There’s More to a Healthy Mouth Than Your Ability to Chew

Some statistics cause you to panic. Others – especially those one-in-a-million types – not so much.

Here’s an example: according to The American College of Prosthodontists, an estimated 178 million people are missing at least one tooth. Compare that data to the over 35 million that live their lives with…no teeth!

If you’re missing a tooth you might be thinking – “That’s not so bad. It’s easy to blend-in with 178 million others and go unnoticed.”

There’s more to missing teeth than meets the eye

You might be one of those millions who’ve learned to do something common. You’ve learned to compensate.

And the place you’ve become accomplished at it is eating. Perhaps you discovered how to chew and relatively enjoy your food with a missing tooth or two.

It’s proven to be easier if it’s one of your back teeth. After all, out-of-sight-out-of-mind, right?

There’s a problem with compensating. Your gums take an initial hit but they toughen over time (not necessarily a good thing).

Your lack of problems while eating can disguise deeper problems. But, if you’re missing a front tooth, chewing is more difficult – especially if you enjoy raw fruits and vegetables, a thick slice of meaty pizza, or a sandwich.

Risky behavior

It’s not a matter of how many of your teeth are missing before it impacts your diet. The bigger issue is the risk that comes with your missing teeth.

Tooth loss leads to bone loss. And bone loss can begin to put your other teeth at risk.

Your teeth depend on each other. They’re an interdependent support system throughout your entire mouth.

The out of sight damage from one missing tooth can lead to more serious (and painful) dental issues. Gum disease, inflamed, sore, or bleeding gums can produce infection and eventual tooth extraction.

The better – no risk – approach

You don’t have to get-by on one missing tooth. In fact, there’s a healthier, less risky way to keep your remaining teeth and enjoy your food.

Replace your missing tooth with a dental implant. This treatment enables you to live a healthier lifestyle and preserve your teeth.

Your dental implant procedure is a long term investment. Implants put an end to eating difficulty, bone loss, gum issues, mouth pain, and tooth replacement options that are more costly over time.

What statistics prove is clear. Millions of people live with the hassle, pain, and health risks of missing teeth.

Choose to reduce the list by one. You have options for treating tooth loss and improving the quality of your life – starting with your meals.

Question: How have you adjusted your lifestyle as result of a missing tooth? Comment.

If You Wait Too Long Following Tooth Loss

Storms come and storms go. And some of what they leave behind can be useful (depending on your needs).

Sure, there’s damage and destruction. But if the structure’s foundation remains you have something to build on.

Tooth loss can be devastating. At least it feels that way on the surface.

Most often you’re concerned with the appearance issues. But there’s a deeper concern than looks.

Dental implants provide you a functional and attractive alternative for your missing or damaged teeth. Structurally, including an artificial root, they’re more practical and look better than dental bridges and dentures.

Implant treatment follows a predictable path depending on your tooth loss circumstances. Your dental implant is placed in your jaw, your jawbone fuses with the implant (forming an artificial, strong tooth root), and over time your bone absorbs the treatment process (known as osseointegration).

The concern? Location of your tooth loss and lapsed time determine how much bone there is to work with for implant placement.

A sufficient amount of bone is needed for placing your dental implant. And you could face another common issue post tooth loss too.

Jawbone atrophy

Dental implants are a substantial option  for tooth loss. But they can fail if certain factors are present.

Preliminary treatment can solve many of these factors. Bone loss and bone atrophy are common but treatable.

Available options

Bone grafting is a recommended solution. This oral surgery procedure inserts transplanted bone tissue at the implant location.

Generally, the bone grafts are obtained from areas such as your chin. Occasionally, donor bone tissue from a cadaver or synthetic substance is used.

The location and condition of your implant site will determine the treatment approach. Bone tissue is typically thin in the back upper quadrant of your jaw.

Placing your implant in this section could also require a sinus augmentation. This procedure raises the “floor” of your sinus and bone graft tissue is inserted in the space to create a solid foundation for your dental implant.

If you’ve been a long-term denture wearer we need to determine if a bone graft is necessary. This can potentially increase your treatment time line but will improve the success of your dental implant.

Tooth loss can be devastating. But you can recover and re-build following the proper damage assessment and treatment procedure.

 

Question: What are your concerns about bone grafts? Comment.

5 Quality-of-Life Treatment Considerations for Your Tooth Loss

What are your thoughts when you lose a tooth? Sure, your mind races – whose wouldn’t?

Will it grow back? (Hey, it’s a normal reaction!) What are my replacement options? Can I live without it?

The underlying thought has something to do with the latter question.How will tooth loss affect my lifestyle?

Will common treatments work (for you)?

Dental appliances are common options for tooth replacement. Dentures and dental bridges lead the list of alternatives for replacing your missing tooth.

The downside? Each can be uncomfortable and ill-fitting.

And this impacts your lifestyle. How, you ask?

You simply don’t look or feel your best. Besides the appearance and comfort issues dentures and dental bridges require replacement sooner>] than another (and perhaps better) alternative.

