Restorative Denstistry Archives - Smile Glen Ellyn Restorative Dentist
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30Mar

Dental implants are a reliable and successful method for replacing broken or missing teeth. Not only do they offer a sturdy foundation for replacement teeth, but they also safeguard the adjacent gums and teeth from more destruction, future tooth loss, and gum recession. To better understand how dental implants prevent such issues, we will further explore their advantages over other solutions and uncover what factors influence optimal oral health.

Understanding Tooth Loss and Gum Recession

Poor oral hygiene, gum disease, trauma, age-related wear-and-tear, teeth grinding or clenching, and various medical conditions can all contribute to the ravaging effects of tooth loss and gum recession. Through these issues problematic for many individuals, an insidious process takes place; slowly eroding away the bone supporting your teeth until it is ultimately lost – resulting in unfortunate tooth loss and unsightly receding gums.

If left untreated, the repercussions of this can be far-reaching, eroding adjacent teeth and impacting your self-esteem due to aesthetic concerns. Therefore, it is paramount to act urgently to avoid tooth loss or gum recession.

The Basics of Dental Implants

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots surgically inserted into the jawbone to provide a secure foundation for replacement teeth. They consist of titanium screws that integrate with the jawbone and support an artificial tooth crown or bridge, restoring aesthetics and functionality.

Dental implants provide greater stability, comfort, and durability than other options, such as dentures or bridges. They also help preserve the adjacent teeth by preventing them from shifting into the space of missing teeth.

How Dental Implants Prevent Further Tooth Loss and Gum Recession

Dental implants offer an appealing, purposeful alternative for decayed or missing teeth and help sustain the existing bone structure in your jaw. The titanium screws to secure dental implants stimulate the underlying jawbone, preserving its shape and density. At the same time, regular chew-and-gnaw motions produce new bone cells, thereby slowing any further loss of mass.

Dental implants help preserve the adjacent teeth and gums by providing a strong foundation for replacement teeth and preventing them from shifting into the space of missing teeth. This helps to reduce the risk of further tooth loss or gum recession due to additional pressure on surrounding teeth.

Studies have shown that dental implants provide greater stability, comfort, and durability than other options for replacing missing teeth. A study published in the Journal of Oral Implantology found that implant-supported replacement teeth had a 94% success rate after 10 years, compared to 93% for bridge-supported replacements. Additionally, research from the International Association for Dental Research found that implant-supported crowns and bridges were more effective than removable dentures in preserving the adjacent teeth from shifting.

Other Factors to Consider

To protect against possible tooth loss and gum recession, it is critical to pick the correct dental replacement option and practice good oral hygiene routinely. Keeping your teeth free from plaque buildup by brushing and flossing regularly can help preserve strong teeth and gums; further, frequent visits with a dentist will enable them to recognize issues early on before they become more severe.

Not only does smoking cause discoloration of the teeth and bad breath, but is also a risk factor for cavities and gum disease. Additionally, research has shown that smoking results in bone loss around the jawbone, leading to tooth deterioration and receding gums. Therefore, individuals should be aware that lifestyle choices such as tobacco consumption may have long-term effects on oral health.

Similarly, poor diet and nutrition can also have a negative effect on oral health. Eating many sugary or acidic foods and beverages can increase the risk of tooth decay. Not getting enough vitamins and minerals like calcium can contribute to weak and brittle teeth. Inadequate nutrition can also lead to gum recession due to the weakened tissue in the mouth.

By making healthy lifestyle choices, practicing good oral hygiene, and getting regular dental checkups, you can help prevent further tooth loss and gum recession. Additionally, choosing a solution such as dental implants can provide a secure foundation and help stimulate the jawbone, reducing the risk of further tooth loss or gum recession.

Conclusion

Dental implants are ideal for those looking to replace missing or damaged teeth, as they create a stable foundation for replacement teeth and support jawbone growth. It is also important to remember that in addition to selecting the proper tooth replacement method, good oral hygiene and regular dental visits are critical components of optimal oral health. With this combination, you can ensure your smile looks great while keeping your mouth healthy!

