Your options if you have many missing or damaged teeth

People who have not followed adequate dental care for some years may have already lost most of their teeth and feel a little hopeless.

Sometimes they ask a dentist to remove the remaining teeth as they are often broken and have deep cavities.

It’s true that, sometimes, removal of the remaining teeth and replacing them with full dentures is the only option.

But more often there are other options available.

Some or all of the remaining teeth could be repaired and used in conjunction with a partial denture. While a full denture replaces all of the teeth on the upper or lower jaw, a partial denture replaces some of the teeth.

If only a few weak teeth remain on the upper jaw, it might be preferable to have them extracted and a full upper denture made. Full upper dentures can be more secure than lower ones as the upper denture gets added stability from the palate and is not easily dislodged by the tongue.

If only a few teeth remain on the lower jaw, however, the dentist will usually aim to save them and use a partial denture if necessary.

Ideally, all teeth that can be saved should be saved but this is not always possible – often due to finances.

In such cases, having teeth removed and dentures may be the only option.

Different types of dentist and how they help your oral care

While many people see dentists as the single group of people who look after the health of your teeth and mouth, there are various specialist categories that help you in different ways.

The categorization of a dentist will depend on their education, training and experience.

Here are some of the main specialist areas of dentistry:

Endodontics: Concerned with the dental pulp – the part in the center of a tooth made up of living soft tissue and cells and root canal therapy

Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology: This deals with the identification, and management of diseases affecting the oral and maxillofacial regions

Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology: Deals with the production and interpretation of images and data produced by radiant energy that are used for the diagnosis and management of diseases, disorders and conditions of the oral and maxillofacial region

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery: Diagnosis and surgical treatment of diseases, injuries and defects of the tissues including extractions, facial surgery and implants

Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics: Mainly deals with diagnosis, prevention and treatment of misaligned teeth and modification of midface and mandibular growth

Pediatric Dentistry: Provides preventive and therapeutic oral health care for infants and children through adolescence.

Periodontics: Prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the supporting and surrounding tissues of the teeth and the maintenance of the health, function and esthetics of these structures and tissues. Most periodontist place implants

Prosthodontics: Diagnosis, treatment planning, rehabilitation and maintenance associated with missing or deficient teeth and/or oral and maxillofacial tissues. Includes dentures, bridges and the restoration of implants.

Plus, of course, general dentists provide everyday care and many specialist services to maintain your oral health.

Why it’s not inevitable that you’ll lose your teeth as you get older

Advancements in dental techniques and the increased focus on preventive dentistry means older adults are keeping their natural teeth longer than ever before.

A survey by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research showed that the rate of toothlessness in the 55 to 64 age group has dropped 60 percent since 1960.

Whatever your age, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene at home and to visit your dentist regularly. A few simple steps can help you maintain good oral health throughout your life.

Plaque, the sticky, colorless layer of bacteria that causes tooth decay and gum disease, can build up quickly on the teeth of older adults, particularly when they neglect oral hygiene. This can increase the risk for tooth decay and periodontal disease.

So it’s important to brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and clean between your teeth daily with floss or interdental cleaners.

Regular dental checkups are also an important part of caring for your teeth.

This can help you save your teeth and gums and prevent other dental problems. It will save you time and money in the long-run as well.

What dentists are doing to improve services for older adults

As people are living longer and enjoying good health for many years, dentists are increasingly offering improved services to recognize the special needs of older adults.

This growing segment of the population is wearing fewer dentures and they are keeping their natural teeth longer. They are also concerned to maintain good health and a great smile for many years.

However, patients in this group sometimes require special consideration because reduced mobility and dexterity may make daily oral hygiene difficult.

And certain medical conditions and impairment may make them more anxious when visiting the dentist.

For example, problems with vision or hearing loss may cause worry. Always let the dentist and staff know if you have any concerns so that they can adjust their treatment and their pace to meet your needs.

Older patients can sometimes put up with problems such as toothaches, bleeding gums and clicking dentures because they are not aware of the wide range of treatments and techniques now available.

Dentists are increasingly sensitive to the special needs of and the importance of dental health in the older patient.

As many older patients are more health conscious than ever before, regular visits to the dentist ensure their oral health is an important part of their overall health.

