Dentist in Chicago Discusses Benefits of Innovative Implant Supported Dentures

CHICAGO, IL--(Marketwire - Aug 8, 2012) - Thanks to advancements in implant technology, Chicago dentist Dr. Steven Flicker with the Dental Implant Associates says dental implants have become a reliable and affordable solution for replacing missing teeth, securing removable dentures and improving patient aesthetics. With nearly 69% of adults age 35 to 44 having lost at least one permanent tooth to an accident, gum disease, failed root canal, or tooth decay according to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS), Dr. Flicker says a growing number of patients at his practice that have worn dentures for years are now researching and inquiring about denture alternatives in Chicago. He says implant supported dentures that can be completed in one day are an effective, affordable and predictable solution for denture patients and he is excited to offer patients this treatment option at the Dental Implant Associates.

At his office for dentistry in Chicago, Dr. Flicker provides a wide variety of treatments ranging from dental implants and porcelain veneers, to periodontics and routine cleanings. He says patients have begun to request small diameter implants for denture replacement due to the benefits they offer over removable appliances. For many people who have lost a tooth, or the 26% of adults over the age of 74 who have lost all of their permanent teeth, Dr. Flicker says conventional dental implant procedures may not be necessary to provide stability and natural-looking results. He says dentures supported with mini implants can provide a number of benefits to patients such as a shorter procedure and recovery time, as well as allowing people to enjoy eating steak, corn on the cob, apples, and all the foods they enjoy: "Implant supported dentures secure dentures to the bone providing patients with stability and the ability to eat all the foods they enjoy and the confidence to smile without worry of slipping dentures."

However, he adds that some patients require more traditional implant procedures. After anchoring titanium posts beneath the gum line and into the jawbone, which fuse or integrate over time to the natural bone, custom designed posts are attached to the implants that provide stability and support to a patient's dentures. He says the "fixed" implant denture can help reduce the risk of further bone loss and make it easier to eat and chew, while also restoring patient confidence. As new developments continue to emerge in cosmetic and implant dentistry, Dr. Flicker says he is excited to position his practice at the forefront of the industry and offer his patients the most effective treatments for their dental concerns.

"Implant dentures work because the denture is supported by and attached to implants rather than fitted over the gum tissue and being asked to function without movement even when denture adhesives are used. Quality of life is greatly improved for my implant patients and that brings me tremendous satisfaction," says Dr. Flicker.

Regardless of which treatment patients decide is best for their dental goals and needs, Dr. Flicker says he urges anyone considering implants to consult with an experienced and qualified dentist before undergoing any procedure. Patients should be sure to take the time to select the proper practice for their treatment and thoroughly research all of their options. Dr. Flicker believes patients should be able to achieve the functional, affordable, and aesthetic result they desire on the path to improving overall confidence and self-esteem: "We are in the business of restoring smiles and improving the patient's quality of life."

About Steven Flicker, DDS

An implant dentist with the Dental Implant Associates, Dr. Steven Flicker earned his bachelor's degree and Doctor of Dental Science degree from the University of Illinois. He has received several awards from the Chicago Dental Society and the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID), and has been a member of the AAID since 1991. Dr. Flicker has dedicated the past 35 years of his career to serving the Chicago community for cosmetic and implant dentistry.

The Dental Implant Associates has two locations in the Chicago area: 6258 North Lincoln Avenue in Chicago, IL, reachable at (773) 449-5037, and 9839 Southwest Highway in Oak Lawn, IL, reachable at (708) 469-6388. It can also be contacted online via the website dentalimplantassociates.com.