Upgrade Denture Stability with Dental Implants

Aug 25

Many denture wearers have an unfortunate story of a time when their appliances unexpectedly came loose, causing a great deal of embarrassment.

Patients who feel that their conventional dentures are not secure enough can explore dental implants as an upgrade to their appliance. Implant supported dentures can help patients avoid an untimely slip-up and gain many more benefits beyond that.

When an oral surgeon places dental implants in the jaw, the surrounding bone forms a bond with those implants, creating a stronger attachment than any dental adhesive can possibly achieve.

As such, implant supported dentures will always stay in place, giving patients peace of mind when speaking or eating.

While we’re on the subject of eating, implant supported dentures are also more effective at chewing because of their physical link to the jaw. If you thought that getting dentures meant giving up many of your favorite foods, implant supported dentures can help you to continue to enjoy those meals.

Long-term stability is another advantage of implant supported dentures. The implants replace the structure of the absent roots of the teeth. In this way, they help to anchor the jawbone, which erodes when there is no available structure to hold it in place.

That is why the jaw changes shape and conventional dentures lose their fit over time. This effect is reduced in dental implant patients, so implant supported dentures remain more secure.

Patients who would like to get implant supported dentures should be evaluated by an oral surgeon, especially those who have worn dentures for a number of years. Bone loss can present an obstacle to dental implant placement, as insufficient bone material at the implant site can lead to premature dental implant failure. However, there are a number of techniques and procedures that an oral surgeon can use to place dental implants in patients who have experienced some bone loss.

If you have been dissatisfied with your conventional dentures, consider upgrading to dental implants. Talk to our oral surgeons, Drs. Sherry and Wallace, to learn whether this treatment is possible in your case.

What factors contribute to the long-term success of dental implants?

Aug 13

Dental implants involve a significant investment on the patient’s part, but in return, the patient can benefit from a tooth replacement that can last for decades with proper care.

Certain aspects of a patient’s oral health can compromise dental implants in the long-term, so it’s important to know what can threaten the stability of your implants in order to reduce your risk of implant failure.

The first key to success in dental implants is ensuring that the patient has enough bone to support the implant. During the treatment planning process, the oral surgeon will evaluate the patient thoroughly to determine if there is sufficient bone at the implant site.

The key to the longevity of dental implants is the bone’s ability to form a bond with the titanium. However, if there is not enough bone material present, the implant can eventually fail.

The key to the longevity of dental implants is the bone’s ability to form a bond with the titanium.

This is why it’s recommended that patients purse dental implants as soon as possible after extraction or tooth loss. After the tooth’s roots are removed, there is no structure to anchor the jawbone in place and it wears away. If a person waits for a number of years to replace a missing tooth with a dental implant and has already experienced extensive bone loss at the site, that patient may need to have a bone graft prior to implant placement.

Even when a patient does have enough bone to support osseointegration, there are post-operative factors that can influce a dental implant’s lifespan. For example, if a patient has a history of gum disease, it is essential to take steps to prevent a relapse. Patients should follow closely with a dentist or periodontist to catch any signs of periodontal disease in the earliest stages, before it progresses and attacks the underlying bone.

Good oral hygiene habits also are important for dental implant patients. Brushing and flossing as recommended by your dentist will help to minimize the oral bacteria that can attack the bone and weaken the bond with the implant.

Dental implants can last for a lifetime in many cases, but patients must be suitable initially for implant placement and do their part to maintain their oral health after they get the implants. Ask our oral surgeons what you can do to maximize the lifespan of your dental implants.

Wisdom teeth removal: What are pre-extraction considerations?

Aug 4

Many patients choose to have their wisdom teeth extracted to prevent the issues that can arise from impacted wisdom teeth. A successful experience with wisdom teeth removal begins well before the extraction procedure itself. The process must be carefully planned to maximize the likelihood of positive outcomes.

Therefore, patients and their oral surgeons must consider a number of factors prior to wisdom teeth removal. These issues can all be reviewed or discussed during the treatment planning process.

The first aspect that can influence the treatment plan is any uncontrolled gum disease at the extraction site. If the oral surgeon removes a wisdom tooth when gum disease is present, the patient may have an increased risk of post-operative infection. Patients should have their gum disease treated before moving forward with wisdom teeth removal.

The patient also must be in good enough health overall to tolerate the surgical procedure. There may be special considerations for patients with chronic diseases, such as diabetes. Your oral surgeon will review your medical history prior to wisdom teeth removal, as well.

Prior to the procedure, you also will need to decide on the method of sedation for the procedure. The oral surgeon will review the various options with you. If you choose intravenous sedation, your oral surgeon likely will instruct you to avoid eating or drinking anything after midnight before your scheduled appointment.

