While it’s normal to be nervous about going to the dentist, some people associate extreme anxiety and fear with their appointments. This dental anxiety is often known as ‘dentophobia,’ which is a phobia that causes people to avoid checkups, cleanings and other important dental procedures. Avoiding the dentist can lead to long-term teeth, gum and overall dental health issues.

Where does this phobia come from? What are some of the ways you can help your patients to cope with this phobia?

Follow this overview of the psychology behind dentophobia and learn ways to cope with and overcome dental anxiety.

What is Dentophobia?

Although most people will sit in the waiting room of their dentist’s office with a slight pang of nervousness, dental anxiety takes this feeling to an entirely new level. Professionals classify phobias as specific fears. These fears can range from a fear of tight spaces to spiders, heights and even doctors.

Phobias are usually irrational fears. The person experiencing these fears doesn’t often know where these fears stem from, which causes part of their anxiety. Depending on the type of phobia, this can leave a person with mild symptoms of anxiety or completely paralyzed in a state of panic. For this reason, people will do anything to avoid what they fear, even if the state of their health is in jeopardy.

Dentophobia is best defined as a fear of the dentist, which classifies it as a dental phobia. Another term commonly associated with dental anxiety is ‘odontophobia,’ which is the fear of specific oral procedures, like root canals and cavity fillings. These phobias are most often seen in children who have little experience with trips to the dentist.

Typically kids outgrow their fear over time once they’ve understood the process of a dentist visit and understand that you are there to help them. However, adults who have had bad experiences with specific dentists or issues with their dental health in the past will keep this phobia, resulting in overwhelming amounts of fear when visiting the dentist.

What Are the Triggers of Dental Anxiety?

Phobias are fears that do not respond to reason. Very particular stimuli trigger these fears, and it’s difficult to control the onset of emotions that can be triggered by them. Broader fears like iatrophobia, or the fear of doctors, and nosophobia, or the fear of illness can be sparked by just the mention of an upcoming appointment or walking into a medical professional’s office. For this reason, people with dentophobia and similar anxieties tend to avoid their annual check-ups and cleanings.

Specific triggers of dental anxiety come from the sensory details that are commonly associated with the experience. People with dentophobia are highly sensitive to the sights of the tools, equipment and bright lights around the office. They may also be sensitive to the sounds of drilling, scraping, and other sounds of equipment that may work in people’s mouths. Even the smells of all the chemicals, teeth cleaning supplies and latex that dentists use during an appointment can trigger a patient.

There’s no doubt that the sensory details of a dentist’s office are very specific to that profession. Without proper knowledge of how everything works in a dentist’s office, these details can induce anxiety in patients who fear the unknown. Although these sensory details are common triggers for dentophobia, how do the fears and anxiety of this phobia begin in the first place?

What Causes Dental Anxiety?

There are many reasons why a patient might develop a fear of visiting the dentist. Whether the phobia stems from other fears, an experience, or something else entirely, it’s still important to uncover the root cause. Understanding the lead cause of the phobia is key to learning how to control it before it controls a patient. This understanding is especially important when the situation involves someone’s health. Some of the most common causes of dental anxiety are below.

• A guilty conscience: If someone neglects to care for the health of their teeth and gums, they may feel anxiety towards having you tell them about the consequences of their actions. They may need more work than just a typical cleaning to fix the issues caused by not brushing, flossing or eating bad things for their teeth. This feeling of guilt could lead to dentophobia and a patient avoiding scheduling annual cleanings, even though their teeth might be hurting.
• Past experiences: From a scary first experience as a child to a procedure gone wrong as an adult, there are plenty of experiences that may cause a patient to fear the dentist. After one horrible experience the question, “What if it happens again?” causes the nervousness the patient may feel around dentists. This anxiety can lead people to avoid other potentially awful experiences at the dentist’s office.
• Family history: Parents can unintentionally pass down their fear onto their children, especially if these children are already prone to phobias. Anxiety is a disorder passed on through genetics and can affect generations after generations of patients. Along with genetics, family members may also instill this fear in a child by retelling a horrible experience they may have had at the dentist. Family members do this out of fear that their loved ones will have similar situations happen to them.

The more you know about the causes of a phobia, the better chance you have of avoiding heightening the patient’s fear. Although dentophobia can form on its own, it’s often associated with other phobias. It can work closely with the following phobias listed below:

• Algophobia: The fear of pain
• Trypanophobia: The fear of needles
• Iatrophobia: The fear of doctors (or doctor’s offices)
• Emetophobia: The fear of vomiting
• Aphenphosmphobia: The fear of being touched

The past, the potential “what if’s,” and even other phobias can all be factors in causing dentophobia.

How Common is Dentophobia?

This phobia is more common than you might think. Although many children outgrow their fear of the dentist after a certain age, any of the causes listed above can make trips to the dentist difficult for adults too. This phobia is seen mostly in western societies, where patients fear their avoidance of treatment will lead to pain.

Anyone can develop this phobia, but women are more likely to have dentophobia or odontophobia than men. It’s estimated that 2.7 percent of men and 4.6 percent of women have this phobia. Although the fear is irrational, there are still ways to manage a patient’s feelings during their visits to the dentist.

How Can Dentists Help Alleviate Patient Anxiety?

As a dental professional, you should aim to make your patients as comfortable as possible during their appointments. Today, waiting areas and offices are designed with calming ambiances to make patients feel at ease while they wait. Water features, plants, coffee stations, relaxing music and even aromatherapy can set the tone for a stress-free environment.

If you sense a nervous patient, take extra time to talk with them and make sure they feel comfortable before their appointment begins. For nervous patients, it may be as simple as talking things through, but others who have severe dental anxiety may require other methods to relieve their stress and make their experience of visiting the dentist less daunting.

Medications Used for Dental Anxiety

If a patient is experiencing severe dentophobia, they may be prescribed medication, like valium, before their appointment. If strong pain medication is not needed for the type of appointment, dentists will recommend numbing gels, topical or local anesthesia to numb the area and relieve any pain.

For more in-depth procedures, use nitrous oxide or general anesthesia to help patients feel more relaxed. If there’s a heightened level of anxiety, make sure medication is available to help the patient cope with their cleanings or procedures. Make sure your patient is prescribed just enough medication to benefit their experience.

