Archive for the ‘Dental Implants’ Category
Tuesday, May 21st, 2013
I had to have one of my top molars removed. It has been about a month or so and now I’m noticing that my front tooth looks like it has moved. I think it is really ugly. How did this happen?
- Jim in Pennsylvania
Jim,
After a tooth extraction, the bone will begin to recede in the area around it. When our teeth are unbalanced they can shift around in a reaction to the procedure. You will typically see this happen within the first few years after you have had the tooth out. Over time the shifting will subside. The exact movement of the teeth varies from patient to patient. Sometimes it is not noticeable at all and other times it is very visible. Typically you see this if someone is missing a tooth. The tooth surrounding the site will move into the empty space. That is why a dental implant is an ideal treatment because it helps to prevent the shifting and it also stimulates the bone so it doesn’t resorb.
Occlusion is the study of how your teeth come together and our bite varies when we are eating or swallowing, or even when we sleep it can be different. So the shifting will only take place as long as your personal occlusion will allow.
Again, it is worth mentioning the importance of replacing your missing tooth to prevent shifting and occlusion problems. It sounds like your teeth are shifting quickly so it would be a good idea to seek treatment to replace the tooth soon. There are affordable dental implant options if budget is a major deciding factor for you. Make sure you see an implant dentist that has reputable credentials because there is a lot of dental malpractice in this area. Cheap dental implants aren’t always better because faulty materials or cutting corners can be much more expensive in the long run.
Hopefully this was helpful in answering your question.
This post is sponsored by Cleveland dentist Hylan Dental Care.
Tags: affordable dental implants, cheap dental implants, Dental Implants, implant dentist, implant dentistry, mini implants, missing one tooth, missing tooth, replace a missing tooth, shifting teeth, tooth extraction
Posted in Affordable Dentistry, Dental Implants, Extractions | Comments Off
Thursday, April 18th, 2013
My son is twelve years old and fell while he was riding his bike and his front tooth broke off. It was broken at the gum line. We went into an emergency dentist and they removed the root tip. I plan on seeing our regular family dentist very soon, but I was wondering if you could give me an idea of what my options are to replace my son’s missing tooth?
- Shelly in California,
Shelly,
Since the remaining root was removed at the emergency dentist, a removable flipper could work or your son could wear a retainer with a tooth affixed to it. Since your son is still young, his mouth is still developing. The mouth and teeth will continue to change so a dental implant or dental bridge probably isn’t the best choice for a child. It is important to have some kind of appliance placed in the space where the tooth was. This is because you don’t want the teeth to shift around or move into that open area. Otherwise you will be dealing with more crowding and misaligned teeth, as well as the potential for other problems.
Here are some choices for you to consider:
- Hawley Retainer – An acrylic appliance that is suctioned to the roof of the mouth. A fake tooth is attached to the wire retainer. It is removable and is probably the most economical.
- Delineator – Many dentists may not have heard of this option, because it is relatively new to the market. If you think you may want to get a dental implant once your son gets older, this could be an excellent option. It is comprised of acrylic and plastic and actually is kept in place with the surrounding teeth. It will look natural and will be very sturdy and best of all it helps to ensure successful dental implant placement in the future.
- Essix Style Retainer – This is an appliance that kind of looks like a teeth bleaching tray or an Invisalign tray. It is clear and the tooth is attached directly to it. It is not noticeable when it is worn.
As your son matures, a dental implant will be the best way to replace his tooth permanently. It will look, feel, and function just like a natural tooth. So you may want to do talk with your regular dentist about the appropriate timing for your son.
Hopefully this provided you with some information that you will be helpful when you meet with your family dentist.
This post is sponsored by Cleveland dentist Hylan Dental Care.
Related link: dental implant vs bridge
Tags: bridge vs dental implant, broken front tooth, Dental Bridge, dental bridge vs implant, dental emergency, dental imlant vs bridge, dental implant, emergency dentist, implant dentist, implant vs dental bridge, missing front tooth, missing one tooth
Posted in Dental Implants, Pediatric Dentistry | Comments Off
Friday, April 12th, 2013
I seem to keep getting cracks in the corner of my mouth. They hurt! I’m 76 and don’t feel like dealing with this annoyance. I have also been a denture wearer for over seven years. Do you know what is happening?
