dental implants Archives | Sterling Heights Dentist, Dr. Farhat of Dental 1 Care

Improve Your Smile With Cosmetic Dentistry

June 28, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Cosmetic dentistry has advanced so much that the options available to those who want to improve their smiles are so abundant that they may need help in selecting the procedure which is best suited for their needs. Here is a brief discussion of some of the cosmetic dental procedures offered at Dental One Care in Sterling Heights. Use this information to narrow down your options as you consider ways to fix any cosmetic defect you or a loved one has.

Teeth Whitening

As you grow older, the foods and drinks you consume, the medicines you take, and other factors take a toll on your teeth, thereby causing them to lose their natural bright color. When that happens, several options are available to you to restore your bright smile. For example, you can ask Dr. Fardi Farhat, a leading dentist in Sterling Heights, to prepare a customized teeth whitening tray which you can use at home to get rid of the stains in a gradual process. Alternatively, the experts at Dental One Care can perform in-office teeth whitening using a stronger bleaching agent than what is contained in at-home teeth whitening kits.

In-office teeth whitening may be more costly when compared to at-home teeth whitening, but you get quicker results, and the process is overseen by a professional. For instance, while at-home teeth whitening may take several weeks to show results, in-office whitening brings results immediately, and you walk out with brighter teeth.

Dental Veneers

You may have heard of veneers on furniture, haven’t you? Well, dental veneers also refer to thin materials that are placed on the front of your teeth for one or several reasons. For example, the veneer may be used to cover a permanently stained tooth, or it can be intended to improve the appearance of a poorly shaped tooth.

Veneers are mainly used to provide a temporary fix to cosmetic defects on the teeth which are visible when you smile or speak. You shouldn’t, therefore, consider them as a remedy for a defect affecting the teeth at the back of your mouth.

At least two visits are needed to get veneers. The first visit to Dental One Care caters for the initial consultation as well as taking an impression of the teeth upon which veneers will be placed. Color matching is also done during this visit. The second visit is for placing the veneers on the teeth once the external dental lab sends the completed restorations back to Dr. Fardi Farhat. Veneers are more complex and therefore, more expensive than dental bonding.

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding entails placing tooth-colored resins on a tooth with a minor defect, such as a chip, discoloration, or poor shape. The resin bonds with the tooth under the influence of a special light. This simple procedure can be completed in one visit to Dental One Care in Sterling Heights, unlike veneers, which require several visits. However, the material used during bonding stains and cracks easily, so you want to take better care of the bonded tooth if you want to retain the bond for years.

Dental Crowns

As the name suggests, a dental crown covers your entire tooth in the same way that a cap does on one’s head. Crowns are the cosmetic restoration of choice when serious structural or cosmetic damage occurs. For example, a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy may be so weak that only a crown will keep it together for years. Similarly, badly fractured teeth need crowns to retain their structural and aesthetic integrity.

The superior strength of crowns comes from the materials, such as porcelain, gold, and other metals, from which they are made. Crowns can be temporary or permanent. Temporary crowns are made from less durable materials since they aren’t intended to be used for long. Permanent crowns are usually fabricated by an external lab, so you use the temporary crown while you wait for the permanent one to be made. Crowns are more expensive than the cosmetic dentistry procedures described earlier, but they make up for that higher price tag by their durability.

Enamel Contouring and Shaping Procedures

If you want to make minor changes to the size, shape, and position of your teeth, then talk to the experts at Dental One Care. The Sterling Heights dentists will remove some enamel from the surface of your teeth in order to fix the defect which has you bothered. Many times, enamel shaping and contouring is done in combination with dental bonding since the removal of some enamel from your teeth can leave them weaker.

