lead to tooth decay in the healthy anchor teeth. As a result, this can cause the bridge to lose its stable support, too.
Cracked or Damaged Pontic. Although the dental crowns used as fake teeth are strong and meant to hold a lot of pressure from bite force, they are not unbreakable. Any cracks or breaks will require dental attention and potential removal.
Damage to Surrounding Teeth. It is possible for a dental bridge to damage the teeth they come in contact with, wearing down their enamel over time. This can put healthy teeth at risk for decay.
Gum Disease. Dental bridges can increase the risk of gum disease. Any signs of it will need to be addressed right away - or the bridge may need to be removed.

Can a Dental Bridge Be Recemented?

After a dental bridge has been removed, it may or may not be able to be recemented. After all, the act of removing the bridge could cause damage since the cement used is meant to hold it in place for many years. So, whether or not it will be able to be saved and recemented will depend highly on the situation. How strong the cement bond is, the cause of the bridge failure, and the strength of the anchor teeth all play a role.

For instance, if a bridge is too loose, it is often no big deal to remove it and recement it as it obviously didn’t have a good grip in the first place. On the other hand, if the bridge is unable to be easily removed, it will likely have to be drilled off, causing irreparable damage to the bridge and requiring replacement.

Dental Bridges at Oakland Dental Care

Learn more about dental bridges - and whether or not they are right for you - at Oakland Dental Care.

How Does Sedation Dentistry Work?

If you’re anxious about visiting the dentist, you’re not alone. Many people experience fear and anxiety regarding dental appointments, but there is an answer.

Sedation dentistry is a safe and effective way to manage dental anxiety and help you get the dental care you need.

In this article, you’ll learn all about sedation dentistry – how it works, its benefits, and the different types of sedation available. From IV sedation to oral sedation and more, you’ll have the information you need to make an informed decision on the best option for you.

Don’t let anxiety keep you from getting the dental care you need – learn more about sedation dentistry today!

What is sedation dentistry?

Sedation is a drug-induced state of reduced consciousness and arousal. It is commonly used to treat anxiety and fear and may be administered as a type of anesthesia in dentistry.

Oral sedation and IV sedation are the most common types of sedation used in dentistry, and they can be used to ease dental and medical procedures.

Oral sedation involves taking medications that reduce the feelings of anxiety or pain in the patient.
IV sedation involves a saline solution containing a sedative that is administered intravenously.

Both types of sedation are milder than general anesthesia, which is the most extreme form of sedation and involves complete loss of consciousness.

Types of sedation dentistry

Oral sedation is used to treat mild to moderate dental anxiety or pain. Oral sedation medications are safe to use with any type of dental procedure and generally don’t require any special preparation. Oral sedation can be used to numb the mouth to reduce sensitivity to touch, eliminate the need for anesthesia, or both.

Inhalation sedation is used to administer nitrous oxide (often called “laughing gas”) to reduce or eliminate the need for anesthesia. Nitrous oxide is safe to use with any type of dental procedure and generally doesn’t require any special preparation. Inhalation sedation can be used to numb the mouth to reduce sensitivity to touch or eliminate the need for anesthesia. This is a common sedation option for dental anxiety treatment.

IV sedation is used to administer a sedative that is administered intravenously. IV sedation is a common type of sedation used to administer general anesthesia. IV sedation reduces anxiety and pain in patients who may not be medically fit or stable to receive anesthesia by another route.

How to prepare for sedation dentistry

When you arrive at the dental office for your appointment, let the staff know that you’d like to be sedated. You can tell them that you’re experiencing dental anxiety and that the appointment is especially stressful for you. It may also be helpful to talk about any specific anxieties you have related to the dental procedure.

Let the staff know about any medications that you’re taking or other health conditions that you want to be aware of. Schedule your appointment for a day when you’re not feeling sick or have other extensive plans. If you’ll be experiencing dental anxiety, it’s helpful to have as much time as possible to prepare mentally.

Sedation Dentistry in Oakland

If you’re having trouble coping with dental anxiety, it’s worth seeking treatment. There are many benefits to receiving treatment for dental anxiety, such as improved dental health, a decreased likelihood of repeat visits to the dental office, and a decreased likelihood of suicide.

Now that you have a better understanding of sedation dentistry, you are well prepared to make an informed decision on the best option for you. Whether it’s oral sedation, IV sedation, or a combination of both, you’ll know what to expect during your appointment.

To learn more about sedation dentistry, contact us at201-337-7733.

What Are Dental Implants Made Of?

