All about Dental Implants

Dental implants are offering a more effective and durable alternative to dental bridges and dentures and enabling people to successfully restore their missing or decaying teeth. People lose single or multiple teeth in the upper and/or lower jaw due to gum disease or a traumatic experience. Instead of choosing traditional dentures, they look for a more durable and natural looking replacement alternative. Treatment options like single dental implants and multiple dental implant methods are bringing a lasting solution to teeth loss conditions and helping people to smile again.

Dental implants have now become a standard of treatment for all those who are losing single or multiple teeth in the upper and/or lower arches. However, not all oral surgeons specialize in dental implant methods. So they propose removable dentures or fixed bridges with wire wrapped around the adjacent teeth to keep them in place. This does not prove to be the most comfortable solution.

People with missing teeth can now seek replacement in dental implants. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that your oral surgeon or dental implant expert uses to replace your original roots using a surgery technique. Instead of relying on the gum line like traditional dentures or using healthy teeth in the adjacent areas as anchors like dental bridges, dental implants provide a lasting support to the replacement tooth or bridge. Made of titanium metal that easily integrates within the mouth and replaces the natural roots, dental implants never make uncomfortable noises or slip during speaking or eating. Moreover, they prevent bone loss and cause no harm to the adjacent teeth. The dental implants look and function just like natural teeth. Under proper care and regular maintenance, the implants can last for a life time.

What dental implants offer?

1. The implants help to restore single or multiple missing teeth without damaging adjacent teeth.
2. Eliminate the requirement for a partial or full denture.
3. Provide stable support for replacement teeth, making it more secure and comfortable.

Where are dental implants applicable?

An experienced dental implant expert will inspect the condition of your existing teeth and decide how and where to place your dental implants. Based on your current condition the dentist will create a treatment plan perfect for your needs. Commonly, dental implants are recommended for the following conditions:

Dental implants for replacing a single tooth: A single dental implant can help you to replace a single missing tooth. Here, the dental implant replaces the missing tooth and its root.

Dental implants for replacing multiple teeth: Dental implants can be integrated to replace multiple missing teeth. Missing teeth and roots are being replaced with the help of dental implants.

Dental implants for replacing a full arch of teeth: A full set of implants can replace your entire set of teeth, both bottom and top arches.

How to Get a Great Smile with Dental Implants

Nowadays, dental implants are emerging as a practical treatment option for people who have already lost single or multiple teeth in the upper and/or lower arch due to periodontal diseases, tooth decay, accident or some other traumatic condition. They are helping people to fill in the gap created in place of missing teeth and get back the confident smile they once had. Teeth gaps tend to discourage people from smiling as they are worried about the image the gap portrays. However, dental implants are helping to make people feel comfortable smiling again.
There are alternative treatment options available for replacing the missing teeth like traditional dentures and bridges but they don’t prove to be as effective and as durable as dental implants. Partial and full dentures have been catering to the teeth replacement requirements of people for more than thirty years. However, dental implants have exceeded dentures in providing a more permanent solution. Similarly, single dental implants have started to replace the removable and fixed bridges which were once a popular option. Multiple dental implants are helping people to restore several missing teeth without needing support from the adjacent teeth. They also ensure the least damage to the remaining teeth and reduce the discomfort often associated with other alternative solutions.
People are relying on the dental implants method to enhance or restore their smile. These natural looking implants are helping them to overcome the restrictions of full or partial dentures and obtain a beautiful smile.
People with traditional dentures often face problems with eating and talking. However, permanently fixed dental implants are helping them to speak fluently without any fear of implants slipping. Implants also provide people the ability to have a stronger biting force again. In this way, implants are enabling people to restore their facial structure which means they look and feel more healthy and youthful.

Mini Dental Implants for High Risk Groups

Dental implants are not all the same. Normally any dental implant less than 2.5mm in diameter is referred to as a mini dental implant. But just because they are diminutive in size doesn’t mean the results cannot be spectacular for certain categories of patients.
Dr. Brueggen has placed hundreds of mini dental implants. When used to help keep a lower denture in place they have proven themselves to be dependable and durable. This is not the case with uppers and their use should be avoided in the upper arch.

When asked; what is the preferred solution. Regular dental implants or mini dental implants Dr. Brueggen responds: “Usually regular dental implants. Their size provides more strength and greater anchoring to the jaw and much more sophisticated attachments to secure the denture to the dental implant.””Additionally a mini dental implant should rarely in ever be used for any purpose other than to help hold a lower denture in place.” “Traditional dental implants offer many more restorative choices than mini dental implants”.
However, Dr. Brueggen says that every case must be evaluated on its’ own merits and mini dental implants are sometimes the treatment of choice.
Two examples would be:
1. Cost – some patients, especially elderly folks already wearing a lower denture, cannot afford the cost of traditional implants.
2. Health – some patients have health issues that make implant surgery too risky. Mini dental implants can be placed with only light local anesthesia and no incisions or stitches.
Mini dental implants can be placed quickly and since they require no incision or stitches they are ideal for certain cases. Additionally an existing denture can frequently be used further reducing time and cost and an equally exciting feature is that the denture can be secured by the mini dental implants the same day they are placed. A denture cannot usually be secured by regular dental implants for 4 to 6 months after they are placed.
Since no incision or surgery is required for mini dental implants, they offer an ideal dental treatment option to high risk groups, including:

1. Heart patients with a recent surgery
2. People with severe diabetes
3. Those who want their lower denture to be more firm
4. Those with a limited budget for other options
5. Those who are regular smokers
6. People with blood clot problems
7. Those getting bisphosphonate treatments or medicines for osteoporosis
Benefits of Mini Dental Implants
The benefits of mini dental implants can be stated as follows:
1. Easy Procedure
2. Reliability
3. Great Functional Value
4. Affordable Price
Every patient wearing a lower denture owes it to themselves to at least have it secured by mini dental implants

Mini Dental Implants for High Risk Groups

Dental implants are not all the same. Normally any dental implant less than 2.5mm in diameter is referred to as a mini dental implant. But just because they are diminutive in size doesn’t mean the results cannot be spectacular for certain categories of patients.
Dr. Brueggen has placed hundreds of mini dental implants. When used to help keep a lower denture in place they have proven themselves to be dependable and durable. This is not the case with uppers and their use should be avoided in the upper arch.

When asked; what is the preferred solution. Regular dental implants or mini dental implants Dr. Brueggen responds: “Usually regular dental implants. Their size provides more strength and greater anchoring to the jaw and much more sophisticated attachments to secure the denture to the dental implant.””Additionally a mini dental implant should rarely in ever be used for any purpose other than to help hold a lower denture in place.” “Traditional dental implants offer many more restorative choices than mini dental implants”.
However, Dr. Brueggen says that every case must be evaluated on its’ own merits and mini dental implants are sometimes the treatment of choice.
Two examples would be:
1. Cost – some patients, especially elderly folks already wearing a lower denture, cannot afford the cost of traditional implants.
2. Health – some patients have health issues that make implant surgery too risky. Mini dental implants can be placed with only light local anesthesia and no incisions or stitches.
Mini dental implants can be placed quickly and since they require no incision or stitches they are ideal for certain cases. Additionally an existing denture can frequently be used further reducing time and cost and an equally exciting feature is that the denture can be secured by the mini dental implants the same day they are placed. A denture cannot usually be secured by regular dental implants for 4 to 6 months after they are placed.
Since no incision or surgery is required for mini dental implants, they offer an ideal dental treatment option to high risk groups, including:

1. Heart patients with a recent surgery
2. People with severe diabetes
3. Those who want their lower denture to be more firm
4. Those with a limited budget for other options
5. Those who are regular smokers
6. People with blood clot problems
7. Those getting bisphosphonate treatments or medicines for osteoporosis
Benefits of Mini Dental Implants
The benefits of mini dental implants can be stated as follows:
1. Easy Procedure
2. Reliability
3. Great Functional Value
4. Affordable Price
Every patient wearing a lower denture owes it to themselves to at least have it secured by mini dental implants

Single Dental Implants for a Missing Tooth or Teeth

Teeth are lost because of trauma or disease. Trauma may come in the form of an accident or excessive biting forces. Disease is generally tooth decay or periodontal disease [gum disease] but there are other categories such as cancer and various neoplasm’s of the jaw that may result in tooth loss. Studies show that more than 50% of the population have one or more missing teeth. Trauma commonly causes the loss of a single front tooth. The effect this has on a persons’ well being is obvious. Fortunately an experience dental implantologist can usually remove the remaining root, place a dental implant, and secure a new tooth to that implant in one visit of an hour or two. The loss of a single tooth in the back is usually caused by tooth decay or periodontal disease. Sometimes this can be treated just like front teeth but for various reasons it is often more time consuming.

