tooth loss Archives - Smile Glen Ellyn Restorative Dentist
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Tag: tooth loss

hockey player with a knocked-out tooth
15Feb

A knocked-out tooth is more common than most people realize. It often occurs to kids and active adults and especially those who play contact sports. If a tooth is chipped, you can gather up the pieces and take them to your Glen Ellyn, IL dentist to get the tooth repaired. But what are you supposed to do if a whole tooth gets knocked out?

What to do With a Knocked-Out Tooth

Here are a few tips from Dr. Gibbs on what to do if you or a child has a tooth knocked out.

  • If it was a child who lost the tooth, check to see if it is an adult tooth (a permanent tooth) or a baby tooth. Baby teeth are not re-implanted.
  • Do not touch the root of the tooth. The root has fibers called periodontal ligaments. These are needed for the tooth to heal properly once it is reimplanted. Only handle the tooth by the surface or top area.
  • If you can tell that the tooth is dirty, carefully, and briefly rinse it with tap water. Don’t rub or scrub the tooth.
  • If at all possible, go ahead and place the tooth back in its socket and call your Smile Glen Ellyn dentist.
  •  If you cannot put the tooth back in the socket for any reason, take the tooth and go immediately to the dentist’s office or the emergency room. While you are en route to the emergency dentist or the ER, place the tooth in the mouth between the cheek and gum. Or put it in a small container of milk to keep the root moist.

Why Timely Action is Important

Time is extremely important when it comes to saving a knocked-out tooth. If it can be placed back in the socket within five minutes, it has a better chance of being saved. If you store the tooth properly there is still a good survival rate up to an hour. However, once the tooth is out of the socket over an hour the chances of its survival decrease significantly.

What the Dentist can do with a Knocked Out Tooth

Once you get to Dr. Gibbs’ office, he will try to re-implant the tooth in its socket. Then, it is splinted to the adjacent teeth for at least two weeks to give it time to heal. Sometimes, putting the tooth back in the socket is a simple process. Other times, it is complicated, such as if a bone or the tooth are broken. Dr. Gibbs will rinse the debris from the socket and then attempt to gently slip the tooth back in place.

If needed, a root canal will be performed. This may give the tooth a better chance of surviving. If the bone near the tooth wasn’t fractured, the root usually reattaches firmly in three or four weeks. Of course, if there is more significant physical damage to the area, it can take longer for it to heal.

field hockey players wearing mouthguards

Why Protect Your Teeth with a Mouthguard?

Do you have a mouthguard in your gym bag? You may not have thought about it before. But getting injured while playing sports or working out is real. Wearing a mouthguard during any kind of workout such as cycling, CrossFit, or running can help protect your teeth. And it’s certainly a must for any kind of sport where you may come into contact with other people. Why should you wear a mouthguard?

  • Knocking out a permanent tooth can be expensive to fix, especially if your insurance doesn’t cover sports-related injuries.
  • It’s easy to get a tooth knocked out while exercising, especially if you are participating in contact sports like kickboxing, martial arts, or boxing. A mouthguard can protect your teeth from accidentally being knocked out by a sparring partner.
  • If you break an adult tooth, it’s permanent. They do not grow back. There are restorative treatments that can help improve their appearance, but it’s not the same as having your natural teeth.

How does a mouthguard protect your teeth during exercise?

If you fall or get punched in the head, your teeth can tap each other. They can crack, become loosened, or get knocked out during rigorous activities. A mouthguard absorbs the force of the fall or other contact and protects the teeth from chipping, breaking, or getting knocked out. Mouthguards are designed to protect your teeth from impact. Any type of mouthguard (ready-made, custom-formed, or boil-and-bite) can add a much-needed layer of protection for your teeth while playing sports or participating in rigorous activities.

Contact Us

If you knock a tooth out or have another dental emergency and it’s not during our regular office hours, please call us! We can help you get the care you need. A Glen Ellyn dentist can also recommend a mouthguard to help you prevent tooth injuries. He can make a custom-made mouthguard for you to wear during activities or sports. Or he can recommend a style that will be suitable for your activity level and provide your teeth with the protection they need. 

Dental Exam in USA
15Jul

An exposed tooth root can be an uncomfortable, inconvenient dental issue. It’s a problem that can occasionally result from receding gums, or from any sort of trauma that causes gum damage. It can also be a sign of gum disease, including severe periodontitis where the gum tissue has regressed significantly. Older adults are at greater risk. 

It’s important to recognize the symptoms of an exposed tooth root and the steps you can take to deal with the issue. Dr. Jessica Gibbs is pleased to meet with patients to discuss exposed root problems and your dental health. Here’s what you need to know about how to handle exposed tooth roots in anticipation of a dental appointment. 