- Violet in Virginia
Violet,
Cracking or lesions in the corners of your lips is called Angular Chelitis. For many, the condition remedies itself. But for some, it is very painful and has been known to bleed. There are many causes. Although the dentures may not be causing the problem, it could be due to an issue before your dentures were placed. When one is missing teeth or when your teeth were removed, specifically in the front of the mouth, the mouth can over close. Without the teeth, this area of the mouth lacks support. The denture may be contributing to the irritation if it is not fitting correctly. You probably want to get into your dentist to see if it needs to be remade.
Others develop Angular Chelitis from:
- Iron deficiency
- Eating disorder
- Habitual biting or licking lips
- Excessive dry skin
- Protein deficiency (typically occurs in elderly)
- Infection from bacteria or fungus
A topical antibiotic will take care of infections on the skin, but you may want to meet with your doctor to ensure any vitamin deficiencies are not present. It is important to pinpoint the cause so you can be properly treated and find relief once and for all.
This post is sponsored by Cleveland dentist Hylan Dental Care.
Tags: cracked mouth, denture problems, Dentures, missing all teeth, missing teeth, problems with dentures
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Thursday, April 4th, 2013
I have had to get my dental crown re-cemented three times. It keeps coming off after about a week. My dentist has decided there is really nothing left to do to fix it. He asked me to think about getting a dental implant. But will I just have the same problem with the implant crown falling off? Do you know if there is a different kind of crown that will do the trick?
- Gordon in Iowa
Gordon,
What you have described is very rare. If a dental crown is properly placed it will not fall off. It may be time to begin seeking another opinion from a different dentist. And if you decide to go that route, than it may be in your best interest to research and find an experienced cosmetic dentist. As far as your question about the dental implant, I would again seek another opinion. If this current dentist can’t place a crown properly, you really don’t want to take your chances with a dental implant. Dental implant failure is all too common from dentists that attempt to cut corners or save on costs.
A well placed crown is highly dependent on quality tooth preparation. If the shape of the tooth is too tapered than the crown will have difficulty staying in place. So that could be what happened in your situation. Again, a cosmetic dentist will be familiar with the technology required to properly bond the crown to the tooth, whether it is metal, porcelain, or some other material.
Good luck!
This post is sponsored by Cleveland dentist Hylan Dental Care.
Tags: cosmetic dentist, cosmetic dentistry, crown feel off, dental crown, dental crown failed, dental crown failure, dental implant, dental implant failed, dental implant failure, implant dentist, implant dentistry, porcelain crown
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Saturday, March 30th, 2013
Ten years ago I had a root canal done. It was for a molar. And I eventually had to have it redone a few years ago. I can’t believe it but it is starting to bother me again. My dentist referred me back to the same endodontist and told me that the best solution will be to have the tooth extracted. He said that it is the best way to go since it keeps becoming reinfected. I don’t want to have my tooth pulled if I don’t have to. Is there any other option?
- Daniel in Nebraska
Daniel,
Typically a root canal treatment works great the first time around. But there is always a possibility that it may not be successful. For example, if the canals were not cleaned as they should be or the seal was faulty than you may have a reoccurring infection. As a tooth is retreated the chances of a successful root canal become lessened. So instead of spending more money on another root canal treatment, it may be in your best interest to have it extracted. A dental implant or dental bridge would replace the missing tooth.
Their are pros and cons when comparing dental implants vs. a bridge. The bad news is that dental implants are usually not covered by dental insurance and are very expensive. Implants are the best option to replace a missing tooth as long as you have healthy jawbone present at the site. The entire placement procedure usually takes about six months to complete. A dental bridge typically is covered by insurance but probably will require an upfront cost under most plans. It tends to be more affordable yet the teeth around the missing tooth have to be prepared. So there is a disadvantage because if those teeth are otherwise healthy they will endure more stress to support the dental bridge. Three weeks is the length of time for the completion of a dental bridge with two appointments.
Meet with your dentist and be upfront about your budget. There are many affordable dentists that will work with you on payment plans or may make other arrangements. Your dentist will have the best recommendation because they have all the information about your dental history.
This post is sponsored by Cleveland dentist Hylan Dental Care.
Tags: bridge versus dental implant, bridge vs implant, dental implant, dental implant versus dental bridge, dental implant vs. dental bridge, implant dentist, implant dentistry, implant versus bridge, implant vs bridge, missing a tooth, missing one tooth, missing tooth, root canal, root canal treatment
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Wednesday, March 20th, 2013
I am trying to find out if I am a dental implant candidate. I am also wondering how much it is going to cost for the diagnostics to help determine this?