How to Cope with Dentophobia

The best thing someone experiencing dentophobia can do is discuss a plan of action in advance with you, their dental professional. Different solutions may work best for different situations, such as medication, entertaining distractions or even breathing exercises. Managing dental anxiety can look different for everyone.

As a dental professional, it’s important for you to understand the different coping mechanisms for dentophobia, so you can go above and beyond to make your patients comfortable. The following coping techniques may be helpful for patients who struggle with dentophobia.

Be Proactive About the Appointment

Before heading to the dentist’s office, patients can practice breathing exercises or medication to slow down their heart rate and regulate their breathing. They can try different breathing methods to find the one that works for them, then use it throughout the appointment as a check-in.

Focused breaths will give a patient something to think about and block out any of their unwanted thoughts. Meditation and breathwork will reduce the chance of an anxiety attack before or during the appointment. Before entering the dentist’s office, breathing and meditation allow the patient to achieve a calm mind and make the experience of going to the dentist less daunting.

Find Positive Distractions

Sensitivity to the sights, smells and sounds of a dentist’s office can trigger a patient’s anxiety and fear. Creating distractions for your patient with entertainment can foster a peaceful environment for the patient.

Use headphones to draw your patient’s attention to music, television, or podcasts while eliminating the sound of drills and other noises. Most dentist’s offices offer these amenities, but it may make patients feel more comfortable to bring their own forms of media and headphones.

Create Break Signals

The majority of the time in a dentist’s chair is spent with a mouth full of tools and cotton. This makes it difficult for patients to speak up, especially if they’re feeling uncomfortable. A common reason people don’t like going to the dentist is the feeling that things are out of their control.

Patients who need a break can create hand signals for those moments when things become overwhelming whether it’s by waving a hand, lifting a finger or tapping a shoulder. This physical communication will let you know it’s time to step back. Nonverbal signals are great for patients with dentophobia because they can help patients gain trust in you, which makes for a more positive experience for them in the long run.

Bring a Trusting Companion

A familiar face is always comforting to see in a stressful situation. Ask a family member, friend or even another dental nurse to sit with the anxious patient during their appointment. Having a companion to talk and hold hands with can serve as a great relief to someone dealing with dental anxiety. Their conversation can bring a good distraction during the appointment.

Attend Anxiety Coping Classes

Severe cases of dentophobia may call for a more long-term plan of action. A general doctor or you as a dental professional may recommend taking classes on overcoming phobias and anxiety. Most doctors will refer patients to classes that fit their needs best. These classes are mainly taught at clinics and offer methods and techniques on how to handle fears and acknowledge the signs of oncoming anxiety. These classes are especially helpful for patients who find their symptoms of anxiety debilitating.

Take Anxiety Medication to Calm the Nerves

As described above, you may prescribe medication to your patient during your appointment, especially if your anxiety leaves the patient shaking or unable to sit still. If a patient is already taking medication for anxiety, make sure to confirm that it won’t interfere with any other medications used during a procedure.

Ask for a Pre-Appointment Check-In

Take away a patient’s anxiety of not knowing what’s going to happen by having them schedule a pre-appointment check-in. Whether it’s for a quick cleaning or a full procedure, you can ease your patient’s mind simply by going step-by-step through the process with them.

Showing patients how dental equipment is used may help them understand that they won’t cause pain. Explanations of the tools will help patients understand that you have the experience to use these tools safely and effectively. Companies like Hiossen Implant not only provide the tools and equipment necessary but also provide training sessions on how to use each one properly.

Help Patients Cope with Dentophobia

Although dentophobia is common, you as a dental professional are trained to care for patients as safely as possible. Hiossen Implant can deliver the products and services needed to make all of your patients comfortable in your chair.

Bring a sense of confidence and trustworthiness to your dental practice with Hiossen Implant. Contact us today to find more information on our education programs that are designed to help in training to use our equipment. Our equipment is ordered from world-class implantologists and is designed to help every patient feel comfortable, calm, and anxiety-free.

The post How to Overcome Dentophobia appeared first on Hiossen® Implant.

It doesn’t have to be this way! You can eat, speak and smile again with mini dental implants.

What Are Mini Dental Implants?

If you’ve never heard of mini dental implants, you’re not alone there, either. Mini implants are a dental implant system designed to be less involved and less invasive for people with conditions that preclude the use of full-sized implants. To understand what mini implants are and how they’re different, you should know how traditional dental implants work.

Unlike bridges and dentures, implants offer a permanent solution for people who are missing one or more teeth. First, your dental surgeon will insert screws into your jawbone over a series of visits, usually while you are under local anesthesia. Later, after your jaw has healed and the bone has fused to the screws, a dental professional will attach replacement teeth to the titanium posts.

If this process sounds invasive and potentially painful, that’s because it is — at least, until implants heal, which can take a few months. For many people, having artificial teeth that look, feel and work like the genuine article is worth the temporary discomfort. After all, you can brush them just like natural teeth, and you never have to worry about forgetting where you left your implants. Dental implants range from a single tooth to replace the one you lost to full sets or implant-supported bridges.

Advantages to Mini Dental Implants

What if you could gain all the advantages of dental implants without the pain, multiple procedures and lengthy healing time? Mini dental implants are very similar to their larger, more invasive counterparts, but they offer a long list of benefits traditional dental implants can’t. For example:

• As their name suggests, mini dental implants are much smaller. Instead of the typical size of 3.25 to 5 mm, they are usually 3 mm or less.
• Mini dental implants consist of one single piece with a small ball that protrudes from the jaw.
• Mini dental implants are less invasive. A dental professional will insert the toothpick-sized implants into the jawbone through the gum surface.
• The placement process for mini dental implants is much faster — usually a single visit.
• There are no sutures required.
• Because the process for placing mini dental implants is so much less involved, they require a shorter recovery time.
• Mini dental implants are viable for more people — some people do not have enough jawbone to screw traditional dental implants into, but with mini dental implants, that’s not a problem.
• Mini dental implants are usually much less expensive — costs vary, but on average, mini dental implants range from about $500 to about $1,500, while traditional implants fall somewhere in the $1,500 to $6,000 range.
• Mini dental implants can be less risky than traditional implants. If your jawbone has deteriorated, it might not have the stability to hold traditional implants, and in patients with weak jawbones, conventional implants can even cause a fracture. While you should always seek a dental professional’s opinion, in most cases, even thin bones can support the smaller size of mini implants.

