Common Dental Implant Questions: Speech Issues and Visible Parts Explained
Navigating the world of tooth replacement can be overwhelming. With so much information available on internet forums and social media groups, it is difficult to know what is normal and what is cause for concern. At Smile Now Dentures and Implants, we believe in empowering patients with accurate information.
In the video above, Dr. Caleb Stott takes the time to answer real dental implant questions found online. By addressing specific concerns regarding speech impediments during the prototype phase and aesthetic issues with final prosthetics, we hope to help you make better decisions for your own dental health journey.
Why Do My Dentures Make Me Whistle?
One of the most common dental implant questions we encounter involves changes in speech. A patient online asked about a whistling sound when pronouncing words with “S” or “SH” sounds after receiving their prototype dentures. This issue can be frustrating, but it is a manageable part of the process.
These issues are related to phonetics. Speech is a complex harmony involving the tongue, teeth, and airflow. Sounds like “S,” “V,” “TH,” and “R” are particularly sensitive to the position of your teeth. If the teeth are not positioned correctly, or if the material is too thick, your tongue cannot make the proper seal or contact required to form the sound clearly.
The Role of Prototype Dentures
This is exactly why the prototype phase is so critical. If you find yourself lisping, slurring words, or unable to count from sixty to sixty-six clearly, it usually indicates that the teeth arrangement needs adjustment. Dr. Stott explains that reducing the amount of material on the teeth can create the necessary space for your tongue to move correctly.
- Assessment Period: Wearing prototypes for at least two weeks allows you to identify these phonetic issues before the final teeth are made.
- Adjustability: Prototypes are designed to be modified. We can measure your speech and physically adjust the acrylic to stop the whistling.
- Final Satisfaction: Fixing these issues during the trial phase ensures that your permanent set will function perfectly.
Concerns About Visible Implant Connectors
Another serious inquiry addressed in the video involves a patient whose mother paid approximately 17,000 pounds (roughly $20,000) for a dental prosthesis. The patient was distressed because the metal screws and implant connectors were clearly visible through the gums when she smiled. This raises valid concerns about dental implant cost versus the quality of the result.
Analyzing the Cost and Materials
When looking at a price point of around $20,000, there is a specific standard of care that should be expected. Typically, this investment should cover high-end materials such as a final prosthesis made of titanium or monolithic zirconia. These materials are opaque, durable, and mimic natural teeth exceptionally well.
However, in the specific photo analyzed by Dr. Stott, the teeth appeared to be made of acrylic. Acrylic is the standard material for traditional dentures and is naturally translucent. If the material is too thin, or if the implant housings underneath are dark, those colors can show through the artificial gum line. This results in the “visible screws” look that was distressing the patient.
What You Should Expect for Your Investment
Dr. Stott noted that the prosthesis in the photo appeared to be a snap-on denture rather than a fixed hybrid solution. While snap-on dentures are a valid treatment, the presence of visible connectors and color bleed-through suggests that corners may have been cut, or the material choice was not optimized for the patient’s specific anatomy.
| Feature | Standard Expectation ($20k Range) | Observed in Patient Case |
|---|---|---|
| Material Quality | Titanium or Monolithic Zirconia | Acrylic (Translucent) |
| Connection Type | Typically Fixed / Permanent | Snap-On Connectors |
| Aesthetics | Opaque, natural gum appearance | Visible dark housings through gums |
The Danger of Cutting Corners
Budget is a major factor for almost every patient, and we respect that. However, problems often arise when providers attempt to cut corners to lower costs, or conversely, when high prices are charged for lower-quality materials. Visible implants or connectors when smiling are generally not considered a normal or acceptable outcome in modern implant dentistry.
At Smile Now, we are transparent about what different materials cost and what you can expect from them. We do not compromise on the quality of work because we know that doing so leads to dissatisfaction and potentially costly repairs later.
How to Avoid These Issues
If you are currently researching dental implant questions and providers, keep these tips in mind to ensure you receive the quality you deserve.
- Verify Materials: Ask specifically if your final teeth will be made of acrylic, zirconia, or a hybrid. Acrylic is more translucent and wears down faster.
- Check the Experience: Ensure your dentist has significant experience placing implants. Less experienced providers may struggle with the complex planning required to hide connectors.
- Demand Prototypes: Never skip the prototype phase. This is your only opportunity to catch speech issues and aesthetic flaws before the final teeth are made.
Whether you are struggling with phonetics in your current set of teeth or you are worried about the aesthetics of a future procedure, asking the right questions is the first step toward a solution. If you have more dental implant questions or want to discuss your options for a confident smile, contact Smile Now Dentures and Implants today to schedule your free consultation.