What Is Dental Sleep Medicine? And How to Get Dental Treatment Financing

If you’re like many Americans, you’re probably no stranger to sleep issues. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), one in three adults doesn’t get enough sleep, and the American Academy of Sleep Science reports that sleep apnea is on the rise, with 26% of adults ages 30 to 70 suffering from the disorder. One solution to this national problem has been the relatively new field of dental sleep medicine, which is expected to see a compound annual growth rate of 8.22% between 2021 and 2028. So what is dental sleep medicine? We’ll delve into those details (and more) below. What Is Dental Sleep Medicine? Dental sleep medicine is a branch of dentistry focused on treating sleep-related problems, including snoring and sleep apnea. Dental sleep medicine is used to treat health issues that include: Lethargy: A state of constant physical and mental exhaustion and a lack of energy. Jaw Pain: Consistent pain or soreness in the jaw that disrupts sleep. Snoring: Specifically, snoring that occurs because of an obstruction in your upper airway. Sleep apnea: Recurring gaps in breathing during sleep. What Is a Sleep Dentist? Sleep dentists are doctors of medicine in dentistry that specialize in treating sleep-disorder problems, including inconsistent breathing, snoring, and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Sleep dentists commonly work alongside physicians to identify the best treatment plan for each patient. This usually involves managing a patient’s snoring and obstructive sleep apnea symptoms. Dentists often have patients wear an oral device while sleeping to maintain an open airway. What Happens at an Appointment with a Sleep Dentist? When sleep dentists meet with patients, they typically start treatment with an evaluation that includes examining the patient’s medical history and symptoms. They then use that information to develop a personalized treatment plan, which may involve the use of oral appliance therapy. With oral appliance therapy, patients use an oral device that keeps their airways open and helps to minimize breathing complications. Dentists then continue to monitor for changes or developments in the patient’s sleeping habits through follow-up visits. What Is Sleep Apnea? Sleep apnea is a disorder that occurs when your breathing is disrupted while sleeping. Breathing disruptions are recurring and can last up to a minute, limiting the amount of oxygen the brain receives. The three kinds of sleep apnea are: Obstructive sleep apnea: Air can’t flow in and out of a person’s nose or mouth because their muscles become overly relaxed. Central sleep apnea: This is a neurological disorder where your brain doesn’t send the right signals to the muscles that regulate breathing. Complex sleep apnea: This is a rare combination of obstructive and central sleep apnea, where breathing problems persist even after doctors address airway obstruction. The symptoms of sleep apnea include: Insomnia Sleep deprivation Excessive snoring Mouth breathing Dry throat Dry mouth Frequent headaches Because sleep apnea can cause sufferers to sleep with their mouths open, it can cause tooth decay. If this happens, it’s worth looking into financing options for dental implants to avoid large medical expenditures. Can Dental Problems Cause Sleep Apnea? Yes, dental problems can cause sleep apnea. There are a few oral problems associated with this sleep disorder. For example, bruxism, which causes teeth grinding—is known to be a contributor. Mouth breathing can also cause sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is also thought to be caused by obesity, family history, certain medical conditions (like high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes), and smoking. Treatment for Sleep Apnea The first step in minimizing sleep apnea is discussing your symptoms with your healthcare provider and your dentist. Keep in mind that only certified dentists and medical professionals can diagnose you with obstructive sleep apnea. Depending on your condition, you might need a dental device for sleep apnea. For example, if you snore excessively, you’ll likely need a continuous positive airway pressure device (CPAP). The device comes with a mask and is designed to deliver enough air to open your airway passage. If you have mild sleep apnea, your dentist might recommend an oral appliance device. Here are two types of oral appliance devices: Tongue retaining device: Pulls the tongue forward to prevent it from collapsing back into the airway. Mandibular Advancement Device: A MAD is designed to maintain your jaw forward to prevent airway obstructions. In more severe cases, you might require surgery. For example, if you have swollen lymph nodes that block your airways, your doctor might recommend tonsil removal surgery. How Much Will Treatment Cost? Treating dental sleep disorders, especially sleep apnea, is expensive. How much you spend on diagnosis and treatment depends on several factors, including: The severity of your condition Your health insurance policy The cost of sleep studies The devices you use Expect to spend an average of  $2,105 per year for medical testing, appointments, devices, and possible