Are your teeth looking a little dull lately? It is common for teeth to gain a yellow tint over time or even varying shades of brown. The things you eat and drink sometimes play a part in the discoloration of your teeth.
The good news is that there are teeth whitening treatments that can remove these discolorations, sometimes referred to as bleaching. If you’re considering getting a whitening treatment or if you’ve had one recently, there are some foods you may want to avoid to help your results last longer.
Here are 5 foods and drinks that are known to cause tooth discoloration.
- Coffee and Tea. The two most common beverages are some of the most notorious for causing tooth discoloration. Whether you drink them black or with milk or cream, the dark color of these liquids can stain the surface of your teeth and even seep into the pores of your tooth enamel. Avoiding these drinks can help prevent the discoloration of your teeth.
Not willing to give up these beverages? The next best thing is to brush your teeth after drinking them. Don’t have the ability to brush right now? Rinse your mouth out with water or drink water afterwards. It is also better for your teeth to drink your coffee or tea in one sitting rather than sipping on them throughout the day.
- Red Wine. Another beverage that is known for staining teeth is red wine. The dark red/purple color derived from the skin of red grapes can stain your teeth, lips, and tongue. The problem is that it doesn’t come off of your teeth as well as the rest of your mouth.
Do you prefer red wine over white? If you’re not interested in switching your wine type, then the same advice applies as with coffee and tea: brush your teeth afterwards or at least rinse your mouth out with water to reduce staining.
- Soft Drinks. There are many reasons why soft drinks are unhealthy for you. In addition to high levels of sugar that can cause tooth decay and other health problems, the artificial dyes that are in soft drinks can stain your teeth. Brown and brightly colored soft drinks are the worst for causing tooth discoloration.
If you do have a soft drink, rinse your mouth out with water or brush your teeth afterwards. Avoid sipping on soda over a long period of time to reduce discoloration as well as tooth decay.
- Fruit/Berries. Some of the worst tooth staining culprits are foods, even healthy ones. Berries like blackberries and blueberries can stain your teeth. Cherries can discolor your teeth as well. But not all fruits and berries are a problem. In fact, strawberries have been known to help remove stains from your teeth.
The same advice applies to fruits and berries as to the previously listed beverages: if you wish to eat them, you can reduce the chances of staining your teeth by washing your mouth out with water or brushing your teeth after eating them.
- Sauces. The lesser known teeth staining foods are certain sauces. Soy sauce, which is a dark brown sauce used in many Asian dishes, can discolor your teeth. Balsamic vinegar commonly used in salad dressings and other foods is also dark brown and can cause discoloration.
Love these sauces? Yep, you guessed it. Brush your teeth after eating them or wash your mouth out with water.
Get Professional Teeth Whitening at Dental Associates of Farmington, CT
Do you want whiter teeth with results that last? Professional teeth whitening treatments are the most effective, offering dramatic results that last. Dental Associates of Farmington, Connecticut offers both in-office and take-home whitening treatments for your convenience.
Call 860-677-8666 or contact Dental Associates to schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping you get and maintain a brighter, whiter smile.
You probably know that in order to take care of your teeth, you should brush them at least once a day and preferably twice a day. Brushing your teeth removes food particles and plaque that can cause tooth decay and cavities. It also helps to prevent gum disease and bad breath.
You know how to use your toothbrush to take care of your teeth, but do you know how to take care of your toothbrush? You probably don’t think much about it. You apply toothpaste, you brush your teeth, you rinse it off, and you put it in a toothbrush holder or cup beside the sink. But is that all you should be doing to make sure your toothbrush is clean?
Over time a toothbrush will wear out and become dirty from repeated use. But there are steps you can take to make sure you aren’t brushing your teeth with a dirty, germy toothbrush each day. Here are the top 3 ways to take care of your toothbrush.
- Dry it off. You probably rinse your toothbrush off with water after you use it. Then maybe you set it in a toothbrush holder or a cup on your bathroom counter. Some people set it on the edge of the sink with the brush head hanging over the edge so that it can drip dry.
While these habits may be better than putting a wet toothbrush in a drawer or another closed off space, your toothbrush may stay wet for hours before it dries. A toothbrush that has been in your mouth is likely covered in bacteria. Combine that with constantly damp bristles and you’ve created an ideal breeding ground for bacteria.