How sugar in your diet affects your teeth

The sugar content in the food you eat has a big effect on your teeth and gums.

When bacteria (plaque) come into contact with sugar in the mouth, acid is produced, which attacks the teeth for 20 minutes or more. This can eventually result in tooth decay.

That’s why drinking sugar-filled sodas, sweetened fruit drinks, and non-nutritious snacks can take a toll on teeth.

This is particularly true for children as their eating patterns and food choices affect how quickly they develop tooth decay.

Foods that contain sugars of any kind can contribute to tooth decay. However, almost all foods, including milk or vegetables, have some type of sugar. Many of them also contain important nutrients that are an important part in our diet.

To help control the amount of sugar you consume, read food labels and choose foods and beverages that are low in added sugars. Soft drinks, candy, cookies and pastries often contain added sugars.

How a healthy diet can help you have healthy teeth

Eating the right food plays an important role in developing healthy teeth and gums.

If your diet lacks certain nutrients, it may be more difficult for tissues in your mouth to fight infection and this can contribute to gum disease.

Although poor nutrition does not cause gum disease directly, the disease may progress faster and could be more severe in people with diets which are low in nutrients.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture makes recommendations on the nutrients, vitamins and minerals needed by your body – including your teeth and gums – to promote health and prevent disease.

We have different needs at various stages life and depending on our physical activity. The DOA website provides more information and your dentist will be able to discuss how your diet affects your teeth.

Here are some steps you can take to make sure what you eat doesn’t harm your teeth.

•  Maintain a healthy diet
•  Drink plenty water
•  Limit the number of between-meal snacks. When you must snack, choose nutritious foods that are low in sugar
•  Keep a food diary for a week recording every item you eat and drink

It will also help if you brush your teeth twice a day and floss regularly. Schedule regular dental checkups and professional cleanings and talk to your dentist about how your diet affects your teeth.

Solving the problem of bad breath

Bad breath – which is also known as halitosis – is a worrying problem that can also be embarrassing.

But there’s no need to put up with it. If you suffer from bad breath, your dentist will be able to suggest a range of solutions.

Your dentist will be able to spot problems such as gum disease, dry mouth or other disorders. That’s why it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene, schedule regular visits to the dentist and have professional cleaning.

Make sure you brush your teeth twice a day and clean between your teeth each day using floss or interdental cleaners. Don’t forget to brush your tongue, too!

If your dental check up shows that your mouth is healthy, your dentist may refer you to your family physician as sometimes bad breath can be a sign of other health problems.

If the odor is due to periodontal (gum) disease, sometimes professional periodontal cleaning is needed to remove the bacteria and plaque that accumulate. And your dentist may recommend a special antimicrobial mouth rinse.

Keeping your mouth healthy and stopping periodontal disease are essential to reducing bad breath.

So make sure you schedule regular dental visits for a professional cleaning and checkup.

How implants changed dentistry

Implants are one of the most important developments in dental care over recent years.

They have created opportunities that didn’t exist before for people to improve their dental health and create the smile they want.

Implants were discovered by Swedish scientist and orthopedic surgeon Dr. P.I. Branemark and they have transformed the quality of life for people who have missing teeth.

The basis of a dental implant is a titanium rod about 1cm long. This is placed inside the jawbone and is designed to serve the same purpose as tooth roots.

Implants can either be used to replace lost teeth or to help keep dentures in place more securely.

One of the reaons implants have changed dental care so much is that, previously, there was often no other way to replace missing teeth permanently.

And there are many people who cannot tolerate removable dentures or don’t want to wear them for some other reason.

The introduction of implants had made a big change in their lives.

What’s involved in getting a dental implant?

Dental implants are increasingly popular as a way to replace missing or damaged teeth.

Their great advantage is that they look natural and feel secure helping you to restore your smile and eat more easily.

Implants are an ideal solution for many people but they are not an option for everyone.

Placing implants requires some surgery so patients must be in good health, have healthy gums and have adequate bone to support the implant.

They must also be committed to taking action to maintain their oral hygiene and to visiting the dentist regularly.

