The Truth About Implants and Saving Your Natural Teeth: A Conversation with Dr. Edward Feinberg — Thrive Global

“Patients should never feel pressured into unnecessary extractions or implants. With the right approach and proper restorative techniques, many teeth that are deemed ‘unsalvageable’ can actually be saved. Preservation should always be the priority.” - Dr. Edward Feinberg

When it comes to dental health, many patients put their complete trust in their dentist’s recommendations, often without questioning whether there are alternative treatments available. The rise of dental implants has revolutionized the industry, but are they always the best option? Dr. Edward Feinberg, a seasoned expert in restorative dentistry, believes that implants should be a last resort rather than the go-to solution for tooth loss. With decades of experience in Crown and Bridge dentistry, Dr. Feinberg has witnessed firsthand how proper restorative techniques can preserve natural teeth for a lifetime. Unfortunately, he explains, modern dental education and industry trends have led to an overuse of implants, often at the expense of viable alternatives that could save a patient’s teeth.

In this exclusive interview, Dr. Feinberg sheds light on the current state of dentistry, discussing the risks associated with implants, the decline in quality dental materials, and the lack of proper training in tooth preservation. He also provides invaluable advice on what questions patients should ask before agreeing to an implant and how they can take proactive steps to maintain their natural teeth. If you’ve ever been told that an implant is your only option, this conversation will challenge that notion and empower you to make informed decisions about your dental health.

Thank you so much for joining us, Dr. Feinberg! Our readers would love to get to know you a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your backstory?

I appreciate the opportunity to be here! My journey in dentistry started at a very young age. My father was a pioneer in full-mouth reconstruction and Crown and Bridge dentistry, and I grew up watching him practice his craft with incredible precision and dedication. His techniques, which have been passed down through generations, were focused on preserving the natural integrity of a patient’s teeth rather than resorting to extraction and implants. Unfortunately, these meticulous approaches are no longer widely taught in dental schools today. As a result, many dentists struggle with advanced restorative procedures like Crown and Bridge work, leading to an over-reliance on implants as a quick and convenient alternative. While implants certainly have their place, I strongly believe they should be considered a last resort rather than the first option for treatment. My mission is to educate both dentists and patients on how to save their natural teeth whenever possible.

Why do you believe implants are being overused in dentistry today?

The overuse of implants is largely driven by a combination of factors, including a lack of proper training in traditional restorative techniques and the financial incentives associated with implant procedures. Many modern dentists simply don’t have the confidence or skill set to perform high-quality Crown and Bridge restorations because they weren’t adequately trained in these methods. Instead, they often turn to implants because they are perceived as simpler and more predictable. Additionally, from a business perspective, implants can be more lucrative, as they require multiple procedures and follow-up care. Unfortunately, this trend results in unnecessary extractions, when in many cases, a tooth could have been preserved through proper restorative work. I believe it is critical to reintroduce a strong foundation in Crown and Bridge techniques into dental education so that implants are only used when truly necessary.

What are some of the risks associated with implants that patients should be aware of?

While implants have a reputation for being a reliable solution, they come with a variety of risks that many patients are unaware of. One major issue is implant failure, which can occur due to infection, improper bone integration, or excessive stress on the implant. Implants require a strong and stable foundation in the jawbone, and if the bone is not sufficient, the implant may not integrate properly, leading to failure. Additionally, implants in the front of the mouth can sometimes cause unpredictable tissue shrinkage, which can create aesthetic issues that cannot always be corrected. Unlike natural teeth, implants do not have a periodontal ligament, which means they lack the natural shock absorption that real teeth provide. This can put excessive force on surrounding teeth and lead to further complications. In contrast, when Crown and Bridge work is done correctly, it provides a more natural and predictable outcome, both functionally and aesthetically.

What questions should patients ask their dentist before agreeing to an implant?

Patients should take an active role in their dental care and ask important questions before proceeding with any major dental work. Some key questions include:

• Are there alternative treatments available to save my tooth?
• What are the risks and success rates of an implant in my specific case?
• How long is the expected lifespan of the implant?
• What will happen if the implant fails, and what are my options then?
• Can you show me documented cases of long-term success with similar treatments?

