Month: July 2017

Implant dentistry has come a long way in recent years, allowing patients to replace missing teeth with artificial ones that look natural and stay in place. Whether you’re missing all of your teeth or only one, there are dental implant options available to help restore your confidence and give you a healthy, even smile. Here are just a few of the available implant solutions for missing teeth.

Dental Implant Options

You can replace just one missing tooth with a single-tooth implant. This implant will be used to secure a custom-made artificial tooth that fits comfortably between its adjacent teeth. A single-tooth replacement is sturdy, secure, and prevents the jawbone from deteriorating in that area.

If you need a multiple-teeth replacement, implant-supported bridges are a great option for you. These are similar to regular bridges except that the artificial teeth are attached to implants rather than to the adjacent teeth. Dental implants have the same appearance and function just as well as your natural teeth would without putting additional pressure on the other teeth in your mouth.

Mini-dental implants can be used in some cases where the patient is not eligible for full-size implants. These are slightly shorter than standard implants and can be an option if you have suffered too much bone loss in the area for the full-sized post to fit.

Implant-Supported Dentures

For a full-teeth replacement, implants can be used to secure a set of dentures. These “snap-on dentures” are less likely to slip out than regular dentures and can feel more natural. While there are many types of dentures on the market, snap-on dentures actually help prevent bone loss as well as restores the patient’s smile.

If the entire row of teeth is missing, all-on-4 dental implants might be the solution for you. With this procedure, an entire row of dentures is secured to your gums with just four implants. A different implant for each tooth is not necessary, which makes for an easier procedure and faster recovery time.

An implant dentist will be able to talk to you about which of these options would work best for your specific situation. If you’re interested in a dental implant treatment, call our office to book an appointment today!

We all know that brushing our teeth is an important part of a good oral hygiene routine, but when was the last time you changed your toothbrush? If you want to prevent gum disease and tooth decay, having the right equipment is key. An old toothbrush can actually sabotage your dental care, as old, frayed bristles won’t clean your teeth properly.

You can minimize your trips to the dentist by staying on top of proper oral care, and changing your toothbrush regularly is an important way to do that. Here are some things to know about changing out your toothbrush.

How Often Should You Change Your Toothbrush?

When toothbrushes get old, the bristles get hard and can wear away your tooth enamel instead of gently cleaning it. In addition, old, worn bristles can’t reach as many places as a newer toothbrush. Many dentists recommend changing out your toothbrush every three months for best results.

You should also exercise proper toothbrush care in the meantime to prolong the life of your brush. Hold the toothbrush gently while cleaning your teeth, as brushing too forcefully can bend the bristles out of shape and wear it out more quickly.

Choosing the Right Toothbrush

It’s also important to choose the right toothbrush when it is time for a replacement. Opt for soft bristles over firmer ones, as they clean your mouth effectively without damaging your teeth or gums. You should also look for a smaller brush head if possible, as this will allow you to reach more areas of your mouth.

Our staff is always happy to answer any questions you may have about oral health. If you’d like more information, call our office today!