More often than not the treatment for a single missing back tooth is as follows:
1. Extraction of the damaged tooth and grafting of the root sockets. Wait 4 months then
2. Placement of a dental implant to replace the root of the single missing tooth. Wait 4 to 6 months then
3. Placement of an abutment on the dental implant and record taking for the fabrication of a crown to replace the single missing tooth. Wait 3 weeks then
4. Permanent attachment of the abutment to the implant and cementation of the crown to the abutment. TREATMENT COMPLETE

The need for replacing a single missing tooth in the back is often times not as intuitively obvious as the need for replacing a single missing tooth in the front; but it is important. Teeth are very movable. We’ve all witnessed an Orthodontist putting tension on a tooth with a small rubber band and moving it where ever he wants. Each tooth in the mouth has a position and a purpose. When there is a single missing tooth the body’s natural reaction is to drift adjacent teeth into the void that is created. Over time a single missing tooth may actually cause a change in the position of every other tooth in the mouth. Malocclusion may then develop contributing to TMJ [tempromandibular joint] dysfunction, headaches, muscle spasms in the neck and shoulders, food impaction between teeth, tooth decay, periodontal disease, and other problems. Because these problems don’t always develop and because they may occur years after the single tooth is lost, people often times don’t associate the loss of their tooth to the problems it caused. It is a shame that a single missing tooth is frequently ignored in light of the possible consequences but the development of dental implants for the replacement of a single missing tooth is encouraging many more people to seek early treatment.

Multiple missing teeth usually follows a single missing tooth. Each time a tooth is lost and not replaced it accelerates the process of losing more teeth. As multiple teeth are lost all of the problems associated with a single missing tooth are exaggerated. But there are additional concerns as well. Those would include but not be limited to:

1. Collapse of vertical dimension- As multiple back teeth are lost the mouth loses their support when we close causing the chin to get closer to the nose. This has the effect of deep folds at the corner of the mouth and thinning of the lips. It can easily age a persons’ appearance by 10 to 20 years.
2. Collapse of facial structure-As multiple back teeth are lost facial support of the cheeks is lost causing a sunken in look. Once again the result is premature aging.
3. Bone loss- The bones of our upper and lower jaws have only one natural purpose; the support of our tooth roots. When the roots are lost the bone begins to melt away much as a muscle does that is not used. This results in further lose of facial support and can make the wearing of artificial prosthetics such as dentures impossible. It can also make the placement of dental implants more challenging.
4. Inability to chew foods properly-The mouth is the first in a series of organs designed to assimilate and digest foods. The more thoroughly we can chew the food the better the whole system works. Mom wasn’t wrong when she admonished all of us to chew our food more slowly and thoroughly.
5. Inability to eat a healthy diet-As more and more teeth are lost it becomes increasingly difficult to eat a balanced diet. Important staples such as raw vegetables and nuts become impossible to eat and we lose out on the many vitamins and minerals they provide.
6. Inability to eat the foods we enjoy-Corn on the cob, ribs, steaks, fajitas, etc. become impossible to eat. Many people don’t know how much being able to eat what they want means to them until it’s too late.
7. Embarrassment-There is a social stigma associated with missing teeth. Many people simply quit smiling or hide their smiles with their hands. That is unfortunate because we know of very few people who lost their teeth because they wanted to. Each person has their own story and all of them or sad.

These are but a few of the problems that people face because of single and multiple missing teeth. Now, dental implants offer amazingly simple and dependable solutions. Dental implants for single missing teeth or multiple missing teeth are artificial roots made of titanium that replace the roots of natural teeth. For a single missing tooth one implant is placed and a crown is attached to it. The result is a natural looking tooth that functions and works just like the natural tooth that was replaced. Many people think that with multiple missing teeth that one dental implant is required to replace each tooth; that is not usually the case. For example if three teeth in a row are missing it is often possible to replace them with only two dental implants and a fixed bridge between them. With the amazing All on 4 protocol and entire arch [16 teeth] can be replaced with only four implants and a fixed bridge.

The placement of a dental implant is usually quick and almost painless for those who are candidates. One requirement is an adequate quantity and quality of bone. As mentioned previously when a tooth is extracted the bone that once secured its’ root begins to melt away. Some studies indicate that up to 40% of the bone volume in that area may be lost in the first twelve months. Modern dentist with an understanding of oral surgery and implants place materials in the sockets where the tooth roots were to prevent this from happening. The result is a healthy site for the future placement of a dental implant. Dentist with a more advanced understanding of dental implants may actually place an implant into the socket when the tooth is extracted. When this can be achieved it is the best and simplest solution for preventing bone loss. But because many dentist do not understand dental implants and the protocols necessary for preserving bone, and because many patients take a cavalier approach to the loss of a tooth, sometimes there is a need for an implant but not adequate bone to support it. Modern implant designs minimize this as do implant placement protocols such as those of the All on 4 technique but they cannot eliminate the occasional need for more bone.

When there simply must be more bone, bone regeneration procedures are required. This normally incorporates one of many different types of materials that replace the lost bone volume and encourage the formation of new bone. With the advent of stem cell and bone morphogenic enhanced materials this has become far simpler and more predictable. What once required a maxillofacial and an orthopedic surgeon in a hospital setting can now be predictably performed by a well trained dental surgeon in his office. Once this new bone has matured, usually 4 to 6 months, a single or multiple tooth replacement dental implant can be placed just as predictably as if the graft had not been required.

Single Dental Implant Procedure:-

Steps for placement of a single dental implant in the site of a single missing tooth
• After conscious sedation is administered the placement site of the single missing tooth is infiltrated with local anesthesia.
• A small incision is made in the soft tissue covering the bone in the single missing tooth site and an osteotomy is prepared. An osteotomy is the same thing as a pilot hole made prior to the placement of a screw in wood. Once the osteotomy is completed a single dental implant is threaded into it. Now we have a man made root where the natural root was. Just like a natural root this dental implant is beneath the gums and in the bone and cannot be seen in the mouth. A piece called an abutment is screwed into the single dental implant. The abutment provides the transition from the dental implant beneath the gums to a tooth above the gums. Impressions are taken of the abutment and they are sent to a dental laboratory
• In about three weeks a crown is returned from the laboratory and it is secured to the abutment with glue [cement]. You now have a new tooth that looks, functions, and feels just like a natural tooth.

Dental implants for the replacement of single missing teeth and multiple missing teeth have become as routine for dental implantologist as fillings are at your family dentist. For those with single missing teeth they offer an exceptional replacement solution that can help prevent future problems. For those who have lost multiple teeth or all of their teeth dental implants can give them back their smile, confidence, and self esteem. It can truly give them a second chance.

Dental Implants Houston – Important Points Discussed

If you have lost your teeth then Dental Implants Houston can offrer a permanent and long lasting solution to teeth loss problem. Do you want to know more about Houston dental implants? Know more!