Are Mini Dental Implants as Good as “Regular” Dental Implants?

Mini dental implants are a relatively recent innovation, and while they offer patients many advantages, there hasn’t been much time to study their durability and longevity. They might not be quite as durable or long-lasting as their larger traditional forebears, but most experts can confidently say that mini dental implants should serve you well for several years.

Some professionals advise that traditional implants may be a bit sturdier if you have the jawbone to support them. However, even people without bone deterioration often don’t have the time or the inclination to attend several office visits and take several months to heal. Many others don’t want to undergo such a complex and painful process, and there’s no shame in that! For these people and many others, mini dental implants are a choice well worth discussing with your dental professional.

What Is the Success Rate of Mini Dental Implants?

The success rate for mini dental implants is generally excellent. One retrospective analysis of 5,640 implants placed over a 12-year period found mini dental implants had a 92.1% success rate. Additionally, implants supporting fixed prosthetics demonstrated a 94.7% success rate, compared to removable prosthetics, with an 88.4% success rate.

Mini implants placed in the lower jaw also had a slightly higher success rate than those placed in the upper jaw, likely due to differences in bone quality and density. Implant recipients’ age, general health and post-surgical implant care also played a role in these devices’ longevity.

How Long Do Mini Dental Implants Last?

With proper care, mini dental implants can last for many years. Again, mini implants are a more recent innovation than traditional implants, so dentists and researchers haven’t had quite as long to study them. However, as the data above shows, thousands of patients have happily had their mini dental implants for a decade or more.

However, everyone’s body — mouth included — is different and will have variables to consider. Some factors that can affect your mini dental implants’ longevity are:

• The condition of your jaw and whether there’s further deterioration, as seen with osteoporosis or other diseases
• Your overall well-being and whether you’re leading a healthy lifestyle
• How well you care for your mini dental implants in the years following the procedure

Barring any unforeseen circumstances, a healthy adult can expect their mini dental implants to last a long time, and that’s another reason to smile.

Can Mini Implants Fail?

No medical or dental procedure is foolproof, and when dealing with the human body, there are too many variables to guarantee a 100% success rate. However, at an average 95% success rate, mini dental implants are highly reliable. When they fail, an extraneous circumstance is often to blame.

Of course, you’ll need to discuss your unique circumstances, including any risk factors, with your oral surgeon or dental professional. Only they can give you an accurate and honest assessment of your chances for success. What factors can influence mini dental implants’ success rate, aside from the ones listed above?

1. Poor Bone Density

It’s rare, but some patients’ jaws are too thin for mini dental implants. Even with their much thinner posts, the mini implants must be firmly embedded in the bone. Conditions like osteoporosis can lead to bone deterioration that makes mini dental implants ill-advised. As this is a case-by-case situation, your dentist will need to make the final determination following an exam and possibly X-rays.

2. Gum Disease

Periodontal disease isn’t always something you can see or feel. Mini dental implants require healthy gums, but some patients develop gum disease without realizing it. If left untreated, gum disease can cause mini dental implants to fail. The best way to avoid this is to get regular dental checkups, which everyone should do regardless!

3. Smoking

Smoking after undergoing a medical procedure slows the healing process and leaves people more vulnerable to infection. Heavy smokers with mini dental implants can see much higher failure rates than their non-smoking counterparts. If you have mini dental implants or are thinking about getting them, now is the time to kick the habit. Smoking is so damaging to dental implants and overall health that most professionals won’t consider performing the procedure until you have been a non-smoker for at least two months.

4. Medical Conditions

Some conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes can impede the healing process enough that mini dental implants fail. Be sure to inform your dental professional if you have these or any other health issues.

5. Alcohol and Other Substances

Much like smoking, frequent use or abuse of alcohol and other drugs can shorten your mini dental implants’ lifespan or cause them to fail. Unfortunately, some substance use disorders can even lead to further bone loss or other physiological conditions that make it impossible to replace the implants after failure. If you are struggling to quit alcohol or another substance, it’s best to be honest and discuss your situation with your general practitioner or dentist before the procedure.

Are You a Candidate for Mini Dental Implants?

Mini dental implants are an excellent choice for most people interested in replacing one or more lost teeth. Some patients who will benefit most from mini dental implants include the following.

• Long-term denture users: Years of wearing dentures can lead to bone deterioration, making traditional implants impractical.
• Those who want a fast recovery: Not everyone can afford to take a long time away from work or other obligations. The healing process for mini dental implants usually only takes a couple of days.
• People who are interested in saving money: Mini implant placement requires fewer appointments and follow-up visits than traditional implants, helping you save money and time.
• Non-smokers in excellent overall health: Ideal mini implant candidates are otherwise healthy and don’t suffer from conditions like diabetes that can impede the process.

You will need to talk to your dentist to be sure, but if you can check these boxes, there’s an excellent possibility mini dental implants can restore your lost teeth and your confidence.

What Does the Mini Dental Implant Procedure Look Like?

If you’re leaning toward getting mini dental implants to replace a lost tooth or several teeth, you might wonder what this procedure entails. While there are slight variations among professionals and their patients, the process will typically follow steps like these.

1. Your dentist will take a series of detailed X-rays before the procedure to determine the best placement for your mini implant. This essential step reduces the chance of implant failure.
2. Your dentist will give you a local anesthetic to numb the area where you will have your titanium implants installed. As a result, you shouldn’t expect to feel any pain during the implant process. However, the medication does not remove the sensation of pressure, so you’ll be able to feel the dentist putting the mini implant in place and possibly some pushing or pulling against your jaw. Since you’ll remain conscious, you can always alert the dentist if you feel the numbness wearing off.
3. Having determined the ideal placement for your mini implant, the dentist will make a small hole in your gum tissue with a pilot drill. Then, they will insert the titanium post into your jaw and attach the tooth prosthetic with a ball-and-socket joint and an O-ring that snaps it firmly into place on the post. Unlike traditional implants, with mini dental implants, the dentist often adds the artificial tooth in the same appointment, so you leave the office with any missing teeth fully replaced.
4. Soon after the replacement tooth is in place, you will be ready to leave the office. You may receive a prescription for pain medication, though for most people who get mini dental implants, over-the-counter pain medications are sufficient for managing any discomfort they feel.

