Conventional dentures are installed after the last teeth are removed, to allow for healing (typically six to eight weeks). There are typically separate appointments for impressions and measurements; checking a "try-in" model for fit; inserting and adjusting the final denture; and follow-up appointments to check comfort and function. Immediate (same-day) dentures are made in advance and inserted when the teeth are pulled. The University of Iowa provides an overview of immediate dentures[2] and a California dentist has a immediate denture video[3] .
Review: My own experience with Todd Young has been that he does care about results and about how his work affects me as a patient. I have some pre-existing medical conditions that made fitting me with dentures very challenging and Todd has shown himself to be a perfectionist in his effort to get my dentures ”just right” and working for me. He and his staff have explained every step of the process and answered any questions I’ve had. In addition, I’ve seen Todd go above and beyond what I had expected, especially in terms of dealing with a difficult surgery I’d undergone at another dental practice — he did his best to correct a situation that he had nothing to do with creating! I wasn’t expecting that kind of support and both my wife and I are very grateful to Todd for his help. And his staff are certainly friendly and courteous. It’s hard for me to believe that the negative reviews posted here aren’t just from someone who has to have some complaint about anything and everything. I can say that in the many visits I’ve made to Todd because of my special fitting needs, I have never heard another customer complain about ANYTHING they experienced with Todd and his staff.
My lower dentures broke in half. What is the cost to repair my dentures?Answer: Dental procedures and costs vary widely based on many factors such as difficulty and the condition of your dentures as well as your bone and gums. The best way to determine fees for service is to visit with your dentist or prosthodontist and discuss the care you may need. The best solution is to return to the dentist or prosthodontist who made your dentures and have the broken denture repaired professionally. It may seem easy to fix, but it is important that the repair is done correctly to prevent problems with chewing and to avoid any sore spots. The doctor also needs to check the denture and adjust it after it’s repaired. There is also a chance that the denture is too old and no longer fit closely to your gums, and you may need a new one. To find a dentist who is a specialist who has extra training in making dentures, visit www.gotoapro.org.Response provided by the American College of Prosthodontists. Back to top
The denture itself is not very good. Again, I fault this due to a low paid lab worker, who is probably texting while he makes the denture. It clearly did not fit properly, too much in one area, too little in another. I am glad that I have had a partial for years and an upper for years, as I know what can be done to alleviate the pressure points. I had to remove material in several spots on the lower edges of the denture, to keep it from bruising my gums.
The office people and assistants must be low wage workers. They have the typical low paid, high stress lack of concern for the patient. The person who did my form did not do it well. That was evidenced in the quality of the temporary denture. The Dentist who did the extractions was the absolute best dentist I have ever seen in my 55+ years. They give you a pill to take an hour before you get there and if needed, one when you arrive. It relaxes you and one was enough for me. I was ready to go to sleep. They took me straight in and the dentist took 20 minutes numbing every tooth with a local anesthetic.
Bridges: A bridge replaces missing teeth by placing crowns on the teeth next to the space and attaching a fake tooth to both of the crowns. Bridges are made from gold, porcelain fused to gold, all porcelain, or zirconium. Bridges can only replace about two to three missing teeth in a row, depending on the location. Since bridges are cemented in place, they are considered a "fixed, or permanent denture."
Affordable Dentures, Carrollton, GA. Waited 2 hrs after appointment time to be seen for consult. Dentist friendly & makes promises regarding customer service he doesn't keep. Front office staff rude. 1st adjustment scheduled 4 weeks prior, day 8 after surgery, waited over hour and still not seen. Couldn't reschedule me until 8 days later. 2nd adjustment they couldn't see me for 11 days even though gagging. Every time I go long wait after appointment time. Hard to get appointments. Only positive is I like look of denture & 1 tech Allana is extremely helpful and friendly. I'd pay more for better customer service!
Overall, when considering full dentures for the lower jaw, an overdenture should be discussed with your dental professional as it can provide the most effective, satisfying, and longest-lasting alternative. Traditional full and partial denture options should be explored, weighing their benefits and pitfalls carefully to find the right dentures for your tooth loss.