Because it is more challenging to remove the wisdom teeth in patients in their late twenties and beyond, a patient’s age may also be an important consideration. Older patients may still be able to have their wisdom teeth extracted, but the oral surgeon may take a different approach.

Wisdom teeth removal is a common oral surgery procedure, but it still involves certain risks as any surgery does. Your oral surgeon will thoroughly review your case to minimize those risks and reduce the chance of complications following the surgery. Be sure to follow our oral surgeon’s instructions for pre-operative and post-operative care.

Contact either of our convenient locations of Dallas Oral Surgery Associates to reserve your appointment today.

All-on-4: How strong will my replacement teeth be?

Jul 25

Are you tired of struggling with messy adhesives or ill-fitting dentures? If you are, you shouldn’t feel alone. Many patients with dentures feel that their prosthetic teeth are not stable enough to chew food and speak. Fortunately, using dental implants to anchor and support prosthetic teeth affords patients with dentures the opportunity to eat all of their favorite foods with ease and speak without obstruction. Our experienced oral surgeon utilizes the revolutionary All-on-4 method to help you reclaim optimal oral function and your confidence.

How the All-on-4 Method Works

The All-on-4 method anchors dentures below the surface of the gums. This is done by surgically embedding four dental implants into the jawbone. Placed in strategic locations, these titanium implants will hold prosthetic teeth firmly in place, much like a tooth’s roots stabilize a tooth. With this method, only four implants are required for each set of teeth, and many patients enjoy a complete smile in a same-day procedure.

The All-on-4 method anchors dentures below the surface of the gums.

Dental implants have been used to replace teeth for quite some time. In addition to anchoring a set of teeth, they are also used to replace a single tooth. The reason that implants are so effective at improving oral function is because of their composition. Bones in the body integrate and fuse to titanium through a process called osseintegration. This biological process allows the jawbone to hold the implant in place permanently.

All-on-4 vs. Traditional Dentures

When compared to traditional dentures, the All-on-4 method provides unique advantages to our patients. Dental implants help prevent the body from resorbing bone mass, thus preventing the need for new sets of dentures every few years. Implant supported dentures also do not require messy adhesives to stay in place. Because prosthetic teeth are held in place, patients do not have to worry about their dentures moving in their mouths—especially when chewing tough foods.

Our oral surgeons welcome you to schedule a consultation at our practice where our team can help you evaluate your tooth replacement options. To set up an appointment, contact us today.

Dental Implants: Enjoy the health benefits of a complete smile

Jul 12

Have you lost one or more teeth? If you have, you are likely feeling self-conscious about your smile and you may have noticed changes in your gums and shape of your mouth. Not only is losing teeth a traumatic and distressing experience, it will also negatively affect your oral health. Fortunately, you can enjoy a complete smile and a number of oral health benefits by receiving dental implants from our oral surgeon.

How Dental Implants Benefit Oral Health

Beyond filling in the gaps of a smile missing teeth, dental implants support the entire oral health system. Your gums, teeth, and facial bones work together to support the structures in your mouth. When a part of this system is damaged or missing, it will affect the entire mouth. An example of this is the fact that when a tooth is lost, a patient holds a higher risk for losing even more teeth because teeth near empty sockets will shift and move because they lack proper support. Dental implants are permanent and sturdy and provide the support teeth require to stay in place. An additional benefit to receiving implants is that they support bone health and prevent the body from resorbing bone mass, which is very common after tooth loss.

The Components of a Dental Implant

Compared to other types of tooth replacement methods like dentures, dental implants are very unique. A dental implant consists of two major components. The first part is a titanium post or rod that is inserted surgically into the jawbone where it will replace a biological tooth’s structure below the surface of the gums, much like a tooth’s root. After a patient has healed appropriately after the initial procedure, a dental crown will be attached to the titanium rod. A crown is a tooth-shaped prosthetic that is created in a dental laboratory to the exact needs of the patient. The crown provides a biting surface for chewing or tearing food and fills in the gap of a lost tooth.

To learn more about your tooth replacement options, we welcome you to schedule a consultation with our skilled team of oral surgeons.

Adjusting to Dentures: What should I expect during the first few weeks?

Jul 3

Losing teeth is distressing for many patients because speaking and eating is difficult. An incomplete smile is also difficult for patients on a psychological level. It is not out the ordinary for patients to develop a depressed mood or a lack of self-esteem. Some patients may even develop social phobias because they feel embarrassed by their appearance. Fortunately, our oral surgeon can remedy the negative effects of tooth loss with implant-supported dentures. Using the revolutionary All-on-4 method, patients enjoy a complete and stable smile that functions well and appears natural.