surgery. To break this down further, let’s examine product costs. A CPAP device will likely cost anywhere from $500 to $1,000. These figures may change depending on your insurance policy. The cost for oral appliance devices ranges between $1,800 and $2,000. Again, exact figures will depend on the device and your insurance policy. Financing Options for Dental Sleep Treatment If your insurance offers little or no coverage for treating dental sleep disorders, you may want to explore alternatives. One option worth pursuing is applying for dental financing through United Credit. You may be able to select from multiple financing options with affordable payment plans. Plus, you could secure as much as $25,000 in dental financing. Get Help from United Credit Undergoing treatment for dental sleep problems can be unsettling and expensive. Fortunately, United Credit can help you find solutions for financing dental treatment. We work with multiple lending partners to help you secure the loan you need for funding treatment services. Apply for a consumer loan today to explore your options. United Credit strives to keep the content shared on this blog accurate and up to date. You are urged to consult with business, financial, legal, tax and/or other advisors and/or medical providers with respect to any information presented. Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone and have not been approved or otherwise

6 Signs You Need to See a Dental Sleep Specialist

Sleep plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health and well-being. However, sleep disorders such as sleep apnea can significantly impact your quality of life. Fortunately, dental sleep medicine can help identify and address these issues, ensuring you enjoy a good night’s rest. In this blog post, we’ll explore the role of a dental sleep specialist and the signs that indicate you may need to see one. Plus, we’ll share how United Credit can assist you in financing your sleep dentistry treatment. What is a Sleep Dentist? A sleep dentist, or dental sleep specialist, is a professional who focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders, particularly those related to oral and dental health. They work closely with sleep physicians to develop personalized treatment plans for patients suffering from sleep apnea, snoring, and other sleep-related issues. By offering solutions like oral appliance therapy, sleep dentists provide comfort and improved health for patients struggling with sleep disorders. 6 Indicators You Should See a Dental Sleep Specialist Sleep apnea is a common reason to visit a sleep dentist, but recognizing the signs can be challenging. Here are six indicators that suggest you may need to consult a dental sleep specialist: Constant Snoring While snoring can be harmless, it may also signal an underlying sleep disorder like sleep apnea. If you or your partner notice consistent, loud snoring, it’s worth considering a visit to a dental sleep specialist for evaluation. Waking Up With a Sore Throat or Headache Frequent morning headaches or sore throats can indicate disrupted sleep due to an obstructed airway. A dental sleep specialist can help determine if these symptoms are related to sleep apnea or another sleep disorder. Chronic Fatigue/Lethargy If you’re constantly feeling tired and lethargic despite getting enough sleep, it could be a sign of sleep apnea. When left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to chronic fatigue, impacting your daily life and overall health. Jaw Pain Jaw pain or temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) may be related to sleep disorders, as some people tend to clench or grind their teeth during sleep. A dental sleep specialist can help diagnose and treat these issues, alleviating discomfort. Cracked Teeth Tooth damage, such as cracked or worn teeth, can be a sign of nighttime teeth grinding (bruxism). A dental sleep specialist can identify the cause and provide appropriate treatment to prevent further damage. Waking Up Breathless If you frequently wake up gasping for air or feeling short of breath, it might be a symptom of sleep apnea. Seeking help from a dental sleep specialist can help address this issue and improve your overall sleep quality. The Importance of Addressing Sleep Disorders Ignoring the signs of a sleep disorder can have severe consequences for your health and well-being. Untreated sleep apnea, for example, increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, and other health complications. By seeking the help of a dental sleep specialist, you can address these issues early and receive appropriate treatment to improve your quality of life. United Credit Can Help You Finance Your Sleep Dentistry At United Credit, we understand that dental sleep treatments can be costly, but your health and well-being shouldn’t be compromised due to financial concerns. Our experienced team can help connect you with dental financing options to ensure you receive the necessary treatment. We offer dental payment plans and loans to make dental sleep treatment accessible and affordable. To learn more about our dental loan options, visit our Dental Financing page, and read our blog post about Dental Payment Plans. In conclusion, if you’re experiencing any of the signs mentioned above, it’s essential to consult a dental sleep specialist. Remember, United Credit is here to help you finance your sleep dentistry treatment, ensuring you receive the care you need for a good night’s sleep and improved overall health and well-being. United Credit strives to keep the content shared on this blog accurate and up to date. You are urged to consult with business, financial, legal, tax and/or other advisors and/or medical providers with respect to any information presented. Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone and have not been approved or otherwise endorsed by any financial or medical institution. This content is intended for informational purposes only. Follow us on social: Linkedin-in Facebook-f Instagram Twitter

Financing Cosmetic Dentistry: Enhancing Your Smile Without Breaking the Bank

A bright, confident smile can make a world of difference in both personal and professional settings. Cosmetic dentistry is a rapidly growing field that aims to enhance the appearance of your teeth and smile. From whitening treatments to dental veneers, there are a variety of procedures available to meet your unique dental needs. However, cosmetic dentistry can be pricey, and insurance often doesn’t cover these elective treatments. Fortunately, there are financing options available to help you afford the smile of your dreams. In this blog post, we will explore the world of cosmetic dentistry, discuss the costs associated with various procedures, and provide an overview of payment and financing options. What is Cosmetic Dentistry? Cosmetic dentistry refers to dental procedures that are primarily focused on improving the appearance of your teeth and smile, rather than addressing oral health issues. While traditional dentistry emphasizes the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of oral diseases, cosmetic dentistry prioritizes aesthetics. This field combines the precision of dental science with artistic skill to create natural-looking and long-lasting results. What Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures are Available? There is a wide range of cosmetic dentistry procedures available to address various aesthetic concerns. Some popular treatments include: Teeth Whitening: Whitening your teeth is one of the most commonly requested cosmetic dentistry procedures. Teeth whitening treatments can be performed in-office or at home using customized bleaching trays. The cost of in-office whitening ranges from $300 to $1,000, while at-home kits can cost between $100 and $400. Dental Veneers: Veneers are thin, custom-made shells made from porcelain or composite resin that are bonded to the front surface of your teeth. They can correct a variety of imperfections, such as discolored, chipped, or misaligned teeth. Veneers typically cost between $900 and $2,500 per tooth. Dental Bonding: This procedure involves applying tooth-colored composite resin to repair chipped, fractured, or discolored teeth. Dental bonding is a relatively affordable option, costing between $100 and $400 per tooth. Dental Implants: Implants are a long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth. A titanium post is surgically placed in the jawbone, and a custom-made crown is attached to the post. Dental implants can cost between $1,500 and $6,000 per tooth. Invisalign or Clear Aligners: These clear, removable aligners are a popular alternative to traditional metal braces. They can correct mild to moderate orthodontic issues and are virtually invisible. The cost of Invisalign or other clear aligners ranges from $3,000 to $8,000, depending on the complexity of the case. Dental Crowns: Crowns are tooth-shaped caps that are placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to improve its shape, size, strength, and appearance. They can be made from various materials, including porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, or metal alloys. The cost of dental crowns ranges from $800 to $3,000 per tooth. Gum Contouring: Also known as gum reshaping, this procedure involves reshaping the gum line to create a more even and aesthetically pleasing appearance. The cost of gum contouring ranges from $50 to $350 per tooth, depending on the extent of the treatment. How Can I Pay for Cosmetic Dentistry? Although insurance typically does not cover elective cosmetic dentistry procedures, there are several payment and financing options available to help make these treatments more affordable: Dental Discount Plans: These plans provide discounted rates on dental services for an annual membership fee. Many dental discount plans include savings on cosmetic dentistry procedures, making them a cost-effective option for individuals without dental insurance or those seeking elective treatments. Be sure to research available plans in your area and confirm which procedures are covered before signing up. Payment Plans: Many dental offices offer in-house payment plans, allowing patients to pay for their treatments in installments over a specified period. This can make it easier to budget for cosmetic dentistry procedures without the need for outside financing. Be sure to discuss payment plan options with your dentist and