How Long Does It Take to Heal From a Mini Dental Implant?

Healing is an individual process, dependent on many factors like age, overall health and even diet. In general, healing from mini dental implants happens in two stages.

• During the first stage, the gums will heal around the implant — something you can see and feel happening. For an average, healthy adult, this process generally takes between two and five days.
• In the next stage of the recovery process, the jawbone fuses with the mini dental implant. You won’t see or feel this happening, though your dental professional will monitor the healing process. In an average healthy adult, the second stage takes around three months to complete.

How Painful Is the Mini Dental Implant Process?

You should not feel any pain during the process itself. Afterward, some tenderness and swelling are normal, but many people can manage this minor discomfort by taking non-prescription pain medication. In the initial days following your procedure, you may want to avoid foods that are hard, chewy, sticky or excessively hot or cold. Within a few days, most of the discomfort will likely have passed, and you will be well on your way to enjoying the confidence that comes with your shiny new smile.

Mini Dental Implant Care and Maintenance

In many cases, ease of care is the primary appeal of mini dental implants. However, you can follow a few straightforward tips to keep them in excellent condition while you look after your oral health.

Directly Following the Procedure

When you leave the office after having your mini dental implants inserted, the first thing you’ll want to do is rest and take it easy. You will also want to follow the advice about sticking to softer, gentler foods for a few days following the procedure.

Your mouth might be a little bit tender in the few days to a week following the procedure, but if you experience excessive bleeding, swelling or pain beyond what your meds can alleviate, you should contact your dentist right away, as these could be signs of a severe — if rare — potential complication. Though the healing process will continue below the surface, you will be back to enjoying all your favorite foods and showing off your new smile within a week or so.

Long-Term Care for Mini Dental Implants

The beauty of mini dental implants is that they’re no different from your natural teeth in terms of appearance or care. With mini dental implants, you should continue brushing and flossing regularly, and visit your dentist for checkups.

Depending on your mini dental implants’ configuration, you might have to get used to taking the tooth or bridge out to clean it periodically. This process is quick and simple, and will only add a few minutes to your typical daily hygiene routine. All you will need to do is:

• Gently remove the tooth or bridge — your dentist or dental professional will explain and demonstrate this simple, painless step.
• Use a cotton swab and some toothpaste to clean the tooth or bridge.
• Use a small denture brush to gently clean the empty space.
• Rinse with mouthwash.
• Replace the tooth or bridge.
• That’s it! Get out there and smile!

Mini Dental Implants by Hiossen^® Implant

At Hiossen, we specifically designed our MS Dental Implant System to have a high success rate and simple insertion, even in the narrowest spaces. Our MS System’s small, single dental implants have an ideal size and shape resulting from years of extensive research. They have achieved flawless insertion and optimal bone penetration, with industry-leading strength, stability and durability.

When creating the MS System, our priority was to bring people a better smile and more confidence. We also wanted to provide dental professionals with the means to offer their patients a cost-effective, minimally invasive and superior-quality option.

You can learn more about the Hiossen MS System by viewing our mini implant PDF here. You can also learn more about the different types of implants or other equipment and materials.

If you still have questions, our dedicated team is always happy to help. Contact us today.

The post Mini Dental Implants appeared first on Hiossen® Implant.

What are tooth implants made of? Check out our guide below to learn more about the various types of materials professionals use to construct dental implants.

The Most Common Types of Dental Implant Materials

Due to advances in technology and research, dental implants can be made from various materials, each with unique properties and advantages. These materials are resistant to corrosion and fracturing so the implants will be long-lasting and durable for the patient. Most implants today are made from titanium and zirconia.

Why are dental implants made of titanium or zirconia?

• Titanium: Titanium is the most commonly used material for dental implants because it can create a permanent fixture with bone. This material is one of the most sought-after metals for dental implants due to its durability and ability to provide long-lasting replacement solutions for a reasonable price.
• Zirconia: Zirconia is a more recent discovery for dental implants and has proven to hold a lot of promise. This material might be preferable for those who have a metal allergy and cannot use titanium. Zirconia could also help make the surgical process a bit easier due to its one-piece construction compared to the three pieces of titanium.

As researchers continue studying many alternative materials, titanium remains the “gold standard” for implant materials due to its strength and resistance to wear and corrosion, making it the ideal replacement solution.

Construction of the Dental Implant

Successful dental implants can function the same way as other natural tooth roots, keeping the artificial tooth stable. Implants must have a strong foundation and be durable enough to handle certain activities, such as chewing and brushing the teeth. There are generally three phases to the construction of a dental implant:

1. Surgical placement: The first step is for a dentist to place the implant in the upper or lower jaw surgically. The implant will then act as a sturdy foundation for the replacement tooth.
2. Integration: The implant will then need time to integrate with the jawbone. This process is why titanium is a popular material — it easily fuses with the bone. Essentially, the bone around the implant will heal and grow, making it strong and holding it in place. This process is also called osseointegration.
3. Placement of the dental crown: Finally, the dentist will place an artificial tooth that will blend in with your other teeth, called a dental crown. What are dental implant crowns made of? They can be made using porcelain, composite or a type of metal. The crown goes on top of the implant to keep it in place.

The construction of a dental implant could take several months depending on how quickly the jawbone heals around the implant and how long it may take to customize a dental crown for the patient. However, the patient will have an excellent replacement for a missing tooth at the end of the process.

Are There Alternative Materials for Dental Implants?

While titanium and zirconia remain two of the most popular implant materials, a variety of other materials can sometimes be used to create dental implants. These options are not as standard at this point in time, but they are worth noting if you are curious about all of the possibilities surrounding dental implants.

Here are a few examples of alternative dental implant materials:

• Polymers: Polymers, such as polymethacrylate, are biodegradable and could be ideal for replacing teeth since their composition can be easily altered, allowing for a more aesthetic appearance. Some disadvantages are that they are not as durable as other materials due to their inferior properties.
• Ceramics: Some ceramics, such as carbon-silicon, could also be used in dental implants. They have both durable and robust properties, which could make them ideal for implants. They have some brittle properties, limiting their ability to be a long-lasting solution for tooth replacement, so their use in implants is limited.
• Alternative metals: Other metals that could be used for dental implants are stainless steel, gold and cobalt-chromium. While these have many favorable properties such as resistance to corrosion and durability, they have lower success rates than other metals such as titanium and zirconia.

