Lynchburg dentist, Dentist in Lynchburg, VA

What are dental implants?

People often refer to a dental implant as a replacement tooth, but it is actually a metal post or appliance that replaces the patient's tooth root or roots. Once the artificial root or roots are in, replacement teeth are put in place and thus anchored firmly to the bone by the implant. The patient's new teeth look, feel and work just like natural teeth. There are several types of dental implants suited to various dental conditions.

Do I have to go to more than one doctor to get dental implants?

There are very few dentists who can both place the implants and make and attach the teeth into the implants. Dentistry represents less than .5% of dentists qualified to do all the steps of implant dentistry from start to finish. It is not necessary to go to more than one doctor for this service and usually the result is more predictable when one fully trained doctor does the procedures needed to restore a patient to full comfort, function, and cosmetics.

What are the benefits of implants?

Dental implants are an alternative for:

• The patient who cannot function comfortably with conventional dentures.
• The patient who has lost teeth and wants to avoid removable partial dentures.
• The patient who needs a crown or fixed bridge but does not want to damage his or her adjacent healthy teeth.
• The person who wants to have the dental solution that is the closest to what Mother Nature created.

Who is a candidate for dental implants?

Because of recent advances in implant technology, more and more people are implant candidates - although many people may be told they are not. The only way to know for certain is to be evaluated by a practitioner who has received advanced training in implant dentistry. Typically, if a patient is healthy enough to undergo fixed bridgework procedures or routine extractions, he or she can also undergo dental implant procedures.

What does the dental implant procedure involve?

Most implants can be placed by a trained dentist in one or two office visits. Further visits will also be needed to fit the replacement teeth, which fasten to the implants. In addition, it is possible that some bone structure will have to be added to the patient's jaw or that other adjustments may have to be made. Tested methodologies now exist that can effectively and safely add bone where needed. This process can delay the placement of the implant for a period of months. Most insertions can be performed under the same local anesthesia used for routine fillings. Medication so the patient can sleep during the procedure is available with oral conscious Sedation or IV sedation. Temporary teeth are usually placed until permanent replacement teeth are made so that patients can lead normal lives during the interim.

How long does an implant last?

Implants have remained in patients' mouths for 30 years or longer. We recommend a preventive maintenance program to help insure the long-term success of your implants and teeth.

How much does an implant cost as compared to other forms of dentistry?

The cost of implant dentistry is comparable to that of fixed bridgework or other advanced dental procedures in most cases.

Do implants require any special care?

Dental implants and accompanying replacement teeth should be cared for in the same way as natural teeth. Although they cannot get decay, they are still subject to gum disease in the same way natural teeth are.

Is there any chance of rejection of the dental implant?

The body does no't reject a dental implant as it might a soft tissue implant such as a lung, heart or kidney. Dental implants are made of titanium, which is compatible with the body.

How long will I be off work?

Generally we recommend the day of the implant placement and the day after. Most of our patients are back to work the next day after implant placement. It's an individual decision.

What will happen without treatment?

When you lose your teeth, you gradually lose the bone that supports the teeth. As this bone shrinks, problems with a lack of support lead to increased discomfort, mobility, lack of retention of dentures, and sharp, painful ridges, movable gums and sore spots. The tongue also enlarges to accommodate the space. With tooth loss, a five-fold decrease in function occurs and the diet shifts to softer foods. When bone is lost, the incidence of numbness to the lower lip or even fracture of the jaw increases. In addition, this progression will affect our ability to provide the treatment we could have before so much bone loss. It could require more implants or more extensive treatment. Or,it may be possible that we will not be able to provide the same treatment we recommend now. At its worst, the bone loss could be so severe that the only way for the person to have teeth of any kind would require a hip graft (taking bone from the patient's hip).

How does periodontal disease develop?

Healthy gum tissue fits snugly around each tooth. It can be harmed by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. Bacteria in plaque create toxins that can imitate and , sometimes, break down gum tissues.

The early stage of periodontal disease is called gingivitis. Gums may be red, swollen and may bleed easily during toothbrushing. The good news is that this early stage of periodontal disease is reversible. However, if gingivitis is not treated, it may lead to a more serious condition called chronic periodontitis.

In this stage, the bacterial infection causes the breakdown of gum tissue so that it pulls away from the teeth. Instead of a snug fit, the loose tissue now forms pockets that collecst more bacerial plaque.

If periodontal disease is such a problem, why doesn't it hurt?

This is, unfortunately, a very good question. Periodontal problems can become quite serious and extremely advanced without any pain whatsoever. The infection-can destroy gum tissue and the bone that supports teeth. Unless periodontitis is treated, teeth may become loose, fall out, or they may need to be removed. Chronic periodontitis occurs most often in adults but can also be seen in younger people. This is why it is so important to be attentive to the warning signs - bleeding gums when brushing and flossing, swollen gums, receded gums, teeth changing position, pus or swelling around gums - to name a few.

Is periodontal disease associated with other diseases?

Researchers have found that periodonal disease and other health problems such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, and bacterial pneumonia are associated. Although more studies are needed, researchers are looking into the role that the bacteria associated with periodontal disease may play in overall health. People with diabees and smokers are also at increased risk for developing periodontal disease.

Can periodontal disease be prevented?

When plaque is not removed daily, it absorbs minerals present in saliva. The minerals form a rough, hardened material called calculus, or tartar. Once tartar sticks to the teeth, only a professional cleaning in the dental office can remove it. Tartar that is not removed becomes a "plaque trap," harboring bacteria and making it difficult to keep teeth clean.

Brushing your teeth twice daily and cleaning between your teeth daily with floss can help keep teeth clean. It's possible to have periodontal disease and have few warning signs. That's one reason why regular dental visits and professional teeth cleanings are so important.