Did you know that the dental industry was estimated to grow to $133.8 billion in 2018?
While everyone needs essential dental cleanings and treatments, much of that growth is fueled by the services that patients seek out. Some procedures have gained popularity in recent years, either by providing more comfortable solutions to old problems such as with oral appliances or by offering a solution that’s superior to the currently available options, such as with dental implants. Discover three dental treatments that have surged in popularity in recent years.
What Makes a Treatment Popular?
One easy answer about why a dental treatment may rise in popularity is marketing. For example, Invisalign has been undergoing aggressive marketing campaigns since 2000, a fact that undeniably advanced its popularity.
Word of mouth and dental education also play a role in setting some procedures apart from the rest. Still, others may seek out additional treatments when the primary solution fails them, as in the case with oral appliances being more widely accepted than the CPAP device.
Three Treatments that Have Outshined the Rest
Whatever the reason, some procedures have become far more popular than others due to their ability to fix a problem while maximizing convenience. While a combination of marketing and other factors may deserve credit, the bottom line is that these treatments work and patients continually seek them out specifically to alleviate their dental problems. Consider the impact of these three dental procedures and why they’ve redefined dentistry in their own ways.
Invisalign – Taking the metal out of your orthodontic treatment
For many years, any patient that wanted to straighten their teeth had to resort to metal braces, a treatment which attaches brackets to each tooth connected by a wire. This method is highly effective and is still used today, but many believe it has an unattractive impact on their appearance That was the motivation for inventing clear braces, and as a leader in the industry, Invisalign has risen in popularity since its inception.
Experience Counts When It Comes to Invisalign Treatment
If you have your heart set on Invisalign, it’s important to consult an experienced provider first. This is because Invisalign can straighten only the front teeth, and your problem may fall outside the scope of the treatment.
Another reason to choose an experienced Invisalign provider is that they can ensure the procedure goes perfectly and can answer any questions you may have along the way. Luckily, Invisalign makes it easy for you to find such a provider, due to their detailed ranking system. One doctor who’s earned the highest ranking possible is Dr. Grussmark in Miami. As a Diamond Plus Invisalign provider, he has unparalleled experience with the procedure.
Oral Appliances – Providing peaceful rest for patients who hate the CPAP
About 1 in 15 Americans, or 18 million people, suffer from sleep apnea and it often goes untreated. Sleep apnea is a disorder that starts by destroying your ability to sleep but can quickly affect your daily life, relationships, and overall health in a negative way.
The Primary Treatment is Difficult for Many People
Among those who do seek treatment for their sleep apnea, many are prescribed a CPAP mask, a device that works by circulating air into the mouth to facilitate proper breathing. However, many of them complain about using the mask and find it impossible to sleep with. While complaints range from the noise the mask makes to the aggressive way it forces air into your lungs, the CPAP device leaves a lot to be desired for some patients.
Oral Appliances are the Most Popular Solution for those With Sleep Apnea
Unlike the CPAP, oral appliances are small in size, resembling a retainer in appearance. Although small, each type of oral appliance performs a single task that is essential for helping you sleep. From suppressing the tongue to moving the jaw forward, oral appliances accomplish many functions and are the most comforting solution to sleep apnea. To find the treatment that’s right for you, find a dentist that specializes in sleep disorders, like Dr. Chiarina Iregui in Gig Harbor, WA.
Dental Implants – Providing the Highest Quality Way to Restore Your Smile
Teeth can fall out due to a variety of reasons including neglect, trauma, and various diseases. When they do, it’s important to replace them before your remaining teeth crowd together and cause other problems in the future. The three restorative treatments for this are dental bridges, dentures, and dental implants, and it’s crucial to know that each treatment is different from the other.
The Dental Implant Advantage
Of the restorative treatments, only dental implants offer exclusive benefits such as preventing your jawline from shrinking. Furthermore, they maximize your chewing power and have a much more realistic appearance than dentures or bridges. Plus, they’re an investment into your smile since they can last a lifetime if properly cared for.
Only 10% of dentists are qualified to place dental implants. If you’re curious about dental implants for replacing your missing teeth, you can search to find a dentist in your area that provides the treatment. One highly-experienced and qualified implant dentist you can go to, for example, is Dr. Chuck Bauer in Hastings, NE.
Which Treatment Will Be the Next to Rise in Popularity?
These dental treatments all have something in common– they seek to improve on existing procedures that provide difficulty for patients. From dentures to metal braces, these procedures are effective yet flawed, and many patients have longed for a better solution. As these treatments continue as favorites of the patients who need them, it’s only a matter of time before the next revolutionary procedure becomes available.