While there are several alternative materials for dental implants, many of them have a lower success rate than titanium and zirconia, which means professionals will not use them as often.

The Future of Dental Implants

Dental implants are some of the most popular options to replace missing teeth. With their popularity only increasing, professionals continue to research dental implant materials and processes to improve the procedure for future patients. Additionally, as technology advances even further, dental professionals may develop new and improved ways to shorten the dental implant process and improve comfort and durability for patients.

Researchers believe that the increasing demand for implants will cause the global dental implant market to reach $13 billion by 2023. With an influx of new patients, dental professionals will also need to account for other factors, such as allergies and medical conditions, that could affect the implant integration process. Clinicians hope to offer alternative dental implant materials and procedures to give patients several options that will suit their individual needs.

While the construction and use of dental implants have come a long way, the future is likely to be filled with alternative solutions that improve dental implants. For example, it could be possible to use stem cells in the implementation process. In general, we can expect to see innovations in this field in the years to come.

Learn More About Dental Implants and Services From Hiossen® Implant

Dental implants can be life-changing for patients. They boost confidence and can help with daily activities such as laughing, eating and talking. At Hiossen Implant, we offer a variety of dental implant solutions constructed using the latest technology and the highest quality materials. As a leader in the dental community, we are proud to offer dental implants that can give patients a smile that lasts a lifetime.

Contact our team to learn more about the innovative products and services we offer.

The post What Are Dental Implants Made Of? appeared first on Hiossen® Implant.

Let’s take a closer look at dental hygiene requirements and what caring for implants looks like.

The Importance of Regular Cleaning

Do dental implants need to be cleaned professionally? The answer, generally, is yes. While there are steps to take at home, you’ll also need to stay on top of professional care. Always make sure you’re following a schedule when it comes to caring for your dental implants.

Many people feel like dental implants require less care because they can’t get cavities, but consistent care from dental professionals can be critical for the life of your implant. Your clinician can perform checkups to make sure everything’s working appropriately. It’s also helpful to get professional cleaning periodically to avoid erosion and stains. Plus, dental professionals perform the important role of identifying infection early. They can help you address any problems before symptoms worsen.

Cleaning implants can keep infection at bay, preventing plaque and tartar from growing on the crowns and damaging your gums. Eventually, bacteria buildup can lead to issues like peri-implantitis. Peri-implantitis is similar to periodontal disease and can lead to gum disease if left untreated. This condition comes with soreness, bleeding, general discomfort and bone loss.

Oral Hygiene With Dental Implants

When it comes to taking care of your implants at home, the process is pretty similar to taking care of your natural teeth. You have to brush dental implants as much as regular teeth. Brush them twice a day with a gentle toothbrush and nonabrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching the coating on the crowns.

Flossing is also important, but it may be a little more difficult with implants. You might need to use a floss threader or special crown and bridge floss designed for the task. Another popular option is to use a water flosser, also called an oral irrigator, which dislodges bacteria and debris between teeth and implants.

In addition to general oral hygiene, you’ll need to make sure you don’t do anything out of the scope of what your dental implant was built for. For instance, using your teeth to tear open packaging or bite your nails can be damaging to the implant. You should also avoid substances like tobacco that can damage or affect the appearance of dental implants by wearing away at their coating.

Reach Out to Learn More

The best way to keep your implants in good condition is to follow the instructions provided by your dentist or dental surgeon when you got the implants placed. If you have any more questions, reach out to them. These professionals know your implants and your medical history best and can provide specific solutions.

To learn more about the innovative products we produce at Hiossen Implant, feel free to contact our team.

The post How Often Do You Have to Clean Dental Implants? appeared first on Hiossen® Implant.

Promoting Your Dental Practice to Potential Implant Patients

How do you convince a patient for dental implants? People want to feel comfortable about the dental practice they choose to handle their dental implant procedures. They want satisfactory service from start to finish and results they feel good about. But more than that, people want a dentist they can trust.

Achieving patient trust is worth the extra effort needed to receive it. Knowing how to advertise dental implants to establish trust may seem tricky at first, but it’s possible with the right marketing campaign. Learn how to promote your dental practice to gain the trust of potential patients.

How to Approach Dental Implant Marketing

To reach more patients, you’ll need to engage in dental implant promotion. This is the process of advertising your business so people who need dental implants know you’re an option. More than that, you want to convince potential patients that you’re the best option for them. Advertising is a touchy art that uses few words to convince people to click on your ad to find out more information about your product or service.

As you plan your dental implant marketing campaign, you should create a goal that looks beyond trying to get more implant patients. Your promotions should work toward gaining an individual’s trust within the few seconds they spend looking at the ad. And since the internet has become one of the most popular places for businesses to advertise, you’ll need strong ads to separate yourself from the crowd.

And finally, you need to focus your efforts. Promoting your New Jersey implant dental practice in California won’t do you much good. Instead, understand who your intended audience is and where they live their lives. This will give you a good start on your ad campaign and help you find potential patients who are more likely to click on your ad for more information.

How to Build a Trustworthy Dental Practice Promotion Campaign in 5 Steps

Building trust should be your primary goal as you look for dental implant digital marketing ideas. The following five steps should help you on your mission to gain the trust of potential implant dental patients.

1. Engage With Online Reviews

In 2020, 87% of consumers checked online reviews for local businesses when researching a product. This shows that online reviews are a trusted source of information for people making purchasing decisions. Keep track of the reviews people post about you to make sure negative reviews aren’t ruining your online reputation.

Many online review sites allow the business to respond to reviews. You can take advantage of this feature by engaging with review writers. Thank the people who left positive reviews and tell them it was a pleasure providing their dental implant needs. Ask the people who left negative reviews what you can do to make their experience better next time. This will show that you care about customer experience which is a step toward gaining trust.

2. Create a Professional Website

People can say whatever they want about you online. That’s why you need to create a professional website. You can display the facts about your dental practice that show you’re the best choice in the area. Make sure the website is easy to navigate. Include information about your credentials and your biography. That way people can start putting a face to the name and get a feel for what you’re like.

You can also use your professional website as an opportunity to brag a little. Talk about any awards, honors or recognition you’ve received in your time providing implant dental care. Potential patients will trust you and your work more if they can see that valid third parties have recognized your achievements.