Dental Implants in Houston and Other Teeth Replacement Solutions
Periodontal disease, severe or mild, or tooth decay has become a common problem for people. Due to this, we are loosing one or several teeth. However, the solutions available for teeth replacement are traditional in nature and are generally uncomfortable to wear. Moreover, these solutions are temporary solution. Some of these traditional teeth replacement solutions are bridges, dentures, etc.

However, there is another teeth replacement solution, which is considered among the best solutions available till date and that is “dental Implants Houston”. A person who has lost teeth can get back permanent teeth through dental implants in Houston. In this process, an artificial tooth root is inserted in the jawbone. This self-sustaining tooth root acts as an anchor and supports the replacement teeth. According to a survey, it has been found out that the rate of success of Houston dental implants is more or less 95%. In fact these implants can last for lifetime, if some points are maintained carefully:
1. Maintenance of dental hygiene in a proper manner
2. Visit dental clinics in a regular and scheduled manner

One of the best parts of dental implants in Houston is that it induces growth in its adjacent teeth. The reason behind this is that it is self sustaining in nature and doesn’t need support from the adjacent teeth. In fact, these dental implants help in maintaining the structure of the jawbone.

Different Parts of Houston Dental Implants

These implants have essentially 3 parts:
1st Part: A base implant - This is essentially made up of titanium and replaces the tooth root. It is joined with the jawbone.

2nd Part: Abutment – This abutment is connected with the titanium-made base implant. This is the part that remains protruded from the gum-line.

3rd Part: Crown – A crown, which resembles natural teeth, is placed over the abutment and forms an artificial tooth. This tooth is self-sustaining and looks as well as feels absolutely normal.

Benefits of Dental Implants

1. They are permanent in nature and offer long term solution. If proper dental hygiene is maintained, accompanied by dental clinic visit in a scheduled and regular manner then it can last a lifetime.
2. The resulting look and feeling of these implants are absolutely natural.
3. They are not required to be attached with the bone, with the help of artificial gum lines or adhesives.
4. They are not required to be removed.
5. They are self-sustaining and thus don’t require support from adjacent teeth. That’s why dental implants in Houston help the bones of adjacent teeth to grow.

Can this procedure replace one missing tooth? Can it replace several or all of the missing teeth?

Yes, one missing tooth can be replaced with this method. Firstly, an implant is placed in the missing tooth area, having a base implant that is made up of titanium. Then an abutment is posted over the base, followed by a crown that looks absolutely like a natural tooth.

The same procedure is done for many or all missing teeth. Thus, teeth loss is not a problem anymore. You can get back your shiny smile back with Dental Implants in Houston.

Case Study of All on Four Dental Implants - Performed at Brueggen’s Dental Implant Center

The all on four dental implants method is the latest phenomenon in cosmetic dentistry world, where you can get back your youthful smile in a single day. Read this unique case study on full mouth all on four implants.

This has been a very typical week at The Brueggen Dental Implant Center – Houston. My primary case load centers around the All on 4 Dental Implant protocol and the ancillary procedures sometimes required to complete that type of case.

This week we did 2 full mouth All on 4 cases and 1 upper arch only case with individual implants to replace a few lower missing teeth and crowns to restore the remaining lower teeth. The rest of my time was filled with typical implant cases, ridge augmentations, and sinus lifts. I just finished the surgery on my last full mouth All on 4 dental implant case of the week today. This patient had Class IV periodontal disease with no missing teeth. There was Class IV mobility of the upper and lower central and lateral incisors, Class II mobility of all four cuspids, and Class III mobility of the bicuspids and molars. Pocket depth was 6 to 18 mm. The upper and lower centrals and laterals had no bone remaining at all. I mention this because these are particularly interesting cases on the upper. The lower is almost always routine. But when all of the upper teeth remain and especially when there is severe damage to the bone from periodontal disease, completing the uppers in one appointment can be challenging. Depending on the size and position of the maxillary sinuses the All on 4 Dental Implant protocol places the most posterior upper implants somewhere between the second bicuspid and the mesial root of the first molar. They will be angled to the anterior at 35 to 45%. When all three of these teeth exist and must be extracted at the time of implant placement finding enough bone to engage the implants at 35 to 45 ncm can be impossible especially if the apex of the first and second bicuspid roots are right at the floor of the sinus.

The complexity is compounded by severe periodontal disease which leaves no cortical plate and often several mm of very vascular, soft, membranous bone. Such was the case today. This case began 2 weeks ago when our patient arrived at the Brueggen Dental implant Center for their first visit. A cat-scan, consultation, examination, and treatment plan was completed. It was determined that with periodontal surgery, 5 maxillary and 4 mandibular teeth could be kept. After discussing these options it was clear that the All on 4 Dental Implant protocol was this patient’s best option. The possibility that I might not be able to place the upper posterior implants with enough torque was discussed. If that happened I would place 2 to 4 mini transitional dental implants and the patient would need to wear an upper denture for 6 months before I uncovered the dental implants and attached the provisional fixed hybrid prosthesis. I actually warn every patient of that possibility. But on cases such as this I stress it. RX’s were written and an appointed was reserved for this morning. Augmentin 500 mg bid, Metronidazole 250 mg qid were to be begun 3 dys before the appointment and continued for 7 dys after. A medrol dose pak was to be begun the morning after the surgery and 30# 600mg Ibuprofren were given for pain q6h prn. 10mgs of diazepam was given to take hrs the night before the appointment.

This patient arrived at 8 am this morning. Paper work was completed, post op instructions were reviewed with the patient and her spouse, the post op appointment was scheduled in 21 dys, and conscious sedation was begun with 10mg diazepam and .25 mg of triazolam. Approximately 1 hr later, 9:15 am, 50 – 50 N20 was begun as I scrubbed. At 9:30 I administered local anesthesia with 2% lidocaine and 1:100 epi and .5% bupivicaine HCL with 1:200 epi. All of the upper teeth were extracted, granulation tissues were removed, alveloplasty was completed, and implants were placed. Everything was uneventful until I placed the “last” implant. It was the upper right most posterior implant. I noted that the end of the osteotomy, which was prepared for a 4.0 X 18 Nobel Bio Care Speedy Goovey Dental Implant, was in a void. This is evidenced as an obvious lack of resistance and is never a good sign. If you are placing a 13 or 15 mm dental implant you can always go longer if there is room but once you have committed to an 18 mm dental implant you can only go larger which in the Speedy Groovey Dental Implant System is all the way to a 5mm wide platform dental implant. That implant has gotten me out of many “jams” in the past. When you lose resistance at the end of the osteotomy there are three possibilities. 1. You have penetrated a vacuole in the bone. 2. You have inadvertently entered the sinus, nasal cavity, or penetrated through one of the borders of the mandible or maxilla or 3. You have entered the socket of a tooth you have just extracted. In this case it was the later.

The Speedy Groovey Dental Implant is a straight wall design as opposed to a tapered implant so you have torque from the beginning to the end. In typical type II bone for a 4.0 X 18 dental implant I will prepare the last 3 mm to 2.8, the middle 9 mm to 3.0, and the first 6 mm to 3.2. This will usually give me 25 to 35 ncm of torque until I reach the terminal 3 mm where it rises to 45 ncm. As I placed this implant I noticed that the initial torque was only 15 to 20 ncm and as I approached the terminal 3 mm it was only 30 ncm but it was getting tighter. I screwed it in 2 mm deeper to reach 35 ncm and then did a little more alveloplasy to correct the ridge discrepancy. I considered removing the implant and placing a 5.0 diameter but this would have left me with less than 1mm of buccal bone and though I sometimes violate the 1 ½ mm rule I prefer not to. I was thinking how good I was until I placed the angled abutement on this implant and the implant turned slightly indicating that I had less than 35 ncm on the implant. 35 ncm is my absolute minimum for an immediate load fixed hybrid on 4 implants so something had to be done. I’ll stretch a lot of things but not this. Fortunately there was room for a fifth implant so we placed it, achieved the desired torque, closed the case and where through with the first stage surgery at 10:40. Open tray impression pins were placed and luted together with spent surgical burs and Duralay and an impression was taken.