The process for placing implants is as follows:

First, surgery is performed to place the anchor. This can take up to several hours. Following the surgery, you may need to wait up to six months for the bone to grow around the anchor and firmly hold it in place. Sometimes follow up surgery is required to attach a post to connect the anchor to the replacement teeth. Alternatively, the anchor and post may already be attached and are placed at the same time.

After the gums have had several weeks to heal, the next step is to fit specially-made artificial teeth to the post portion of the anchor. This can take a few weeks to complete as several fittings may be required.

Implant surgery can be done either in a dental office or in a hospital, depending upon a number of factors. A local or general anesthetic may be used. Usually pain medications and, when necessary, antibiotics are prescribed.

After your implants are fitted, your dentist will give you tips and advice on maintaining your oral hygiene.

Your dentist can help you decide whether you would be a good candidate for implants.

What is cosmetic dentistry, and how does it differ from traditional dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on enhancing the appearance of teeth, gums, and bite. Unlike traditional dentistry, which primarily focuses on the prevention and treatment of dental problems like cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay, cosmetic dentistry aims to improve the aesthetic appeal of a patient's smile.

Cosmetic dentistry procedures include teeth whitening, dental veneers, dental bonding, orthodontics, and dental implants. These procedures can help correct various cosmetic dental issues, such as stained or discolored teeth, crooked teeth, gaps between teeth, and missing teeth.

Traditional dentistry, on the other hand, focuses on the prevention and treatment of dental problems that can affect a patient's oral health. These problems include cavities, gum disease, root canals, and tooth extractions. While traditional dentistry can also improve the appearance of teeth, its primary goal is to promote dental health and prevent further complications.

Cosmetic dentistry procedures are elective and are not typically covered by insurance. Traditional dentistry procedures, on the other hand, are necessary and are often covered by insurance.

While traditional dentistry focuses on maintaining oral health, cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the aesthetic appeal of a patient's smile. Both types of dentistry are important and work together to help patients achieve optimal dental health and a beautiful smile.

The Benefits of Dental Implants: A Comprehensive Overview

Dental implants are an excellent option for people who have lost one or more teeth due to injury, decay, or other reasons. They are designed to replace the missing tooth root and provide a strong foundation for a custom-made artificial tooth. There are numerous benefits to dental implants, and in this blog post, we'll take a comprehensive look at what they are.

First and foremost, dental implants are the closest thing to natural teeth. They look and feel just like your natural teeth, so you can speak, eat, and smile with confidence. They are also extremely durable and can last for decades with proper care.

Another benefit of dental implants is that they prevent bone loss. When you lose a tooth, the jawbone beneath it can begin to deteriorate over time. Dental implants prevent this by stimulating the bone and keeping it healthy.

Dental implants also offer improved oral health. Unlike dentures, which can be difficult to clean, dental implants can be maintained with regular brushing and flossing, just like natural teeth. This means that your overall oral health is likely to improve.

Dental implants are a convenient solution for tooth replacement. Unlike dentures, which can slip or become loose, dental implants are permanently anchored in place. This means that you don't have to worry about them falling out or shifting while you eat, speak, or laugh.

Dental implants can improve your overall quality of life. When you have a missing tooth, it can impact your self-esteem and confidence. Dental implants can restore your smile and give you the confidence to pursue your goals and enjoy your life to the fullest.

Dental implants are an excellent option for anyone who is missing one or more teeth. They offer numerous benefits, including improved oral health, convenience, durability, and a natural-looking appearance. If you're considering dental implants, talk to your dentist to see if they are the right solution for you.

The Procedure of Getting Dental Implants

 The procedure of getting dental implants typically involves several steps. Here is an overview of the dental implant process:

Consultation: During the initial consultation, your dentist will evaluate your oral health and determine if dental implants are the right choice for you. This may involve taking X-rays or other imaging to assess the jawbone.

Implant placement: The first step in the implant placement procedure is to surgically place the implant into the jawbone. This may require local anesthesia or sedation.

Osseointegration: After the implant has been placed, it must undergo a process called osseointegration, which involves fusing with the jawbone. This process can take several months to complete.

Abutment placement: Once the implant has fully integrated with the jawbone, an abutment is placed on top of the implant to serve as a connector between the implant and the replacement tooth or bridge.

Replacement tooth placement: The final step in the dental implant process is to attach the replacement tooth or bridge to the abutment. This is typically done with a dental cement or screw.