Improve your quality of life and treatment longevity

Weigh your options when you lose a tooth. Some factors will determine the best and most effective treatment.

Dental implants provide an outstanding quality-of-life tooth replacement alternative. Here’s how:

  1. Dental implants look and feel like your natural teeth. They also connect to your mouth structure (gums and jawbone) creating a strong alternative to your natural teeth.
  2. Dental implants adapt to your mouth’s physical environment. Your implant forms a new tooth root by being surgically inserted into your gum and bone tissue.
  3. Dental implants stabilize your jawbone. It will maintain proper fit and function over time as your natural tooth would.
  4. Dental implants enable you to enjoy your food. Chewing and food choices improve when you select implant treatment for your missing tooth/teeth.
  5. Dental implants help eliminate fear and worry. Dentures and dental bridges can “slip.” Your implant will remain a secure – worry free – part of your smile.

Quality of life is important. Ask anyone who has lost a tooth and delayed replacing it or did so with less effective alternatives.

Schedule a consultation with us. Explore how dental implants can enhance your lifestyle following tooth loss or tooth damage.

Question: Which of the dental implant considerations get your attention the most? Comment.

What’s Possible with Dental Implants?

I’ve got “good news” and “bad news.” You know the next question, right?

Typically goes something like… “Which do you want first – the good or the bad?

How about an alternative statement – a choice between good and good?
No borders

When you lose a tooth you want some good news. It’s good to know that these days you can basically replace any missing tooth with an artificial option.

Modern dental implant treatment has stretched the borders of possibility. And it doesn’t matter what has caused your tooth loss.

Periodontal (gum) disease, accident trauma, tooth decay and cavities – you name it. Dental implants give you advantages that it pays to understand.

With few exceptions

For starters, keep in mind that your implant requires a healthy foundation. Your jaw bone and surrounding tissue must be evaluated.

Each quadrant of your mouth – front to back, top to bottom – is capable of dental implant treatment. A key is sizing the implant to fit the environment.

A dental crown (placed on top of your implant) creates the visual appeal. This helps assure that your implant will blend in with your neighboring, natural teeth.

Cover all your bases

Allow our expertise to confirm some additional essentials before proceeding with dental implant treatment.

  • Is your health stable? Chronic health conditions are an important consideration. We will ask you the necessary questions to confirm if a dental implant is a good choice to replace your missing tooth.

 

  • What is the condition of your jaw bone? Your dental implant needs bone that’s wide and deep enough to hold the implant post. It’s also necessary that you have a mature jaw bone. For example, a child’s jaw bone is still growing and is not ready for implant treatment.

 

  • Are you open to additional procedures? Oral surgery could make your dental implant a possibility. This is good news if you have insufficient bone or gum tissue.

 

For the most part, dental implants are a “good news” proposition. The important thing is you have options for replacing your missing or damaged teeth.

Question: What has prevented you from considering a dental implant? Comment.

 

Dr. Spina is the best dentist

“Dr. Spina is the best dentist that I ever had. In addition to his skills he is truly a nice person. His staff is also the best!

Brian McGowan
Devon,Pa.”

-Brian McGowan

Great Service!

“I came to Dr. Spina because my old dentist in West Chester was retiring after 20 years of going to him. My sister and Dad have been going to Dr. Spina for years, so the switch was easy. Dr. Spina explained everything and I was very comfortable with my treatment. His office is always very helpful even when I took my Dad (who will be 90 in a few months). So it was a very smooth transition.”

-Linda Johnston

5 out of 5 stars

That’s a Good Question: Important Answers to Common Dental Implant Questions

You’ve lost a tooth or teeth. That’s a problem you shouldn’t ignore.

We’ve talked about timing and risks of delayed tooth replacement. This is especially urgent if you’re considering dental implant treatment for your missing teeth.

Dental implants restore your smile. They also provide a solid structure for your surrounding teeth.

It’s essential to get your questions answered when considering dental implants. Here are a few common questions you should ponder and ask before proceeding with treatment.

“Did someone say ‘surgery’?”

Implant treatment does require oral surgery. And we understand that answer could cause you some hesitation. Get all the facts about the procedure and related process before moving forward. We’re prepared to answer all your questions about the steps and nature of the surgical procedure.

“Is dental implant treatment a good choice for me?”

Be prepared on two fronts. One, dental implant treatment will take an investment of time (it’s not a quick-fix). And two, it requires a financial investment.

Your time and financial commitment will depend on your tooth loss specifics and the scope of replacing your tooth/teeth with dental implants. We recommend an initial exam and consultation before committing to the treatment.

“How much time will the surgery require?”

The placement time-frame of your dental implant varies. Typically the procedure can be completed in an hour.

Be prepared for at least a two-hour procedure. And know that your treatment can be completed in our office using comfortable sedation.

“What can I expect during the healing process?”

You should be able to return to school, work, or your activities the day after your procedure. A few days may be required to return to a full and regular routine.

Recovery can be impacted in a couple of ways. If your implant procedure involves bone grafting or sinus lifting, the recovery time could be lengthened.