Before committing to dental implants, it is essential that you speak with a dentist and decide if they are the right choice for your needs. With proper care, these implants can be an excellent way to maintain a healthy and attractive smile long-term!

28Feb

What is a Root Canal?

Are you experiencing the discomfort of an aching, inflamed tooth? Root canal therapy can provide relief. Not only will it cleanse and purify your root canal, but we’ll seal off any future infection so that you won’t have to worry about this happening again! Don’t allow yourself to be in pain; take back control with root canal therapy today.

What are the signs of needing a root canal?

If you often experience pain, swelling, or bleeding around a tooth and extreme sensitivity when eating food and drinking hot or cold fluids, then it’s likely time for root canal treatment.

  • Sharp pain while chewing or biting
  • Pimples on the gums
  • A chipped or cracked tooth
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers even after the sensation has been removed.
  • Swollen or tender gums
  • Deep decay or darkening of the gums

Will I feel pain during or after the root canal?

Root canals are generally performed to lessen the uneasiness caused by an infection or inflammation in a tooth’s pulp. Fortunately, due to sophisticated numbing techniques, most people do not feel any discomfort during and after their procedure.

Post-treatment, you may encounter a few days of sensitivity in your tooth. Pain or infection could be more pronounced if there existed before the procedure. The discomfort and anguish can be alleviated with over-the-counter medications or even prescription drugs if necessary, so heed your dentist’s advice precisely for the best results!

After your endodontic treatment, your tooth may feel slightly different from your other teeth. If you experience severe pain or pressure lasting longer than a few days, it is best to call your dentist.

How much will the root canal procedure cost?

When calculating the cost of this dental procedure, numerous factors must be considered, including which tooth needs treatment and how severe your condition is. Molars often require more detailed care and thus come with a higher fee. Luckily, many dental insurance policies will cover some (if not all) endodontic therapy expenses.

In general, endodontic treatment and restoration of the natural tooth cost less than extracting the tooth. If a tooth is removed, an implant or bridge must be placed to support the teeth on either side and enable chewing. These alternative procedures can often cost more than endodontic treatment and restoration.

After the procedure, will the tooth need any special care or additional treatments?

To protect your treated tooth from fracturing, you should book an appointment with your dentist for a complete restoration as soon as possible. Meanwhile, do not chew or bite down on the treated area until it is restored. Maintaining good oral hygiene habits such as brushing and flossing daily and regular dental checkups are essential for keeping your teeth healthy. Make sure these remain part of your routine!

What can I eat after a root canal?

Following a root canal, try to eat softer foods that don’t require much chewing. This will help you recover quickly and comfortably. This includes applesauce, yogurt, eggs, and fish. Be careful when consuming hard or hot foods to prevent cavities or tooth pain. Some dentists recommend not eating for a few hours until the numbness from dental work fades, so you don’t accidentally bite your cheek or tongue.

Does a root canal kill the tooth?

A root canal may remove the tissue but doesn’t kill the tooth. In fact, after a successful root canal procedure, your treated tooth will return to work just like it did before you had any issues. Although root canals remove the nerves inside a tooth, these nerves are not essential for a fully formed tooth.

28Nov

Do you ever look in the mirror wishing for a brighter, whiter smile? If so, no doubt you have considered one of two popular – yet very different – ways to achieve that perfect white smile – teeth whitening or veneers. Both procedures offer subtle results with few risks and can take years off your appearance.

But although they both cover similar ground, there are important differences between teeth whitening and veneers that should be considered before making any decisions about your oral health. This post will examine which procedure is right for you by reviewing the costs associated with each treatment and what you can expect from its effects on your overall dental care routine.

The pros and cons of teeth whitening

A whiter smile is something that many people wish for, and teeth whitening can help to achieve this. Teeth whitening procedures have become very popular in recent years as they are effective and relatively affordable. While the results will vary depending on the whitening method used, there are numerous benefits to be gained by undergoing this process. Most notably, teeth whitening can dramatically improve one’s self-esteem and confidence levels by elevating the visual aspect of their smile.