Replacing a missing tooth - or missing teeth - is a vital step in maintaining good oral health. Each tooth relies on the one next to it for support. When you lose a tooth, this support is lost. Over time they can begin to shift, putting you at risk for crowding, tooth decay, misaligned bites, and more.

Finding a solid tooth replacement that can give you the functionality of a real tooth as well as the appearance to match can be all that is needed to transform your oral health and give your teeth the support they need.

Let’s take a closer look at dental implants, including how they work and what they are made of.

The Parts of a Dental Implant

Dental implants are essentially made up of 3 different parts - the implant, the abutment, and the tooth.

The implant itself is a post that is inserted into the jawbone where it is left so that the two can fuse together. Formally known as osseointegration, this fusing process can take some time. For most patients, proceeding to the next step doesn’t take place for a few months. This way the dentist can ensure the implanted artificial root is sturdy enough to successfully anchor the tooth.

The artificial tooth, a dental crown, is attached to an abutment. This is then screwed into the implant, allowing the tooth to be anchored securely.

Each part of the implant plays a pivotal role in the process, but they are not made of the same material.

A Titanium Post and Abutment

The most commonly used implant is a small titanium post. The abutment that holds the tooth is also made of the same material. Titanium is a biocompatible metal that poses minimal risks - and it is sturdy enough to hold the tooth in place. Believe it or not, it has been used in this procedure since the mid-1980s so there is a history to back up its level of safety and effectiveness.

Titanium is a metal that is strong enough to last a lifetime. And, that’s important for those looking for a long-lasting tooth replacement.

A Ceramic Crown

Dental crowns are used to create the artificial tooth that is attached to the abutment and then placed in the anchor. One of the most commonly used materials for this type of crown is ceramic. They are strong and durable, hypoallergenic, contain no metal, and look completely natural. In fact, they are custom-made to blend in well with your surrounding teeth in size, color, shape, contour, and so forth.

Although ceramic crowns are most often used with dental implants, it is worth noting that there are different types, too. These include:

Porcelain fused to metal
Gold alloys
Base metal alloys
Composite material

Your dentist will help you determine the best option for you.

Dental Implants at Oakland Dental Care

If you have one or more missing teeth and are interested in dental implants, Oakland Dental Care can help. Backed by much experience, we provide high-quality dental implants using the utmost precision and skill.

To learn more or to get started, contact us today at 201-337-7733. Or, request an appointment online.

How Long Does It Take For Wisdom Teeth To Come In?

Wisdom teeth were once necessary for our ancestors, due to their diet of tough to chew raw plants and meat. But today, our diet has evolved as we have ourselves, making wisdom teeth no longer necessary, and for many patients, necessary to remove.

Removing Wisdom Teeth

Along with no longer being necessary for our ability to eat, wisdom teeth often don’t fit well in our mouths and jaws. This is due to the fact that today human jaws are significantly smaller in size than that of our ancestors. And so, without enough room to easily fit, wisdom teeth often push up and crowd other teeth once they erupt, or they are unable to properly erupt, staying stuck in the gum and causing impaction, and possibly an infection. To prevent complications, regularly seeing your dental team is key.

Extracting Impacted Wisdom Teeth

The solution to impacted wisdom teeth is extraction. This will put an end to swollen gums, pain and discomfort, and the possibility of infection. Extracting wisdom teeth that have fully erupted but are crowding your mouth is also a good idea to prevent crooked teeth, and the gum disease and tooth decay that can be caused when you can’t properly reach your other molars for brushing and flossing due to the crowding in your mouth.

Extraction, or removing wisdom teeth is most often done in your dentist or oral surgeon’s office, using either local sedation, IV sedation, or general anesthesia to prevent the experience of pain during the extraction. The gum tissue surrounding the tooth is opened if the tooth is impacted, the tooth removed, and sutures placed to close the wound. It usually takes only around 2 to 4 days to recover from a typical extraction; however, if the wisdom teeth are badly impacted, it can take longer, possibly up to a week.

So How Long Does It Take for Wisdom Teeth to Come In?

Sometimes, patients will wait for wisdom teeth to come in, hoping that an impacted tooth will break through the gum surface and either grow straight without crowding the mouth, or be easier to remove than an impacted tooth. In this case, the question is often asked as to just how long it takes for wisdom teeth to emerge in the mouth.

Wisdom teeth typically will begin to erupt between ages 17 and 25. But the eruption timeline is different for everyone. For some, it might take years for the wisdom teeth to fully and completely emerge from the gums, and in other cases, they may never erupt!

With this in mind, it’s important that you have regular dental checkups which can detect any complications such as impacted wisdom teeth before it becomes a bigger problem. Regardless of whether your wisdom teeth are free of symptoms, issues can occur, from having an inadequate amount of space in the mouth, to complicating your regular dental cleaning and care at home. Pain can also occur suddenly.