At 12:30 our lab had a screw down bite rim prepared, we took a bite registration, marked midline and other land marks, and began the surgical phase of the lower arch. As on the upper local anesthesia was administered, teeth were extracted, alveloplasty was performed, granulation tissue was removed, implants placed, tissues closed, and impressions taken. At 2:00 P.M. our lab picked up the impression. It is now 3:30 and I am seeing hygiene exams and catching up on my paper work while I wait on the lab to complete the fixed hybrids. Lab work is the most unpredictable part of the All on 4 dental implant protocol for me. Monday I was at home by 5:30 after completing an upper and lower case but sometimes its’ almost 8:00. Accurate bite registrations can be a problem with sedated patients, I have never found manipulated retruded centric to be a good position, and we are very particular about the cosmetics. Thus it is not uncommon for us to do a bite registration and remount after the lower appliance is finished and we sometimes have to make an appliance over if we really don’t like it.

Hopefully Alex will deliver these appliances in another hour or two, they will be perfect, and we’ll get out early. But regardless, by 7 or 8 we will have provided a service for a 45 yr old woman that brings an excitement and joy to me that I wish every dentist could experience. In one day, only the second time this young lady has ever been in The Brueggen Dental Implant Center – Houston, we removed 32 terribly diseased teeth, placed 9 dental implants, and she will leave with upper and lower fixed teeth that she can eat with this evening and smile again with pride. She will require no analgesics stronger than Ibuprofren and will be able to return to work tomorrow if she wishes.

The All on 4 Dental Implant protocol is the closest thing to a miracle that I have ever been blessed to witness and I will be eternally grateful to Dr. Paulo Malo for his genius, wisdom, courage, and willingness to share this with me.

Top Four FAQs on All–On-Four Dental Implants

FAQ 1: How effective are All-On-Four Dental Implants compared to Traditional Implants?

All on 4 is a process or technique rather than a type of implant. This technique incorporates 4 dental implants in each arch to which a complete set of new teeth can be attached and it can happen in a single easy appointment, all in one day.

Traditional techniques using dental implants begin with the extraction of any remaining teeth and then a 4 month healing period. During that 4 months and until the case is finally completed at roughly a year and a half patients must wear full false teeth. After the extraction sites are healed the maxillary sinuses must be grafted. Sinus lift surgery is usually accomplished bilaterally. After is it completed 6 to 9 months are required before the dental implants are placed. Finally somewhere between 8 and 12 months after the initial extractions dental implants are placed. This usually requires 8 to 10 dental implants on the upper and 8 to 10 dental implants on the lower. Once the dental implants are placed another 6 months pass and they are uncovered and healing abutments are placed to develop the soft tissue around the dental implants. The dental implants that were until now completely beneath the gums now exit through the tissue much as a natural tooth does. Two more months are required and then impressions for the fixed bridges can be taken. After another 3 weeks the fixed bridges are ready for placement and if all has gone well the case is finished. All told cases treated in the traditional manner require roughly 18 months, 4 surgeries, and 16 to 20 dental implants. To make matters worse favorable results are not as predictable as they are with the All on 4 technique. Four of these dental implants will have been placed into grafted sinuses. The failure rate for implants placed into sinuses is approximately 12 % as compared to 2 % or less for those placed in the premaxilla which is the area used for the All on 4 technique. Thus one can easily see that complications occur at least 6 times more frequently with traditional techniques and that with the number of implants and surgeries the cost for the traditional approach is much higher. The only negative with the All on 4 technique is that it requires a master implantologist with a large body of experience and a highly trained team including an in house laboratory dedicated to All on 4 cases. Thus there are very few offices capable of offering this service.

The All-On-Four dental implants don’t require additional surgeries or bone grafting, which has become a norm for traditional implants. It also proves to be more secure, comfortable & cost effective than traditional implants and is thus the treatment of choice for those who have already lost or are facing the loose of all of their teeth.

FAQ 2: What is so special about Dr. Brueggen’s All-On-Four Dental Methods?

Dr. Brueggen was professionally trained by Dr. Paulo Malo, the architect of the All-On-Four dental procedure. He has been performing dental implants for more than thirty years and specializes in providing successful implant solutions to patients with complex health problems and rare bone conditions.

Moreover, the Brueggen Dental Implant Center uses state-of-the art technology, including advanced imaging equipment and provides a lab facility, to provide patients outstanding and convenient dental solutions.But the greatest advantage to Dr. Brueggen’s All on 4 process is his team and their experience. Dr. Brueggen and his team have made the All on 4 dental implant reconstruction the focus of their practice. They do it every day and they’ve been doing it every day for many years. Equally important Dr. Brueggen has extensive training in general and cosmetic dentistry so he not only provides the surgery, he provides the new teeth as well. This makes the process seamless and is far superior to a surgeon and restorative dentist trying to work together on a case.

FAQ 4: How was Dr. Brueggen inspired to perform All-On-Four dental implants?

Dr. Brueggen has been handling dental implant cases since 1976 and is considered an expert in the field. He realized that the time and cost required to complete a full mouth reconstruction using traditional dental implant procedures was far too great for it to be available to most of those who needed it. In 1994, he came to know about the unique All-On-Four dental implant procedure through papers published in dental journals. After reviewing the literature for over 10 years he was convinced that the results achieved with the All on 4 protocol were far superior to those achievable with traditional methods. Dr. Brueggen attended a lecture given by Dr. Malo and was further convinced. He asked Dr. Malo for his assistance in learning the technique. Dr. Malo agreed and arrangements were made for Dr. Brueggen to travel to Lisbon, Portugal to study with Dr. Malo. His studies included both the prosthetic and surgical aspects of All-On-Four protocol. These days the All on 4 technique allows Dr. Brueggen to offer a lasting and predictable solution to people from all over the world.

FAQ 4: What is the success rate with the All-On-Four Procedure?

Published data states that the success rate of All-On-Four dental implants in upper arches is approximately 97 to 98% and the success rate for lower arches is 98.2%. New data indicates perhaps even better numbers.

Dr. Brueggen is firm in his conviction that the All on 4 process is the finest solution that dentistry has ever had and probably will have for the remainder of his career, for those who have lost all of their teeth or who are facing the loss of all of their teeth. There are three primary obstacles for people who need this procedure.

1. Cost- A typical upper and lower case will cost around $50.000.00. About the cost of a high end new car. Not a daunting investment but certainly difficult for some. Our office has two treatment counselors available to assist patients in finding financing options. They can also help you explore other treatment options. For example, in some cases a lower denture can be secured with implants, also in just one day, for as little as $8,000.00. The treatment counselors responsibility is to treat you as an individual and make sure that a solution is found for you that makes you happy and provides you with the finest possible care.
2. Fear-The second greatest obstacle for patients to overcome is fear. All most every patient who has lost all of their teeth or is in danger of doing so is a dental phobic. We solve that daily using safe oral conscious sedation.
3. Inadequate Bone- The All on 4 procedure was specifically designed to allow a full arch of reconstruction without the need for sinus lifts or other forms of bone regeneration. That is possible on the lower virtually 100% of the time. The upper is not quite as predictable but it is still possible in over 70% of the cases presented to my office. When bone grafting is required we employee state of the art procedures to cut down on time, discomfort and cost.



Without a doubt the All on 4 method of dental implant placement and tooth replacement is the most remarkable dental advancement in the last 30 years. If you or anyone you know or love is suffering with false teeth or the prospect of having to wear false teeth there is no reason to put off help any longer.