Additionally, improved oral hygiene can also be achieved due to increased motivation to take better care of teeth after the successful results of whitening. Furthermore, professional teeth whitening can provide a more cost-effective approach than buying over-the-counter alternatives, which may not produce desired outcomes or last long periods. All told, teeth whitening carries several compelling advantages for those wanting to whiten their smile and boost their overall appearance.

Teeth whitening is a popular procedure; however, it has a few drawbacks. Bleaching can cause your teeth to become more sensitive due to removing essential minerals. In some cases, this sensitivity can last for several months.

Home kits are typically less effective than visiting a dentist, as they often contain lower bleaching agents and are harder to use correctly. Additionally, you may end up having discolored teeth if you overuse at-home whitening products or have bacteria trapped in dental pockets in your gums.

The pros and cons of dental veneers

Dental veneers are a dental restoration that can be used to help improve the look of teeth. There are many pros associated with getting dental veneers, including improved appearance, greater enamel protection, and reduced chances of further decay and staining. The ability to modify the shape and alignment of your teeth makes them an excellent option for those looking to improve their smile in a non-invasive and time-efficient way.

Veneers are also more affordable than more involved procedures such as crowns or implants. Furthermore, veneers generally last between 7 and 15 years when properly cared for, meaning you can enjoy your restored smile for years after the procedure. With so many benefits, it is no wonder why dental veneers have become an increasingly popular choice among those who want to enhance their smile.

Dental veneers offer a durable solution to discoloration issues, but they come with specific drawbacks compared to teeth whitening as a treatment option. Veneers are permanent and irreversible – where teeth whitening is a temporary fix that can be reapplied as needed – so it’s important that you’re sure you want the new look before committing. Additionally, the procedure usually involves removing some tooth enamel to allow for the application, which can be uncomfortable. Reducing enamel increases the risk of tooth sensitivity in the future.

Lastly, good quality veneers are more costly than whitening, so consider your overall budget when deciding between teeth whitening or veneer placement.

Which is the right choice for you?

If you’re looking for a quick fix and teeth whitening sounds like it will do the trick, go ahead and book an appointment. However, if you want to achieve long-term results with minimal upkeep, veneers may be a better option for you. No matter what your decision is, we can help. Contact us today for a free consultation, and we’ll work with you to find the best solution for your unique needs.

30Oct

Advances in dentistry have made it possible to restore a beautiful and healthy smile more quickly and effectively. In the past, people who lost most or all of their teeth had to settle for wearing uncomfortable dentures. Dental implants allow people to have fully functional replacement teeth that look and feel natural.

What are All-on-Four Dental Implants?

All-on-Four offers a unique solution to those needing a full arch (top or bottom set) of fixed, replacement teeth. All-on-Four dental implants are also known as implant dentures or snap-in dentures.

These implants consist of several key elements:

  • Four dental implants in the jaw serve as the anchoring points for a long-lasting denture.
  • Four abutments above the gum where replacement teeth will be mounted.
  • A row of full replacement teeth.
  • Retaining screw to connect the denture to the abutments and implants.

All-on-Four dental implants are not as easily removed as dentures and are considered more permanent replacements. Depending on how well you take care of them, dental implants can last forever–but replacement dentures will need to be replaced at least every eight years.

How do All-on-Four dental implants compare to traditional implants?

The All-on-Four dental implant technique is usually quicker and has a shorter healing time because it only uses four implants for each arch, as opposed to the six to eight used in traditional implants. The implants of the All-on-4 procedure are also placed at an angle. This allows for increased contact and support from your bone. The All-on-Four procedure is not only less invasive, but it also doesn’t require bone grafting for most patients. In conclusion, All-on-4 dental implants are a more efficient and cost-effective method with less pain.

How Does All-on-Four Work?

The All-on-Four procedure is a dental implant method in which dentures are permanently affixed to a patient’s gums. The system is specifically designed to use four dental implants to keep dentures securely in place. Dental implants can take some time to be placed and may require additional procedures like bone grafting for certain patients.