- Jeno in Oregon
Jeno,
Thank you for your question. The dental implants process is quite sophisticated and there are a lot of diagnostics that are required prior to moving forward. This is to help ensure that there are no surprises and complications when the dental implants are placed. If proper diagnostics are not completed, you may be at risk for nerve damage or issues with the sinus cavities, to name a few. If you are an individual that is missing all of your teeth, than it is likely that your dentist will require a 3-D CT scan. One of these kinds of scans can run in the ballpark of $2,000, but is well worth the cost to avoid any mishaps. If you are just requiring one dental implant, a panographic x-ray may suffice which costs approximately one hundred dollars.
Now if you are simply trying to determine if you are a candidate, this can be done in a simple office consultation. In fact, many dentists will provide this as a complimentary consultation, but either way it will not cost that much. You can expect that the dentist will ask you about your general health and medical history.
Affordable dental implants or mini implants are sometimes an option under the right circumstances. These fixtures are much smaller so the surgery is less involved. Although, you really need to do more research to determine if the pros outweigh the cons with this procedure. If they are not done correctly, they can lead to dental implant failure because their smaller diameter means they are not as strong.
This post is sponsored by Cleveland dentist Hylan Dental Care.
Tags: affordable dental implants, cheap dental implants, dental implant, dental implant cost, dental implant failure, Dental Implants, implant dentist, implant dentistry, mini implants, missing all teeth, missing one tooth, missing teeth, missing tooth
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Friday, March 15th, 2013
I admit, I have a mega fear of the dentist. I hate needles of any kind and I have recently been informed that I need to get complete dentures. I want to be put out! Can they do this at the hospital so I can be put to sleep?
- Carl in Arizona
Carl,
It is not unheard of for a hospital to admit dental patients so they can use general anesthesia. That said, it is very expensive and not every dentist would be willing to do it. Fortunately, there are many dentists that offer sedation dentistry. There are special sedation training and certifications which enable dentists to perform teeth extractions in their own dental office. Or many dentists work with oral surgeons that offer IV sedation or general anesthesia at their office so you can be put out for the dental procedure. Going this route could end up saving you thousands of dollars. Below is some more information about the pros and cons of oral sedation, IV sedation, as well as the use of general anesthesia.
With oral sedation or what is also known as sleep dentistry:
- You won’t remember anything about the procedure
- You won’t feel anything
- You are sedated but you are still conscious. This means that you will still be able to breathe on your own.
- Popular medications used along with sedation are anti-anxiety drugs, depressants, nitrous, and even tranquilizers
- Not as expensive as general anesthesia.
IV Sedation:
- Recovery time is very short
- You are conscious and can communicate during the procedure
- Feel sleepy during appointment
- Patients are relaxed and calm, feel sleepy
- Sedation is quick
- Dosages can be adjusted and individualized
- Higher level of sedation than oral sedation
General Anesthesia:
- Unconscious, no control of muscles or other protective reflexes
- No communication during procedure
- Breathing will be done with tube to keep airway open
- Drowsiness common for longer periods of time after treatment
- Higher risk for other complications
- Costs the most out of the sedation options.
Hopefully this provides you with enough information to figure out how you want to address the extraction of your teeth in preparation for dentures. Your personal doctor and dentist have all your general health information, so discuss the best option for your specific case with them.
This post is sponsored by Cleveland dentist Hylan Dental Care.
Tags: complete dentures, conscious sedation, dental anxiety, dental fear, Dentures, fear of the dentist, IV sedation, oral sedation, sedation dentist, sedation dentistry, sleep dentist, sleep dentistry, teeth extractions
Posted in Dentures, Fear of the Dentist, Sedation Dentistry | Comments Off
Friday, February 15th, 2013
I have my surgery scheduled for next week to have the reminder of my teeth removed. I think they said it would be like six months or so before I can actually get my dentures. Is that really how long it takes for the bone to heal? That just seems like a really long time to wait.
I’m not looking forward to having this done. I have had such bad dental experiences. Any insight you have would help put me at ease.
- Cheryl in Virginia
Cheryl,
Typically it only takes a couple of weeks to heal from getting your teeth extracted surgically. So I’m not sure why they are suggesting you wait six months to get your new
denture. The six month mark is significant because that is when the bone reshapes and fills in the areas where the teeth have been removed. If that were indeed the whole time period it would be pretty embarrassing and difficult to go without any teeth. Although, it will be longer before you need the denture relined. But you will continually need to have the denture relined because the bone will be resorbed over time and the shape will continue to change. The relining ensures the best fit.