It’s important to use common sense following dental implant treatment. Eat soft foods for 24 to 48 hours following your procedure. And follow all the post-surgical instructions we provide to assure that your healing is effective and on schedule.

“Will I have any complications?”

Infection can occur and interfere with your healing. Any infection can also impact your implant integrating with your bone tissue.

Cut your infection risk by following the prescribed antibiotic regime we provide. Keep your mouth and the area of treatment clean.

Also, brush your teeth gently near the implant. And carefully follow additional oral hygiene routines.

Question everything…

It’s important that you’re comfortable asking questions about dental implants. We want you to make an informed decision about your treatment.

Question: What additional questions do you have about dental implant treatment for your missing or damaged teeth? Comment.

 

Can a Dental Implant Fix This?

“Yes” is a good word. It’s a better answer than the alternative.

Agreement has value. This is especially true when you’re looking for answers to your questions about tooth loss.

Hopefully the answers lead to a “yes!” That is, if you’re wondering about your specific missing tooth – and whether or not a dental implant will work.

Pushing the boundaries

Dental implants are a leading tooth replacement option. And it makes sense given their advantages.

There are various causes of tooth loss. Accidents, dental cavities, or periodontal (gum) disease are the most common.

But you can’t practically control which tooth you lose. This raises a concern if you’re considering a dental implant as a replacement option.

Can I get a “yes?”

Limitations do exist. First, dental implants require a healthy jaw bone.

Bone loss happens. And the longer you delay filling the missing tooth gap, the greater your risk of missing out on the benefits of dental implant treatment.

Let’s keep the conversation moving in a positive (“yes”) direction. Once it’s determined that your jawbone is healthy you can have your dental implant placed in the front or back areas of your mouth.

Dental implants allow for certain appearance adjustments too. For example, if you’ve lost a front tooth, a slimmer implant post can be selected.

The same adjustment can be made for a back tooth by using a wider implant post. And the visible dental crown can be crafted to match your surrounding teeth.

Keeping it on the up-and-up

Your health comes first. So it would make sense that dental implant treatment requires that you have stable health.

Good overall health clears the path for assessing your jaw bone health. A wide, deep bone environment is optimum for implant placement.

What if you have insufficient bone or gum tissue? No worries, there are surgical procedures that keep your implant treatment on-track.

The bottom line? You’re interested in replacing your missing tooth/teeth.

And we’re intent on providing you treatment that is solid, comfortable, and looks natural. If you’re asking if a dental implant is the best treatment option, we believe you know the answer to that question…

Question: What question about dental implant treatment would you like to hear a “yes?” Comment.

Pain-free!

“When our former dentist left the network we were in we shopped around for one a bit more local. Dr. Spina is the first dentist in 60+ years that has given NO PAIN! None whatsoever! This is even with crowns. The best!”

-Alan Roy

5 out of 5 stars

Could Your Dental Implant Success Be a Matter of Timing?

“Timing-is-everything.” “…In-the-right-place-at-the-right-time.”

Are those chance statements or convincing truth? Ultimately, the response is up to you.

Losing a tooth presents such an opportunity. It may seem strange referring to tooth loss as some kind of grand opportunity.

Without sounding trite or cliché – it’s not what happens to you, but what you do with it that matters.  Apply this perspective to your available treatment options when you have missing teeth.

Paying the price with your appearance AND your health

Ultimately, tooth loss affects your overall health. We’ve discussed how tooth loss leads to bone loss.

Some common treatments are ineffective to prevent loss of bone tissue. For example, dentures and dental bridges do not compare with dental implants for the prevention of bone loss.

Let’s talk timing

Dental implant treatment involves a surgical procedure. This is a legitimate concern and raises the question of timing.

It makes sense that you want to fill the missing tooth gap as quickly as possible. First, tooth replacement helps avoid bone loss and second, because it impacts your appearance.

Your timeline for dental implant placement can vary. In many cases, the implant treatment can begin a short time following the loss of a tooth.

If your tooth has been extracted, the process can start once the socket has healed. The redevelopment of your jawbone – following a tooth extraction – is also an essential element of the healing process prior to your implant treatment.

Your dental implant requires an adequate amount of bone to be successful. The available bone material supports the all-important integration of your jaw and the implant.

Advance planning

Take a long-term view of your dental implant treatment. Discuss the details of your tooth loss, current health, and appearance goals with us.

Allow us to thoroughly examine the condition of your tooth location, gums, and underlying bone tissue. We will, first, determine that you’re a candidate for dental implant treatment then recommend a necessary time-frame to assure that your dental implant placement leads to the best outcomes.

Our discoveries verify if your implant treatment can begin immediately. Otherwise, a period of delay could be recommended (6-8 weeks post tooth extraction or 4-6 months post extraction/tooth loss).

Your oral health and appearance benefits are primary advantages of beginning your dental implant treatment as soon as possible. Timing is especially essential for assuring that your jawbone is healthy and capable of supporting the fusion of your implant with the bone tissue.

Question: What are your reasons for delaying treatment for your missing or damaged tooth/teeth? Comment.