Effervescent cleansers are the most popular immersion cleansers and include alkaline peroxides, perborates and persulphates. Their cleansing action occurs by the formation of small bubbles which displace loosely attached material from the surface of the denture. They are not very effective as cleansers and have a restricted ability to eliminate microbial plaque. Moreover, they are safe for use and do not cause deterioration of the acrylic resin or the metals used in denture construction.[32] Despite this, they are able to cause rapid damage to some short-term soft lining.[36] Discolouration of the acrylic resin to a white denture often occurs, however, this happens because patients do not follow the manufacturer’s instructions and often add very hot water to the cleaning agent.[37][38]
Gum disease is caused by plaque and may result in tooth loss without proper treatment. Symptoms and signs of gum disease (gingivitis or periodontal disease) include receding gums, bad breath and pocket formation between the teeth and gums. Treatment depends upon the stage of the gum disease, how you responded to earlier treatments, and your overall health.
For most cases, this office is well equipped and able to be of great benefit. If you have a difficult case, you may need someone with a greater level of ability. I am unfortunately unable to rate this practice very high, while mine is a delicate and difficult case, I was left to find another professional to help me complete my implant process that was started with this office.
There is no phone number for the actual dentist office so I had to make an appointment thru a representative in N.C. I drive 45 miles to the office only to find out they were closed! I called customer service back to find out what's going on and they didn't even have record of me having an appointment! So I angrily drive another 45 miles back home! I made another appointment but after reading all the negative reviews on them, I'm thinking it was a blessing in disguise that my appointment got screwed up and decided I am going to seek services with anyone but Affordable Dentures!
If needed, patients can get a full set of upper or lower dentures, but many patients get partial removable dentures and keep as many of their natural teeth as possible. Partial dentures can replace one or more teeth in the upper or lower set, allowing spaces for natural teeth. In other words, the teeth in partial dentures do not need to be next to each other.
However, in today’s always-on advertising world there is a lot of misinformation surrounding procedures like ours in which dentures and dental implants are used. If you open the newspaper on Sunday, you’ll find four to five advertisements stating that patients can get “dental implants” at outrageously low prices. In most cases, it’s not accurate. Remember the old adage, if it seems too good to be true, it usually is.
In any case, implant-supported dentures have several advantages over conventional dentures. They offer improved comfort due to less irritation of the gums, confidence due to less risk of slipping out, and appearance due to less plastic required for retention purposes. Patients with implant-supported dentures have increased chewing efficacy and can speak more clearly.
My advice is if you're looking for a dentist to assist you in getting dentures, don't do Affordable Dentures. It's all about money not about your oral health. What bad you got your dentures and then forget you? No check up too see if you're healing properly. Actually it's my fault for my bad teeth. But when I have to make a loan for 1485.00 and have to pay back 3,300.00 just for a top denture and extractions. Least my dentist could have put forth a little more effort to look like he was doing the job I paid for.
BEWARE: I have purchased the most expensive denture offered called the "Ultimate Fit Package". Upper denture only at $1200.00. This is my experience in this office. I went in for my first visit at Affordable Dentures in Shelbyville, with Dr. Marvo **, in October 2017. My upper teeth had already been extracted 2 months earlier at a local dentist office in Lewisburg. I spent a lot of time researching all of the available options online at Affordable Dentures in Shelbyville, TN., before contacting them to set up an appointment. I purposely chose the "Ultimate Fit Denture" because it was supposed to fit every contour of my mouth, the oral topography was touted as being "second-to-none" plus it comes with a 7 year warranty.
I can't say enough about how wonderful the whole staff at Affordable Denture was to me. Very professional and made me feel so at ease, answering all my questions and explaining each aspect of my treatment. The next day I received a call to check to see how I was feeling and if I had any other questions, proving the level of concern for their patients. I would highly recommend Affordable Dentures in Cartersville, Georgia to anyone considering dentures or implants.
A partial denture is a removable, yet natural-looking dental appliance that helps restore the form and function of your jaw by replacing one or several missing teeth. Partial dentures are made from a combination of metal and acrylic – which gives them the strength to handle your needs for chewing and speaking, while also looking natural. Some partial dentures are entirely made from acrylic – these dentures tend to be less durable and structurally sound, but may be a solution for you depending on your situation. Rest assured DDS Dentures + Implant Solutions will help you select the right partial denture for your unique needs.
Overall, when considering full dentures for the lower jaw, an overdenture should be discussed with your dental professional as it can provide the most effective, satisfying, and longest-lasting alternative. Traditional full and partial denture options should be explored, weighing their benefits and pitfalls carefully to find the right dentures for your tooth loss.
