Contrary to most assumptions, a Dental Implant is not a replacement tooth. The ‘restoration,’ or tooth that is supported by an implant consists of a crown, bridge teeth or a full denture. To understand a Dental Implant “system,” it is helpful to know its various components.

Although there are different types of implant systems, all work in in a similar fashion. An implant is a hollow, screw-like cylinder. The process begins by placing the implant in the jaw bone at a strategic point in the jaw bone. Once placed, the implant is covered over with gum tissue. For several months after, the implant goes through a ‘healing’ process. While this typically takes several months, you can wear a denture or temporary so you are never without teeth.

In this stage, the bone grows around the implant in a process known as “osseo-integration.” This secures the implant in the bone, which recreates the foundation of natural tooth roots to give biting and chewing stability. Once healing is complete, a post is secured inside the hollow core of the implant. This post will support your final replacement tooth or teeth.

A successful outcome in any Dental Implant treatment is in the selection and placement process. A Periodontist has specialized training in the diagnosis and placement of all types of implant systems. This means the implant system recommended for you will be the type most suited to your individual needs and goals.

An important aspect of implant success also relies on the assessment of bone mass. When the upper or lower jaw has insufficient bone to support the implant being placed, there is a risk of failure. Again, an implant requires careful selection and placement to be able to support the replacement teeth being attached. In some cases, as few as 4 – 6 implants can support a complete arch of teeth. This decision is best left in the hands of a periodontal specialist.

Severe bone loss can require bone rebuilding procedures prior to implant placement. This can be done by bone grafting or the application of a bone-rebuilding material. In some cases, particular implant systems designed with unique angles can provide support with minimal bone depth with no bone rebuilding necessary.

The best implant system for you can be determined after an examination. During this time, I’ll recommend options best for you and explain the process. Call (828) 274-9440 to schedule an appointment. Or, ask to begin with a Consultation.

Think tooth loss is no big deal? Apparently, it affects much more than your smile. Tooth loss has been associated with feelings of depression, loss of self-esteem, being less involved socially and feeling less inclined to climb the career ladder.

The Academy of General Dentistry surveyed over 20,000 dentists who extract about 20 million teeth per year. Their patients revealed social embarrassment and being more likely to avoid social activities.

The psychological issues that are associated with tooth loss have an effect that reaches far beyond the compromised ability to bite and chew dependably. Losing teeth apparently impacts one’s quality of life.

Perhaps this is a stronger reason than suspected for the popularity of Dental Implants as the preferred tooth replacement option. While we in the dental field typically rank eating comfort and laughing confidence as the top reasons for choosing implants, apparently the psychological aspects play a much larger role than once known.

As a Periodontist, I place many implants in people who have recently lost teeth as well as those who have been missing teeth for quite some time. I hear many patients cite the top reasons they have for selecting Dental Implants. Yet, their feelings of embarrassment or lack of self-confidence that result from tooth loss go much deeper.

Dental Implants restore the look, feel and function of natural teeth while boosting one’s zeal for living fully and actively. Because implants are designed to last a lifetime, they also make for a wise investment!

Are missing teeth overshadowing your quality of life? Call 828-274-9440 for a consultation appointment. We’ll discuss options best for your needs and answer your questions thoroughly.

Occasionally, a single tooth requires removal. This could be due to a fracture that extends below the gum line. Or, this is necessary when a tooth is beyond repair that can be resolved with a crown. Because each tooth helps to keep neighboring teeth in proper position, promptly replacing any lost tooth is a wise decision.

When a single tooth is removed, many adults now choose to replace it with a dental implant at the time of removal. One advantage of this is the prevention of bone loss. By inserting the implant at the same time of tooth removal, you minimize the risk of ‘resorption.’ Resorption occurs when tooth roots are no longer present to provide stimulation to the bone. Without this, the bone begins to shrink, or ‘resorb,’ over time.  It is a fact that the teeth adjacent to areas of bone loss have the greatest risk of being the next to be lost.

Another benefit of same-day implant placement is the preservation of gum contours. When a tooth is lost, the arch of gum tissue and ‘points’ formed by tissues between each tooth begin to flatten within days. When an implant is immediately placed and the replacement tooth attached the same day, the natural contours of gum tissues are preserved.

Appearance is another reason for placing an implant and crown immediately following tooth removal. This means patients avoid the awkward and embarrassing look of a gap in their smile.

Immediate replacement is also beneficial when two or several teeth in a row are missing. Because one implant can often support a bridge of teeth, this saves on treatment cost while also preserving natural gum contours. Additionally, since the position in your upper or lower jaw bone is already to a proper depth and size, placing the implant following removal greatly simplifies the treatment time and procedural requirements.

As a Periodontal Specialist, I work with general dentists and other specialists on a regular basis. Through this team treatment approach, the patient receives a speedy result with an exceptional outcome. To discuss immediate placement implants or any type of dental implant, call (828) 274-9440. We’ll be happy to arrange a consultation appointment so I can explain the process and answer your questions thoroughly.

As a Periodontal Specialist, I frequently read about research that shows a connection between the bacteria of gum disease and other severe diseases, such as heart disease. The connection makes perfect sense.

Largely unknown by the general population, gum disease bacteria can trigger inflammatory reactions elsewhere in the body. Oral bacteria has been associated with heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, preterm babies, diabetes, arthritis, depression, and even impotency.

Although most infections are obvious, periodontal disease begins silently. Most people do not suspect it until a dentist or periodontist diagnoses it. The National Institutes of Health cites that nearly 75% of American adults have some level of periodontal (gum) disease.

A recent study on periodontal disease included more than 15,000 adults. Their dental health was monitored to determine if one’s oral health could be a risk marker for cardiovascular disease.

Of the 15,828 participants (all with chronic coronary heart disease), 16% had no teeth and 41% had less than 15 remaining teeth. Over one-quarter of the participants had gums that bled when brushing. According to the findings, as the number of remaining teeth declined, the higher the levels for heart disease and diabetes. There was also an increase in higher glucose and cholesterol levels.

While the exact link between oral bacteria and serious diseases is yet to be pinpointed, the evidence of an association has been overwhelming, thus far. It is known that oral bacteria is a definite part of the equation when it comes to heart disease. As research continues, we will share the findings on the link of one to the other.

One thing is certain – your oral health and overall health are connected. Protect both through a thorough regimen of oral hygiene at home along with regular dental check-ups. If you are experiencing symptoms of gum disease or are behind on regular dental care, call us at (828) 274-9440.