Instead, make a point to dry your toothbrush off on a towel before setting it out in the open where it can get plenty of air to fully dry. This reduces the amount of bacteria that will grow between the bristles on the brush head and prevent mold or mildew growth that could make you sick.
- Replace it regularly. How often do you replace your toothbrush? Every 6 months when you go to the dentist and receive a new one? That’s the typical behavior for most people. But if you don’t go to the dentist regularly, you may go even longer without replacing your toothbrush. After repeated use the bristles will bend and wear out. It will also accumulate bacteria over time that may populate on your toothbrush head.
For best results, it is recommended that you replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months. This means that if you’re receiving them from your dentist, you may need to buy one in between your usual dental appointments every 6 months. - Don’t share it. This may seem like a no-brainer, but some people regularly share toothbrushes, either knowingly or unknowingly. Couples who live together will sometimes share a toothbrush. In other situations someone might accidentally use someone else’s toothbrush due to a mix-up in the bathroom, such as siblings who can’t remember whose toothbrush is whose.
The problem with sharing toothbrushes is that different people have different bacteria populations living in their mouths. While a healthy amount of bacteria is normal, mixing the bacteria that typically lives in your mouth with the bacteria from someone else’s mouth could be problematic. Sometimes brushing causes bleeding, which means that by using someone else’s toothbrush, you could be exposed to bloodstream diseases the other person may have. Viruses can also be passed from sharing a toothbrush, like colds, flu, or even COVID-19.
The bottom line: keep your toothbrush to yourself.
Maintain a Cleaner Mouth with the Help of Dental Associates of Farmington, CT
Keeping your toothbrush clean will help to keep your mouth clean. But regular teeth cleanings from Dental Associates of Farmington, CT is just as important for your dental health. We provide a complete range of dental services to maintain and restore your smile.
Call 860-677-8666 today to schedule a consultation or request an appointment. We look forward to providing you with top quality dental care.
Do you have an autoimmune disease? Some examples of autoimmune diseases include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, and psoriasis. These diseases are on the rise, as more than 7 percent of the American population suffer from some type of autoimmune disease. As medical experts learn more about these diseases, it is becoming apparent that autoimmune disease can affect your dental health.
What types of effects does autoimmune disease have on your dental health? Here are a few examples.
Accelerated Tooth Decay
We are all susceptible to tooth decay and cavities, but those with autoimmune diseases are at an increased risk. Many autoimmune diseases cause dry mouth, which means there is a decreased amount of saliva present. Saliva is needed to properly rinse the teeth and control the bacteria population in the mouth. If saliva levels are low, bacteria may become overpopulated and cause cavities.
Gum Disease
A decrease in saliva due to an autoimmune disorder may also be a contributing factor for gum disease. Without sufficient saliva to lubricate the soft tissues of the mouth, the gums may dry out and become more susceptible to bacterial infection, which is gum disease. The buildup of plaque on the teeth also feeds the bacteria and increases the chances of developing gum disease. Autoimmune disorders also lower the body’s defense system against infections, so gum disease is more difficult to stop once it gets started.
Studies have also shown a correlation between diabetes and gum disease, which may be due to the increased sugar in the saliva that breeds bacteria in the mouth. Gum disease can also make it more difficult for diabetic patients to manage their blood sugar levels.
TMJ Disorder
Some autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, affect the joints. TMJ, which stands for the temporomandibular joint, is the place where the lower jaw attaches to the skull. This hinge joint can become inflamed, causing pain and restricted movement. Rheumatoid arthritis, which causes inflammation and swelling in the joints, can cause or exacerbate this condition. TMJ disorder can make it difficult to chew, brush and floss your teeth, and receive necessary dental care and cleanings.
Ulcers in the Mouth
Mouth sores, called ulcers, can develop on the soft tissues of the mouth like the inside of the cheeks and tongue. Autoimmune diseases like lupus and Crohn’s disease can cause these sores to develop more abundantly. Ulcers in the mouth can make it painful to eat and brush your teeth. When you are unable to eat a healthy diet and take care of your teeth, you are more likely to develop cavities.
Damage to Blood Vessels and Nerves
Autoimmune diseases often cause damage to the blood vessels and nerves in the body, which includes those in the mouth. When blood vessels in the gums are damaged, there is an increased risk of gum disease. The support structure for the teeth can also start to deteriorate as a result. Nerve damage can mean that you are unable to feel pain that may indicate a dental problem, so you may not be aware that anything is wrong until the problem has progressed.