How do implants support dentures?

Dental implants are small titanium rods that resemble a screw. They are used to replace a single tooth or support a full arch of prosthetic teeth. When used for supporting dentures, our oral surgeon will surgically embed four implants in the upper or lower jaw in strategic locations. Because of their positioning, patients enjoy a stable anchor or pillar for their dentures. This allows patients to eat without difficulty and speak easily. Their dentures will not move in their mouths as traditional dentures do—especially dentures that have worn for years. Furthermore, sticky adhesives are not required to keep dentures in place.

Using the revolutionary All-on-4 method, patients enjoy a complete and stable smile that functions well and appears natural.

What should I expect after my procedure?

If you are receiving All-on-4 dentures, you will undergo an oral surgery where the titanium implants are placed into your jawbone. During your procedure, our team will use sedative and anesthetic medication to ensure your comfort and relaxation. A set of prosthetic teeth will also be made for you in a dental laboratory. Your prosthetic teeth will be tailored to precise measurements determined by our oral surgeon so that you enjoy a comfortable fit and natural look. Just like receiving any type of prosthetics to replace lost teeth, there will be a period of adjustment. This period varies from patient to patient as they become accustomed to their new teeth. Many patients receiving All-on-4 dentures report a shorter adjustment period than patients with traditional dentures.

Our team will provide a packet of information for you to read for your procedure so you know what to expect and how to care for your new smile. To schedule a tooth replacement consultation with our oral surgeons, contact either of our convenient practice locations today.

Ask About your Oral Surgeon’s In-Depth Anesthesia Certification

Jun 24

Anesthetic medicine helps our patients feel at ease and comfortable during oral surgery procedures. In fact, anesthesia is used for a number or oral and maxillofacial surgeries including wisdom teeth removal and dental implant placement. Our oral surgeons, Dr. Sherry, Dr. Wallace, Dr. Gannon, and Dr. Lee, possess additional training and education to provide effective sedation and anesthesia to our patients.

Types of Anesthesia

There two types of anesthesia, local and general. You have probably received local anesthesia at least once in your lifetime. The most common form of local anesthesia in a dental or oral surgery practice is nitrous oxide. This is a short-acting gas delivered by a facial mask that produces feelings of euphoria and relaxation. Local anesthesia is typically used in short, minimally invasive procedures while general anesthesia is reserved for more complex services.

Oral and IV Sedation

Sedative medication, like anesthesia, promotes patient comfort by relieving anxiety. Working with the GABA receptors in the brain, sedatives reduce feelings of panic and worry while also promoting a calm and serene state of mind. Oral sedatives are typically taken before a short procedure and are very mild in nature. For procedures that require stillness such as the placement of dental implants, IV sedation is especially helpful. IV sedation is administered in a highly controlled environment where the dosage is carefully determined by our staff. Because administering medication intravenously is very precise, patients receive the amount of medication that is right for them. Both Dr. Sherry, Dr. Wallace, Dr. Gannon, and Dr. Lee hold certification to administer general anesthesia and IV sedation.

In addition to the training and experience of our oral surgeons, our team possesses in-depth training as well in CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation), PALS (pediatric life support), and ACLS (advanced cardiac life support). We take all measures necessary to provide the most comfortable and safe environment possible for our guests.

To schedule a consultation with one of our oral surgeons or to inquire about medication for an upcoming procedure, contact either of our convenient locations today.

Wisdom Tooth Removal: Reduce the Risk of Periodontal Disease

Jun 16

Unlike other permanent teeth, wisdom teeth emerge in early adulthood. Most patients’ wisdom teeth begin to erupt the gums between the ages of 17 and 25. Because these teeth erupt much later than other teeth, they present a number of issues including discomfort, orthodontic problems, and an increased risk for tooth decay, abscesses, and periodontal disease. Wisdom teeth removal is an important service provided by our oral surgeon that helps improve a patient’s oral health and quality of life.

The Need for Wisdom Teeth Removal

The most common reason for removing wisdom teeth is that these teeth tend to come in sideways when they erupt the gums. Sometimes, wisdom teeth become impacted into the gums or crowd existing teeth. It is not uncommon for teeth to become crooked and overlapped when wisdom teeth erupt, too. This can reverse previous orthodontic treatment and make proper oral hygiene difficult. Many patients experience facial pain and recurring headaches as well when wisdom teeth come in.