Dental Braces

Braces are primarily used to correct dental crowding, misalignment, bite problems, and jaw muscle issues. Traditionally, braces were composed of metal wires while today there are plastic nearly-invisible aligners used to move your teeth in a more discreet way. Some conditions, such as when you want to move back teeth with deep roots, are better handled by traditional metal braces while other cases, such as minor misalignment, can be fixed using clear braces. Talk to Dr. Fardi Farhat to find out if you qualify for the clear braces (Invisalign, for example). The correction of your dental defect usually takes several months as the braces are adjusted periodically while they slowly move the teeth to their new positions.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are one of the most complex and expensive cosmetic dentistry procedures. It involves the surgical placement of a metal screw (usually titanium) in your jaw and letting that metal fuse with your jawbone before a component called an abutment is placed in the implant. The top part of a tooth replacement called a crown is attached to this abutment anchored in the implant. The entire process can take anywhere from three months to more than half a year, depending on how quickly your body can heal after each of the different steps of the procedure. Nearly everyone can get dental implants since some of the limiting factors, such as bone loss, can be corrected through other procedures (bone grafts, for example). We asked our friend, Dr. Matt Laurich, a dentist in Livonia, MI, about dental implants. Dr. Laurich says dental implants are one of the best cosmetic treatments you can choose from at the dentist because they basically pay for themselves since they last forever!

Many more cosmetic dentistry procedures, such as dental bridges and procedures to fix indentations in your gums, also exist. Talk to Dr. Fardi Farhat and an appropriate cosmetic dentistry procedure will be recommended to fix your specific condition. Why stay with an imperfect smile when solutions exist?

What Happens If I Don’t Replace A Missing Tooth?

March 19, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

What happens if I don’t replace a missing tooth? A missing tooth is a very common problem among people due to bad eating habits, tooth damage, wear and tear and gum diseases. At Dental One Care, our dentist Dr. Farhat treats missing tooth problems on a regular basis. However, have you ever thought of the effects that a missing tooth can have on your appearance and overall personality?

The Effects of a Missing Tooth

A missing tooth makes you appear older than you actually are and gives you an unpleasant appearance. Additionally, it also places unnecessary pressure on the surrounding teeth and puts your oral health at risk. This makes it very important for you to consult a professional dentist in Sterling Heights to help you with the issue.

What Other Problems Can Occur Due To A Missing Tooth?

The most evident effect of a missing tooth is obviously reflected on your looks. But if you do not pay attention to it, severe problems can occur and pose a serious threat to your dental and oral health. Some of the common issues pertaining to a missing tooth that people seek treatment for at Sterling Heights dentists include the following:

Crooked Teeth

We asked our friend, Dr. Cody Cowen, a dentist in Baton Rouge, LA, the question of what happens if I don’t replace a missing tooth? Dr. Cowen says that crooked teeth are one of the most common results. Your teeth provide support to each other. When there is a missing tooth, the neighboring teeth begin to shift towards the gap. With time, this leads to crooked teeth, issues in biting and pain in your jaw joint.

Tooth Decay and Gum Conditions

When your teeth shift as a result of missing tooth, you might not be able to properly brush the surface and in-between while brushing and flossing. Due to improper cleaning, plaque deposits on the surface and between your teeth. This condition increases the risk of various gum diseases as well as tooth decay, leading to the loss of another tooth.

At Dental One Care, our qualified and experienced dentist, Dr. Farhat, provides professional treatment for all kinds of teeth and gum diseases.

Loss of Bone

Your teeth provide support to your jaw bone by stimulating the growth of the jaw bone. When you have one or more missing teeth, this can lead to jaw shrinkage, which changes the structure of your jaw and ultimately the shape of your face.

TMJ Disorders

When you have a missing tooth, other teeth shift to take its place, gradually. This puts a strain on the Temporomandibular joints (TMJ) of your jaw bone which is connected to your skull bone. Due to this strain, you are likely to experience headaches, pain, and discomfort in your TMJ joints.

Dietary Changes

Missing teeth not only have adverse effects on your appearance and oral health but also affect your diet. A missing tooth makes it difficult for you to eat many healthy foods, such as raw vegetables, fruits, etc. This harms your health in the long run.

All these problems associated with a missing tooth cause health, social and professional problems. There are several treatment options available at Dental One Care for missing teeth, which include dental bridges, dental implants, and full or partial dentures. Our expert, trained and experienced dentist, Dr. Farhat is proficient in performing all dental procedures with proficiency and care at our Sterling Heights Dentist Clinic.