Learn More About Autoimmune Disease and Dental Health
Now that you know some of the ways your autoimmune disease can affect your dental health, you should be even more aware of how important it is to see your dentist regularly. Keeping up with routine dental cleanings and exams can prevent many of the above issues. If you have an autoimmune disease, it may be in your best interest to see the dentist more often than the typical schedule of every 6 months. Quarterly cleanings may be necessary to prevent cavities and gum disease. Make sure your dentist is aware of your other health issues so that they can provide you with the best possible dental care.
Dental Associates of Farmington, CT provides preventive dental care services to help you maintain your dental health. Call 860-677-8666 today to schedule a consultation or request an appointment. We look forward to providing you with quality dental care.
Technological advancements are beneficial to every industry and service, and the same is true for dentistry. Digital technology is revolutionizing dentistry in many different ways. Procedures can be performed more quickly and are less invasive for faster recovery. Better diagnostics provide early detection for more effective treatment. Many different aspects of dental care are improved because of digital technology.
Digital X-rays
One of the first digital technologies that changed dentistry was the introduction of digital X-rays. Digital X-rays require less radiation, making them safer for patients. The digital images are available immediately for the dentist to evaluate, rather than waiting for film to develop. The images can be shown to the patient as well to help them gain a better understanding of their own treatment. Digital X-rays save time and are better for the environment by eliminating the need for film.
Digital Intra-oral Cameras
A digital intra-oral camera is basically a small digital video camera that can be used to get a better view of the teeth and mouth. While mirrors have been used in the past and are still somewhat effective, a digital camera allows the dentist to zoom in on problem areas for a clearer picture. The patient can even watch the live video feed on a computer screen to view parts of their own mouth that are difficult to see in a mirror. Through this technology the patient can gain a better understanding of their dental care needs.
CAD Dentistry
CAD stands for Computer Aided Design, which is another way that digital technology is revolutionizing dentistry. After taking digital images of the teeth, computer software can be used to create a plan for treatment. This technology is used for creating prosthetic teeth such as crowns, dental implants, bridges, and dentures. It is also used for planning the course of Invisalign treatment. Patients prefer having digital impressions made of their teeth over the trays of goopy plaster that were used in the past.
Carivue Digital Caries Detection
Caries is the official term for tooth decay or cavities. In the dental field, caries is considered to be a disease. Carivue digital caries detection technology uses a UV light to locate cavities that cannot be seen with the naked eye. Early detection of cavities means much less invasive treatment is required to correct them. Digital X-rays are typically only performed once a year to detect cavities, but Carivue can be performed at each dental visit.
Electronic Medical Records
Another way that technology has revolutionized dentistry is through electronic medical record keeping. This is beneficial to everyone involved, from the patient to the administrative staff, to the dentist and dental staff. Everyone who needs them has easy, yet secure, access to dental and medical records.
Dental Associates of Farmington, CT Utilizes the Latest Digital Technology
If you want all the benefits of digital technology when it comes to your dental care, make Dental Associates of Farmington, CT your primary dental care provider. We use all of the above technology in our current practices and keep up to date with any new technology that comes available. Our patients benefit from better quality dental care and we are able to do our job more efficiently and effectively.
Call 860-677-8666 today to schedule an appointment. We look forward to providing you with the highest quality dental care.
How often do you go to the dentist? Do you see your dentist every 6 months for a teeth cleaning and oral exam? Dentists recommend that you schedule your appointments every 6 months to maintain your dental health.
Unfortunately many people only go to the dentist when a problem arises, such as a toothache or a dental emergency. The problem with this method is that once you feel pain, the situation has progressed in severity to the point where you will likely need more complex interventions. Prevention is the purpose of regular dental visits.
Here are 3 reasons to see your dentist on a regular basis.
- Preserve Your Oral Health.
The primary purpose of regular dental appointments is to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Brushing and flossing your teeth at home is important, but that alone isn’t enough. Your dentist and dental hygienist use special tools to remove plaque and calculus that build up on your teeth over time. When this is not removed it can cause tooth decay and gum disease.
If you wait until your tooth hurts to see the dentist about it, the decay is already pretty severe. The cavity may even have progressed beyond a filling and also need a root canal, if the tooth can be saved at all. Gum disease, when not treated, can cause the gums to recede and even pull away from the teeth so much that they may become loose and even fall out. But these issues could be avoided with regular dental care.