First and Foremost, this is the nicest and cleanest dental office I have ever been in !! I am always very nervous to go to the dentist and Dr Athari and his staff made me feel very comfortable. I would highly recommend going to this office and ONLY this office. My tooth ache is finally gone, and Dr Athari gave me my smile back :) I could not thank Affordable Dentures Mesa enough !!!!
In the past, the artificial teeth that make up dentures were made out of porcelain or plastic, but more modern dentures are generally made out of a hard resin. The materials used to make denture teeth are known to be more fragile than natural teeth and can easily chip or crack if dropped or otherwise uncared for. This material also wears down much quicker than natural teeth and thus must be replaced with a new set of dentures every five years or so.
dr recommended immediate dentures. what I read on immediate dentures was that they are generally temporary. apparently per this dentist not so. now wants to charge 380 for reline knowing the bone was receded a lot and would have to reline right away. given all I know now, I would never go to this dentist again. ask more questions, get more estimates from other dentists. upper plate only has 12 teeth in it. inside of teeth do not touch lower permanent teeth, gap of at least 1/8 " between gm and inside of plate, gum does not touch bottom of gums at all.
I went in for my finals and just like last time everyone was great everything went fast I was… I went in for my finals and just like last time everyone was great everything went fast I was treated like a queen and like I said before I highly recommend affordable dentures for dentures implants what ever they do they are awesome my smile is awesome I feel awesome I Christopher Atari and his staff from the bottom of my heart thank you thank you thank you and God bless I highly highly recommend affordable dentures sincerely Toni Barajas Read more
In either case, as you are making the decision between dentures versus bridges, it is very important to speak with your dental professional. Contact Arkansas Family Dental if you have questions about dentures or bridges. You can also schedule an appointment with either Dr. Nichols or Dr. Mascagni for help deciding between your tooth replacement options.
I began to get suspicious when they refused to pull my teeth unless I agreed to buy their most expensive package. Being in a dire financial situation I really didn't have much a choice. The most expensive package isn't what I wanted but it was still far cheaper than getting work done elsewhere. I agreed and signed the necessary paperwork. My next appointment was going to be about a week later.
When are Dentures Necessary?What are Temporary Partial Dentures?If you’ve had teeth removed due to decay or gum disease and will be receiving permanent dentures, your dentist may suggest temporary or “immediate” dentures. These are dentures you can wear for the first two to three months immediately after tooth removal. They can be especially helpful for someone with a history of sensitive teeth and gums, since the patient does not have to be without teeth while the area heals, and any remaining sensitive teeth are subject to less pressure from chewing food.The creation of temporary dentures may require four to five dental visits prior to tooth extraction. Temporary dentures are made using basically the same technique as a permanent denture, but because they are made in advance of any surgery, you can’t tell exactly how your mouth will look after teeth are removed. By contrast, the molds for conventional dentures are made once the gum tissues have healed following any tooth extractions, which takes about six to eight weeks. During this time, the gum tissues will shrink and so the fit of temporary dentures will change.Temporary Dentures CostThere is an added cost associated with immediate dentures, but when you’re trying to determine what dentures cost and how to pay for them, remember that you have several options.Most dentists take major credit cards and some offer financing plans that let patients pay for major procedures, such as tooth removal and dentures, over time with low monthly payments. Ask your dentist about financing. Also, if you know in advance that you want to get dentures, you may be able to set aside money in a flexible spending account or health care savings account to help cover the cost of dentures.Immediate dentures cost more than conventional dentures because more time goes into preparing them. There are several advantages that may make them worth the cost. The main advantage of immediate dentures is that you don’t have to go out in public without teeth following tooth removal. An immediate denture is placed at the same visit as your tooth removal, so they serve as a bandage