I’m getting a dental implant. They’re pretty pricey. The dentist that comes the most highly recommended prefers screw-retained implants. However, they are more expensive..or at least he is. Are they worth the additional cost?
Maisy D. – Delaware
Maisy,
While it is by no means necessary, there are advantages to screw-retained dental implants. For one, it eliminates the need for cement. When the dentist puts the restoration on, cement will always leak out. There’s really no way to prevent it. Then the dentist has to remove it with handtools. If he can’t get all of it, it can become an irritation and storehouse for bacteria.
It’s also much easier to remove the restoration if something goes wrong.
However, there are times when it won’t work. Usually, that is on the front teeth, because it will affect how the implant will look.
The key is to talk to your dentist. Make sure it’s a dentist you completely trust. One that is highly qualified. If you do that, you can feel confident in whichever type of retention he or she recommends.
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