Dental Implants Explained

Dental Implants Explained

by | Jul 24, 2018 | Implant Basics

What exactly are Dental Implants? Dental implants are a term which have entered the vernacular, but some people may not know what they are. We will attempt to have dental implants explained in simple terms.

The term Dental Implant usually refers to several different components, which together, serve to replace missing teeth. The two major components are the Fxture and the Restoration or Prosthesis.

The Dental Implant Fixture is typically titanium screw that is inserted into the jaw bone to replace the roots of missing teeth. The fixture acts as the foundation on which the Restoration replacing the missing tooth is built. A minor surgery is necessary to place the dental implant.

Once the bone has grown around and fused to the titanium anchor, an impression is made to register the position, angulation and depth of the implant fixture. This can be done with either a conventional impression or a digital scan. This is then used to fabricate the definitive restoration.

The restoration may either be  a single crown,  a bridge or a denture. The type of restoration would depend on the number of missing teeth and the number of dental implants which have been placed.

A small retaining screw is used to connect the restoration to the dental implant. All these components are stacked together to replace the missing tooth.

If you need more information about dental implants, Contact Us today and we will be happy to help.

Dental Implant or Root Canal Treatment?

Dental Implant or Root Canal Treatment?

by | Mar 26, 2017 | Implant Complications

Dental Implants are the ideal method of replacing missing teeth, or teeth that are severely broken and require extraction. However, you must remember that Dental Implants are foreign bodies that can be rejected by your body. While the success rate of Dental Implant therapy is very high, up to 97%, there is always a chance of failure. If your tooth has a good prognosis, you should keep it, even if root canal treatment needs to be done. This is because the tooth is part of your body and will NEVER be rejected.

Patients today face a problem with the commercialization of dental treatment. Treatment recommendations to patients today may not be the most ethical. It is not uncommon to hear of patients who were told to extract structurally sound teeth and have them replaced by dental implants.

These patients are often informed that dental implants are better and stronger than natural teeth. They are then advised to extract their teeth and replace them with dental implants, rather than have root canal treatment and crowns done. This situation is the result of some clinics and dentists putting the bottom line ahead of the quality of patient care. This is just not right.

Remember, dental implants are the most ideal method of replacing MISSING teeth. They are NOT the best method of REPLACING TEETH. The two statements may seem similar at first glance, but they are markedly difference. Your own natural teeth are ALWAYS the BEST, and if possible, they should be saved.

If you ever feel in doubt of treatment advice you have been given, it is always good to get a second opinion to put your mind at ease.

Click on the link here to read an article comparing Dental Implant Therapy to Root Canal Treatment.

My Dental Implant Hurts!

My Dental Implant Hurts!

by | Jan 26, 2017 | Biologic Problems, Implant Complications, Implant Problems, Prosthetic Problems

If you're dealing with dental implant pain, it's crucial to determine the cause. Dental radiographs and a clinical exam are essential for a proper diagnosis.

An uneven bite can sometimes be the culprit, creating higher pressure on the implant crown compared to adjacent teeth. Adjusting the bite on the implant crown can often resolve these symptoms.

Loosening of the implant crown can also lead to discomfort, caused by factors like a loose retaining screw or dissolving cement. The movement of the implant crown can irritate the surrounding gum, resulting in pain. Luckily, this issue can be easily addressed by tightening the retaining screw or cleaning and re-cementing the crown.

Another potential cause of pain is gum infection. The movement of the implant crowns can cause inflammation and discomfort in the gums. Additionally, poor oral hygiene can lead to the buildup of tartar and plaque around the implant, which can further contribute to inflammation and pain.

Lastly, leftover cement in the gums from the crown delivery can act as a breeding ground for infection, resulting in discomfort. Proper cleaning of the affected area, typically performed under local anesthesia, along with antibacterial rinsing and prescribed antibiotics, can help resolve gum infections.

Bone infection around the dental implant is also a possible source of pain. It can occur at different depths within the jawbone, impacting the prognosis of the implant. In less complex cases, a minor surgical procedure is performed, involving lifting the gums, cleaning the implant surface and surrounding bone, and conditioning them with medicaments. Additional bone grafting may be required. The gums are then repositioned and stitched back into place.

Severe infection and significant bone loss around the implant may result in inadequate bone support, leading to implant mobility and integration failure. In such cases, the implant may need to be removed. After the necessary healing period, a new implant can be placed in the same location.

If you're experiencing any of these issues, please don't hesitate to Contact Us for professional assistance.

My Gums are Swollen!

My Gums are Swollen!

by | Jan 26, 2017 | Implant Complications

Dental implants can get infected, and this may result in you experiencing pain and swelling around dental implants. This is because dental implants are foreign bodies that are inserted into the jawbone. There is a small risk of the titanium fixture being rejected by the body.

This infection can take place in one of two places. The bone surrounding the implant, or the gums between the implant fixture and the implant crown.

Gum infections, these are generally easier to manage. Treatment usually involves cleaning of the inflamed area, sometimes under local anaesthesia. Any pus will need to be drained, and bacteria mechanically removed. The area is then rinsed with an antibacterial solution and you will be prescribed painkillers and antibiotics.

Infections in the bone are more difficult to treat, as they usually involve a minor surgery. Local anaesthetic is given to numb the infected spot, then the gum is raised, so that the area of infection can be accessed for treatment. As with gum infections, the area is then cleaned and irrigated with the same antibacterial solution, then the gums are repositioned and sutured into place. Again, painkiller and antibiotics will be prescribed.

You will then be reviewed to ensure that the infection has resolved. Any sutures will be removed during this appointment.

If you are experiencing a swelling around your dental implant, please do not hesitate to Contact Us.

IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING ANY SWELLINGS AROUND YOU DENTAL IMPLANT, DO NOT HESITATE TO CONTACT US TODAY

Dental Implants or Teeth?

Dental Implants or Teeth?

by | Jan 22, 2017 | Implant Basics

Which is better - Dental Implants or Teeth? Dental implants offer the most optimal solution for replacing missing teeth. While they may resemble natural teeth, they function differently.

Dental implants are titanium anchors inserted into the jawbone to support restorations. These implants replace the root portion of the tooth. Once integrated, crowns are attached to the implants, restoring both function and aesthetics.

Implant restorations closely resemble natural teeth, but they require special care and cleaning. As foreign objects inserted in the jawbone, there is a slight risk of infection and rejection, although the occurrence is rare.

At our dental clinic, we prioritize your comfort and safety. Our experienced team ensures a smooth dental implant procedure with minimal discomfort and a high success rate. We utilize advanced technology and techniques to provide tailored dental implant solutions that meet your specific needs.

Regain your confidence, improve oral function, and maintain a healthy, natural-looking smile with dental implants. Schedule an appointment with us today and take the first step towards a complete and beautiful smile.