review any associated fees or interest charges. Credit Cards: Using a credit card to pay for cosmetic dentistry procedures can provide flexibility in terms of repayment. Look for a card with a low-interest rate or an introductory 0% APR offer to minimize the cost of borrowing. Be mindful of your credit limit and the potential impact on your credit score when using a credit card to finance dental treatments. Personal Loans: Personal loans from banks or credit unions can be used to finance cosmetic dentistry procedures. These loans typically have fixed interest rates and set repayment terms, allowing for predictable monthly payments. Be sure to shop around for the best interest rate and loan terms before committing to a personal loan. Dental Schools: Some dental schools offer discounted rates on cosmetic dentistry procedures performed by supervised students or faculty. While this may not be an option for everyone, it can be a cost-effective way to access cosmetic dentistry treatments. Be prepared for longer appointment times and limited availability when seeking treatment at a dental school. Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs): If you have an FSA or HSA through your employer, you may be able to use these pre-tax funds to pay for certain cosmetic dentistry procedures that are deemed medically necessary, such as dental implants or orthodontic treatment. Check with your plan administrator to determine which procedures are eligible for reimbursement. Financing cosmetic dentistry is an important consideration for those looking to enhance their smile. With various procedures available to address aesthetic concerns, it’s essential to research costs and payment options to make informed decisions about your dental care. By exploring dental discount plans, payment plans, credit cards, medical credit cards, personal loans, dental schools, and tax-advantaged accounts, you can find a financing solution that meets your needs and budget. With the right approach, you can achieve the smile you’ve always wanted without breaking the bank. United Credit strives to keep the content shared on this blog accurate and up to date. You are urged to consult with business, financial, legal, tax and/or other advisors and/or medical providers with respect to any information presented. Opinions expressed here are the author’s

Dental Payment Plans? United Credit Can Help!

5 Ways to Finance Dental Work Are you or your family delaying dental treatment due to financial concerns? You’re not alone. According to industry research, nearly half of insured Americans forgo dental care due to cost. The percentage is as high as 65% for those who aren’t insured. Fortunately, many dental financing options are available to help you get the care you need. In this guide, we’ve listed the five best ways to finance dental work to help you choose the best option for your situation. What is Dental Financing? Before diving into the specific ways to finance dental work, let’s first review what dental financing is. Dental financing assists patients in paying for the high upfront costs of dental and cosmetic dentistry procedures that are typically not covered by dental insurance. While dental insurance can reduce the cost of dental procedures, it typically covers only a certain percentage of the total amount, leaving patients with out-of-pocket expenses.  Patients can use dental financing to pay for these expenses, usually dental loans for a set period, with interest applied to the amount borrowed. However, some dental loans do not charge interest if paid off earlier than the due date. How to Get Approved For Dental Credit Securing dental financing may look different depending on your chosen route, but these are the usual steps you encounter in securing a dental loan: Pre-qualification: Most dental financing providers offer free pre-qualification assessments to provide loan applicants with an estimation of their annual percentage rate (APR). Comparing as many lenders as possible is recommended to determine which option suits your particular needs. Application: After assessing your options, select a provider that matches your needs, budget, and preferences, then submit a formal application. You’ll typically be required to provide basic personal information and submit income documents such as pay stubs and bank statements. Lenders will usually assess your credit score to determine your eligibility for their program. Approval: If you’re approved, the lender will send a loan agreement for signing. Make sure to review the document before signing. After this, your lender will typically send the money within a few business days. But what if your credit score is not good? Credit-challenged individuals still have ways to finance dental work, which we’ll explore in the next section. 5 Smart Ways to Finance Dental Work While dental work can be expensive, this shouldn’t hinder you from maintaining optimal oral health. The list of dental financing options we share below will help you determine the best—and most cost-effective—option for you to fund your dental work:  In-House Payment Plans: One of the simplest ways to finance your dental work is through the payment plan provided by your dentist’s office. Some dentists offer in-house financing, allowing patients to spread the cost of their dental procedures over several months with low-interest rates.  