There is a procedure called same day dentures or they are also called an immediate denture. With this treatment, the denture is placed at the same appointment as the tooth extractions. So there will be no time where you have to go without teeth. When the denture is placed right away it protects the surgical area too. The bone will still continue to reshape so it will still be important that you go in and get the denture relined after six months or so.
An immediate denture may cost a little bit more, but denture patients tell us repeatedly how nice it is to not have any time where they have absolutely no teeth. If you are trying to avoid the extra cost, waiting a couple months for the reline would allow your body to do most of the reshaping.
Dental implants are an excellent choice to help stabilize and secure the denture into place. They are definitely more expensive but bring many benefits over the long run. One of the most important advantages is that they prevent bone loss around the implant which helps to avoid facial collapse.
Try not to be fearful. You will be sedated so you won’t be in any pain.
Tags: complete denture, dental implant, denture, immediate denture, implant dentist, missing all teeth, removable denture, same day denture, teeth extraction, tooth extraction
Posted in Dental Implants, Dentures, Extractions | Comments Off
Tuesday, January 15th, 2013
One year ago, I had dental implants placed. Apparently the laboratory had difficulties so I just recently received a dental bridge on both the top and the bottom. I think they look terrible. They are fake looking and out of proportion. My dentist feels differently and keeps telling me they look great and that I will get used to them. I am so disappointed and think it’s time to see a better cosmetic dentist. What do you think?
- Gina in Texas
Gina,
An excellent cosmetic dentist would never tell you that you will just get used to them. This is because they are so passionate about how beautiful your smile looks that an expert cosmetic dentist settles for nothing less than perfection. In fact, many dentists will keep sending them back to the lab until the patient is completely satisfied.
Sorry that you had to experience this. I think you are right to visit and consult with a true cosmetic dentist at this point, especially since they are on your front teeth.
Best of luck to you.
This post is sponsored by Cleveland dentist Hylan Dental Care.
Tags: cosmetic dentist, cosmetic dentistry, Dental Bridge, Dental Implants, fake dental work, fake teeth, fake-looking teeth, implant dentist
Posted in Dental Bridge, Dental Implants | Comments Off
Friday, December 14th, 2012
I have an ugly tooth that is a yellow-brown color. Here’s the story. When I was a kid I had a couple accidents that affected my tooth. First, I fell out of a swing and another time my tooth was hit from a croquet ball. It seems to have darkened over the years. I was told at my last dentist appointment that I need a dental implant. He said this is because the root was gone.
It turns out that I need to have a couple fillings and also come crowns done. So you can see how expensive this trip to the dentist turned out for me. I’m on a tight budget and can’t seem to justify the cost of the dental implant when I have other teeth that need to be taken care of.
As much as I’m worried about the cost of a dental implant, I have to do something to fix this ugly front tooth. I just hate the way it looks.
- Michelle in Idaho
Michelle,
Based on what you have described about the accidents you had as a child, it sounds like the impact to your tooth actually severed the nerve and blood flow to the tooth. Therefore, the tissue has died. When this happens, the tooth becomes infected and the typical treatment is to have a root canal done. Although, it sounds like you never had this done so what has happened is that the tooth has been eaten away. It is also very possible that the same thing would have happened regardless of you getting the root canal treatment. This process where an infected tooth is left untreated is called root resportion.
Unfortunately once the root is gone, the tooth is not salvageable.
You do have options though, and your dentist is ethically obligated to present them to you. If he doesn’t, you may want to consider finding a new dentist because there are many trustworthy and affordable dentists out there that will be willing to work with you financially.
To replace a missing tooth, you have several options. A dental implant is the best solution because it looks, feels, and functions just like a natural tooth. It is true that implants are expensive so you may want to consider a dental bridge or a removable partial denture.
A dental bridge uses the two teeth surrounding the missing tooth. Crowns or caps are placed on these teeth and an artificial tooth fills the gap between them. This treatment is more affordable than implants but may place additional stress on the neighboring teeth.
A removable partial denture is another option for you. This appliance clips to your adjacent teeth with a false tooth that fills in the gap. This is a much more affordable treatment for a missing tooth. But it isn’t going to be as comfortable.
Best of luck to you. Hopefully this information answered your questions and presented some options for your treatment.
This post is sponsored by Cleveland dentist Hylan Dental Care.
Tags: affordable dentist, Dental Bridge, dental implant, dental implant versus dental bridge, implant dentist, missing a tooth, missing one tooth, missing tooth, removable partial denture, root canal, root canal treatment, root resorption
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