Dental Implants for Multiple Teeth Replacement

Dental implants are providing a more reliable and effective alternative to traditional dentures and helping people to successfully replace their decaying or lost single or multiple teeth. When we start to lose multiple teeth, in the upper row or lower row or both, it becomes necessary for us to replace those missing teeth with stable and natural looking teeth. Otherwise, we may have to suffer from the discomfort and embarrassment associated with dentures and bone loss and a disfigured facial structure. The multiple dental implant method is bringing a permanent solution to multiple tooth loss conditions and creating smiles again!

Dental implants are now providing basic treatment to all those who are missing one or more of their teeth in the upper and \ or lower jaw. However, not all dentists are professionally trained in dental implant procedures. So they recommend fixed bridges or removable partial dentures with wire clasps that wrap around your remaining teeth to keep them in.

Fixed dental bridges require grinding down healthy adjacent teeth so they can be used as anchors to support the missing teeth. They are a dramatic improvement over removable partials with their wire clasps but in the long run more than 30% of the teeth used for attachments are lost to tooth decay or other problems. Now where one tooth was missing there are two, and then three and-----------and the process continues to repeat itself more and more rapidly until your smile is disfigured, you can no longer eat the foods you enjoy, and your facial structure is collapsing. Soon you are looking at the need to replace your teeth with full dentures or dental implants.

Why let this happen? If you are missing one or a few teeth have them replaced with dental implants immediately. Not only will they not harm your natural teeth they will help them by eliminating food impaction and distributing the work load of chewing more evenly. People often believe that you need a dental implant for every missing tooth. That isn’t necessarily true. Often three missing teeth can be replaced with only 2 implants by bridging between them. In the amazing All on 4 protocol a full arch of missing teeth can be replace with only 4 perfectly placed implants.

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!

Dental Implant Basics – Essentials Questions and Answers

1. What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is an independent artificial tooth root that is used to replace a natural tooth root that has been lost to accident or disease. Dental implants are typically placed to secure bridges, partials, dentures and crowns. Dental Implants don’t require support from adjacent teeth and thus cause them no harm. Better yet, teeth replaced with dental implants look, function, and feel just like natural teeth.

2. Will dental implants be suitable for me?

Advancements in dental implant design and placement protocols have made dental implants the gold standard for the replacement of missing teeth for almost everyone. Patients with specific health conditions including uncontrolled diabetes, osteoporosis, or irradiation of the mandible or maxilla for the treatment of cancer, may be at increased risk but they are still candidates and can usually be managed by a highly experienced practitioner. Certain cosmetic conditions can be a challenge as well but advancements in cosmetic dental implant procedures routinely produce beautiful, natural, esthetic results that patients often describe as far more beautiful than their natural teeth ever where. One of the most difficult conditions to overcome is actually a habit or an addiction rather than a condition; cigarette smoking. This is an annoyingly difficult addiction to overcome and many wonderful people who have extraordinary will power and a strong desire to quit simply can’t. That is unfortunate because as smoking is a strong contributing factor to tooth loss, smokers form a disproportionate number of those in need of dental implants. The majority of the patients I see for the All on 4 procedure are smokers. So though smoking is not a contraindication the patient and doctor must realize that they will be faced with a higher than normal number of complications. Fortunately if the doctor is highly experienced and the patient is persistent, cooperative, and determined a satisfactory outcome can almost always be achieved.

3. What are the benefits of implants over other dental procedures?

• Dental implants are permanently fixed and thus the teeth attached to them will not slip or move insuring comfort and avoiding embarrassing moments.
• Dental implants are easily maintained and are not susceptible to cavities.
• Dental implants allow you to eat all of the foods you enjoyed with natural teeth.
• Dental implants look like natural teeth providing a beautiful smile so you don’t have to live with the stigma and embarrassment associated with missing teeth or false teeth.
• Dental implants promote bone growth and help maintain a youthful facial structure..

4. How comfortable are dental implants?

Dental implants are amazingly comfortable. Most patients are given nsaids such as Ibuprofen and methyl prednisone and report little or no discomfort. All on 4 patients can usually enjoy a light meal the evening after their surgery and most return to work in a day or two.

5. Who is authorized to perform dental implants?

Dental implants can be placed by any licensed dentist but very few offer this service. Significant additional training is required to place or restore dental implants. To provide both the surgical and prosthetic phases of dental implantology the demands for additional training is even greater but the benefits to the patient are substantial. Advanced dental implant procedures such as bone grafting and especially full mouth reconstruction with the All on 4 protocol or traditional protocol requires years of training and extensive experience. In choosing an implantologist you should look for a doctor who has additional post graduate training, has certification by the American Academy of Implantology or the International Congress of Oral Implantologist, has cat scan imaging technology , an in office dental laboratory, and extensive experience. Offices like this are very rare but it is worth your effort to find one.

6. Are dental implants easy to maintain?

You need to care for dental implants the same way you would your natural teeth. It is always recommended that patients meet with their dentist regularly and maintain proper dental hygiene to insure long term satisfaction with dental implants.

Advancement in Dental Implants Procedure

According to dental researchers, advanced research and superior technology will bring radical changes in the dental care industry during the 21st century.

Dental implants are the most notable of these changes. Thirty years ago they were considered “quackery”. Now they are the “gold standard” for replacing one or a full mouth of missing teeth.

Most dentists agree that dental implants are a great example of advanced dental care technology. A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that replaces a patient’s missing natural tooth root. It constitutes an ideal treatment option for those who have lost one or more teeth in the upper and or lower jaw due to accident, gum disease or some another traumatic experience. Whether missing only one or two teeth or all of your teeth, dental implants have become the standard of care for replacing them. New technologies, new implant designs, and new procedures have consistently made the use of dental implants quicker, easier, more reliable, and more affordable.

Dentures have been in use for more that 30 years. However, dental implants long ago surpassed dentures in providing a reliable treatment option for those missing all of their teeth. Fixed and removable bridges were once the standard of care for one or a few missing teeth. No more; now single unit dental implants are used to replace one or a few missing teeth and do so without causing damage to remaining teeth. This minimizes the need for further corrective dentistry and the future cost and discomfort associated with it.

There are two basic approaches for placing and reconstructing dental implants. One is called immediate load, the other delayed load. With the immediate load technique a tooth or teeth are built on one or more dental implant the same day the implant is placed. The All on 4 technique is an example of immediately loading. Remaining bad teeth are removed, implants are place, and the patient leaves that day with a new set of natural looking and functioning non removable teeth. Delayed loading is commonly used when only one or two teeth require replacement. Because of bio-engineering concepts related to force and stress vectors it is often best to let single dental implants integrate for 4 to 6 months before they are loaded. A common exception to this single tooth delayed protocol is when a front tooth is lost by accident. In those cases, whenever possible, the remaining root is carefully removed, the implant is placed, and a temporary crown is secured to the implant all in one appointment. It is essential that this temporary crown not make contact with the other teeth when chewing but if that can be accomplished this technique can be used with excellent success and the patient leaves with an attractive smile. This is appropriate for front teeth were as it might not be for back teeth for two reasons:

1. When we close together the front teeth do not touch one another so there is less pressure against front dental implants than back dental implants.
2. The accidental loss of a front tooth results in a sudden and dramatic change to our appearance thus justifying the slightly increased risk [approximately 5%] associated with immediate implant placement and loading

So if you need a dental implant to replace a natural tooth either delayed or immediate loading will be options. An experienced Houston Dental Implantologist will be able to discuss the pros and cons of each method with you so you can make an informed decision.

ADVANCED ALL ON 4 CASES

I’ve been doing the All on 4 procedure for about 15 years. Eventually it became a weekly procedure and now daily. During this time there are very few mitigating factors or complications I have not seen or treated. The biggest challenge with the All on 4 procedure is and always has been upper cases. At least 30% of the patients who come to see me can’t have it done on the upper without preparatory bone grafting.