How to spot an exposed tooth root

The tooth root is the part of the tooth that extends down into the socket of the bone in the jaw. These roots are covered by a hard tissue called cementum. Exposed tooth roots typically occur when that cementum wears away over time with brushing. As the gums recede and the cementum wears down, you may begin to see a little bit of the exposed tooth root.

Symptoms of an exposed root

The symptoms of exposed tooth roots vary depending on what caused the issue to begin with. In some cases, you might be able to see the exposed root without any other accompanying symptoms. In other cases, there are several telltale signs of an exposed tooth root. When symptoms do occur, these are among the most common examples:

  • Discoloration: For people who experience exposed roots as a result of tooth decay, you’re likely to notice some discoloration in the tooth. This includes yellowing or browning. 
  • Gum tenderness: If you have exposed tooth roots, you might start to notice sore gums or feelings of tenderness during brushing, or if you press on them. Gums may even start to bleed during brushing or flossing.
  • Appearance: Teeth that have exposed roots might appear to be longer than usual, or than other teeth in the mouth, especially if the gum line is receding.
  • General sensitivity: You might experience sensitivity around the affected tooth in circumstances aside from brushing, such as when you’re eating food that’s hot, cold, or particularly sweet, sour or acidic.

What NOT to do if you have root pain

If you’re experiencing root pain caused by an exposed tooth root, don’t delay in taking action. Not tackling the problem only allows it to become worse. Avoid brushing hard on the area, grinding the teeth or other behaviors that could result in a grater level of wear and tear. Avoid chewing gum or hard candies or food items. Most importantly, don’t delay treatment. Pain and discomfort will only persist the longer you avoid dental intervention. 

Exposed roots will get worse without care

An exposed tooth root needs immediate action to correct the problem. This means speaking to a dentist and scheduling an appointment for an examination to begin corrective work.

According to the American Academy of Periodontology, certain root coverage procedures can help you protect exposed roots from decay. Gum grafts and the like can also be effective methods of preventing further recession. Your dentist will analyze your mouth and determine if any of these procedures are an effective means of resolving the problem. Other treatment methods for people with exposed roots as a result of gum recession include:

  • Crowns: Dental crowns cap the tooth to afford it greater strength and protection. Custom crowns are useful for covering exposed roots. 
  • Flap surgery: This surgery involves small incisions in the gums to remove buildup of tartar and bacteria, and to cover up exposed roots.
  • Gingival masks: If the problem extends to multiple teeth, a gingival mask (a type of removable artificial gum) can cover up receding gums.

Other solutions vary depending on the cause. For teeth grinding, dentists may prescribe a mouthguard to avoid worsening the problem. If misaligned teeth are the problem, corrective action like braces, retainers or aligners can help. Finally, if the issue is gum disease, procedures like dental scaling, root planning and root canals may be useful.

Contact Dr. Gibbs if you have root pain

If you’re experiencing tooth pain and believe it’s associated with an exposed root, it’s important to seek the advice of a trusted dentist. They’ll provide guidance about the types of treatments that are most effective for your situation. If you’re in Glen Ellyn, IL, contact Dr. Thomas Gibbs or Dr. Jessica Gibbs with your questions, and for more information about exposed root treatment options.

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.

teeth and gums
15Oct

Gum recession is a condition where the gum tissue surrounding teeth begins to draw away from the teeth. This will reveal more of the affected teeth and can make them look longer than usual. Gum recession is a common problem and very treatable. Since it’s a gradual process, sometimes, people are not even aware of it. There are several potential reasons for gums to recede.

Causes of Gum Recession

The primary cause of gum recession is gum disease. About 30% of the population are genetically predisposed to gum disease. Other causes may include:

  • Damaging gum tissue by brushing too aggressively
  • Tobacco use
  • Grinding teeth especially while asleep

Without treatment, the gums can become increasingly inflamed and sensitive. They also become more susceptible to bacteria. Over time, bone structure and supporting tissue degrade. Eventually, the teeth will begin to rot and die.

How will I know if I have receding gums?

It can be difficult to identify gum recession just by looking at your gums. This is why regular dental appointments with your Glen Ellyn dentist is important. However, there are some signs you can look for in between appointments with Dr. Gibbs. Here are some signs of gum recession:

  • Longer Looking Teeth – After you brush your teeth, look at them to see if they look any longer than before. This is often the first sign of receding gums. If you notice your teeth looking longer than normal, schedule an appointment with Dr. Gibbs as soon as you can.
  • Sensitive Teeth – Sudden increased sensitivity in your teeth is a sign of gum recession and other possible dental conditions. It should not be taken lightly.
  • Gum Line Notch – If you feel a notch at the gum line where the gum and tooth meet, you may have receding gums.

Can I help prevent gum recession?