- Save Money.
Did you know that going to the dentist on a regular basis can actually save you money?
If you don’t have dental insurance that covers regular dental appointments, you may hesitate to schedule them. However, these preventative care appointments can prevent the need for more expensive procedures. You may not want to pay for a teeth cleaning and exam out of pocket, but the cost of a cavity filling, root canal, or other dental procedure will definitely cost you more.
If your employer doesn’t provide dental insurance, ask your dentist if they offer a dental coverage plan you can purchase. In many cases these plans cost less than what you pay for private dental insurance. You may also be able to make monthly payments to your dentist for routine appointments or other dental care costs. CareCredit is a good financing option for dental expenses.
- Oral Cancer Screening.
One of the most important things your dentist does for you at routine dental appointments is check you for signs of oral cancer. Your dentist will examine the soft tissues inside your mouth and gently feel your jaw and neck for any abnormalities. When diagnosed early and treated, oral cancer has an excellent survival rate. By getting an examination every 6 months, the chances of detecting oral cancer in the early stages is good.
If you notice any symptoms or anything out of the ordinary about your oral health, don’t wait until your next dental appointment. Call your dentist right away and explain your symptoms. If your dentist notices anything out of the ordinary, they may recommend you see your primary care doctor for a follow-up examination. They may even refer you directly to an oncologist for testing.
These 3 reasons are just some of the many benefits to keeping up with a regular schedule for dental visits. Your permanent teeth are the only teeth you have. If you take care of them, you could have them for the rest of your life. Professional dental care combined with good dental hygiene habits at home is all you need to maintain your oral health.
Reasons to See Dental Associates Regularly
If you want your teeth to last a lifetime, Dental Associates can help. We provide comprehensive dental services for patients in Farmington, CT and the surrounding area. Whether you’re looking for a dentist for routine care or you have a dental issue that needs attention, Dental Associates is currently accepting new patients. Ask us about our Dental Savings Plan to make your dental care more affordable.
Call 860-677-8666 today to schedule a visit or request an appointment. We look forward to helping you maintain your dental health.
If you want braces, you need to see an orthodontist. So why can you get Invisalign from a dentist? Is it a good idea? We know many patients ask these questions when deciding where to go for Invisalign treatment. The short answer to the question is: no, you don’t need to see an orthodontist for Invisalign. Here’s why.
Qualifications and Training Matter More Than Dental Specialty
Most of the time when you need a dental treatment, you look for a dentist that specializes in providing it. If you need surgery for TMJ disorder, you find an oral surgeon; if you have a cracked tooth that requires a root canal, you look for an endodontist. When it comes to Invisalign, instead of looking for an orthodontist, it’s more important to find a doctor who is Invisalign certified.
Invisalign certification is available to orthodontists and general dentists. This certification means that the doctor in question has completed specialized training on providing Invisalign treatment. This is the most important factor to look for in your search for an Invisalign provider—it’s better to see a general dentist who is Invisalign certified than an orthodontist who is not. At Dental Associates, Dr. Jason Mielcarek is Invisalign certified.
Invisalign Technology Is Different
Why is being Invisalign certified so important? Because the Invisalign system is so different from traditional braces. Rather than using metal brackets and wires to push and pull the teeth into new positions, Invisalign uses clear plastic aligners that gently shift your teeth.
What’s important for an Invisalign provider is understanding Invisalign’s unique method of treatment planning. Invisalign yields much more predictable results than braces thanks to its advanced technology, which means there’s not as much of a need for the specialized training orthodontists receive. In short, Invisalign simply works differently than braces and, going back to the previous point, requires a different kind of training.
Seeing Your Regular Dentist Makes Invisalign Treatment More Convenient
Here’s another reason to get Invisalign from your dentist—it makes your treatment much easier. Instead of having to juggle two different providers for dental care, you’ll just be seeing your regular dentist. There’s no worries about coordinating care between two practices or filling out new patient paperwork and getting to know a new doctor.
Although you’ll need to come into our office every four to six weeks to ensure that your Invisalign treatment is going as planned, we can time at least some of these appointments to coincide with your regular dental cleanings and exams for your convenience. Once your treatment is complete, you’ll be much more closely monitored than you would at an orthodontic practice since you’ll be seeing your dentist regularly anyway. This allows us to make sure your retainers fit properly and that you’re wearing them as needed to maintain your beautiful new smile.