Medical Credit Cards: Medical credit cards are similar to most credit cards, but you can only use them to finance medical procedures. They often come in terms of 12, 18, or 24 months, with a promotional introductory 0% APR interest period for the first 6–18 months. However, depending on your provider, the interest rates for medical credit cards can shoot up to 29% APR once the introductory period is over.  0% APR Credit Card: Individuals with excellent credit scores can qualify for 0% APR credit cards. These cards feature an attractive introductory period (typically up to 18 months) where you won’t accrue interest on your credit card charges. If you manage to pay for your procedure before the promotional period, you won’t pay any interest at all.  Personal Loans: Another way to finance dental work is through personal loans. With this approach, you’ll borrow money from lenders or financial institutions to use for various purposes. They typically don’t require collateral and come with fixed interest rates and repayment terms, making them a more favorable option than credit cards.  United Credit: United Credit provides patients and credit-challenged individuals access to the industry’s best dental payment plans throughout our lending partner network. Our network of dental lenders give  you access to flexible payment plans and finance options. These allow you to pay for dental care with a low monthly rate that fits your budget and lifestyle. And United Credit’s lender network never charges application fees, making it even easier and more affordable to access great dental healthcare, including services such as: Bone graft surgery Braces Ceramic crowns Dental filling Dental veneers Exams and X-rays, including digital X-rays Gum disease treatment Invisalign clear braces Missing teeth Oral cancer screenings Oral surgery Orthodontics Pediatric dentistry Porcelain veneers Restorative dentistry Retainers Root canal treatment Sedation dentistry Sensitive teeth dental plans Sleep apnea treatments Teeth cleaning Teeth whitening Tooth extractions Tooth pain treatment plans Wisdom teeth removal At United Credit, we believe everyone should have a fair chance at accessing regular and emergency dental care for themselves and their families. We also believe that your dental plans should be between you and your dentist. Whether you need wisdom teeth extracted, a simple cleaning, or emergency dentistry, United Credit’s experienced lender network can help make medical dental, and even veterinary care more accessible. Secure Your Dental Financing with United Credit Dental work can be costly, leading many people to delay or avoid necessary treatment due to financial concerns. However, there are many ways to finance dental work, including in-house payment plans, medical credit cards, 0% APR credit cards, personal loans, and dental financing facilitators like United Credit. These excellent services enable patients to choose the best financing option that suits their needs and budget to receive the dental care they require without the burden of high upfront costs. Don’t let financial concerns hold you back from optimal oral health! United Credit strives to keep the content shared on this blog accurate and up to date. You are urged to consult with business, financial, legal, tax and/or other advisors and/or medical providers with respect to any information presented. Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone and have not been approved or otherwise endorsed by any financial or medical institution. This content is intended for informational purposes only. Follow us on

How to Get Dental Implant Financing with Bad Credit

Did you know that around 26% of seniors aged 65 and older have eight or fewer teeth? Tooth loss affects millions of Americans yearly due to injury, tooth decay, and periodontal disease. In fact, tooth decay is the most common chronic disease in the U.S. for people of all ages. While treatment options were once limited to dentures and bridges, new dental implants and procedures have become a popular and effective method of replacing missing teeth. Unlike bridges and dentures, dental implants pose no risk to nearby natural teeth, do not cause mouth sores, and are the closest option to natural teeth. However, they can quickly become expensive, especially if multiple teeth need to be replaced or patients lack an adequate amount of healthy jawbone. Many people turn to financing to get the care they need. But what should you do if you have less-than-stellar credit? While you may think dental implant financing with bad credit is impossible, if you follow a few best practices, you’ll be more likely to get the treatment you need at a cost you can afford. Below we cover the process and benefits of getting a dental implant as well as how to pay for dental implants with bad credit. The Benefits of Getting Dental Implants Dental implants can make many aspects of everyday life easier, such as eating and speaking. But perhaps the greatest advantage of dental implants is the boost they can give to your self-esteem. Dental implants can help you look and feel