to control bleeding and protect gum tissue. Also, if you have immediate dentures you can start adjusting your speech to wearing the denture immediately.Not everyone is a good candidate for immediate dentures. Cost can be a prohibiting factor, or your dentist may advise against immediate dentures depending on your general health and oral health.What are Permanent Dentures?Dentists will work with you to preserve your natural teeth if at all possible, rather than extract them, but sometimes permanent dentures are the only way to provide the appearance of teeth and facilitate eating and speaking.Permanent Dentures ProcedureGetting permanent, full dentures takes about three to six weeks. The denture-making process involves several dental appointments and follows these steps:Impressions: Your dentist takes several impressions of your jaw and measures the space in your mouth.Models: Your dentist makes a mold of wax or plastic in the exact shape of the denture so you can try it and make any adjustments to the color, shape, and fit before the permanent dentures are made.Cast: The final dentures are cast, and then adjusted as necessary.When you first receive your permanent dentures, your dentist may recommend that you wear them 24 hours a day, even while sleeping, because this is the easiest and quickest way to determine whether there are any spots that need adjustment. It’s important to ensure a good fit right away, because poorly fitting dentures can be irritating to the gums.Once you have adjusted to the dentures, you can remove them at night to allow normal stimulation of the gum tissues by the tongue and saliva, which helps keep your gum tissue healthy.Temporary Dentures vs. Permanent Dentures Pros and ConsOne main disadvantage of temporary dentures is that, because they’re made in advance and placed as soon as the damaged or decayed teeth are removed, the fit will not be exact. So they may require more frequent adjustments to get a good fit. Consequently, they should only be considered a temporary solution until the permanent dentures are ready.You may find that both temporary and permanent dentures take some getting used to. Don’t worry if the dentures feel loose at first—your cheek and tongue muscles will need to adjust to them. And don’t worry if you notice more saliva in your mouth than usual, or if you notice minor soreness or irritation. These problems usually resolve on their own. But if you experience major discomfort that doesn’t seem to improve, see your dentist to have the dentures adjusted.You may also opt to have your temporary dentures realigned for a better fit so you can use them as permanent dentures. Or, you can keep them as a spare set so you won’t find yourself without teeth if your permanent dentures should get lost or become damaged. If your dentures need repair or realignment, they will have to be sent to a laboratory and probably kept overnight.When are Dentures Necessary?Not everyone needs a full set of permanent dentures. A dental bridge fills a gap created by one or more missing teeth. Removable partial dentures are another option for replacing missing teeth. There are several reasons to consider removable partial dentures. Not only can partial dentures improve your appearance, they can improve your oral health by keeping your remaining teeth in place. If you opt for a dental bridge, your dentist will fit customized crowns to the teeth on either side of the gap to be bridged. A false tooth (or teeth) called a pontic is attached to the crowns and replaces your missing tooth (or teeth).Depending on your oral health care needs, you can choose partial dentures that are removable, but bridges are permanently cemented into place. There are three main types of bridges to suit a variety of dental restoration situations:Traditional: This style involves placing crowns on the teeth that border the missing teeth.Cantilever: This style is used if you only have teeth on one side of the missing tooth or teeth.Maryland bonded: This type of bridge consists of a porcelain tooth (or teeth) in a metal framework, with wings to attach it to existing teeth.Keeping the surrounding, supporting teeth healthy is essential to get the maximum benefit from a dental bridge, so be sure to follow a regular oral care routine of twice-daily tooth brushing and daily flossing. If you practice good oral hygiene and see a dentist regularly, partial dentures can last from 5 to 15 years.
Periodontitis is defined as an inflammatory lesion mediated by hot-parasite interaction that results in the loss of connective tissue fibre attachment to the root surface and ultimately to the alveolar bone. It is the loss of connective tissue to the root surface that leads to teeth falling out. The hormones associated with pregnancy increases the risk of Gingivitis and vomiting.
