Replacing missing teeth is a necessity. If patients have had teeth extracted, or lost from disease or trauma, it is important to speak to a dental professional in the Cary, NC area about restoration. This should be done for several reasons. First, the smile needs to be complete or the gap can result in shifting of the existing teeth. This can cause spacing in the dental arch that can only be addressed with orthodontic treatment. Second, missing teeth can affect the function of the smile. Patients may not be able to speak clearly or chew their food for proper digestion. Third, patients may be embarrassed about the gap from missing teeth, especially if the lost tooth is in the front of the smile. Patients are encouraged to speak with a dentist who reviews replacement options and discusses the advantages of each. For many patients with an otherwise healthy smile, dental implants may be a beneficial method of repair.
At Cary and Cornelius Holistic Dental Centers, traditional titanium dental implants are not used. Instead, Dr. Carl McMillan encourages patients to visit his practice for zirconium dental implants. Zirconium dental implants are made of ceramic. Ceramic is a more holistic, biocompatible material that is better for the body and carries much less risk of problems.
Zirconium dental implants have many benefits. They can:
- Provide a long-term solution for missing teeth.
- Function, look, and feel like the natural teeth, allowing patients to feel confident with their new smile.
- Help the mouth retain its natural structure by maintaining the jawbone.
- Keep the smile from developing discoloration that is often associated with titanium dental implants.
- Provide a permanent method of repair unlike dentures, which need to be removed every day.
- Provide a metal-free alternative to traditional titanium implants.
- Last a lifetime with proper care.
- Stabilize full dentures that may otherwise slip or fall out with dental adhesives.
- In some cases, be covered by dental insurance.
Dr. Luis Crespo
Connect Dr. Luis Crespo on LinkedIn
Dr. Luis Crespo, a holistic dentist with 17 years of experience, has profoundly impacted underserved communities worldwide, from Guatemala to Tibet. He earned his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from
West Virginia University in 2000 and is a member of the
International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology. Dr. Crespo integrates his holistic health and nutrition expertise into his practice, emphasizing the connection between oral health and overall well-being. His bilingual skills and commitment to educating patients and promoting early dental care reflect his dedication to both public health and preventive medicine.
Dr. Erin Wilbanks
Connect Dr. Erin Wilbanks on LinkedIn
Dr. Erin Wilbanks, a holistic dentist in Cary, brings extensive experience and expertise to her practice. With a Bachelor's in Biological Sciences and a Doctor of Dental Surgery from
Louisiana State University, Dr. Wilbanks is a member of the International Academy of Medicine and Toxicology and is SMART certified. Known for her commitment to prevention and patient education, she emphasizes holistic approaches to oral health. Her dedication to her field is supported by her active involvement in the
Academy of General Dentistry and
IAOMT.