healthier. Other benefits include: Improved appearance and self-esteem Easier eating and drinking Better oral health Enhanced comfort over removable dentures Superior durability compared to bridges and dentures Improved speech Reduced bone loss in the jaw Maintained facial structure The Three Types of Dental Implants Three types of dental implants are available, and the best type for a patient is determined based on a variety of factors. The amount of bone loss in the jaw is a major influence on the type of implant available to the patient. Significant bone loss may require a bone graft or an implant with a larger frame to support a tooth. In some cases of severe bone loss, a patient may not be a suitable candidate for dental implants. Endosteal Implants: This type of implant is the most common and is best suited for patients with healthy jawbones. Screw-shaped posts are placed into the jawbone to hold one or more replacement teeth. Subperiosteal Implants: If you don’t have enough healthy jawbone for endosteal implants, you may be a candidate for subperiosteal implants. The posts are placed below your gums and on or above your jawbone to hold the replacement teeth. Zygomatic Implants: The least commonly used implant, zygomatic implants can be used for patients who don’t have enough jawbone for other types of implants. Instead of being placed in the jawbone, implants are placed in the patient’s cheekbone. Dental Implant Procedures Those considering this procedure frequently worry that dental implants are painful. Dentists and oral surgeons who perform this type of reconstructive dentistry have various sedation methods available to eliminate pain during the procedure. Any post-operative pain or discomfort can be controlled using pain medication. The procedure itself can be complex and may require multiple stages. Once a plan is made for placing the implants, the process includes the following steps: Implant Placement: The implants are usually placed first, with temporary dental crowns. Permanent Crown Placement: Once the bone fuses around each implant, the permanent crown can be placed. Some patients may have a tooth extracted and the implant inserted on the same day. The dentist will determine a method that has the best chance of success. The Cost of Dental Implants The cost of dental implants can vary greatly. A single implant may start at $3,500 to $4,000, assuming the procedure is uncomplicated. More complex implants, bone grafts, or the implantation of multiple teeth can dramatically increase costs. Many people can’t afford to pay for the procedure upfront, which is why financing is often a good solution. How to Pay for Dental Implants With Bad Credit If you’re considering tooth loss treatment, you may wonder how to finance dental implants. Fortunately, you have several available options. Apply for Financing While your credit history will affect loan terms and approval rates, getting dental implant financing with bad credit may still be possible. Financing is one of the easiest ways to cover implant-related expenses because most insurers do not cover dental implants. You may also be able to use a co-signer if you cannot qualify on your own. Price Shop You may be able to reduce the cost of dental implants by calling around to several dental practices, as prices vary between dentists. Implant costs can also differ depending on implant types and procedures. Fundraise Online fundraising through crowdsourcing websites has become easier than ever. You can try popular websites like Fundly or GoFundMe and ask friends and family to donate to the cause. Get Help with Dental Implant Financing from United Credit If you need dental implant financing with bad credit, United Credit is here to help. We work with a broad lending parent network to help you find the best financing options, and you may qualify for financing even with a less-than-ideal credit score. Apply now for affordable financing and discover your options today. Follow us on social: Linkedin-in Facebook-f Instagram Twitter

Latest Oral Surgery Procedure Advancements and Technologies

What Are The Latest Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures? Cosmetic dental procedures can improve your smile, but health insurance rarely covers these expensive treatments. With years of experience connecting patients with dental financing options, United Credit stays up-to-date on the latest cosmetic procedures and advancements in dentistry. Cosmetic dentistry can give you the smile of your dreams if you’re unhappy with stains on your teeth, gaps, or unevenness. Recent innovations have given us the thinnest dental veneers like dental Lumineers, more durable materials for dental implants and dental bridges, and other easy options to correct your bite, such as Invisalign and other invisible braces. A perfect smile can help strengthen teeth, allow for a healthier jaw, and improve confidence. With dental loan options from United Credit’s network of lenders, patients can secure the funds for the latest oral surgery procedure advancements—and start enjoying the benefits of an improved smile. Below are dental procedures for fixing unsightly or painful dental problems. Dental Veneers What are dental veneers? Dental veneers