If you’ve lost one or more teeth due to decay, disease, or injury, you might be wondering about the best restoration options available. While several treatments can replace missing teeth, dental implants are considered the most advanced and innovative solution in modern dentistry. A dental implant is a custom-made tooth root that is surgically placed in the jawbone to anchor a replacement tooth or bridge. With proper care, dental implants are highly effective and can last a lifetime.
Dental implants closely mimic natural teeth in terms of feel, function, and appearance. Unlike dentures, which require adhesives, dental implants do not need special glues to stay in place. They are cared for just like natural teeth—regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental checkups are all that’s needed.
Another key benefit of dental implants is their ability to preserve your natural facial structure by preventing bone loss that often occurs after tooth loss. Traditional dentures do not offer this advantage.
For those opting for traditional dentures, discomfort or issues with fitting may affect eating or speaking. With dental implants, you can enjoy all your favorite foods without worrying about your appliance shifting or making noise, as implants function just like natural teeth.
Consult with your dentist to learn how dental implants can provide a lifelong solution for replacing missing teeth. Your dentist will evaluate your needs and determine if you’re a good candidate for this life-changing procedure, helping you enjoy a full, healthy smile once again.
Do you live in Sicklerville or the surrounding area? Our team is ready to help you achieve your smile goals. Schedule your appointment today.
If you didn’t have your wisdom teeth removed as a young person, you may be considering extraction as an adult. Your dentist may recommend this procedure to prevent future infections, cysts, or jaw pain caused by impacted wisdom teeth, or even reduce the risk of developing tumors associated with these teeth.
What are impacted teeth?
Impacted teeth occur when a wisdom tooth grows underneath an existing tooth, often pushing against other teeth. In some cases, wisdom teeth grow in straight behind the back molars, while in rare situations, one or more may not emerge at all. X-rays can reveal whether impacted teeth are present, and if they are causing problems with other teeth, they need to be removed.
Challenges for adults
As the roots of wisdom teeth typically develop fully around the age of 24, extraction becomes more complicated for adults. The roots can become entangled with facial nerves, making the removal process riskier. A CT scan is often recommended for adults, as it provides a detailed image of facial nerve positioning, something an x-ray might not show. If the roots of the lower wisdom teeth aren’t touching or wrapped around the alveolar nerve, extraction can still be performed.
Risks for gum disease
Adults with wisdom teeth are at a higher risk for gum disease, which can lead to serious health issues. Gum disease has been linked to complications in pregnancy and other health conditions. This condition, once thought to only affect older adults, is now being observed in younger patients, particularly pregnant women. Additionally, growing evidence shows that chronic infections and inflammation in the body due to gum disease can increase the risk of diabetes and heart disease.
Talk to your dentist to determine if wisdom tooth extraction is right for you. Be honest about any symptoms you may have, such as pain or pressure, so the professional can assess your specific needs.
Do not wait any longer. Book your appointment now and achieve the smile you have always wanted. Dr. Drain is accepting new patients from Sicklerville and the surrounding area.
If you suspect you have an infected tooth, you might wonder if root canal treatment might be in your future. Do you have another option? Yes! One such alternative has been in existence for decades, but has only recently come to be more effective due to advancements in materials. This process is called pulp capping.
Pulp capping can help patients whose root infections have not yet reached the tooth’s nerve. Root infections begin when bacteria enters the pulp of the tooth through a crack or a large cavity. In a standard root canal procedure, the pulp and nerve of the tooth is hollowed out, cleaned and sealed, typically with a crown restoration.
With pulp capping, the nerve is preserved and the tooth is often repaired with a filling instead of a crown. Pulp capping allows the dentist to clean and protect the pulp, defending it from infection with medicine. With a successful pulp cap, the dentin of the tooth begins to regrow over the pulp cap. Advancements in the sealants used during these types of procedures has allowed for a greater percentage of success.
If you have a toothache, it’s important to see your dentist immediately. Pulp capping has a narrow window in which it can be performed. If your tooth is too infected, the pulp and nerve of your tooth may already be infected, and it’s too late for pulp capping to be effective.
A pulp cap is a far less invasive procedure than a root canal treatment or a tooth extraction, and there is less recovery time and tooth sensitivity following the treatment.
If you suspect you may have a tooth in trouble, talk to your dentist now. You might be able to save yourself a root canal treatment.
If you need a dentist in Sicklerville contact us today
There are times when a tooth is so severely damaged by decay, trauma, or cracking that a simple filling isn’t the best option. In these situations, a dental crown may be recommended to restore the tooth’s health and functionality. If a tooth is missing entirely, your dentist might suggest a dental bridge to close the gap and maintain your oral health.