Myths About Dental Implants

March 12, 2019 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

6 Myths That Shouldn’t Stop You from Getting Dental Implants

You may be hesitant to ask your dentist to recommend dental implants because of some of the rumors you could have heard about these implants. In this article, Dr. Farhat at Dental One Care, shares some myths and the truth about dental implants.

Myth #1: Implants Don’t Look Natural

Many people refrain from getting dental implants because they believe that the implants will look fake once they are placed in their mouth. Nothing could be further from the truth. Before implants are placed, a lot of time is devoted to matching the top visible part of those implants (the crowns) to your natural teeth so that it will be hard for a casual observer to realize that you have implants. In fact, many patients at Dental One Care admit that it takes longer for other people to accept that they have implants even when they reveal this information to them.

Myth #2: Dental Implants Require Special Care

Another common misconception about dental implants is that you will be required to care for them in a special way once they are installed. This isn’t true. People with dental implants engage in the same oral care practices like brushing twice a day and flossing once each day just like those without implants. You don’t have to do anything out of the ordinary to maintain oral hygiene when you have dental implants.

Myth #3: Dental Implants Aren’t Safe

This myth may be propagated by those who think that any foreign material in the body or mouth is dangerous. However, Dr. Farhat, a dentist in Sterling Heights, explains that dental implants are made from titanium. This material was selected because it is stable, long lasting and is rarely rejected by the body. Consequently, anyone who complains about jaw pain or any other issue may be suffering from another problem rather than having those symptoms attributed to the dental implants. The best approach to take in that case is to visit Dental One Care or any other Sterling Heights dentist so that the cause of the problem you are facing can be identified and resolved before it compromises your dental implants.

Myth #4: The Healing Time Lasts Forever

It is not true that you will take “forever” to recover after undergoing dental implant surgery. In fact, most people are back to work within three days after undergoing this surgery. Nevertheless, care must be taken in the first six months after the surgery as the implants are fusing with your jawbone. During this time, your dentist in Sterling Heights, MI may advise you to refrain from biting or chewing hard substances, such as hard nuts, so that the implants can have a chance to form a strong bond with the jawbone. Thereafter, you can use your new teeth as you would use the natural ones.

Myth #5: Dental Implants Are Very Expensive

We asked our friend, Dr. Ben Kacos, a dentist in Shreveport, LA, about dental implants. Dr. Kacos says that while it is true that the initial cost of dental implants is higher than the cost of other options, such as dental bridges and dentures, the long-term cost of the implants is relatively low. This is because the dental implants often last a lifetime (at least 30 years), so when you spread out their cost across all those years then the cost pales dramatically. This is unlike options like dentures that may break and be replaced in a few years in addition to requiring to be relined each year. Those routine maintenance costs add up over time and these other alternatives start becoming less attractive when you factor in the cost and inconveniences of the repeat treatments.

Myth #6: The Surgery is Painful

This myth has spread and taken on an air of truth simply because most laypeople cannot comprehend how a surgical procedure to place “metals” in your jaw can be painless. Contrary to this misconception, dental implant surgery is painless. Dr. Farhat explains that dental surgery has advanced so much that the pain that people used to feel during simple procedures like deep cleanings can now be eliminated through sedation dentistry. You should, therefore, avoid worrying that you will experience excruciating pain during or after the dental implant surgery. The Sterling Heights dentist can also prescribe some painkillers to alleviate the mild discomfort that you may feel after the surgery.

As you can see, it may at times be hard for you to separate truth from myth. The best way to be certain that the information you have is accurate is by talking to an expert, such as Dr. Farhat so that you can make an informed decision. Visit us at Dental One Care in Sterling Heights, MI for all your concerns about dental implants or anything else connected to your dental health. Our experts are waiting to serve you and ensure that you enjoy excellent oral health all the days of your life.

Should I Get Dental Implants?

May 16, 2018 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

When you lose a tooth, the remaining teeth will move into space where your lost tooth previously was. This can create a host of problems.