Dental implants consist of three main parts:

The “root”: We surgically place a titanium rod into the jawbone in this step. This part of the treatment usually takes several weeks to complete before moving on to the next stage.

Abutment: the part of the implant that will hold the dentures in place

False teeth: In this case, a denture plate is used to replace missing teeth, but in other instances, crowns are used.

Once the implants have been placed and have had time to heal, dentures can be affixed to them. And that’s it! A patient’s brand-new teeth will now be solid and secure.

All-on-Four Process

On average, the surgery lasts two hours and 30 minutes for each arch. We can put All-on-Four implants in your upper or lower teeth or both at the same time. Dentists may make teeth cleanings look easy, but surgery is complex. However, we can complete it quickly and efficiently. There are four steps to getting All-on-Four implants:

Step 1: We will examine your records, current oral health, whether you have Dentures, what your facial structure needs are for implants, and any other relevant factors.

Step 2: The procedure generally uses CT scans, which are three-dimensional images of the jawbone. The scans show us where to place the replacement teeth and provide vital data about the position of nearby nerves and sinuses.

Step 3: We use technological advances to create a computer simulation of your implants, so we can digitally position them into the jawbone. This gives you more support from your replacement teeth. We will custom-fit your implants and new teeth to your mouth.

Step 4: The final and most crucial step is the oral surgery. We will place implants in your jawbone to securely hold your new teeth during surgery. To ensure that you are comfortable, we will provide anesthesia beforehand.

Customized Implant Solutions for Your Needs

We’re dedicated to providing top-notch care for our patients and always consider their unique needs. Instead of immediately recommending All-on-Four dentures to every patient who wants them, we listen to your concerns and needs to ensure that this is the best solution for you. At our dental practice, we walk you through your options and ensure you’re comfortable with the choices before moving forward. We understand that deciding on treatment can be difficult, and we never force anyone into a decision. We want our patients to take the time to make a choice that will positively impact the rest of their lives. We vow to make you feel comfortable during every step of the treatment process.

Dental Smile
15Sep

Special moments are often highlighted by a genuine smile. Whether it’s a graduation,  wedding, anniversary, important birthday, or family reunion, or another of life’s major milestones, the experiences are accompanied by a great smile. But if you are self-conscious about your teeth, you may be looking for a better smile. Dr. Gibbs offers numerous cosmetic dental procedures that can help improve and transform your smile. Here are five cosmetic treatments and how they help give you a new smile design.

 Get a Better Smile with Dental Implants

Dental implants are one of the most popular and practical tooth replacement options. They are surgically implanted into the jawbone, so they are sturdy and feel like your natural teeth. Implants are so natural-looking that others will not be able to tell you have dental implants. They blend naturally into your smile design, restoring aesthetics and function at the same time.

 Make Veneers Part of Your Smile Design

Veneers are one of the simplest cosmetic dental procedures, but they have a dramatic effect on your smile and appearance. Dental veneers are very thin shells that add a layer to the surface of your teeth. They are used to conceal flaws, improve your teeth’s appearance, and even out uneven teeth. A little bit of the front of the tooth must be reduced for veneers to be placed. They look natural and greatly improve your smile’s appearance. Porcelain veneers are the most popular choice.

 Let Dr. Gibbs Transform your Smile with Lumineers

Dental Lumineers are one type of veneer. They are much thinner than porcelain veneers and the teeth don’t have to be reduced before they are placed. Lumineers are popular with patients who don’t like the idea of having their natural teeth reduced and with those who prefer a material option other than porcelain.

 Teeth Whitening in Glen Ellyn Can Transform Your Smile

If you want a better smile fast, schedule an appointment with Dr. Jessica Gibbs to have your teeth whitened. Your teeth stain easily when exposed to things like soda, tea, and coffee every day. If you are looking for a low-cost way to improve your smile, teeth whitening is the way to go. Just one trip to your Glen Ellyn dentist will help make over and improve your smile.  