Dental Crowns
A dental crown, also known as a “cap,” is designed to completely cover and protect a damaged tooth. Once bonded in place, the crown offers a stable, strong, and aesthetically pleasing replacement for the original tooth. Custom-made using impressions of your teeth, the crown matches the size, shape, and position of your natural tooth for a seamless appearance.
Dental crowns are an ideal solution for a severely compromised tooth. They eliminate discomfort, provide tooth stability, and preserve your appearance. Depending on the material chosen, your crown can look and feel as natural as your original tooth.
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is used to span a gap caused by a missing tooth. Having such a gap isn’t just a cosmetic concern; it can lead to difficulties with chewing and speaking. Additionally, neighboring teeth may shift into the empty space, increasing the risk of gum disease and jaw complications.
Dental bridges literally bridge the gap by anchoring to the teeth on either side of the missing tooth. These bordering teeth are trimmed to support crowns, which act as anchors for the bridge. Between the two crowns, a replacement tooth is custom-made to fit the space perfectly. With a dental bridge, you can regain your ability to eat and speak properly, and it helps maintain the natural shape of your face and lips.
Longevity and Care
Dental crowns and bridges are excellent long-term solutions for maintaining dental health and can last a lifetime with proper care. To avoid damage to your dental work, refrain from chewing on hard items like ice or hard candy. Additionally, maintaining regular dental checkups is essential for preserving the integrity of your crowns and bridges.
If you are considering dental crowns or bridges, visit our Sicklerville dental office for professional advice and personalized care.
We offer dental crowns and bridges at our Sicklerville dental office.
Dental implants offer a remarkable solution for replacing missing teeth. However, selecting a qualified, experienced, and knowledgeable dentist to perform the procedure is crucial for ensuring the success of your implant. While well-placed and well-maintained implants can last a lifetime, improper placement can lead to complications or even complete failure. Here are key factors to consider when choosing an implant dentist:
Is the dentist a board-certified implant specialist?
While any dentist can legally place implants, it’s important to choose one who specializes in “Prosthodontics,” as recognized by the American Dental Association.
How much experience does the dentist have with implants?
The ideal dentist should have extensive experience in implant placement, having successfully completed hundreds of procedures and performing them regularly.
What specific training has the dentist undergone for implant surgery?
A reputable implant dentist will have undergone more than just basic training in implant procedures, and will maintain their knowledge through ongoing education and advanced courses.
Can the dentist provide before-and-after photos of their work?
It’s essential to see real examples of the dentist’s work, not stock photos. A skilled implant dentist should be able to show you images of previous patients’ implants and provide recommendations from them.
Can the dentist explain the different types of implants?
A highly qualified dentist will be familiar with a variety of implant types and will be able to recommend the best option based on your specific needs and restoration goals.
Choosing the right implant dentist is a critical step in the implant process, and it’s essential for achieving a successful outcome. Take your time to ensure that the dentist you choose has the experience, skill, and knowledge to make your implant procedure worry-free.
Ready to transform your smile? Schedule your appointment today at our Sicklerville dental office.
Tooth stains, chips, cracks, and discolorations can keep you from letting others see your teeth. If you are self-conscious about your smile, then dental veneers may be the answer for you. Veneers can correct a variety of imperfections and give you a natural, beautiful smile.
What are dental veneers?
Made from tooth-colored porcelain, veneers are attached to the front of your natural teeth. They feel just like the rest of your teeth, and are durable and do not irritate your gums. Since porcelain is resistant to stains, you’re able to eat and drink as you wish. Good oral hygiene helps keep veneers and your natural teeth strong and healthy.
What are the benefits of getting veneers?
There’s a reason that veneers are one of the most popular options in cosmetic dentistry. They provide a solution to many problems and can dramatically improve the appearance of your smile. Veneers are the answer for tough stains or discolorations that can’t be repaired by teeth whitening. They can also make your teeth look straight and even. Veneers provide an answer for chipped or broken teeth too.
Are there any disadvantages?
The main thing to remember is that your original tooth might need to be reshaped to a smaller size and shape to allow the new, thin coating of the veneer to be placed over it. The coating will make your tooth look like a normal, perfectly shaped tooth. However, if the veneer is ever removed, it would need to be replaced to keep your smile looking nice. Dental veneers are a life-long solution to creating your best smile.
Do not let another day go by without taking care of your dental needs. Request an appointment now at our Sicklerville dental office!