3. Advertise Before and After Photos

Your website and your online advertisements need to prove that you have the skills to deliver high-quality results to your patients. A great way to do this is by showing before and after photos of implant dental procedures you’ve performed in the past. Get the consent of the individuals you wish to use for the images, and let your work speak for itself.

Seeing these images will inspire others to take the next step in receiving implant dental treatment of their own. Before and after images can give confidence to potential patients who might be on the fence. Seeing the quality of your work will help people develop trust in your abilities.

4. Upload Videos of Client Testimonials

Customers trust the words of other consumers when considering a product or service. People know that some business owners might talk up their services to make a sale. Instead of proclaiming how great you are, let existing customers tell potential customers about the services you provide. You can do this with patient testimonial videos.

Testimonial videos are powerful because they allow new customers to see patient results while hearing about their experiences. They’ll trust past patients because they can see the visual results to back up the claims. And as patients praise you and your dental implant services, viewers will develop more trust for you and your practice.

5. Use Facebook as a Tool for Promotion

A 2019 study showed that 69% of adults in the United States use Facebook. That same study revealed that nearly 3 out of 4 of these Facebook users check the site every day. Their reasons include entertainment, communication and getting the latest news updates. This makes Facebook a prime website for advertising. You’ll need some good dental implant social marketing ideas to reach these Facebook users.

Use Facebook’s advertising tools to promote your dental practice to potential implant patients. Use your existing patient records to see where most of your clients are coming from to localize your ads. Describe your practice and what you can provide to new patients, and include images like before-and-after pictures. Make sure to respond to comments and messages on your posts. Showing you care about people’s thoughts and opinions by staying active on social media will help you built patient trust.

Show New Customers Your Commitment to Quality With Products From Hiossen^® Implant

Earn patient trust by promoting a commitment to quality within your dental implant practice. At Hiossen Implant, we create high-quality dental implant products using the latest technology to offer a better patient experience. We aim to provide your dental practice with products that shorten surgery times and allow for quick mastery of procedures. This will help you provide better services to your patients, leading to increased confidence in your practice, which is crucial in the dental field.

Browse our national and international locations to find Hiossen products near you. We look forward to helping you gain the trust of new patients by providing you with high-quality dental implant products.

The post Promoting Your Dental Practice to Potential Implant Patients appeared first on Hiossen® Implant.

Dental Implants and Early Crestal Bone Loss

In the first year after a dental implant is put in place, bone loss occurs around the implant, called early crestal bone loss. This loss happens before occlusal loading — the force the jaw applies when closing to a dental implant during chewing and biting. Factors that contribute to this loss include:

• Condition of surrounding teeth.
• Condition and quality of soft tissue.
• Volume and quality of crestal bone.
• Implant design.
• Augmentation procedures done to prepare for the implant.
• Long-term implant care routine.
• Adherence to post-surgery care instructions.
• Irrigation time at the procedure site.

Dental implant platform switching helps prevent crestal bone loss, promoting the implant’s stability and ensuring its long-term success.

What Is Platform Switching in Dental Implants?

Platform shifting involves the use of an abutment that’s smaller in diameter than the implant platform it’s attached to. Although dental implant platform switching has been gaining new attention recently, the idea developed over 25 years ago when it was discovered accidentally in 1991.

Implant components were not always commercially available in the same diameter, so clinicians used narrower abutments instead. When follow-ups were conducted on these platform switched dental implants, surprising benefits to the overall oral health of the patient were discovered — namely that less crestal bone remodeling happened when these smaller abutments were used.

How Platform Switching Works

Studies on platform switching have discovered that there is less crestal bone remodeling when small abutments are used in large implant sites. It works due to biological width. Biological width is about 2 millimeters (mm), which is the required distance between the junctional epithelium and the crestal bone. Platform switching creates a mesial component, allowing the marginal bone to remain on an upper level.

When this type of connection is used, the perimeter of the place where the implant and abutment join shifts inward. This shift away from the outer edge of the implant platform positively affects crestal bone height, preventing loss. It’s believed that when dental implant platform switching is utilized, it changes the biological process that occurs post-restoratively because inflammatory infiltrates are moved away from the crestal bone, preventing bone loss. This observation has led many to embrace the philosophy of platform switching.

Benefits of Platform Switching for Dental Implants

Dental implant platform switching is gaining popularity because of its proven benefits. Multiple studies have shown that using this procedure improves the short-term and long-term viability of oral implants for a couple of different reasons:

• Crestal bone preservation: Although osseointegration is essential to a successful dental implant, the bone material to which it’s attached needs to be maintained so that the implant will keep its integrity. Progressive bone loss dramatically reduces the survivability of the implant. Platform switching improves crestal bone preservation and allows for greater implant stability.
• Soft tissue maintenance: The soft tissue around dental implants is vital for its aesthetic qualities, as this tissue allows for the implant to appear more natural. However, soft tissue is also essential because it acts as a protective barrier, preventing microorganisms from harming the underlying bone. Platform switching increases the volume of soft tissue that remains around the implant platform. Bone loss often leads to loss of soft tissue, so when crestal bone is preserved, soft tissue is gained.

These two major benefits have been confirmed in several studies and reviews done on the procedure, which shows that platform switching improves bone preservation and ensures a more aesthetically pleasing result.

Hiossen® Implant Is Your Source for High-Quality Products

Whatever dental implant technique you use, Hiossen Implant wants to be your source for advanced products, continuing education and one-on-one services. Our dental implants and equipment are manufactured to the highest standards under strict quality control conditions, making them a safe, effective solution that will last for years.

Contact us today by finding a representative near you or calling 888-678-0001 to learn more.

The post Dental Implant Platform Switching appeared first on Hiossen® Implant.

Traditional whitening materials don’t work on crowns and bridges and can actually damage them, so it’s important to do your research when trying to ensure your dental implants stay white and match the rest of your natural teeth. Keeping your dental implants in line with the color of your other teeth requires a little bit of foresight, but it’s very achievable.

Whitening Dental Implants

Dental crowns are made of porcelain or ceramic, and many whitening materials are either abrasive or won’t absorb into the artificial tooth since it is a nonporous material. That means you generally cannot lighten a crown that has become stained or discolored. In some cases, it’s possible to replace crowns that no longer match the rest of your teeth, but the simpler approach is to prevent stains and discoloration — for both your implant and your natural teeth.