This is long,but I writting this to hopefully save someone else from going through this,self pay people are at the mercy of blood sucking dentist.Well,I carefully compared several NC Affordable Dentures,I read reviews from many sources.The one near me is pretty bad,went many years ago and the currant reviews are down right scary,couple with a serious fear of dentist,did not want to put myself through that again. Soooo the search was on,after being quoted 632.00$??? at DentalWorks!! Who the he'll can afford that out of pocket,so after reading the reviews for this location I called asked questions,asked what I needed to bring along with time to be there.Then I read website to make sure everything was a go.Had x-rays sent over along with bringing a copy myself incase something went wrong.Website&Receptionist both confirmed needing to arrive by 7:30am.Okay,I cancelled one of my accounts (means I lost money),woke up at 4:30am then drove hour n half to A.D. Apex Highway Location.Stood in line,filled out forms,handed over X-Rays,took a seat.After watching people come in at 10 am be seen before me,denture customers get teeth pulled come back sit down in lobby again,then be called back for fittings or whatever of course started to get anxious.I just needed one extraction.There was a very loud girl there who had to have one tooth pulled as well.At the four hour mark,she asked them what was going on.Receptionist tells her denture people should all be done being treated by 3pm.So she may or may not be treated sooner.What?????Been waiting 4hours,drove almost two to get there with less then 5 hours sleep to make sure I'd be on time and it's going to be another 4hour wait??? and then that's not guaranteed.So I asked receptionist if this was the case,told her my issue,she just looked at me blankly"yep"..This information is no where on website,I told her on phone what I needed asked if there was anything I needed to know.She even said for treatments had to be there at 7:30am.NO WHERE DOES IT STATE JUST EXTRACTIONS WILL BE DONE AFTER EVERYTHING ELSE.The whole ordeal was just inexcusable.I got my x-rays and left,I am now sitting with a abscessed tooth waiting to make an appointment on Monday at one of them blood sucking offices,got small loan because the price of extractions is inexcusable too.You know what though,I Will expect it,I will also be treated better,will not automatically assume I have no other options but them so they can treat me however an if they mess up oh well.How would these ppl like to be treated this way,this issue may sound insufficient but the fact is I lost a day of my personal time along with a days work and still need to see a dentist because of thier mistake not mine. You slap the word affordable on a business,make em line up,play by your rules or else,because you know they cannot afford it anywhere else,its borderline cruel.I'm positive there has got to be a hundred other poor souls that will go through something similar to me,I if I can help one person avoid it,good!!..
Two to six dental implants that support a removable denture plate can cost $3,500-$30,000 or more depending on the number and type of implants (mini-implants are less expensive), denture materials (in some cases an existing denture plate can be adapted for use with implants) and any other procedures needed. A full set (upper and lower) of implants and dentures can cost $7,000-$90,000 or more.
When we say we’re changing the face of dentistry, we mean it in every sense. Wait until you see the difference that same-day service makes. It differentiates AD&I affiliated practices and Affordable Care and, most important of all, transforms the lives of patients. So you can expect to see smiles and to hear how you and your teammates have impacted their lives. And isn’t that why you do what you do?
Implant-Supported Overdentures: To increase the stability of a lower or upper denture, it's possible for it to be securely anchored using two or more dental implants. The upper jaw requires more implants (generally three or more) than the lower jaw due to a lesser bone density. Many people find this option offers a great balance of comfort, functionality and value.
If you still aren’t sure whether or not dentures are right for you or if you have other questions or concerns, talk to your dentist at your next regular dental checkup to discuss the right path for you. If you are looking for a dental professional who specializes in dentures and can best address your specific needs, check out 123 Dentist and find a dentist in your area who’s a perfect fit for you.
She stormed out of the room shouting at me, "I'M NOT GOING TO DO IT. I DON'T HAVE TO DO IT." I told ** that Dr. ** had better do it. ** grabbed my arm (I was still sitting in the exam chair) and shook me, saying, "You don't talk to US like that." In a few minutes, Dr. ** returned and added length to my teeth, so that miraculously, after 61 years, I no longer looked like Elvis! And then she said, "We added lots and lots to your teeth!" The same teeth that minutes before didn't have anything wrong with them, according to her. One month later, her crummy addition to the partial is now crumbling off, and I again have lopsided teeth.
Partial Dentures: Partial dentures can either be made with a plastic base or a metal framework that supports the number of teeth that need to be replaced. It is held in the mouth by using clasps and rests that are carefully adapted around the natural teeth. The partial denture that uses a metal framework is the traditional design, due to the rigidity and strength of the metal. Plastic partial dentures have normally been used as emergency or temporary replacements of missing teeth, allowing the gums and bone to heal before a definitive restorative solution is obtained. Recently, however, various materials such as Valplast have been developed to provide durable, flexible alternatives in certain situations.
If you are considering dentures as a solution to missing teeth, the first step is to consult your dentist to determine the type of dentures you need and how much they will cost. Next, you may wish to ask your dentist what financing options he or she offers. In addition to offering financing plans specific to his or her office, your dentist may be affiliated with Compassionate Finance®. Compassionate Finance® operates much like a credit card. Once your application is approved, you may receive a credit line to help pay for the cost of your dental treatment. A Compassionate Finance® card offers you the freedom to select the type of dentures that suit your individual needs, and you don't have to feel restricted by what your insurance plan does and does not cover. Visit the Compassionate Finance® form or your dentist's office to learn more about Compassionate Finance® or to fill out an application.
