Category: Implant Dentistry

It’s not uncommon to be concerned. Perhaps concern is too strong a word.

Try curious. That’s a better way to view your lifestyle considerations when facing dental implant treatment.

It’s actually more inconvenient to live with missing or damaged teeth. If you’ve delayed tooth replacement with dental implants, wait no more.

A convenient alternative?

There are lifestyle advantages for dental implant treatment. Of course, there’s the obvious aesthetic value.

Your teeth, smile, and overall appearance will improve. And you can also count on convenience too.

Since your implant procedure is oral surgery it might seem odd to tag it as convenient. Yet, you can experience all the benefits of dental implant treatment without significant disruption to your personal and professional life.

Better than imagined

The word “surgery” brings to mind a number of unpleasant thoughts. Among them is the recovery process.

Dental implant treatment is accompanied by a shorter recovery period than most imagine. Generally, you can expect to enjoy a meal of soft foods the day of your surgery, and in most cases you should be able to return to work the following day.

The specifics of your implant treatment will determine your particular outcomes. We will inform you of any issues that could prolong recovery and the return to your daily routine.

You could require additional treatment to assure that your dental implant procedure is effective. Bone grafting and a sinus lift are two related treatments that can lengthen your treatment and recovery period.

Avoiding complications

Your regular routine would be delayed if any complications arise from your dental implant procedure. We are prepared to develop your personal treatment plan, answer any of  your questions, minimize your infection risk, and anticipate the post-operative issues unique to your specific treatment.

Follow all prescribed pre- and post treatment recommendations. Medications (preventive antibiotics), oral hygiene instructions, and treatment follow-up requirements are essential to your successful treatment.

Remember, your jawbone is bonding with your new dental implant. This process requires several months of healing after your implant is placed.

The bottom-line

You should be able to return to work and your regular routine within hours or days of your dental implant treatment. Reduce your risk of complications by following all of the post-treatment instructions we provide.

The benefits of dental implant treatment are significant compared with the recovery process. You will experience a healthier mouth, long-term function, and an improved appearance with dental implants.

Question: What are your treatment concerns as you consider dental implants? Comment.

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.

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.

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.

 

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.

 

“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.

“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.

The statistics alone could “tip” your choice. No one is immune.

Tooth loss happens. Here’s what we know…

Statistics reveal that up to 69% of adults ages 35 to 44 have experienced tooth loss. At least one permanent tooth has been lost by this age group as result of an accident, gum disease, a failed root canal, or tooth decay.

And even more astounding…

By age 74, 26% of adults have lost not just one, but ALL, of their permanent teeth.

The big question (besides controllable, dental care issues): is there a healthy, attractive “fix” that will enable you to do the big-three following tooth loss?

The Big-3? 

There’s a practical impact that accompanies missing teeth. Most important is the clinical and ongoing oral health impact.

You could live unaware that gum deterioration and bone loss are occurring. The impact your missing tooth or teeth have on surrounding teeth might not present any noticeable evidence for months.

But that’s no reason to ignore the impact.

Practically speaking, you’re most likely to feel the loss in your daily routine. Losing your teeth affects the big-3 dental functions – your ability to eat (chew), speak (clearly), and smile (confidently).

The common “fix”

Typically you would repair the gap caused by missing teeth with a fixed bridge or removable dentures. These are common treatments and could be your best, current option.

Understand that these tooth replacement options are far from perfect. Dentures can slip, make a clicking noise when eating or speaking, and – in some cases – lead to bone loss beneath your gums.

A fixed bridge comes with side-effects too. Dental bridgework can affect adjacent healthy teeth and any existing, recurrent tooth decay or periodontal (gum) disease cause more problems for fixed bridges.

And there’s the issue of long-term costs. Fixed bridges and removable dentures require replacement every seven to 15 years, on average.

Another option to keep you eating, speaking, and smiling with ease

Tooth loss is traumatic enough. You want to continue doing the basic things your teeth are designed to do and keep them healthy too.

Keep your gums, adjacent teeth, and jawbone healthy. And continue eating, speaking, and smiling without fear or reduced ability.

How?

Dental implants are solid, long-term, healthy replacements for your missing tooth/teeth. They will not slip, make noise (when speaking or eating), or keep you from confidently smiling.

You can trust your dental implant treatment to provide long-lasting wear. They won’t decay and bone loss is not a problem for your dental implant.