Because these teeth erupt much later than other teeth, they present a number of issues including discomfort, orthodontic problems, and an increased risk for tooth decay, abscesses, and periodontal disease.

Oral Hygiene Problems Associated with Wisdom Teeth

Since wisdom teeth are located at the back of the mouth and often partially erupt or come in crooked, cleaning them is difficult. Because of their location, these teeth are susceptible to decay and the gums are susceptible to periodontal disease. If wisdom teeth create crowding among other teeth, thoroughly cleaning in between teeth is also more difficult. Inadequate oral hygiene leads to tartar accumulation, which is a major factor in the development of gum disease. When left untreated, periodontal disease causes a systemic oral infection and ultimately leads to tooth loss.

Extracting wisdom teeth is a common minor oral surgery that can prevent the onset of many oral health conditions including periodontal disease. When removing wisdom teeth, our oral surgeon takes great care to ensure that patients are comfortable and relaxed. Our team will provide sedative and anesthetic medicine and patients will receive information regarding post-operative care after their procedure to promote a speedy recovery.

To schedule an appointment with our experienced and gentle team, call Dallas Oral Surgery Associates today.

Dental Implants: An Investment Worth Smiling About

Jun 4

Did you know that dental implants, when properly placed and cared for, could last for a lifetime? This is because dental implants are the most durable method of permanent tooth replacement available. At first glance, many patients may reconsider their options after learning the cost of dental implants. However, when consulting with patients, our oral surgeon encourages patients to view dental implants as an investment in one’s oral health and general wellbeing that can prevent the need for costly, time consuming, and invasive dental and oral procedures in the future.

An Overview of Dental Implants

Dental implants are the most life-like method for replacing teeth. With a titanium post and a custom crown, a dental implant replaces both a tooth’s visible structures and the structures beneath the gum line. Functioning like a tooth’s root, the titanium post possesses a screw-like texture. Over time, bone will fuse around the post, securing it in place. The crown is attached to the post with an abutment and provides a natural-looking and stable biting surface for eating food comfortably and efficiently.

Health Benefits and Financial Advantages of Dental Implants

Because dental implants replace a tooth’s roots, patients are not as likely to experience bone atrophy. This allows the patient to maintain adequate bone structure to support existing teeth and gums. For example, patients with dentures will experience bone atrophy and their jaw will begin to change shape. Over time, patients’ dentures will cease to fit properly and eventually need multiple replacements. Furthermore, patients who lose gum tissue and bone mass to tooth loss may require more invasive procedures such as tissue grafting and full-mouth rehabilitation, which is costly and time consuming. The cost of dental implants is also offset by the fact that implants support adjacent teeth, thus minimizing the incidence of further tooth loss and the need for prosthetics like bridges and partial dentures.

To reserve a consultation with our oral surgeons regarding your tooth replacement options, contact either of our convenient locations today.

Steps to Prevent Facial Injuries

May 24

oral surgeon Dallas A severe injury can end up resulting in a trip to the oral surgeon, so most patients want to do as much as possible to prevent such problems whenever possible.

Some steps to prevent facial injuries are quite simple. For example, many patients find themselves visiting an oral surgeon to repair a fractured jaw or other facial trauma suffered in a car accident.

Therefore, be sure to buckle up every time you get in the car. That restraint can help reduce your likelihood of facial fractures if you are in an accident.

Additionally, reducing your risk of an accident by avoiding drunk driving and driving at the speed limit can also help to prevent facial injuries.

You can also look at your home setup to reduce the risk of facial injuries that could require oral surgery. Walk through each room and examine it for possible tripping hazards, like loose rugs. Keeping your floors clear can prevent falls that can result in a broken jaw or other facial fracture. This is especially important for older adults, who are more prone to falling at home and tend to suffer more traumatic injuries from such a fall.

Wearing a custom-fitted mouthguard can go a long way to protect an athlete from severe facial trauma while playing contact sports.

During winter months, be sure to keep your sidewalks clear of ice, too – for your own benefit as well as that of your neighbors.

Athletes are particularly prone to facial injuries, too. Wearing a custom-fitted mouthguard can go a long way to protect an athlete from severe facial trauma while playing contact sports. A dental provider can design one to meet your unique specifications so that it has an effective fit, unlike boil-and-bite varieties.

Even recreational athletes, like rock climbers, rollerbladers or occasional bike riders should also wear helmets to prevent facial injuries.

Patients can take a number of precautions to reduce their risk of facial trauma. However, if you do suffer from a facial injury, schedule a consultation with our team at Oral Surgery Associates of North Texas as quickly as possible to identify the appropriate intervention to repair the damage. This step can help you achieve your desired treatment outcomes.