After the implant placement procedure, it is important to follow proper aftercare instructions, including practicing good oral hygiene and attending all recommended follow-up appointments.

The Risks of Dental Implants

 While dental implants are generally safe and effective, like any medical procedure, there are some risks involved. Here are some potential risks associated with dental implants:

Infection: Infection can occur at the implant site, which may require antibiotic treatment or implant removal.

Nerve damage: Nerve damage can occur during the implant placement procedure, which may cause numbness, tingling, or pain in the surrounding areas.

Failure to integrate: In rare cases, the implant may not properly integrate with the jawbone, which may require removal or replacement.

Sinus problems: Implants placed in the upper jaw may protrude into the sinus cavity, which can cause sinus problems.

Implant fracture: Implants may break or fracture over time, which may require replacement.

To minimize the risks associated with dental implants, it is important to choose an experienced and qualified dental professional, follow proper aftercare instructions, and attend all recommended follow-up appointments.

The Cost of Dental Implants

 Dental implants can be an effective and long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth, but they can also be expensive. The cost of dental implants can vary depending on several factors, including the number of teeth being replaced, the type of implant used, and the location of the dental practice.

In general, the cost of a single dental implant can range from $3,000 to $4,500. If multiple teeth are being replaced, the cost can be significantly higher. Additionally, some dental practices may charge additional fees for procedures such as bone grafting or sinus lifting, which may be necessary to prepare the jawbone for the implant.

While the cost of dental implants may be higher than other tooth replacement options, such as dentures or bridges, they offer several benefits that can make them a worthwhile investment. Dental implants are a long-term solution that can provide a more natural appearance and greater functionality than other options, which can improve your overall quality of life.

If you are considering dental implants but are concerned about the cost, talk to your dentist about financing options or payment plans that may be available to help make the procedure more affordable.

The Benefits of Dental Implants

 Dental implants are a popular option for replacing missing teeth. They offer several benefits over other tooth replacement options such as dentures and bridges. Here are some of the benefits of dental implants:

Natural appearance: Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth, which can improve your appearance and confidence.

Improved speech: Dental implants can improve your speech by providing a stable foundation for your replacement teeth.

Greater comfort: Dental implants are more comfortable than dentures and bridges, as they do not slip or move around in your mouth.

Better oral health: Dental implants do not require adjacent teeth to be shaved down like bridges, which can help preserve the overall health of your teeth.

Durability: Dental implants are designed to last for many years and can provide a long-term solution for replacing missing teeth.

If you are considering dental implants, consult with your dentist to determine if they are the right option for you.

Understanding the Benefits and Process of Dental Implants

 Dental implants are a popular and effective way to replace missing teeth. They offer several benefits over other tooth replacement options such as dentures and bridges, including a more natural appearance and greater functionality.

The process of getting dental implants typically involves several steps. First, the implant is surgically placed into the jawbone. Over time, the implant fuses with the jawbone to create a stable and durable foundation for the replacement tooth or bridge. Once the implant has fully integrated with the jawbone, a custom-made replacement tooth or bridge is attached to the implant.

Dental implants require proper care and maintenance to ensure their longevity. It is important to practice good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing regularly, and to schedule regular dental checkups. If properly cared for, dental implants can last for many years and provide patients with a reliable and comfortable solution for replacing missing teeth.

If you are interested in dental implants, it is important to consult with your dentist to determine if they are the right choice for you. Your dentist can evaluate your oral health and help you determine the best course of action for restoring your smile and improving your quality of life.

In conclusion, dental implants are a great option for those who are missing one or more teeth. They offer several benefits over other tooth replacement options and can provide a natural-looking, functional solution for restoring your smile. If you are considering dental implants, consult with your dentist to learn more about the process and to determine if they are the right choice for you.

Everything You Need to Know About Dental Implants

Dental implants are a popular and effective way to replace missing teeth. They are artificial tooth roots that are placed into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth or bridge. The implant itself is usually made of titanium, which is a biocompatible material that fuses with the jawbone to create a strong and durable foundation for the replacement tooth.