And, another good reason to schedule a regular consultation about your wisdom teeth is to avoid complications that become more prevalent as you grow older.

Ready to Learn More About Wisdom Teeth?

If you’d like to learn more about wisdom teeth or schedule a consultation, we’re here to help. Just reach out to us today at Oakland Dental Care.

How Long Do Mini Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are the best solution to replace missing teeth because they mimic a natural tooth in functionality, appearance, and durability. But there are some cases where a full dental implant is not an option. In that case, your dentist may talk with you about mini dental implants. Mini dental implants can last as long as full-size dental implants, in patients who practice excellent oral hygiene and see the dentist regularly. Read on to learn more about mini dental implants (MDIs).

What are mini dental implants?

Mini dental implants are smaller-sized dental implants, often used to replace a small tooth. Mini dental implants use a surgically implanted post, rather than a larger, surgically implanted screw. Mini dental implants do not require the placement of an abutment on top of the implant. Instead, the post has a ball on it that fits into the artificial tooth that is used to replace the missing tooth.

Mini dental implants may be recommended if there is inadequate jaw bone to support a full-size dental implant screw.

Benefits of Mini Dental Implants

Mini dental implants offer similar benefits to full-size dental implants. These include:

Natural appearance
Preserves jaw bone/promotes bone restoration
The implant serves as the tooth root
Permanent, fixed solution to missing teeth
Implants can support bridges or removable arch dentures
Prevents sunken appearance/changing facial structure

Additionally, mini dental implants offer the benefit of being a less invasive surgical procedure. This means that the procedure can often be completed in a single visit, with local anesthesia only. This leads to a quicker recovery than with full-size implants.

Mini dental implants are also less expensive than full-size implants. In many cases, mini dental implants do not require the patient to have bone grafting before receiving implants. Finally, mini dental implants can replace small teeth, such as incisors.

Mini Dental Implant Procedure

If your dentist has decided that you are a candidate for mini dental implants, here is what to expect during the procedure.

Your gums and jaw will be completely numbed
A tiny hole will be drilled into the jaw bone
The post will be placed in the jaw bone
The post will be tightened/secured
The artificial tooth will be attached to the end of the post.

Am I a Candidate for Mini Dental Implants?

Many people will be excellent candidates for mini dental implants. They are a great option for people missing small teeth. They are also a great option for those who may not have enough jaw bone to support a full implant.

Children are not good candidates for mini dental implants because their mouths and jaw bones are still growing. Individuals who grind their teeth are also not ideal candidates for mini dental implants as the artificial tooth will experience undue wear and tear.

Individuals with certain underlying health conditions may not be good candidates for mini or full-size dental implants. Health conditions and lifestyle factors that may prevent you from being eligible for dental implants include:

Vascular disease
Diabetes
Hemophilia
Gum disease (periodontitis)
Tobacco/nicotine use (smokeless, cigarettes, vaping)
Severe decay and bone loss in the jaw

Patients being treated for cancer are not eligible for implants. Likewise, those who take anticoagulant medications should speak with their dentist about alternatives to implants

Learn More About Mini Dental Implants in Oakland, NJ

If you’re ready to learn more about options for replacing missing teeth, such as mini dental implants, schedule a consultation at Oakland Dental Care. We are located minutes from Wyckoff, Franklin Lakes, Ringwood, Bloomingdale, and surrounding communities in Bergen County. Call 201-337-7733 or request an appointment online.

What Is A Dental Bridge?

If you’re missing teeth, one option to fill the gap may be a dental bridge. A dental bridge is an artificial tooth or teeth that is held in place by attaching to the teeth (or crowns) next to the gap. Indeed, a dental bridge literally bridges the gap you have from a missing tooth. Candidates for dental bridges will need to have relatively healthy gums, good jaw bone density (if opting for an implant supported bridge), strong teeth that are not in a state of decay, and relatively good health overall. However, only your dentist can confirm if a dental bridge is the best restorative dentistry procedure for your needs.

Types of Dental Bridges

There are four main types of dental bridges. Oakland Dental Care will help you to determine the type best suited for you.

Traditional Bridge

As its name implies, a traditional bridge is the most common type of bridge. A traditional bridge will affix to crowns on either side of the gap.

Cantilever Bridge

A cantilever bridge is only supported on one side of the gap. This type of bridge is not for everyone, as it is not as secure as a traditional bridge.

Maryland Bridge

A Maryland bridge is similar to a traditional bridge. However instead of attaching to crowns on either side of the gap, it is attached to the natural teeth.