The focus of my current studies is finding ways to make this easier and more predictable. Currently when bone grafting is required to prepare a patient for dental implants the procedure is delayed by 4 to 6 months and over 40% of all grafted sites experience less than a perfect result often times requiring some type of revision surgery and occasionally needing to be completely redone. Needless to say this adds time, expense, and inconvenience to everyone involved and better solutions are badly needed. The good news is that everyone realizes this. Regardless of what type of dental implants procedures are being done, single dental implants, full mouth individual dental implants, or the All on 4 procedure, adequate bone volume is always the limiting factor.

Tremendous resources are being dedicated to finding better solutions and indeed progress is being made. We can now synthesize proteins and stem cells in the lab that make bone substitutes almost as reliable as natural bone harvested from the patient. New and better techniques are being developed for the use of these materials almost daily. I attended a meeting in Hamburg, Germany recently and much was dedicated to this. I’m going to another one in October in Boston specifically to study new grafting techniques. All in all great progress is being made. But still, over 40% of all grafts have some level of complications. The problem with bone grafting for dental implants is not primarily with the graft materials. It is with the membrane, which looks like a sheet of paper, that the graft must be covered with prior to suturing the tissues over it. All grafts with the exception of autogenous block grafts, those taken from the patient, require this covering. There are literally dozens of different membranes on the market, each with its’ advantages and disadvantages, but they all become exposed too often. Exposure occurs when the tissue over the membrane develops an ulcer that creates an opening that will allow saliva and bacteria to penetrate into the surgical site. If this happens too early the graft is likely to fail and if it happens any time before 4 months, and it often does, the graft will be less substantial than initially desired.

The advantage of the new bone grafting materials is that they grow bone faster so the membranes don’t have to been maintained for such a long time. Though I haven’t experienced I have had colleagues tell me they have seen adequate results in some cases with only two weeks of membrane coverage. The advantage of the new bone grafting membranes is that when they do expose infection is less likely to occur and more easily controlled. I think however, that in the near term, the best solution is going to be the oldest solution simply done better; autogenous block grafts. In the past this has been a delicate procedure done by few and mastered by fewer. I did two of them today but only because I had to. In severe cases it requires both an oral surgeon and an orthopedic surgeon working together in a hospital setting. Amazing new instrumentation which allows the cutting of bone without risk to nerves or blood vessels is going to make this a very safe procedure which can be predictably performed by even the less experienced dental implantologist. The use of autogenous bone in areas where the tissues are delicate and most susceptible to ulceration and bone substitutes in areas where membranes can be placed without a high risk of exposure will provide enough bone without resorting to a hospital operating theater. And minimizing the need for membranes should dramatically reduce complications.

All things considered I see the potential for many patients to be helped who previously could not because the risk – benefit ratio was too great. And on a daily basis more autogenous block grafts will be used because new procedures and instrumentation make them simpler. I am confident that this will open the door for many patients who were previously not good candidates for the upper All on 4 prodedure as well as more routine dental implant procedures. It looks like another great year ahead with much to be learned and shared in the field of dental implantology.

Baseball Accident, Teeth Loss & Successful Dental Implants in Houston - A Case Study

Case Study of Henry’s Accident and Dental Condition Overview – From NoDentures.com
This week’s case involves a 27 yr old young man, named Henry, who was struck in the mouth at the age of 14 with a baseball bat. His lives in Venezuela and works as a physical therapist. This accident caused Henry to lose three front teeth, his upper right cuspid [eye tooth], lateral and central. In this case, bone damage was extensive. The entire ridge is lost in that area in a U-shaped manner, going all the way to his nasal cavity.

Henry’s Earlier Dental Treatments and Advice
His previous dentist did an excellent job by fabricating and placing a fixed bridge, which is double-abutted to the central and lateral and single-abutted to the #4, the upper left first bicuspid. Thus, three teeth were replaced with three natural teeth supporting the bridge, where a bridge encompasses a total of 6 teeth. Pontic replacing teeth #’s 6, 7 and 8 were very long to hide. However, Henry had a low lip line and that’s why the space where bone and gums were lost looked very natural. Henry sought treatment for dental implants in Houston because he was told by his dentist that tooth #4, which helped in holding his bridge in place, was hopelessly decayed and it would require extraction. He was advised that his only options were
1. A removable partial, or
2. A new fixed bridge, extending one tooth further back, or
3. Dental implants

Unfortunately, his dentist told him that dental implant is not possible because of excessive bone loss. He was further advised that in order to place another fixed bridge, another natural tooth would need to be cut down. In fact, the concerned dentist also warned Henry that there are high possibilities for him to lose another tooth in the future. Henry was advised that a partial denture can be an option but there too some issues might crop up, such as:
i) uncomfortable feeling due to dentures
ii) tooth decay and gum disease may occur in the places where the dentures are attached to natural teeth
All in all, Henry was not given a very attractive set of choices by his dentist.

Henry’s Search for the Best Dental Implants in USA
At this juncture, Henry got busy in calling his contacts in the States and researching the internet. A few days ago, he landed in my dental implant practice in Houston, Texas. Henry learned from his sources that we are the leading-most Houston implant surgeon and consequently help our patients to grow new bone in their upper and lower arches for the purpose of implant placement.

[Dental Implantology is the process of placing man-made roots in the mouth of the patients to replace natural roots and serve as attachment systems for one tooth to a full mouth of teeth.

Dental implant Prosthodontics is the art of building dental restorations on dental implants.]

Henry’s Case Study – Dental Condition, Dental Implant Challenge & Our Success
Henry’s case was very similar to that of other dental cases, caused from accidents. In most of these cases, we have witnessed that the patients face trauma at the front of their mouth. Teeth, bone, and gums are also found missing in these cases. Multiple remaining teeth with varying degrees of damage are also common in these patients. These are among the most challenging cases we face with dental implants because it is the front of the mouth and a stunning esthetic result is just as important as a comfortable, durable and functional result.

Fortunately, dental implants in Houston have come a long way and lately advances in bone regeneration techniques have flourished as well. Upon Henry’s return I began by removing his existing bridge, extracting hopeless tooth #5 and reflecting a full thickness flap from the mesial of tooth #3 to the mesial of tooth #6. As the CAT Scan had revealed, there was a very large midpalatine neurovascular bundle that would have produced a substantial Diasthema between 8 and 9, if both were naturally existing or if I placed an implant in the 9th position. The bundle was removed and the fossa was decorticated to a depth of 9mm to facilitate dental implant placement in that position at a later date. As the bundle tailed off, the lingual removal of only 9 mm was required. Much as in a traditional sinus lift, the nasal membranes were lifted slightly and bone was decorticated with numerous “punches” from a quarter round bur with copious irrigation. This was followed by the final shaping of a titanium mesh membrane and filling of the voids, including the incisive canal with “osteocell”. The mesh was secured with two palatal bone screws and two buccal bone tacks. Tissue was harvested from the palate for using it as a free gingival graft over the extraction site #5, where primary tension free closure was not possible. The surgical site was closed with gut. Tooth #4 was sacrificed to crown prep so that we could use a fixed temporary bridge during the bone regeneration stage. I find that grafts with membranes, titanium mesh or titanium reinforced Teflon, are much better when they are not molested by the pressure of removable appliances. The temporary bridge was secured and only one task remained. There was a small tear in the palate at the most apical mesial corner of the titanium mesh membrane. It was exactly over the head of the bone screw. To say the least, this was not a positive development, as exposure over the bone screw is common without a tear and it could lead to infection and a failed grafting procedure. I made every attempt to close the tear with sutures but was less than completely successful. A very thin suck-down clear plastic stent was formed and the patient was asked to wear it 24x7, except for those cases where it needed to be removed for cleaning purposes.

It is possible that this very small error could jeopardize what was otherwise a beautifully executed surgery. However, God Willing, and with a little bit of luck, we have laid the foundation for giving back Henry a second chance for a beautiful, naturally functioning set of front teeth.