Do Dental Implants Stain?

Dental implants are highly resistant to stains, so you typically won’t need to worry about stains themselves. The damaging aspect is their effect on the coating on the tooth. There are a few foods and materials that can erode the coating and make the implants more susceptible to stains.

That said, the bonding materials used in dental implants often respond more heavily to stains than the artificial tooth itself. As a result, some patients see a color change on the outside edges of the implant. Fortunately, a professional polish can usually get rid of these fairly easily.

How to Keep Dental Implants White

Taking care of your dental implants can help you keep them white as long as possible. Most of knowing how to whiten dental implants or keep them the same color as your natural teeth involves knowing what substances to avoid, including:

• Smoking and chewing tobacco: These substances can stain your natural teeth with a yellow or brownish tinge. They can also affect the functionality of the implants, making them less likely to stay in.
• Food and drinks with tannins: Tannins are included in many drinks and foods like coffee, red wine, tea and certain berries. These substances can corrode teeth and create stains. If you can’t resist, try drinking these beverages through a straw to avoid contact with your teeth.
• Abrasive toothpaste: An abrasive toothpaste can wear away at the surface of your dental implants, leaving them rough and susceptible to stains.

Another way to help keep your dental implants white is to brush and rinse your teeth after every meal. Some of the chemicals in certain foods and drinks are rough on your implants and your natural teeth. It’s always a good idea to brush and rinse about 30 minutes after meals to clear these damaging materials away.

Your Trusted Source for Dental Implants

As a leader in the dental community, Hiossen Implant is proud to produce dental implants and prosthetics that give patients lasting smiles. Contact us today to learn more about our products.

The post Can You Whiten Dental Implants? appeared first on Hiossen® Implant.

However, they have advanced over the years. If you’re thinking of getting a dental implant today, you should be thankful — you’ll experience a safe experience with minimal discomfort. Most of the original practices, however, were barbaric, painful and sometimes fatal.

Here’s a look at the historical background and evolution of dental implants.

Implants in Antiquity

Implants date as far back as 4,000 years ago when bamboo pegs were carved in China and used to replace missing teeth. These were fixed onto the bone in the mouth. Around 2,000 years later, the Egyptians adopted a similar practice of carving precious metals and pegging them onto the jawbone. The first recorded case of a metal implant was found in an Egyptian king from 1,000 B.C. Archeologists have also found numerous skulls with artificial and transplanted teeth made from elephant ivory or rare gems like jade.

In 1931, Dr. Wilson Popenoe, together with his wife Dorothy Popenoe, found the skull of a young woman in Honduras. Her lower jaw had three missing teeth, which had been replaced by shells. The shells had been shaped to mimic the structure of the teeth. Bone growth and calculus were present, so these teeth were made for function and not aesthetics.

Today, modern technology has made dental implants the go-to solution for missing teeth.

How Has Dental Implant Design Changed Over Time?

Before modern titanium implants were invented, the main struggle with dental implants was the rejection of the foreign material by the body. In the 18th century, researchers used a blend of gold and alloy to create dental implants. Unfortunately, these experiments were a massive failure, but they opened doors to more fruitful research in later years.

In the 1800s, dental professionals experimented with numerous materials, including silver and porcelain. One doctor used a porcelain implant that had a platinum disc. However, these efforts were unsuccessful because the bone rejected all the materials they used. A successful implant involves permanently fusing an implant into the jawbone in a process called osseointegration.

Throughout the 1900s, many doctors tried different materials, but none of them provided long-term results. In 1913, Dr. E.J. Greenfield tried to use 24-karat gold as an implant. Then, two brothers, Drs. Alvin and Moses Strock, tried to use fixtures made from Vitallium after observing the material being used in hip bone implants. These fixtures were more long-lasting, and the brothers were recognized as the first people to place an implant into the jawbone successfully.

When Did Dental Implants Become Popular?

In 1952, orthopedic surgeon and research professor Dr. Per-Ingvar Brånemark laid the foundation for modern-day dental implants. During a study on bone healing and regeneration, he implanted a piece of titanium onto a rabbit’s femur. He was not able to remove it because the titanium had fused with the bone. He accidentally discovered that implants made from titanium had a better success rate and theorized this technology could be useful in dental implant applications and similar fields.

After further experimentation, he used titanium to replace a missing tooth in one of his patients in 1965, and it was a success. This discovery was a significant breakthrough in the dental implant industry. He went on to publish several studies explaining the benefits of using titanium in dental implants. Thanks to Dr. Per-Ingvar Brånemark, dental implants have improved over the years to become what they are today.

Present Day Implants

Since Dr. Per-Ingvar Brånemark’s discovery, titanium has been used to make dental implants. Over 7 million implants from the Brånemark System have been transplanted on top of millions of other implants from newer companies.

Dental implants continue to be manufactured from high-grade titanium and shaped so that they can be securely fixed to the jawbone. A titanium alloy screw is secured to the jawbone. During healing, the screw fuses to the bone. Then, a crown is inserted over the screw. Though this method has a few risks, it’s still the best and most successful method of affixing implants.

Modern Dental Implants and High Success Rates

Dentists, clinicians, orthopedic surgeons and other medical professionals consider dental implants the best solution for missing teeth. Dental implant applications include dentures, bridges and crowns, even if there is only one missing tooth. Current implants come in a variety of shapes and sizes to suit different teeth. Their surfaces have been created to enhance seamless integration. Instead of being straight and smooth, they’re roughened to increase the surface area where the bone can become attached. The texture improves the osseointegration process.

Today’s implants have an extremely low failure rate. With proper treatment, sound surgical procedures, and prosthetics that account for bone density, health, function, speech, aesthetics and ease of cleaning, you can expect up to 10-year success rates in over 98% of cases. In contrast, bridges, crowns and root canals only have a 10-year success rate in about 80% of cases. In fact, almost all medical surgeries have a 10-year success rate of only 75%. In short, dental implant surgery has become extremely successful and predictable.

Besides being a successful, long-lasting solution, dental implants also:

• Restore facial appearance.
• Enhance eating, chewing and speaking.
• Provide a beautiful smile.
• Prevent bone loss by stimulating the jawbone.
• Look natural and resemble your existing teeth.

