It's a sad fact but most adults will lose a tooth at some time in their lives either to accident or disease. Removable dentures and fixed bridges are always available of course, but many patients are now choosing implants as a means of tooth replacement because of their stability and natural appearance.
Advances in implant dentistry are making the choice easier for many patients. How does an implant work? An anchor, which has often been specially treated with a material that helps bone adhere to it, is surgically placed directly into the jawbone. The anchor is then left alone for three to six months, allowing bone to grow around it to ensure it is permanently attached. An artificial tooth is then attached to the secured anchor. Another type of implant consists of a metal frame that rests on the jawbone under the gum tissue. After placement, as the gum tissue heals, the frame becomes fixed to the jaw. Once fixed, false teeth are secured to posts that are attached to the metal frame.
Implants are now providing a lifelike and secure alternative to natural teeth for thousands of patients. But you do need to be in good health, and be committed to a meticulous oral hygiene regimen and regular dental visits. Sometimes patients are concerned about what might seem to be a complicated procedure, however improved techniques have greatly simplified implant technology.
If you want to replace a tooth or removable appliance, please come in and talk to us. Implant dentistry can be made simple and the majority of our patients can use artificial teeth easily by using implants for support. Today, implants are user-friendly and patient-friendly! And remember...there's no age limit to looking good!
A Changing Role
There was a time not so long ago when people thought of their medical doctors as health providers and their dentists as, well, dentists. Doctors diagnosed your illnesses, attended to your general health , delivered your babies and dealt with traumatic emergencies. Dentists fixed your teeth when they hurt, pulled them out if they really hurt and gave you lectures about brushing and flossing.
Well, times have changed. Dentists are now acknowledged to be the primary oral health care provider and your oral health is recognized as a major cornerstone of your general health. In addition, the state of your oral health often provides the first indications of major health problems.
Scientists now suspect that bacteria in the mouth, often in infected gums can move throughout the body. Once there, it can increase arterial plaque which restricts blood flow and increases your risk of heart attack and stroke.
We believe that preventive dentistry is the fundamental basis of oral health care. By taking care of your dental health, you are taking an important step towards your overall health and quality of life.
As Good As New
Restoration Materials That Rival Mother Nature
Scientists are constantly inventing new techniques to help us keep your teeth and smile healthy and happy all your life. An example is a new type of restoration material called composite, now in use for veneers, crowns and bridges, and inlays and onlays. New ceramics and quartz and leucite crystals, together with various resins are combined to produce a tooth-colored material that not only rivals the original, but also strengthens the tooth that is being restored. It can even extend the life of your teeth.
A new type of resin composite material called a resin ionomer is also now available. This remarkable material seals the tooth and, at the same time, releases fluoride that helps prevent further decay. This is particularly useful in the treatment of root decay, a condition found mainly in older adults. Tooth roots are exposed as the gums recede with age or disease, and are more susceptible to decay. They can also be extremely sensitive to touch, temperature, and some foods. This new resin composite is ideal for treating this condition, and is also an excellent filling for decayed baby teeth. New technology is also helping us to create more durable and aesthetically pleasing crowns, veneers and inlays and onlays.
When we repair a decayed tooth, restore existing fillings, or create new crowns and veneers, we may recommend these new materials. They're almost as good as the original!