I’ll keep you informed about this unique case of Henry in our center of dental implants in Houston.

Dental implants from Dr. Wayne Brueggen of Houston, Texas

Dental implants from the Brueggen Dental Implant Center located in Houston, Texas provide several benefits to those in need of teeth replacement.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants offered by the Brueggen Dental Implant Center in Houston, Texas are a permanent solution to the problem of tooth loss. Whether you are missing one tooth or all of your teeth, dental implants are a permanent solution that provides you with a functioning and attractive smile.

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that a single tooth or a complete set of new teeth can be attached to. This provides you with confidence to smile and restores your ability to eat the foods you enjoy.

Dental implants offered by the Brueggen Dental Implant Center in Houston will help you to become more confident and regain the reliability associated with a healthy set of natural teeth. These man made roots act as an anchor for supporting replacement teeth and are an integral part of the dental implant system. The natural looking replacement teeth that attach to the dental implants do not require any support from adjacent existing teeth therefore helping to keep them healthy. Dental implants also help in maintaining the structure and integrity of the jawbones.

Drawbacks of other Dental Procedures

While dental implants focus on restoring function and beauty to your mouth, there are other dental procedures that focus primarily on making an unattractive smile more esthetically pleasing. Often, these procedures prove to be anything but user-friendly. If you have the option and/or need to replace your smile all together then dental implants would be the best way to have both function and an attractive smile in one simple procedure.

Some of the problems associated with other dental procedures are:

1. Bridges rely on healthy adjacent teeth for support but healthy adjacent teeth aren’t always present. If they are, they often need to be ground down and can producing complications and further expense down the road. (Dental implants do not require healthy adjacent teeth for support.)
2. There is no ease of maintenance with bridges. In fact, their average lifespan is only ten years and often require replacement at five years or less. (Dental implants are capable of lasting a lifetime.)
3. Dentures are generally the least expensive option for replacing a complete arch of missing teeth but tend to be uncomfortable, unnatural looking, embarrassing,and limit your ability to eat the foods you enjoy. (Dental implants provide a natural, comfortable and activity boosting solution.)
4. Dentures need to be removed at night and may require gooey adhesives to keep them in place. This is terribly inconvenient and can also increase your chances of misplacing or damaging your dentures. (Dental implants stay secure in your mouth and can be cleaned just like natural teeth.
5. If you have bridges and dentures in your mouth then you will be limited to the types of foods you can chew such as nuts, fruits and many more. At best a full set of dentures will only restore 35% of you natural chewing force.(Dental implants allow you to use increased force on your bite and enjoy all your favorite foods again.)
6. Bridges and dentures do not stimulate bone growth therefore patients choosing these options may experience extreme bone loss over time. This can result in an older appearance. (Dental implants actually stimulate bone growth and help maintain a youthful appearance.)

With proper maintenance and regularly scheduled visits to the Brueggen Dental Implant Center in Houston, Texas, your dental implants are designed to last a lifetime.

Dental implants are available at the Brueggen Dental Implant Center in Houston, Texas. Dr. Wayne Brueggen, Houston dentist, is the founder and sole owner of the Brueggen Dental Implant Center. Dr. Brueggen’s background includes expertise in both cosmetic dentistry and dental surgery. His over 35years of experience in the dentistry and the treatment of over 20,000 patients has made him a highly respected expert in his field. Dr. Wayne Brueggen is the foremost leader in the All-On-Four dental implant procedure. A process that allows him to remove any damaged existing teeth, place dental implants, and build a new set of new non-removable teeth, secured by the dental implants, all in one day.

What are dental implants?

Dental Implants - An Excellent Option for Tooth Replacement

Dental implants are simulated roots that are positioned properly in the jaw bone to grip the replacement tooth which offers a natural look and feel for the patient. They provide the patient the freedom to speak and eat with confidence. There is no need for the patient to fear slippage or dread the use of adhesives which are common with dentures.

Usually, a patient becomes a candidate for dental implants for several reasons. The patient has either lost their teeth due to an accident or are about to lose one or more teeth due to decay. Dental implants offer a more permanent alternative to removable dentures or bridges. Both dentures and bridges neglect to stimulate bone growth which can cause some patients to experience excessive bone loss over the years resulting in a less than youthful feel and appearance.

There are several varieties of dental implants but traditionally there are two basic categories. The first and most widely used is the Endosteal implant which is placed directly into the bone. This requires sufficient bone integrity to support the implant insertion. The second category is Subperiosteal implants which are used if the existing bone has already atrophied causing the jaw bone structure to become limited. The implant in this case is secured on top of the remaining jaw bone as opposed to being inserted into the bone.

The most recent and emerging type of endosseous or (root-form) dental implants are those known as, “All-on-Four dental implants.” The All-on-Four dental implants are made of titanium and the crown part resembles a significantly more natural looking tooth compared to traditional implants or dentures. These endosseous dental implants succeed because they are integrated within your existing jawbone and require a limited amount of overall implants. Where traditional implants often require an average of 8 to 10 implants all inserted into one arch, All-on-Four dental implants only require 4 implants each on the lower and upper arches providing a secure and long-term solution for tooth loss.

All-on-Four dental implants are available at the Brueggen Dental Implant Center in Houston, Texas. Dr. Wayne Brueggen, Houston dentist, is the founder and sole owner of the Brueggen Dental Implant Center. Dr. Brueggen’s background includes expertise in both cosmetic dentistry and dental surgery. His over 30 years of experience in the dental industry and the treatment of over 20,000 patients has made him a highly respected expert in his field. Dr. Wayne Brueggen is the foremost leader in the All-on-Four dental implant procedure. For more information or to schedule an appointment please visit www.nodentures.com

Why Dental Implants Houston Texas are Better Than Other Cosmetic Procedures?

Are Dental Implants Houston Texas better than the Cosmetic Procedures? Why and How? Read along to know.

Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants in Houston, Texas are permanent solution to the problem of lost teeth. It is not a temporary solution but a long term one. People who have lost one, many or all teeth would find dental implants as the most coveted one among the dental surgeries. After going through teeth replacement, you would surely be able to eat all types of foods and beverages in a normal manner.

Dental implants in Houston, Texas will help you to become more confident and get your smile back. These implants are never required to be removed because they are self sustaining tooth roots, which are inserted firmly in jaw bones. These artificial tooth roots act as anchor for supporting replacement teeth. Replaced teeth through Dental implants in Houston, Texas don’t need any support from adjacent teeth and that’s why they help in keeping the adjacent teeth healthy. Thus, dental implants help in maintaining the structure of jawbones.

Dental implants done in Houston, Texas works and feels like natural teeth because they don’t require artificial gum lines or adhesives to hold on and are integrated with the bone firmly.

Drawbacks of Cosmetic Procedures
However, this spectacular procedure of dental implant was absent few years back. Thus, people had to rely on cosmetic procedures like Bridges and Dentures. But these procedures often caused problems for them.

Some of the problems caused from cosmetic procedures are:

1. In case of cosmetic dental procedure like Bridge, it has been witnessed that the adjacent teeth gets affected negatively. The reason behind such an occurrence is that the bridges are supported by these adjacent teeth.
2. Maintenance of bridges is not simple. These often require to be changed within 5 years.
3. Dentures are the cheapest option of tooth loss. But this has also its negative points. The removable dentures can cause sore in the mouth.
4. Removable dentures are required to be cleaned and kept in a good place every night. Thus, it can be a problem for many.
5. If you have dentures in your mouth then you may not be able to eat all types of foods like nuts, fruits and many more.

Now, if you compare the above two segments then you can easily decipher that dental implants are far better and user-friendly than cosmetic procedures. Hence you can blindly trust the dental implants Houston Texas for restoring your original smile.