How to Find a Quality Dental Implant You Can Trust

One of the best ways to reduce implant failure is by working with a professional dentist who uses quality dental implants. Hiossen® Implant pays close attention to every detail, from diagnosis and treatment to the evaluation of your bone health and integration of the implant. We always take extra care to ensure the success of your dental implant surgery.

Please give us a call at 888-678-0001 or reach out to us online if you need more information.

The post The Evolution of Dental Implants Throughout History appeared first on Hiossen® Implant.

What Is a Dental Implant?

Dental implants are placed into the gums and have a shape similar to a screw. They go into your jawbone and bond with the natural bone that’s in place, providing an attachment point for the crown. A crown is an artificial tooth designed to blend in seamlessly with your existing teeth. Implants can be used for:

• Replacing a single tooth: A single implant is inserted just above where the artificial crown will be.
• Replacing multiple teeth with a bridge: Two implants are placed along the gumline and a row of several teeth connect between them.
• Replacing multiple teeth with a removable denture: Multiple implants can be placed to hold onto an entire lower denture.

The typical process of attaching an implant is relatively straightforward. A screw-like post is implanted into the bone above the tooth to be replaced. Then, the implant is left to meld with the bone in a process called osseointegration, which can take several months. After osseointegration occurs, the abutment — a connector — is attached to the implant and impressions are taken to build the crown.

How Do Dental Implants Attach?

There are two ways to attach the crown to the implant — via screws or cement.

Screw Attachments

In this setup, an access hole is built into the tip of the crown for the screw to enter and attach to the implant. In some instances, an abutment is used for a stronger connection. These screw attachments make it easier to replace or repair the crown, but they do require the insertion of some material to cover up the hole and help the crown blend in with other teeth. They often work well for replacements in the back teeth, where these access holes aren’t as visible.

Their functional benefits include easier immediate loading, which refers to placing the crown and implant at the same time. Usually, a crown is placed after the implant has fused with the bone, but screw attachments can bump this timeline up.

Cement Attachments

Crowns cemented to the implant are harder to remove and repair if necessary. Since no screw access hole is required, though, the crown is seamless and fits in with the neighboring teeth. In this instance, the abutment fits into a space drilled out of the top of the crown. It then attaches to the implant in the bone.

Can Dental Implants Fall Out?

Many wonder how secure dental implants are, and that can vary based on the attachment mechanism. Screw attachments can sometimes become loose over time and will need tightening, but this is a relatively simple task for dental professionals. Cemented crowns are typically less likely to fall out in the same way and can provide a stronger seal.

Contact Us to Learn More

At Hiossen Implant, we use state-of-the-art technology to produce dental implants and other products that will help give patients smiles that last a lifetime. Feel free to contact us online or call us at 888-678-0001 to learn more.

The post How Do Dental Implants Work? appeared first on Hiossen® Implant.

A better, more straight-forward option is now on the table. A narrow-body implant — such as the MS Hiossen^® Implant system — is specifically designed for narrow ridge applications and allows patients to have a simpler option that involves less potential pain and discomfort than additional surgeries.

Let’s look at some of the difficulties clinicians face with a narrow ridge application and how the MS Implant system is the best tool for the job.

What Is a Narrow Ridge Implant?

The dental ridge is one of two jaw ridges — on the roof and bottom of the mouth — that contain the sockets of the teeth. When dental implants are placed, clinicians are encouraged to leave 1 to 1.5 millimeters (mm) of bone remaining on both aspects of the implant. Many experts believe that this strategy will ensure a more successful outcome.

A dental ridge would have to be approximately 6 mm wide to ensure that gap. When the dental ridge is smaller than 6 mm, it’s considered narrow. This limitation presents unique challenges for the clinician, and solutions such as a narrow dental ridge implant must be considered.

Drawbacks of Traditional Narrow Ridge Management Techniques

A narrow ridge presents limitations on the clinician because there is inadequate ridge for standard implant systems. The standard solution for narrow ridge applications is to do some surgical procedures to increase the size of the ridge. They include:

• Guided bone regeneration (GBR): This treatment encourages new bone and gingival tissue growth at the site.
• Bone block grafting: A bone graft from the lower jaw is set in the narrow ridge area.
• Ridge splitting for bone expansion: The dental ridge is split, and bone graft material is inserted.
• Distraction osteogenesis: The bone is cut and slowly stretched, and osteogenesis fills in the gap.

However, each of these options is accompanied by potential drawbacks, including:

• Increased financial commitment: Dental surgical procedures are costly and increase the overall cost for the patient.
• Greater time commitment: Patients need to wait to heal from the surgery, delaying when they’ll receive their implant.
• Possible pain and discomfort: Surgeries cause greater pain for patients than a narrow ridge implant.
• The possibility of an unsuccessful outcome: The bone graft, regeneration or other surgery may fail, eliminating the chance for a dental implant.

That’s why the best choice available to clinicians seeking to perform a successful narrow ridge application may be the use of smaller dental implants designed to work in narrow spaces, like Hiossen’s MS Implant system.

Why the MS Hiossen Implant System Is the Best Option for Narrow Ridge Application

A narrow ridge is not the optimal environment for a dental implant, and it presents many challenges to the clinician performing the procedure. However, it doesn’t mean that the implantation process is impossible. The MS Implant system from Hiossen Implant is specifically designed to navigate narrow spaces, such as the mandibular anterior jaw.

When you utilize the MS Implant system, you can expect many benefits from both a basic implant perspective and specifically as it relates to working in narrow spaces:

• The single-body mini dental implant system is designed to work safely and efficiently for patients with narrow ridges.
• The body and threads are created for maximum stability while allowing for simple insertion.
• It can correct implant direction during the insertion process, promoting overall success.
• Increased surface roughness on the implant supports early cell response and bone healing.

Find Out More About the MS Implant System by Contacting Hiossen Implant

No patient should be excluded from the many benefits dental implants can provide just because of narrow ridges. Hiossen Implant is a leader in dental implants, and we offer special implant systems specifically for narrow ridge applications. Our implants are safe and effective, so patients can enjoy them for years.

Contact Hiossen Implant to find out more about the specially designed MS Implant system. You can also find a sales representative near you who will be happy to answer all your questions.

The post The Best Dental Implant for Narrow Ridge Application appeared first on Hiossen® Implant.