Charleston Smiles 2019

62 | CS 30 www.chsdentists.com | www.HealthLinksCharleston.com People who are missing teeth often suffer in silence with low self-confidence because of the embarrassment they feel when they smile. They may have a hard time chewing and enjoying their food, and they also might have to deal with a speech impediment. Contrary to popular belief, there is a permanent and reli- able solution to this problem that does not involve dentures. The guided full arch procedure, also known as All-On-4, can give patients who need to have their teeth removed or who are already missing teeth a whole new smile. Unlike dentures, the full arch implant procedure is perma- nent and cannot fall out. The implants are gently placed in the jaw bones, and the teeth are attached to the implants. “This procedure is perfect for people who want to fix their smile and don’t want to spend months or years having to do it,” said Dr. Edward Strauss, DMD, MD, at Charleston Oral and Facial Surgery. The beauty of this procedure is that it is also known as “same-day teeth, same-day smile,” according to the Charles- ton Oral and Facial Surgery website. Along with improving a patient’s smile cosmetically, it also improves function. “This procedure is more streamlined,” Dr. Strauss ex- plained. “When you have poor teeth, your quality of life suf- fers because you might be experiencing pain when you eat. The full arch procedure gets rid of that pain, and people are very happy with the results. Additionally, they get a beautiful smile.” Charleston Oral and Facial Surgery utilizes CT scans along with digital impressions and photos of the patient to design new smiles prior to surgery. “The technology and research that goes along with this procedure is state-of-the-art,” Dr. Strauss said. Once the implant or implants are in place, you can take care of your new teeth just as you would your natural teeth. Probably the most appealing aspect of this procedure is the fact that it is permanent and is performed in one appointment. “The alternative is dentures,” Dr. Strauss explained. “Many people do not want to contend with removing their teeth daily or risk having them fall out at an impromptu moment.” Traditionally, extensive bone grafting with even more im- plants would have been the other option for surgical treat- ment. Those procedures required longer healing time and would necessitate several appointments or surgeries. The guided full arch procedure provides almost immediate results. “At Charleston Oral and Facial Surgery, we have vast expe- rience in dental implants. Our practice places more implants than any other group in South Carolina and is also the leader in guided full arch procedures. We are extremely happy with the results and will continue to offer the best state-of-the-art services to our patients.” Dr. Strauss noted. Along with Dr. Strauss, the other four surgeons who perform the guided full arch procedure at Charleston Oral and Facial Surgery include Dr. Aaron Sarathy, Dr. A. Drane Oliphant, Dr. D. Graham Lee and Dr. Scott Godwin. Dr. Godwin, who joined the practice in August, said, “It’s exciting to join a group of surgeons who are at the forefront of full arch rehabilitation utilizing the latest technology for implant retained hybrid prostheses. Seeing firsthand the restoration of function and aesthetics for patients who have suffered from poor dentition is remarkable.” It has been said that your smile is the first thing people see when they meet you. Consider a guided full arch procedure and smile with pride. WIPE THAT SMILE ON YOUR FACE…. WITH PRIDE SPONSORED MEDICAL CONTENT For more information, visit www.charlestonoralandfacialsurgery.com or call 843-762-9028. By Theresa Stratford