All-on Four Dental Implants – an Efficient Dental Implant Treatment in the Houston area

Many people have heard of dental implants however few have heard of the increasingly popular All-on-Four dental implants available at the Brueggen Dental Implant Center in Houston. This article provides a brief highlight of the benefits of All-on-Four dental implants versus traditional implants.

Traditional dental implants usually address the replacement of one tooth or a few teeth that are side-by-side. They also involve anywhere from 8 to 10 implants all inserted on one arch. With All-on-Four dental implants the procedure requires only 4 implants each on the lower and upper arches. The All-on-Four dental implants allow for increased support by using the natural strength of the bone which provides the need for fewer dental implants when angled at the appropriate position to secure this advantage point.

In addition, traditional dental implants frequently require bone grafting which is a process that can take six or more months to complete. For most patients undergoing the All-on-Four dental implants procedure, tedious bone grafting is not required.

All-on-Four dental implants are brushed, cleaned and maintained just like natural teeth. There is no need to remove them at night as you would with dentures. There are also no messy adhesives to deal with. The All-on-Four dental implants do not create pressure on your gums therefore eliminating needless discomfort associated with dentures or traditional dental implants. You will also not have to suffer from hot and cold sensitivity in the foods and drinks that you consume. Additionally, you will have the ability to bite with improved force allowing you to enjoy all types of foods. The use of All-on-Four dental implants also prevents bone deterioration by integrating with your existing jaw bone allowing for comfort and a more natural fit.

The All-on-Four dental implant procedure boasts a published success rate of 98.2% on the lower arch and a success rate of 97-98% when used on the upper arch. In summary, the All-on-Four dental implant alternative saves you time, money, discomfort, unnecessary surgery and inconveniences that are often associated with dentures or traditional dental implants.

Brueggen Dental Implant Center

Dr. Wayne Brueggen, Houston implant dentist, offers dental implant solutions.

The Brueggen Dental Implant Center’s goal is to provide our family of patients the highest level of desired dental care currently available, in an atmosphere of compassion, kindness, respect and patience.



The Brueggen Dental Implant Center aims to provide every patient, at any age, with missing, loose, decayed or broken teeth, with dental implant solutions that offer simple, reliable and long-lasting results. Furthermore, we understand that our patient’s top concern is the cost of dental implants and the financing options that are available. Brueggen Dental Implant Center will work with every patient to find a financing plan that will meet their personal budget.

Houston Dental Implant Simplified The Problem With Experience - Case Of The Week

You may call it Houston Dental Implants or NoDentures, it’s all the same. But now it is popularly known as the Houston Dental Implants Office, which is the standard of care for missing teeth. Unfortunately Dental Implants in Houston come in many different styles and when they have been placed by a different Houston Dental Implant Surgeon determining the type of implant we are working with can be a challenge.

The Description Of The Houston Dental Implant Case

Tuesday I saw a lady with natural upper teeth and an implant bar supported over denture on the lower. Two Dental Implant doctors from Houston, a surgeon and a prosthodontist had placed the implants and made the first set of teeth about 20 years ago. The bar had never been removed but the teeth had been remade 4 times.

Description Of The Implantation Done By Another Houston Dental Implant Surgeon

This nice lady came to me because the bar was moving. To make this more understandable imagine a mouth with no teeth on the lower. Then imagine that four roots [dental implants] are placed in that jaw. You almost can’t see them, they are just roots that come evenly to the top of the gums. In the top of each dental implant is a small threaded hole that a screw can be placed into. The jaw is U shaped like a horse shoe and the dental implants are spaced out in it. An old method of using these dental implants to support teeth was to build a U shaped bar about 3/16 th of an inch wide and thick that could be screwed over the four implants.

This had the effect of tying all of the implants together for strength and providing a solid base for the new teeth to rest on so they could be kept off of the “gums”. This is called a bar supported overdenture and prior to the All on 4, teeth in a day procedure, I used it frequently. As the non-removable nature of the All on 4 procedure as well as the teeth in a day feature is so favored by patients given the option I rarely provide bar supported overdentures anymore.

However, it is not unusual for me to work with them as many of my patients as well as those of other Houston Dental Implant dentist still have them. The bar in this case was loose because two of the screws holding it onto the dental implants were broken and the remaining two were no longer tight. The bar was beautifully crafted and the implants were healthy so the trick was to find out what kind of implants they were. The Houston Dental Implant surgeon who placed them was retired as was the prosthodontist who made the original teeth.

How did we resolve the issue at our Houston dental implant office?

We searched our internet options for identification but came up empty. We e-mailed x-rays to Nobel Biocare and again came up empty. Finally with the help of a company who provided parts for dental implants that are no longer in production we were able to determine the type of dental implant we were dealing with and secure 8 new screws [four for now, four for the future] to reattach the bar. The existing teeth were still esthetically pleasing and functional so no further care was required. This is a prime example of the value of experience.

Without the resources to find these screws this patient would have required the removal of 4 implants, bone grafting, months of healing, the placement of new implants and the fabrication of a new set of teeth. As is she had four new screws placed and was good as new in about an hour including the time for her examination, consultation, and cat scan visit. Sometimes the simplest solutions can be the most rewarding to me.

Probably she was satisfied with the service provided at the Houston Dental Implant office.

Dental Implant of Houston – Bringing the Ultimate Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry

This article will give you a clear idea on the positive difference between All-on Four dental implants versus traditional denture options in the Houston area. The advantages of All-on-Four dental implants are also stated categorically in this article. Please read on to learn more.


Recently, dental surgeons are receiving a large number of inquires about the fresh alternative to dentures which is a procedure known as All-on-Four dental implants. Word is spreading and dental surgeons in the Houston area are investigating the buzz. What they’re discovering is that a majority of patients do not have a clear understanding of the actual methods involved with the All-on-Four dental implant method and how it differs from traditional dentures. In general, patient focus remains on the cosmetic results. While the natural look of All-on-Four dental implants is an extremely important advantage of getting away from the more artificial look of dentures, the clarification of additional advantages of All-on-Fours dental implants helps patients confidently adopt the procedure.

All-on-Four dental implants are made of titanium and the crown part resembles an incredibly natural looking tooth. This is the ideal procedure for people who have lost, or are about to lose all of their real teeth due to reasons such as tooth decay or acute periodontal disease. Integrating the All-on-Four dental implants within your existing jawbone provides a secure and long-term solution for tooth loss. There are no adhesives required and a patient does not need to worry about the pitfalls that are commonly associated with dentures. For example, the common disadvantages related to dentures include having to remove them for routine cleaning, fussing with adhesives, avoiding certain foods, slippage, poor breath, and the possibility of losing your dentures all together!

With All-on-Four dental implants the advantages are unrivaled. The same-day procedure allows the patient to undergo gentle oral sedation, receive their new set of teeth and leave the office with a brand new smile. They also leave with the confidence that their new dental implants will remain in place as a permanent solution. All-on-Four dental implants have a 97.7% average overall success rate and require minimal recovery time. In the rare instance that an implant fails to integrate within a patients jawbone the simple solution usually involves a slight movement of the All-on-Four dental implant in order to remedy it. The majority of All-on-Four patients enjoy a renewed and youthful appearance, one that has the capability of lasting a lifetime.

All-on-Four dental implants improve the quality of life for people and this is a key aspect. Immediate benefits to the procedure include only minimal soreness, a natural looking smile, the ability to eat a light meal the very same evening, the benefit of enjoying many types of foods with peace of mind, and overall ease of oral maintenance. The All-on-Four dental implants typically require only two post op visits, and one visit each at four months and six months respectively for impressions and for placing the permanent set of teeth.

The Brueggen Dental Implant Center offers a simple, effective and quality method for replacing missing teeth by offering the premiere All-on-Four dental implant method. This solid alternative to dentures has become a must-have in the Houston area.