This is why it is crucial for you to find the right tooth replacement option. One such option you might want to seriously consider would be dental implants. You’re probably wondering “Should I get dental implants?” or “Are dental implants worth it?”

Anatomy of dental implants

In order to better answer that question, it is worthwhile to have some understanding of what implants are.

An implant is comprised of three main parts: the post, abutment, and the tooth restoration.

The implant looks and functions like a screw. It is usually made of titanium and is implanted beneath the jawbone.

Once the implant is installed by Dr. Farhat, the abutment is then installed. This will be followed by the installation of the tooth restoration.

Advantages of dental implants

One of the key advantages of dental implants over other tooth replacement options is that these can help prevent the deterioration of your jawbone.

Dental implants help ensure that your jawbone is stimulated despite the lack of a tooth root. In turn, keeping your jawbone healthy can prevent your face from looking sunken and your lips from looking too thin.

Dental implants can also prevent some of the problems associated with wearing dentures. These include mouth sores, poor fit, and dietary restrictions.

Finally, dental implants have been around and have been modernized with the advent of new technologies.

Today, dentists like Dr. Farhat can show their patients the outcome they can expect from the procedure. But apart from that, regarding longevity and overall value, implants are considered by many experts as superior over other tooth replacement options.

Should I get dental implants?

Wel, if there is one major caveat that you should know about dental implants, it is the fact that it may not be suitable for everyone.

In order to be considered an ideal candidate for dental implants, your Sterling Heights dentist will need to take a few crucial factors into consideration.

First, you should have healthy gums. That means that if you have gum disease, you might need to consider other tooth replacement options.

Patients who want to get dental implants should also possess good bone density. Remember, the implants will be anchored to the jawbone.

The whole process of installing dental implants can take several months or even up to a year. If you do not have the patience to go through such a long process, then dental implants may not be for you.

Finally, there are some patients that are ruled out from getting implants due to their conditions. These include smokers and people who are suffering from diseases that affect their bodies’ ability to heal.

All-on-4 or All-on-6 Dental implants

February 2, 2018 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Have you heard of All-on-4 or All-on-6 dental implants? If you have missing teeth and you are considering getting dental implants, one of these procedures could be your best option. These treatments are quite similar but have some key differences, so Dr. Farhat may recommend one procedure over the other depending on your unique situation.

Similarities Between Dental Implants

Both All-on-4 and All-on-6 dental implants are effective solutions for those who lost several teeth. Both procedures will involve the surgical placement of dental implants in your jaw to maintain its structural integrity after tooth loss. Typically, both treatments will take about two to three hours to be completed.

During both procedures, you will be under general anesthesia. The implants will bond with the jaw to imitate the pressure placed on it by natural teeth. Depending on the procedure, your removable or fixed denture will fasten to four or six implants. All the teeth will be connected but will only have four or six roots that go into your jaw.

During the past couple of years, replacing a set of teeth required many more implants and could even include jaw bone grafting. Thus, the healing process may take up to six months before your mouth becomes ready for the dentures or crowns. With this advanced approach, however, there will be a shorter healing period because there are fewer implants involved. Also, the temporary dentures can be installed at the same time until the permanent dentures are ready, which often takes up to three months.

Differences Between Dental Implants

The number of implants that are added is the most obvious difference between All-on-4 and All-on-6 dental implants. All-on-4 makes use of four implants while All-on-6 utilizes six implants. But aside from this, there are other differences that should be considered. Dr. Farhat will choose which procedure is better based on clinical opinions and practices.

Often, the All-on-6 procedure is highly recommended because this provides better stability and strength, resulting in a longer-lasting, more comfortable smile. Every time you bite or chew on something, it is crucial for the pressure to be dispersed evenly to your implants and jaw. Most dentists believe that the placement and location of the two additional implants will provide a considerable amount of added stability, strength, and long-term benefit.

Without your teeth, your jawbone starts to break down. Thus, people who have worn dentures for quite a long time usually look older. Also, their jaw appears to be sunken in if they take off their dentures. With dental implants, this won’t happen since the implants will stimulate the jawbone. In fact, it can even keep your jawbone stronger. The All-on-6 dental implants provide additional strength and stimulation to your jawbone.