are thin shells that are bonded to the front of your teeth. They can improve the look of your teeth and protect the tooth’s surface from damage. Dental veneers are typically made of resin composite or porcelain and can match the color of your teeth to correct gaps or misshapen teeth to give you the perfect smile. How much do dental veneers cost? According to Healthline, dental veneers cost an average of $925 to $2,500 per tooth. Dental veneers are not covered by insurance as they are considered cosmetic dental procedures. How do dental veneers work? Dental veneers cover imperfections in your teeth to improve your smile. Dental veneers fit over your teeth and match their natural color. Dental veneers cover uneven teeth, gaps between teeth, and other irregularities to create a beautiful smile. How long do dental veneers last? Porcelain veneers can last 10-12 years. Composite resin veneers need to be replaced sooner and last 4-8 years. Dental veneers can become chipped or wear down over time. While dental insurance typically doesn’t cover the cost of dental veneers, some dental insurance plans will cover replacing or repairing existing dental veneers. What’s new with this procedure? Digital imaging technologies can generate 3D models of a patient’s smile to guide veneer fabrication, boosting accuracy and precision. Additional oral surgery procedure advancements for veneers include revolutionary laser bonding technologies that reduce the need for adhesives and improved color matching for a more natural-looking smile. Dental Implants How much do dental implants cost? The cost per tooth for a single dental implant is $3,000 to $4,500. If you need a mouthful of implants, the final cost is between $60,000 and $90,000. The average cost of dental implants includes surgery, all components, and the crown. How long do dental implants last?  Dental implants last up to 20 years on average. Dental implants are not made of enamel-like teeth. Dental implants are made of extremely durable materials and last decades. With proper oral hygiene, dental implants can last up to 25 years. What are dental implants? Dental implants are a permanent solution for replacing missing teeth and can help correct gaps in your teeth and keep your jaw in alignment. A dental implant has three parts: the post, which connects to your jawbone; the abutment, which holds the tooth in place; and the crown, which gives the appearance of a normal tooth. Dental implants are a seamless way to replace natural teeth for a beautiful smile. What are dental implants made of? Dental implants are made of titanium, which is extremely biocompatible. It has a low level of toxicity and very few people are allergic to it. The crown portion of the implant is made of ceramic to match the color of your natural teeth. What’s new with this procedure? Some oral surgery procedure advancements for dental implants include smaller, computer-designed implants, which can make more patients suitable candidates for prosthetic teeth. These advancements render dental implants more accessible for patients with less natural oral bone tissue. They also improve the success rate of restorations for dentists and allow them to provide a wider range of services to patients. Professional Teeth Whitening How much does professional teeth whitening cost? On average, professional, in-office teeth whitening costs $650 per visit. However, pricing can vary nationally between $500 and $1,000 nationally. How long does professional teeth whitening last? Professional teeth whitening typically lasts anywhere from a few months up to a few years. Many factors determine how long your tooth whitening treatment will last, including diet, drinking, smoking, and other lifestyle habits. How does professional teeth whitening work? Teeth whitening uses a potent bleaching solution that includes either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide to whiten teeth. Teeth whitening is safest and most effective when done by a professional in a dental office environment. What is the best teeth whitening? The best teeth whitening is done by a professional in an office setting. Dentists have access to the best treatments to whiten your teeth safely. At-home whitening is not as effective and in some cases, at-home whitening procedures like using charcoal products to whiten teeth may be harmful. Teeth whitening should protect the enamel on your teeth while removing stains. What’s new with this procedure? Before, patients needed multiple dental visits to achieve their desired results. Now, with new advancements in dentistry, bleaching materials used in professional teeth whitening are more effective and provide faster results. For example, Zoom whitening treatments can make a patient’s teeth up to eight shades whiter after just one dental appointment. Dental Bridges What is a dental bridge? Dental bridges are designed to bridge the gap between missing teeth. If you have a missing tooth, it is important to maintain the integrity of your jaw and the alignment of your other teeth by filling in the space. When you have a dental bridge installed, the two teeth on either side of the gap will be given a crown or false top that matches your other teeth. Between the two crowns, the bridge