Partial dentures are made to be removable and replace multiple missing teeth. A partial denture is constructed by a molded plate, usually made of pink acrylic to mimic your gums, affixed with replacement teeth. Depending on your needs, your dentist will choose to design a partial denture made from a metal framework of clasps or precision attachments connecting the plate to your natural teeth.
The discount program provides access to the Aetna Dental Access® network. This network is administered by Aetna Life Insurance Company (ALIC). Neither ALIC nor any of its affiliates offers or administers the discount program. Neither ALIC nor any of its affiliates is an affiliate, agent, representative or employee of the discount program. Dental providers are independent contractors and not employees or agents of ALIC or its affiliates. ALIC does not provide dental care or treatment and is not responsible for outcomes.
I took my Wife Diane, to Affordable Dentures to have new Dentures Made up! We are Both Disabled, and really need to watch our Income, So we decided to give Affordable a shot since I had gotten my Uppers done there about a year ago, and had no problems what so ever! We picked them up this morning, and she just loves them!! She says they fit great, and they look wonderful!! There Staff, and Dr. Atari are The Best! Their Receptionist, Darb, and Assistant, Allyssia, you just couldn't ask for any Better!! Diane and I just Love them! They are So Courteous, Friendly and Professional I Highly recommend them! 5 Stars all the way across the board Dr. Attari's work? Nothing but Shear Excellence! I Wouldn't Go Anywhere Else! Thank You, Tom and Diane Cianferri
I started getting bone protruding hurting so I called to see about going in and was told he couldn't see me till Monday. So I asked for my pain medicine to be refilled since I had to get through Friday till Monday. And the receptionist politely told me "no", that he wasn't in and told me just to rinse with warm salt water. I did what I was told and suffered through my weekend. By the time I was finally to be seen my dentist didn't even come in to see his handiwork.
Extra care must be taken when handling dentures or partials because they are delicate and could break when dropped. It is also important to prevent dentures or partials from drying out so place them in the specified soaking solution or plain water when not in use. Avoid hot water because this will cause the denture to lose its shape. Brush dentures daily to dislodge food deposits and prevent them from becoming stained.
Price: Dentures tend to be the least costly solution for replacing missing teeth. Alternative treatment options such as dental bridges or implants are generally more expensive and require more extensive treatment. However, dental bridges and implants do offer a better fit, increased comfort, better chewing ability, and a more natural appearance. For these reasons, dentures-wearers may want to ask their dentists about these alternative treatment options. Your dentist can let you know if you are a good candidate for dentures, dental bridges, or implants, and let you know the cost of these options.
Review: My mother’s health isn’t the best so I make all her appointments and take her to them as well. I called all over town getting information on dentures and the process. Afterall, I don’t know anything about it and from the first phone to Natural Dentures, I felt comfortable. They didnt try and sell me anything AND they answered every question I asked and even offered more. \r I ended up taking my mother there for services and I was very impressed. The entire staff treated us with respect and dignity. I expected from any business to try and be sold on the best quality dentures available and be told my mother HAS to have implants, like a few other local places told me and Natural Dentures didn’t do that. In fact, we were told, in my mother’s case, we would benefit just fine with the middle of the road quality of denture. \r We saw both Todd and Nels on different appointments and we enjoyed them both. We felt like we were visiting with friends. Many times we found ourselves looking forward to our next “”dental”” appointment!! Where else??\r The outcome is important too and it was outstanding! They held our hands along the way with explaining the process and when the dentures were finished, not only did they look beautiful, but after a few adjustment appointments, (which we were told to expect and is normal for new dentures) my mother is smiling and eating great again. It’s been over 8 months now and still very, very happy with Natural Dentures. \r Frankly, it surprises me very much at some of the other reviews because it’s such a drastic contrast to our experience and seemingly anyone else I witnessed in the waiting room.\r I would suggest go meet them yourself and make your mind up then. I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
Dr. Shiel received a Bachelor of Science degree with honors from the University of Notre Dame. There he was involved in research in radiation biology and received the Huisking Scholarship. After graduating from St. Louis University School of Medicine, he completed his Internal Medicine residency and Rheumatology fellowship at the University of California, Irvine. He is board-certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology.