Dental Implants
What are dental implants?
Implants are man-made ‘anchors’ that look like cylinders or screws. They are artificial replacements for natural tooth roots.
Implants are used in upper and lower jaws. They are made of titanium and other materials that are compatible with the human body. They attach to the jawbone and gum tissue to become a stable base for one or more replacement teeth.
How old is dental implant technology?
Dental implants have been used for several decades. More patients are using them as an option to replace missing teeth, according to the American Dental Association. One survey shows that more than 1.5 million implants were placed in a recent year.
Why consider dental implants?
There are plenty of reasons to replace missing teeth. If there’s a noticeable space between teeth when you smile or speak, its likely a cosmetic concern. Some missing teeth also affect speaking or chewing.
If you are self-conscious about having missing teeth or wearing dentures, dental implants may be an alternative that’s right for you. Dental implants are the closest thing to a natural tooth. It offers comfort and stability.
Who can benefit from dental implants?
Patients of all ages have chosen dental implants to replace either a single tooth, several teeth, or to support partial or full dentures. Dental implants help restore the ability to chew food. They help fill out a face that could otherwise look ’sunken’ because of missing teeth. Unlike dentures, implants are not removed for overnight soaking and cleaning. No adhesives are needed.
What steps are involved with dental implant treatment?
Treatment is generally a three- part process that takes several months. In the first step, the dentist surgically places the implant into the jaw, with the top of the implant slightly above the top of the bone. A screw is inserted into the implant to prevent gum tissue and other debris from entering.
The gum is then secured over the implant, where it will remain covered for approximately 3-6 months while the implant fuses to the bone. There may be some swelling and/ or tenderness for a few days after the surgery, so pain medication is usually prescribed to alleviate the discomfort. A diet of soft foods, cold foods and warm soup is often recommended during healing.
In the second step, the implant is uncovered and the dentist attaches an extension, called a post, to the implant. The gum tissue is allowed to heal around the post. Once healed, the implant and post can serve as the foundation for the new tooth.
In the third and final step, the dentist makes a custom artificial tooth, called a dental crown, based on a size, shape, color, and fit that will blend with your other teeth. Once completed, the crown is attached to the implant post.
Who’s a good candidate for tooth replacement with implant treatment? You are, if you are in good health and have healthy gums and adequate bone to support an implant. You must be committed to thorough oral hygiene to keep your mouth healthy and schedule regular dental visits.
Ask your dentist if implants are an option for you.
Source: American Dental Association
How to reduce bad breath (halitosis)
Bad breath, or ‘halitosis’ can be an embarrassing problem. Here are a few tips to help reduce it:
- Stay hydrated. Drink a lot a water.
- Chew sugarless gum.
- Brush your tongue.
- Brush daily for 2-3 minutes.
- Floss daily
- Get regular cleanings, as advised by your dentist.
- Have a dentist or hygienist make sure your dental work is in good condition.
- Do not use mouthwash more that twice a day.
- Limit halitosis inducing food and drink such as coffee, garlic, and onions.
If you’ve tried these tips and you or your mate notices halitosis, please contact your dentist for an evaluation.
Quick Tips For Patients To Reduce Tooth Hypersensivitiy
- Use a soft toothbrush.
- Brush with a sensitive toothpaste or one with enhanced remineralization properties.
- Chew sugarless gum with remineralization properties.
- Use a fluoride mouthwash 1-2 times a day.
- Avoid placing too much pressure on the toothbrush while brushing. Use a light grip.
- Limit acidic foods/beverages such as soda pop, citrus fruits and their juice, jams, wine, coffee, pickles, vinegar and sauerkraut.
- Avoid all tobacco products.
- Ask your dentist if these tips don’t seem to be working!
How Is Periodontal Disease Treated?
Filed under: Dental Health, Health Related, Periodontal disease
The main goal of treatment is to control the infection. The number and types of treatment will vary, depending on the extent of the gum disease. Any type of treatment requires that the patient keep up good daily care at home. Additionally, modifying certain behaviors such as quitting tobacco use, might also be suggested as a way to improve treatment outcome.
The dentist, periodontist, or dental hygienist removes the plaque through a deep-cleaning method called scaling and root planing. Scaling means scraping off the tartar from above and below the gum line. Root planing gets rid of rough spots on the tooth root where germs gather, and helps remove bacteria that contribute to the disease.
Medications may be used with treatment that includes scaling and root planing, but they cannot always take the place of surgery. Depending on the severity of gum disease, the dentist or periodontist may still suggest surgical treatment. These are some medications that are currently used:
- Prescription antimicrobial mouthrinse
- Antiseptic ‘chip’
- Antibiotic gel
- Enzyme suppressant
Surgical treatments are also sometimes used to treat periodontal disease in areas that are not responding to non-surgical treatments. Surgical options include:
- Flap surgery
- Bone and tissue grafts
When considering any extensive dental or medical treatment options, you should think about getting a second opinion. Make sure you have had a complete explanation of the treatment plan and that you are comfortable with the dentist and office you are going with.