Learn More About Invisalign
If you’d like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Mielcarek to learn more about Invisalign, contact us today at 860-677-8666 to make an appointment.
Pregnancy causes many changes throughout your body, including your mouth. Some of the symptoms of pregnancy can make it a bit more difficult to maintain your oral health. With so much on your mind as you prepare for the arrival of your baby, it can easy to let your oral hygiene slip a bit. You may be so tired at night that you fall into bed without brushing or flossing. You may experience morning sickness and the smell of toothpaste might be nauseating.
However difficult it may be, taking care of your teeth is more important than ever during this time as pregnancy makes you more susceptible to tooth decay. Here are some tips for how to maintain your oral health during pregnancy.
Brush Twice a Day
Dentists recommend brushing your teeth twice a day. It is usually best to brush your teeth in the morning, either after you wake up or after you eat breakfast, and again at night before you go to bed. Brushing in the morning removes the pl aque that builds up on your teeth overnight. Brushing at night removes the food particles from your teeth to prevent them from turning into plaque while you sleep. Use a fluoride toothpaste to help keep your enamel strong.
Floss Once a Day
Dentists also recommend that you floss once a day. Flossing removes food particles and plaque from the spaces between your teeth. It also reaches the part of your tooth that sits against the gum line to remove the plaque that builds up there. Sometimes pregnancy can cause swelling or inflammation of the gums which can lead to bleeding when you floss. Be sure to floss gently and rinse your mouth afterwards. If you have severe bleeding you should contact your dentist, because you may have gum disease that needs to be treated.
Use Anti-Cavity Mouthwash
Your dentist may recommend that you rinse your mouth with an anti-cavity mouthwash during pregnancy, if you don’t already. Mouthwash can eliminate extra bacteria in your mouth and prevent it from causing cavities in hard to reach places. Mouthwash with fluoride can also help to strengthen tooth enamel.
Keep Your Regular Dental Appointments
Don’t skip or cancel your routine dental cleaning because you are pregnant. Preventative care appointments are more important now than ever. There is no risk to pregnant mothers or their unborn babies to have a teeth cleaning and exam. Be sure to tell your dentist you are pregnant and postpone any X-Rays until your next appointment. The second trimester is usually the best time to schedule your appointment, because you’re likely past the morning sickness phase but it’s not yet too uncomfortable to lay on your back in the dental chair.
Eat Nutrient-Rich Foods
What you eat has a big impact on your oral health. Eating foods rich in vitamins and calcium such as vegetables and dairy foods can help strengthen your enamel and prevent cavities. Eating crunchy vegetables like carrots and celery throughout the day will help to remove plaque from your teeth. Avoid highly acidic or sugary foods and drinks that can be damaging to your teeth and feed cavity-causing bacteria.
Avoid Smoking and Tobacco Use
Smoking and the use of tobacco products is harmful to your health under any circumstances, especially when you’re pregnant. And it is particularly harmful to your oral health, as it increases your risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer. It can be difficult to quit, but there are many programs available to help you beat the habit.
Protect Your Teeth From the Effects of Morning Sickness
Morning sickness during pregnancy can cause vomiting, which brings stomach acid up into your mouth. This can be extremely damaging to your tooth enamel. But you can prevent the damage from occurring with a simple baking soda rinse. Mix one teaspoon of baking soda with water and rinse after vomiting or first thing in the morning to protect your teeth from potential vomiting that may occur later.
Dental Associates Can Help You Maintain Your Oral Health During Pregnancy
If you’re looking for a dentist to help you keep your teeth healthy during your pregnancy and after, Dental Associates is currently accepting new patients. We provide a complete range of dental services from preventative care to restorations to cosmetic dentistry.
Call 860-677-8666 to schedule a consultation or request an appointment. We look forward to helping you maintain your dental health during this special time in your life.
Are you considering tooth replacement options? Between dental implants, bridges, and dentures you have a variety of options. If you have a missing tooth or one that is too damaged or decayed to be restored, a dental implant is considered to be the best option for most patients.
Of course the best option comes with the highest price tag, which leads to the question at hand: are dental implants covered by dental insurance?
Sometimes dental insurance covers part of the cost of dental implants. Sometimes part of the cost is covered by medical insurance. It all depends on each individual situation.