 Check Out Ceramic Crowns at Your Glen Ellyn Dentist

If your teeth are stained, cracked, or discolored, dental crowns are a great way to give your smile a makeover. Crowns are a non-surgical procedure. A small cap or crown is placed over the damaged or discolored tooth. This helps give you a better smile by improving the appearance of the tooth. But it also makes the tooth stronger and prevents further damage. They fit comfortably and are a long-lasting treatment option that helps your teeth look and feel better.

 Ready for a Better Smile?

If you are ready for a new smile design, any of these five cosmetic dental treatments can help give you a whole new smile. If you are not sure which option is right for you, or which one will be best for improving your teeth’s appearance, please contact us to schedule an exam with Dr. Jessica Gibbs. She can recommend treatment based on your teeth’s appearance. Let us help you get the smile you desire!

Dental Implants
15Feb

Thanks to modern dentistry, false teeth are no longer the only option for replacing missing teeth. If you are missing one or more teeth, you have more options available than ever before. Drs. Gibbs may recommend dental implants or partial dentures. While either option is reasonable, improves your smile, and restores tooth function, there are pros and cons for both dental implants and partial dentures. To make the right choice, you’ll want to consider several things.

Your Current Dental Health

Most people are candidates for dental implants, but it can depend on your dental health and whether or not you have a healthy jawbone capable of supporting implants. If you do not, it is still very likely you can be fitted with dental implants Dr. Thomas Gibbs can perform bone grafts to rebuild the jawbone. A partial denture is suitable in most cases on a temporary basis and can often be worn until your mouth is healthy enough to support implants.

 Aesthetic Appearance

Generally, dental implants tend to be more aesthetic than partial dentures. Both provide a realistic appearance. However, the clasps that attach partials to your natural teeth can be visible. In terms of teeth replacement, implants and dentures help preserve your natural smile. Implants look and function closer to your natural teeth.

 Comfort of Partial Dentures vs Dental Implants

Dental implants are fused to the jawbone, so they remain securely in place. Partial dentures are attached to natural teeth but are mostly supported by gums. They can rub or slip which can cause sore spots. Partials can make it difficult to eat crunchy and chewy foods comfortably.

 Cost of Dental Implants and Partial Dentures

The price of dental implants continues to be affordable for many, and some insurance companies now cover them. They are still more expensive than dentures. However, implants are a permanent solution that will last as long as natural teeth with proper care.

 Stability and Strength

Partial dentures restore about 25% of your natural bite strength. When bite strength is inadequate, it’s harder to eat foods like steak or corn on the cob. Dental implants feel more like natural teeth and help restore over 90% of your biting strength. This allows you to continue enjoying all your favorite foods, and can often have a beneficial impact on allowing you to continue eating nutritious and healthful foods.

 Future of Your Oral Health

When a tooth or multiple teeth are removed, gum tissue and the jawbone begin to shrink. Over some time, this causes the face to have a sunken appearance which can make you look older. Even if your dentures are well-fitted, they eventually become loose. Wearing dentures long-term can also cause chronic sores and inflammation in your mouth. This raises your risk of developing gum disease. Since dental implants replace both the entire tooth including the root which helps prevent or reduce bone loss. They also reduce your risk for gum disease, mouth sores, and inflammation.

 How long do implants and partial dentures last?

With proper maintenance, partial dentures can last for between six and eight years. Implants, on the other hand, can last a lifetime with proper care. Since they are made from porcelain and metal, they are not susceptible to bacteria that cause cavities and decay.

 Implants vs Dentures

Partial dentures are removable whereas implants are not. Partials are anchored to natural teeth. Implants create a stable base, and each implant supports a single crown. If you are missing a few teeth in a row, an implant-supported bridge is an option that only requires two implants.

 Contact Smile Glen Ellyn

If you are ready to smile again, contact Dr. Gibbs at Smile Glen Ellyn. After a thorough exam and x-rays, Dr. Jessica Gibbs can make recommendations to help you make the best choice for you. Call us today to schedule your exam.

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