Implant Supported Bridge

This type of bridge is particularly useful if multiple, consecutive teeth are missing. In this case, a dental implant can be used to support one end of the bridge. Implant supported bridges tend to be very secure.

What To Expect During The Procedure

The full procedure for a dental bridge may take several appointments, depending upon the type of bridge you are getting. During the first appointment, expect your dentist to numb the area around the teeth or crowns (known as abutment teeth) that will be used to secure the bridge. Then these teeth will be filed into the proper shape to be able to support your bridge. An impression or digital scan of your teeth will be taken to be sent to the lab to have your bridge made. You will be given a temporary bridge in the meantime, to protect the teeth that have been filed.

Once your bridge has come in, you’ll return to have the permanent bridge affixed. After the removal of your temporary bridge, your teeth may need to be cleaned. Then your bridge will be cemented in and adjusted for proper fit. You will then be scheduled for a follow-up appointment to make sure that the bridge is comfortable.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

In addition to improving the appearance of your smile, a dental bridge can provide many other benefits.

Improved self-confidence
Reduced pressure on your teeth
Better alignment of teeth
Less drooping in your cheeks or face
Easier chewing and speaking

Best Dental Treatment for Missing Teeth in Oakland, NJ

At Oakland Dental, we are here to help you achieve a gorgeous smile. Our dental practice provides complete cosmetic and restorative dentistry in addition to general dentistry for all ages. If you’re missing one or more teeth, schedule a consultation today to learn more about dental bridges and dental implants. We are here to help you create the smile you’ve always wanted. Call 201-337-7733 or request an appointment online.

How Much Do Dental Implants Cost in Bergen County?

Many of our patients wonder if they should consider replacing their dentures with dental implants, or opt for an implant instead of a bridge when a tooth needs to be extracted. While they know the benefits of dental implants, there’s one thing that holds them back: the cost. Before you assume dental implants are out of reach for you, it’s a good idea to schedule a consultation with us so you know exactly what to expect. Below, we answer some of the most common questions patients have about the cost of dental implants in Bergen County.

What do dental implants cost in Bergen County?

Although many people use the term “dental implants” to describe a full restoration for a missing tooth, there are actually three components involved—the dental implant, which is the post that is implanted into the jaw to replace the root, the restoration that replaces the visible portion of your tooth, and an abutment piece that connects the two.

In Bergen County, a single implant fixture might cost anywhere from $1500 to $2500. The cost of the restoration attached to the implant can range from $2100 to $3500. The total cost of replacing teeth with implants depends on the number of teeth, the type of restoration required, and the material chosen for the restoration.

Another factor that can increase the cost involved in getting dental implants is whether you require any additional procedures in order to prepare for implant surgery. Tooth extractions may be required, or if you've been missing teeth for a long time, a sinus lift or bone grafts could be needed to reconstruct your jawbone and provide a firm base of support for your implants.

Why are dental implants so expensive?

When you compare the costs of dental implants to bridges and dentures, you may wonder what makes implants more expensive. It's simple: with dental implants, you pay for replacing the root and the crown of a tooth, whereas with bridges and dentures, you only pay to replace the crown.

Dental implants must be surgically implanted since they replace the tooth's root. This means that you’ll have to pay for the surgical procedure, along with the imaging, planning, and follow-up appointments needed for it. Then, there’s the cost of the biocompatible implant posts and restorations, along with any supplemental procedures like bone grafts.

That said, dental implants are made to last a lifetime and help you maintain better oral health by preventing and reversing bone loss in the jaw. These advantages outweigh the additional cost for the vast majority of patients, and in the long run, dental implants may help you avoid costly restorative and periodontal work needed to address future bone loss.

Does insurance pay for dental implants?

Insurance coverage for dental implants varies from one provider to the next. Insurers are increasingly providing coverage for dental implants, but there is a lot of inconsistency in how they’re covered. Some dental insurance policies, for example, may cover the implant restorations but not the implant posts. Others may only pay for dental implants if you've lost teeth since your insurance coverage began. Your medical insurance may also cover implants in some situations. Our staff can assist you in understanding your benefits.

Are dental implants worth it?

Our patients are thrilled with their dental implants. Implant-supported restorations look, feel, and function more like natural teeth than dentures or bridges. Dental implants are also the healthiest solution for missing teeth. They don't rely on other teeth for support, and they keep the jawbone from breaking down, giving you a stronger bite and a more youthful appearance.

Learn More About Dental Implants

Do you have questions about dental implants? Contact us today at 201-337-7733 to schedule an appointment for a consultation.