By asking these questions, patients can make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary procedures. It’s always a good idea to seek a second opinion if you’re unsure about a recommendation.

Can you explain how Crown and Bridge work can help save teeth instead of extracting them?

Crown and Bridge work is a highly effective way to restore damaged teeth while preserving as much of the natural structure as possible. Unlike fillings, which do not fully seal the tooth from bacteria, well-designed crowns provide a complete seal, much like a mason jar, preventing decay and protecting the tooth from further damage. Bridges can also be used to fill gaps caused by missing teeth without the need for implants. When performed properly, Crown and Bridge work can last for decades and provide a stable, aesthetically pleasing solution. The problem today is that fewer dentists are trained in these techniques, and as a result, patients are often advised to extract teeth that could have been saved.

What steps can people take to maintain their natural teeth and avoid implants?

The key to preserving your natural teeth lies in proactive dental care. First and foremost, practicing excellent oral hygiene is essential-this means brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and using mouthwash as needed. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are equally important, as they allow for early detection and treatment of potential problems before they become severe. Addressing minor dental issues like small cavities or mild gum disease promptly can prevent the need for more extensive treatments later on. Additionally, patients should be cautious about aggressive procedures and seek second opinions if extraction and implants are recommended too quickly. In many cases, there are alternative treatments that can preserve the tooth and prevent unnecessary surgery.

Dentistry has shifted away from traditional techniques in recent years. What do you think has caused this change?

The shift away from traditional restorative techniques is largely due to the evolving business landscape of dentistry. Many dental schools today focus more on efficiency and high-volume treatments rather than the fine art of tooth preservation. Additionally, technological advancements and the profitability of implant procedures have led many dentists to prioritize implants over restorative methods. Unfortunately, this approach sacrifices the long-term benefits of preserving natural teeth. The dental industry as a whole has become more profit-driven, which means that techniques that take longer to master, like Crown and Bridge, are being overlooked in favor of quicker, high-profit solutions.

Do you think the quality of dental materials has declined over the years?

Yes, without a doubt. In the past, high-quality materials were the standard, and dental manufacturers worked closely with top practitioners to develop superior products. Today, however, the focus has shifted toward mass production and cost-cutting, which has resulted in the discontinuation of many reliable materials. As a result, dentists often have to work with inferior substitutes that do not provide the same level of durability and precision. This decline in material quality, combined with the overuse of implants, has had a significant impact on overall patient outcomes.

How does the lack of proper training in Crown and Bridge affect patients today?

When dentists are not properly trained in Crown and Bridge work, they are more likely to default to extractions and implants, even when there are better alternatives. Patients suffer as a result, as they may lose teeth that could have been saved. This lack of training also means that patients who do receive Crown and Bridge work may not get the highest quality restorations, leading to premature failure and additional costs down the line. The long-term success of a dental procedure depends on the skill of the provider, and when restorative techniques are not taught effectively, patients ultimately bear the consequences.

What advice would you give to patients who feel pressured into an expensive dental procedure?

Patients should trust their instincts and never feel rushed into making a decision. A reputable dentist will take the time to thoroughly explain all available options, not just the most expensive one. If a patient feels pressured or uncertain, they should seek a second opinion from a practitioner with a strong background in restorative dentistry. A good dentist prioritizes patient care over profit and will always recommend the best long-term solution rather than the most lucrative one.

How can our readers further follow your work online?

I encourage everyone to visit my website, www.theonwardprogram.com. It’s a great resource filled with educational materials, blog articles, and courses that can help both patients and dentists make informed decisions about their dental health. I also have books available on Amazon, including Open Wide, which offers valuable insights for those interested in learning more about preserving their natural teeth.

Thank you so much for sharing your expertise!

It’s been my pleasure. I truly appreciate the opportunity to educate people about their dental health and hope this conversation helps them make informed choices about their care.

Author(s)

Originally published at https://community.thriveglobal.com on February 17, 2025.