What is a dental implant and how does it work?
In order to understand insurance coverage of dental implants, it’s helpful to know what exactly a dental implant is and how it works, especially if you’re considering the procedure for yourself.
A dental implant is an artificial tooth and root system. The artificial root, consisting of a titanium post that resembles a screw, is surgically placed in your jaw bone in place of the old tooth. Titanium, being biocompatible, bonds with the jaw bone to form a secure anchor for the crown. The crown is the part that attaches to the implant root, sits atop the gums, and looks and functions like a natural tooth.
This complete tooth and root replacement system, when placed successfully, can last a lifetime.
How does dental insurance coverage for an implant work?
If you have a dental insurance plan that includes coverage for dental implants, it will usually only cover a portion of the cost. Sometimes it’s only 50% or less of the total. Some dental insurance plans include a deductible that must be met before insurance coverage goes into effect. The only way to know for sure what your dental insurance plan covers is to review your plan benefits or contact your insurance provider directly and ask.
How does medical insurance coverage apply to a dental implant?
In some cases, depending on the reason the implant is needed, medical insurance will cover the implant root portion of the dental implant. Sometimes both medical and dental insurance will pay a portion of the cost of an implant.
Can accident insurance cover a dental implant?
If the reason you need an implant is due to a dental trauma of some kind, such as an accident that knocks out or breaks a tooth that cannot be restored, accident insurance policies sometimes cover a portion of the cost of a dental implant.
How to Make the Most of Your Insurance Coverage
Insurance coverage can make the cost of dental implants more affordable. To make the most of your coverage, consider the following tips:
- Split the cost between calendar years. If your insurance plan has an annual limit or maximum for coverage, consider splitting the different parts of the dental implant procedure between two calendar years. For example, you could have the implant root placed in December, and the crown attached in January of the next year when your coverage limit renews. Or if you need multiple implants, have the procedures done during different years.
- Utilize all types of insurance. Dental insurance is just one type of insurance that may cover a portion of your implant. Don’t forget to check your medical insurance as well and accident insurance if you have it. You may also be able to access flex spending and health savings accounts if your plan includes or allows for them.
- Find out what conditions are required for your plan to cover an implant. Insurance providers often have very specific guidelines for what procedures they will cover and why. Find out what the requirements or conditions are for your plan to go into effect and to provide the greatest possible amount of coverage. Then speak to your dentist or the dental office’s insurance specialist and ask them to work within your insurance parameters.
Dental Associates Will Work With Your Insurance
At Dental Associates of Farmington, CT we will do our best to work with your insurance company to access the most coverage possible for your dental implant procedure and any other services we offer. We can provide you with estimates of the cost of procedures based on your insurance coverage, but the estimate is not a guarantee. You will be responsible for any balance remaining after insurance, but we offer financing options to make your portion affordable. We recommend CareCredit for low or no interest financing.
Call 860-677-8666 today to schedule a consultation or request an appointment. We strive to help you get the most insurance coverage possible for the dental care you need.
If you’re missing a single tooth, you have two potential replacement options: a traditional dental bridge or a dental implant and crown combination. Dental implants have become the preferred solution for both patients and dentists because they replace the tooth both above and below the gum line, making them the best option to replicate the function, appearance, and strength of a natural tooth.
Here’s what you can expect from the process of getting a single-tooth dental implant.
Dental Implant and Crown Combination: The Basics
People often use the term “dental implants” as a catch-all that refers to the entire dental implant restoration, but when it comes to single-tooth dental implants, there are three separate components:
- The dental implant is the metal post that is surgically implanted into your jaw to replace the root of your missing tooth. Implants are most commonly made from biocompatible titanium, the same material used in joint replacement surgery.
- The abutment is a small piece that connects your dental implant to your restoration.
- The crown is the prosthesis that replaces the visible portion of your missing tooth. Like a traditional crown, there are a number of options for materials, although most patients choose materials that have a realistic appearance, like porcelain.
Single-Tooth Dental Implant Process
Getting dental implants starts with evaluating the health of your jaw. Specifically, we want to ensure that your jawbone has the density needed to support a dental implant. If it doesn’t ridge preservation or bone grafting may be needed to prepare your jaw for surgery.