Missing teeth shouldn’t cause more problems than the initial trauma. Guard your dental health and enjoy the practical benefits of your teeth – eating, speaking, and smiling – by choosing dental implants.

Question: Have you considered replacing your missing teeth? Is there a reason/reasons you would choose a dental bridge or removable dentures over dental implants? Comment.

 

Feeling insecure is strong motivation for personal change. Pain is also a factor.

Typically your mouth isn’t the first place you target for change. But mouth pain or the insecurity caused by missing teeth can certainly get your attention.

Full mouth reconstruction is an option to consider. You’ll feel better about your appearance and improve your oral health at the same time.

Missing teeth are just the beginning

Tooth replacement is a top priority. If avoided, missing, damaged, or broken teeth can lead to more serious dental issues and expensive treatment.

It’s the damage you can’t immediately see that should concern you. Your jaw, bone and gum tissue are at risk when you prolong treatment for tooth loss.

A broken tooth can impact your bite and create unnecessary wear on your teeth. Tooth wear can lead to jaw and neck soreness, headaches, even migraines.

Full mouth reconstruction replaces missing or broken teeth. It also strengthens and restores healthy jaw and gum function.

Neglect, injury, even preventative dental care (that needs replacement) can damage your teeth. Restorative dental treatment can help reverse the damage.

You might be a candidate if…

 

• You have worn, chipped, or broken teeth

 

• You have missing teeth

 

• You experience chronic jaw pain, or if your jaw clicks or pops

 

• You have ongoing headaches, back pain, and muscle tenderness

 

Tooth damage can cause these symptoms and more. We can diagnose and recommend a specific treatment plan for restoring your mouth and help eliminate your symptoms.

Unique and specific treatment

Our recommended full mouth restoration will be unique to you and your dental issues. Your teeth, jaw, and gums will be evaluated first.

It’s important to consider your best treatment options. Full mouth restorations can be complex. Your specific treatment will be determined by our initial diagnosis.

Treatment could include:

 

• Tooth fillings

 

• Root canal treatment

 

• Periodontal gum treatment

 

• An oral appliance to improve your bite

 

• A mouth guard or a night guard

 

• Veneers

 

• Dental crown(s)   and Dental implants

 

• Tooth bonding

 

• Orthodontic treatment and braces

 

You should expect a full mouth restoration to involve time. In some cases, your treatment could require a year.

It’s important to have your dental needs evaluated. Treatment specifics and time vary with each full mouth restoration.

The best first step

Speak with our office. Allow us to evaluate your teeth, jaw, gums.

The first step is the most important. It’s a move that can end your insecurities and eliminate your mouth pain.

Question: What have you heard about full mouth restorations? Comment.

 

Comparison shopping is wise. Even so, timing can be a better ally.

Statistics reveal that it’s best to delay the purchase of certain items. For example, post holiday deals are better on big ticket items such as TVs and electronics.

Bargain shopping fits some purchases well. Others, like dental implants, not so much.

Change your perspective

Products belong in the discount bin. You want the best available deal on an automobile, a television, a gaming system, etc.

But matters of health require a different level of due diligence. Your oral health care is best viewed as a process.

Purchase location matters less than price on retail items. You want a quality product from an honest dealer at a competitive price.

Your dental implant deserves more

The treatment is part of bigger picture. Begin by asking yourself why you want or need an implant.

Certain goals begin to emerge when you start with the right questions.

• Are you replacing a missing tooth or teeth?
• How long has/have your tooth/teeth been missing?
• In what ways do you want to change your appearance?
• How healthy are your gums and jawbone?

These are essential questions. And they come as result of viewing your dental implant as more than a product.

The big picture

Think process more than product. Implant treatment involves a series of steps.

One step in the procedure builds upon another. Your treatment success depends on expertise and thoroughness.

Premier implant providers see more than the cosmetics of tooth replacement. We look at the entire jaw, bone structure, and surrounding teeth.

Our observations lead to a personalized diagnosis and treatment plan. Each step of your treatment plan will lead to comprehensive oral health – cosmetics are simply one of those steps.

A long-term investment not a one-stop deal

Materials account for only a portion of your total implant treatment. You’re investing in the expertise and long-term benefits to your oral health.

Your appearance might be the catalyst for considering dental implants. Use it as motivation for a thorough exam and consultation.

Smile transformation begins on a solid foundation. And dental implant treatment delivers more than surface benefits.

Question: What dental implant benefits are most important to you? Comment.