Both approaches are excellent permanent solutions if you have lost several teeth and you want to regain a confident smile. The recovery period and adjustment will be minimal. If you need a major dental reconstruction, visit Dental One Care and find out which of these two procedures is best for you.

What Are Your Options for Broken Tooth Repair?

October 31, 2017 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

Human teeth are surprisingly strong. Just take a look at the diverse array of food that your teeth can cut, chew and break down into smaller pieces – from meats to veggies and fruits to nuts.

That is not to say that your teeth are invulnerable. No. Your teeth can be damaged over time due to poor care, or in an instant due to injuries or accidents.

Teeth can become broken or cracked due to different reasons.

For example, the surface of a tooth can get cracked to its root. Left unchecked, this can lead to a split tooth — here, there is a visible separation of the affected tooth into segments and it can no longer be saved.

A vertical root fracture, on the other hand, occurs when the crack begins at the tooth’s root, extending toward the chewing surface.

Whatever the cause of your broken tooth, getting it examined as soon as possible is crucial to avoid further complications like infections and extensive damage.

Here are a few broken tooth repair options that your Sterling Heights dentist may recommend.

Dental bonding

Dental bonding is a procedure that is used for a variety of conditions including the treatment of discolored, misshapen, and broken teeth.

This procedure entails the application of a putty on the affected tooth which will then be molded and smoothed. Your dentist will then use ultraviolet light to cure and harden the putty.

Veneers

Another option available for people with broken teeth is veneers. Veneers are thin shells that may be made out of different materials and are used to cover the front surface of a tooth.

Veneers are quite popular among patients and dentists for their durability.

Crowns

Dentists recommend the use of crowns for teeth that have been chipped extensively and to patients who experience pain when chewing and/or drinking.

Essentially, a crown serves as a cap or cover for the affected tooth, providing both protection and enhancement of the appearance of the tooth.

Root canal

If the crack on the tooth extends toward its pulp, your dentist may recommend root canal treatment. This treatment can help prevent infections which could then lead to complications like an abscess and bone loss.

Contrary to what some patients may believe, a root canal is not painful. At the hands of an experienced professional, you may experience just a slight discomfort while the decayed tooth matter and nerves are removed.

Dental implants

If the tooth is beyond repair due to extensive damage, your only recourse may be to have it extracted.

Fortunately, when you have a tooth extracted, there are a few options you can choose from when it comes to replacing it, including dental implants.

Among the different tooth replacement options, dental implants provide good value for your money by restoring the natural appearance and function of teeth, on top of their unmatched durability.

Dental Implants: A Summary of Its Pros and Cons

April 18, 2017 by sterlingheightsdentalcare Leave a Comment

In the old days, painful teeth, diseased and weak teeth would definitely mean lost teeth. But advances in dentistry have resulted in significant improvements in dental treatments and solutions. Dental implants are an example of how dental technology offers better options for many patients today.

The need for urgent tooth restoration

Teeth restoration is done not just to achieve a nice aesthetic result; it is vital for oral health as well. Once you lose a tooth, it is advisable to replace it as soon as possible because the alveolar bone in your jaw also begins to disintegrate. The neighboring teeth move into the gap, forcing the whole bite out of line. Thus, having missing teeth for quite a long time can result in certain dental issues like “bad bite” or malocclusion, which may lead to inefficient chewing.

Why opt for dental implants?

A dental implant is the best remedy for replacing missing teeth. Implants generally solve the downsides of bridges and dentures.

It protects your teeth and promotes bone preservation.

With a dental implant, the remaining teeth are protected from damage because it does not rely on neighboring teeth for support. Dental implants also replace the missing tooth as well as its root, therefore preventing bone loss.

It acts like a real tooth and is easy to maintain.

Whether for chewing or for speaking, implants offer better functionality. Implants look and function like your original teeth. And this means you can manage them the same way you do with your natural teeth.

It is safe and durable.

Unlike bridges and dentures that need replacing every 7 to 10 years, implants can last a lifetime. Implants are also reliable among older adults.