If you are getting a single tooth replaced with a dental implant, we will numb the area where we’re working with local anesthetic injections, so you won’t feel any discomfort while we work, although you are likely to experience tenderness and swelling once the anesthetic wears off in the hours after your surgery. If you’re anxious about the procedure, we can offer sedation to help you relax.
After placing the implant post, we wait for osseointegration to occur. This is the process in which the dental implants and jawbone fuse together; it’s what gives your restoration a stable base of support. Osseointegration can take months to complete, but it’s important not to rush this step.
Next, the abutment is attached to your dental implant and we begin the process of fabricating your crown. While waiting for your permanent restoration, you will be given a temporary restoration to close the gap in your smile. Once your final crown is attached, the dental implant process is complete.
Dental Implant and Crown Care
One of the primary benefits of dental implant restorations is that care and maintenance is simple—you’ll brush and floss just as you normally would and visit the dentist every six months for routine exams and dental cleanings. Most people forget that they have a dental implant after a while!
Your dental implant post is a permanent replacement for the root of your missing tooth, but depending on your age and the material you choose for your restoration, your crown may need to be replaced at some point.
Learn More About Dental Implants and Crowns
If you’re considering a single-tooth dental implant, contact us today at 860-677-8666 to schedule an appointment for a consultation.
If you need to replace a tooth for any reason, a dental implant is usually the best option. Whatever the reason, whether your tooth is missing, severely decayed, or broken beyond repair, a dental implant is the closest thing to a natural tooth you can get.
Wondering what a dental implant entails and whether or not it is right for you? Consider this step by step guide to help you understand the ins and outs of dental implants.
Step 1: Consultation
The first thing to do is schedule a consultation with your dentist to determine if you are an ideal candidate for a dental implant. The dentist will evaluate your oral health and the bone density in your jaw first. It is necessary to have sufficient bone to hold the implant in place, otherwise it may not be successful. When a tooth is lost the part of the jaw that held the tooth in place will begin to weaken and eventually resorb (dissolve). The longer a tooth is missing without replacement the weaker the jaw bone will be. If there is not sufficient bone to support an implant, a bone graft procedure will be necessary.
Another factor the dentist will consider is whether or not you may need a sinus lift. If the implant is to be placed in the upper jaw it is important to make sure the bone is thick enough for the implant root to go in without puncturing the sinus. If there is any concern that the bone is not thick enough, a sinus lift will need to be performed.
Step 2: Bone Graft or Sinus Lift (Only if Needed)
If a bone graft procedure is needed, this will need to be done first. Bone grafting involves opening up the gums, placing a piece of artificial or sterilized animal bone over the jaw bone, and suturing the gum tissue back into place over it. The bone graft will bond with the existing bone and help to regenerate bone growth in the area where the dental implant will eventually be placed.
During a sinus lift, similar to a bone graft, an artificial bone or a sterilized animal bone will be placed under the gums to increase the total bone material and lift the sinus to make room for the implant.
Bone graft and sinus lift procedures are most often successful, making it possible to continue with the process of placing an implant.
Step 3: Placing the Implant Root
The first step in the placement procedure is to surgically implant the artificial tooth root. This looks like a screw that is surgically implanted in the jaw bone. The gum tissue is opened, the root is placed, and the gum tissue is sutured back over the top. It eventually fuses with the bone for a secure hold that will likely last for a lifetime. The implant root can take some time to fuse with the bone, so there may be a few weeks time before the next step.
Step 4: Attaching the Abutment
Once the root is secure, the abutment is placed. The abutment is the piece that the crown will eventually attach to. This step will require the gums to be reopened in order to attach it to the implant root. The abutment will be given time to heal (usually a few weeks) before the permanent crown is placed. The crown will be created during this time so that it is ready for permanent placement once the tissue around the abutment has healed.
Step 5: Placing the Crown
The final step is the placing of the permanent crown. The crown is usually made of porcelain that is designed to match the color and shape of your existing teeth for a natural look and function. Porcelain is the most common choice for permanent crowns because it closely resembles natural tooth material.
A Permanent Solution
When a dental implant is carefully placed by an experienced dentist it can last a lifetime. As long as the proper preparation, procedure, and follow-up steps are completed, your dental implant should look and function just like your other natural teeth. After a few weeks or even a few days you may not even realize it is there.
Call 860-677-8666 today to schedule a consultation or request an appointment. We look forward to restoring your smile with the help of dental implants.