There are several treatment options for gum recession. Your Glen Ellyn, IL dentist can treat the condition with antibiotics, deep cleaning, regeneration, soft tissue grafts, or pocket depth reduction. But the best treatment is prevention. Here are a few ways you can help prevent gums from receding.

Gentle Teeth Brushing

Brushing your teeth harder doesn’t get them cleaner, and it can cause damage. Aggressive brushing can wear away enamel and contribute to receding gums.

Avoid Tobacco Use

No form of tobacco use is good for your gums or your oral health. Tobacco leaves a sticky residue on teeth and it’s very difficult to remove. When it remains on teeth, it can lead to gum recession. Stopping tobacco use can help eliminate one risk. It can also help reduce your chances of developing oral cancer.

Get Help from Dr. Gibbs for Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding or clenching is often done in your sleep without you knowing you are even doing it. It usually occurs subconsciously when you are under a lot of stress. It can lead to a lot of dental problems, including gum recession. Dr. Gibbs can help correct teeth grinding.

Ask About Aligners

If your teeth are misaligned, it can put more force on the gums and jawbone. This can make it more likely for your gums to recede. Talk to Dr. Gibbs about clear aligners that can help correct your bite and straighten your teeth. This can help reduce your risk of gum recession.

Avoid Piercings in or Near the Mouth

Piercing your tongue or lip or wearing jewelry near your mouth can cause your gums to become irritated. Over time, irritated gum tissue can begin to wear away and lead to gum recession.

Learn More from Your Glen Ellyn Dentist

Call us today to schedule your exam and to learn more about effective treatment options for gum recession. Dr. Gibbs will be happy to answer any questions you have, and you can schedule an exam anytime to address any concerns. Call us today to make an appointment.

 

20Dec

You Could Suffer Tooth Loss
This is a serious consequence that could result if you do not go to the dentist. Tooth loss is an embarrassing problem.

Toothaches
Many people ignore the pain that they suffer when chewing because it is not bothersome. However, if the cause of the toothache is not treated, then it will likely get worse.

Gum Disease
Gum disease, which is sometimes referred to as periodontal disease, can have a negative effects on your teeth. This can occur if you neglect dental care for a long time.

Costly And Painful Dental Treatments
You will likely make a dentist appointment if you continue to suffer from pain. However, you may end up needing expensive and painful dental procedures.

Increase Your Risk of Developing Other Conditions
Many studies have linked tooth decay and gum disease to other health conditions, including diabetes, respiratory problems, dementia, heart disease and certain forms of cancer.

28Oct

Dental Implants Really Work

Welcome back to our oral health blog!

We hope that you are enjoying this beautiful autumn in the Chicago area. With the exception of the Cubs, there is always plenty to smile about.

Unless, of course, you have dental problems that need to be addressed before you feel comfortable flashing those pearly whites.

That is understandable. Especially if you have endured tooth loss as an adult. This can be traumatic, bad for your health, and devastating to your appearance.

Many Americans are in the same boat, so don’t be embarrassed to seek treatment if you are dealing with such a situation.

At Smile Glen Ellyn, we want to restore health and functionality to your mouth and bring back the radiance your smile has been missing. In the grand scheme, the goal is to return your life to normalcy, and to do so quickly. To accomplish this, dental implants are your best bet in most cases.

What’s more, dental implants are placed once and will last the rest of your lifetime, they present no threat of infection, and require no more maintenance than your natural teeth.

They also give you plenty of biting power and look great in your mouth.

Sounds perfect, right?

How Do Dental Implants Work?

Simply put, dental implants replace a missing tooth, or multiple teeth, permanently, in a way that looks and feels natural.

With modern advancements this is possible because a dental implant can now be surgically inserted into your jawbone right in our Glen Ellyn, IL dentist office.

Dental implants are actually made up of three key components: the anchor, the abutment, and the crown.

The anchor is the “root” of the dental implant. It is a titanium post that is usually threaded like a screw or bolt. This is the part that fuses with your jawbone for a solid foundation.

The abutment is the piece that holds the whole implant together, linking the anchor to the crown.

The crown the visible part of the implant that serves as your artificial tooth.

It is designed to look as close in appearance to your natural teeth as possible, and is made of durable materials.

Because there has to be some healing after the anchor is implanted, the process doesn’t wrap up overnight.

But it does move fast. And once the process is complete, you can go back to eating healthy foods that were previously hard to chew. Your cheeks will cease to look sunken-in, and your smile will be brilliant.

Who Is A Good Candidate For Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a miracle of modern dentistry but they aren’t a good solution for everyone with missing teeth.

If you are interested in receiving dental implants, you must be an adult in good health, able to tolerate anesthesia, and currently a non-smoker.

In the event that you meet our basic criteria and want to move forward, then give us a call and make an appointment for your implant consultation.

Call Smile Glen Ellyn Today!

Call us at 630-858-8800 or click here for more details to book your appointment now online.

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