When not to choose dental implants

Dental implants are not for everybody. Smokers and those with chronic conditions like diabetes are usually advised to get an implant because they have lower success rates.

Implants also come with a price tag and insurance does not usually cover such procedure.

Moreover, the procedure can be quite complex as it involves multiple steps. In some situations, it might also need additional dental treatments. Busy patients will need to make major adjustments to their schedules to accommodate the multiple visits and recovery time.

Final thoughts

A reliable dentist in Sterling Heights will opt to preserve your teeth as much as possible. If you’re concerned about missing teeth and looking for a smart way to replace them, ask about the right options for you today!

What to Do After Oral Surgery

December 22, 2016 by Lauren Edvalson Leave a Comment

What to Do After Oral Surgery

Following your Sterling Heights dentist‘s oral surgery aftercare instructions will ensure that you heal faster and complications are minimized, if not totally eliminated.

Your dentist will provide you with specific instructions depending on the type of procedure you have undergone. Here’s an overview of what to do after oral surgery.

Dental implants

After a dental implant surgery, you should avoid disturbing the area that your doctor worked on. That means avoiding touching the area, rinsing, or even spitting on the day of the procedure. The same thing applies to the temporary healing abutment.

You should also consume plenty of liquids and stick to soft foods on the day of the surgery. Your dentist will tell you when you can safely and comfortably consume normal food again.

Wisdom tooth removal

Following the removal of your wisdom tooth, a gauze pad will be placed on the area where the tooth was previously. This pad should be kept in its place by applying moderate amount of pressure for about half an hour. After this period, the gauze pad can be discarded.

Avoid touching the area, as well as vigorous mouth rinsing. Both can cause the area to bleed.

Exposure of impacted teeth

The area that your dentist worked on should not be disturbed. In some cases, surgical packing will be used. Let it be. The purpose of the surgical packing is to help keep the tooth exposed. Should the pack become dislodged or fall off, do not worry.

Multiple teeth extraction

If multiple teeth have been extracted, a small amount of bleeding is to be expected. Contain the bleeding by placing a gauze pad on the affected areas, keeping it in place by applying moderate biting pressure for about half an hour. If bleeding continues, replace the gauze pad with a new one and use your finger to apply pressure on the area. Do this for another half hour. If the bleeding still continues, replace the gauze pad with a moist tea bag and hold it in place for half an hour. Call your dentist if the bleeding still does not stop.

In order to replace lost blood, you must drink lots of liquids. Ideally, you should drink at least six glasses of water on the day of your operation. Avoid rinsing your mouth on the day of the surgery and stick to a soft diet until the wounds heal. It is normal for the area operated on to swell. Some patients may also experience discoloration around their eyes. To remedy both, apply a moist warm towel on the affected area.

Some patients may also experience sore throat after multiple teeth extraction, this should subside in two to three days. If you are experiencing dryness in the corners of your mouth, apply Vaseline or a similar ointment. If your Sterling Heights dentist immediately placed dentures after the procedure and sores have developed, visit your dentist to have your dentures adjusted.

Other reminders

Bleeding usually occurs in any type of oral surgery. You can contain excessive bleeding by placing a gauze pad on the wound and leaving it on the area for half an hour. Be sure to contact your dentist if bleeding does not stop. If you are experiencing swelling, you can apply an ice pack on the affected area. You can apply cold therapy during the initial 36 hours after the surgery.

Go on a soft diet after your surgery and avoid extreme temperatures in food and beverages. Your dentist will prescribe pain medications for you. Take these as needed or if you experience pain after the anesthetic wears off. You may have to avoid driving and/or operating machinery when you are taking pain medications. If you have been prescribed antibiotics, take these as directed by your dentist.

Avoid exercising and other strenuous activities on the day of and day after your surgery. Such activities can cause bleeding. Aside from that, going on a soft diet can weaken you and make you unfit to perform such activities.

For more aftercare tips, contact your local Sterling Heights dentist at Dental1Care today.