Dental implants offer several advantages over other tooth replacement options such as dentures and bridges. They are permanent and do not need to be removed like dentures, and they do not require the adjacent teeth to be shaved down like bridges. Additionally, dental implants are more aesthetically pleasing and function more like natural teeth, allowing for a better overall quality of life.

The process of getting dental implants typically involves several steps. First, the implant is placed into the jawbone during a surgical procedure. After a period of time, usually several months, the implant will have fused with the jawbone and be ready to support a replacement tooth or bridge. During this time, a temporary crown may be placed over the implant to protect it and maintain the patient's appearance.

Once the implant is fully integrated with the jawbone, a custom-made replacement tooth or bridge is attached to the implant. The replacement tooth or bridge is designed to match the patient's natural teeth in color, shape, and size, resulting in a natural-looking smile.

Dental implants require proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups to maintain their longevity. With proper care, dental implants can last for many years and provide patients with a reliable and comfortable solution for replacing missing teeth.

In conclusion, dental implants are a great option for those who are missing one or more teeth. They offer several advantages over other tooth replacement options, including a permanent solution, improved appearance and functionality, and a better overall quality of life. If you are interested in dental implants, consult with your dentist to determine if they are the right choice for you.

How Osteoporosis medications can affect your dental health

Osteoporosis is a disease that weakens bones and increases the risk of fractures.

It affects about 10 million Americans – of whom 8 million are women – and another 34 million are at risk of developing it.

So this is a disease that affects more women than cancer, heart disease and stroke combined.

But what does it have to do with your dental care?

Well, many people in these categories are treated with a group of prescription drugs called oral bisphosphonates. Studies have reported that these drugs reduce bone loss, increase bone density and reduce the risk of fractures.

But some people have been alarmed and confused by recent news reports about oral bisphosphonates because of uncommon complications that have been linked to these drugs.

The drugs have been associated with osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), a rare but potentially serious condition that can cause severe destruction of the jawbone.

The true risk posed by oral bisphosphonates remains uncertain, but researchers seem to agree that it appears very small.

Given the risks associated with osteoporosis and the proven benefits of oral bisphosphonate therapy, you should not stop taking these medications before discussing the matter fully with your physician.

If your physician prescribes an oral bisphosphonate, it’s important to tell your dentist so that your health history form can be updated.

In this case, some dental procedures, such as extractions, may increase your risk of developing ONJ, so your dentist needs to be able to take your full health picture into account.

Making living with dentures easy and comfortable

Your dentures were made to fit you precisely and, if they are cared for properly, they do not change shape.

But you may sometimes find that they can become loose due to natural changes in the gums and bone supporting them. As the jawbone begins to shrink, so do the gums.

If you find your dentures no longer fit properly, see your dentist as soon as possible so adjustments can be made.

Trying to change the fit of your dentures yourself can damage them and make them unrepairable so this would be a costly experiment!

Ill-fitting dentures repaired at home can also irritate the gums, tongue and cheeks.

In an emergency, you could use denture adhesives to keep the dentures stable until you are able to see the dentist.

Even if you no longer have your natural teeth, it’s still important to see your dentist regularly for an oral examination.

The dentist will examine your mouth to check for any problem with the gum ridges, the tongue and the joints of the jaw, as well as screen for oral cancer.

For a variety of reasons, many older adults are more susceptible to oral diseases, including oral cancer. About 95 percent of all cancers are found in people over age 40. However, many of these cancers are treatable if detected early.

Oral tissues are also checked for signs of other diseases that can first manifest themselves in the mouth.

Living with dentures can be comfortable if you continue to care for your oral hygiene and make regular visits to your dentist for a checkup.

Daily dental tips to cut down on plaque

Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and gums. If you let it build up on your teeth, it can lead to several problems.

The best way to remove plaque from the tooth surfaces is by brushing and cleaning between your teeth every day.

You should brush your teeth twice a day, with a soft-bristled brush. The brush should fit your mouth comfortably, allowing you to reach all areas easily.

When you use toothpaste that contains fluoride, this helps protect your teeth.

You can help even more by cleaning between the teeth once a day with floss or interdental cleaners. This removes plaque from between the teeth in areas the toothbrush can’t reach.

By taking a few steps each day to look after your teeth – and visiting your dentist regularly, you’ll be able to enjoy healthy teeth and a great smile all your life.