Types of Dental Implants | Restorative Dentistry

November 9, 2016 by Lauren Edvalson Leave a Comment

Types of Dental Implants for Restorative Dentistry

Restorative dentistry has developed by leaps and bounds through the years. There are procedures now that not only restore the appearance of a complete set of teeth but also restore the natural feel and function of your original teeth. Dental implants are examples of such procedures. Dental Implants for tooth replacement continue to become known as popular options for restorative dentistry.

Single Tooth Replacement

There are different types of dental implants and a dentist in Sterling Heights performs them all. The first one is for the replacement of a single tooth – it’s a great option for the most natural-looking replacement for a missing tooth. If you have lost a tooth, the implant and a crown will not only fill in the gap created by the missing tooth, but it will also preserve the bone of that area because the implant will completely integrate to the bone over some time.

Multiple Tooth Replacement

Another type is for multiple tooth replacements. Sterling Heights dentist, Dr. Farhat says this is similar to a single tooth replacement. However, this procedure restores more than one tooth, and instead of a crown, a fixed bridge is placed.

Full Arch Replacement

A third type would be dental implants that provide full arch replacement. This is a healthy option for people who have lost most (if not all) of their teeth and don’t want to wear dentures which wear the jawbone down. The implants are installed to replace lost tooth roots. Afterwards, temporary teeth are attached to enable the patient to eat and function normally while the permanent bridge is being made by technicians. It takes about two to three visits before the permanent bridge is installed.

Fourth are dental implants to hold removable overdentures. This type of dental implant is a smart alternative to a fixed bridge. For this, the removable full denture is connected to either a ball or bar attachment, which in turn is anchored on two or more dental implants in the front part of the jaw. This secures the denture in place for increased comfort and better function.

Dental implants are the best that restorative dentistry has to offer, but it’s important to note that not everybody can easily qualify for the procedure as the main consideration for carrying it out is the patient’s oral health condition. If a patient has periodontal disease, dentists hold off installing the implants until the disease is treated successfully and the patient has fully recovered. Now, if there’s not enough jawbone, surgery is carried out to fix that in order to provide an anchor for the implants. As for people with health issues such as cancer and diabetes, dental implants are definitely not advised because the procedure may create complications that may prove fatal.

What Can You Do About Missing Teeth?

October 26, 2016 by Lauren Edvalson Leave a Comment

Replacing Missing Teeth | Options and their benefits

Did you have an accident that led to the loss of one tooth, or more? Did you have a cavity that you failed to address until the only remaining course of action was an extraction? If you no longer have your full set of permanent teeth, do not be disheartened. It may be some comfort for you to know that you are in good company. As a matter of fact, the American Dental Association reports that the average adult between the ages of 20 and 64 has at least three decayed or missing teeth.

What can you do about missing teeth?

Whether you lost them through extraction or an accident, you can rest assured that they can be replaced. In fact, your replacement teeth may even enhance your looks and allow you to improve your speaking and chewing.

What are your options when it comes to tooth replacement? The following are the ones that dental health care professionals usually recommend:

Bridges

As the name suggests, this option serves to bridge the gap left by your missing tooth or teeth. A bridge is often attached to the adjacent teeth for support.

Dentures

If you have more than a few missing teeth, then your dentist is likely to recommend dentures. These are removable appliances that are composed of numerous artificial teeth. If you have a few remaining teeth, you can get overdentures that will fit over them. If all your teeth are gone, then full dentures will take the place of your natural teeth. Dentures take some getting used to, but once you’ve broken them in, they should feel natural and comfortable.

Dental Implants

These are generally considered the most efficient solution for tooth replacement. They are surgically implanted, so completing their installation involves several stages and may take a few months. Despite the inconvenient time frame, many choose to take this route since dental implants are the closest you can get to having your own teeth back. When cared for properly, they can last decades.

What can you do about missing teeth besides have them replaced, right? At the end of the day, whichever of these options you end up choosing, you won’t have to live with missing teeth anymore. For guidance on which one suits your situation best, consult your Sterling Heights dentist. Pretty soon, you will be speaking, eating and smiling with a full set of teeth again.