Dental Implants Archives - Dr. Duane Delaune's Blog

Throbbing Pain in One Spot in My Gums After Eating

Posted on January 31, 2024 by AllSmiles.

A persistent soreness in my gums between my first and second molars is getting worse. The spot hurts daily and throbs after I eat. The pain decreases in about an hour. It doesn’t hurt again until I eat something. I’ve felt discomfort for about eight months. I asked my dentist to check it during my last dental cleaning, but she didn’t see anything, even after an X-ray. The second molar had a root canal seven years ago. My dentist said we could consider removing the tooth if the pain didn’t go away. I reminded her that my gums, not the tooth, hurt. May I ignore the pain if it didn’t hurt so bad after eating? What could be causing it? Thanks. Klark from GA

Klark,

We are concerned that your dentist recommended an extraction if the pain doesn’t resolve. If you are experiencing ongoing pain and an X-ray didn’t reveal its source, your dentist should have referred you to a periodontist (gum specialist). If the problem is with your gums, it is unrelated to the root canal tooth.

A periodontist may check the pockets between your teeth to see if a periodontal abscess is causing the gum pain. Sometimes, food particles get between the teeth and gums and cause inflammation and pain. If the particles disintegrate, the pain will resolve.

Dental implant with crown, abutment, and implant screw identified

Treat gum pain and disease to prevent tooth extraction and a dental implan

Do you floss thoroughly between your teeth? If not, a lack of flossing can contribute to gum pain. Trapped food and bacteria can lead to gum disease and increase the depth of gum pockets. Unresolved gum disease can result in gum and bone deterioration and, eventually, tooth loss. Getting treatment can prevent the need for tooth replacement options, such as a dental bridge or a dental implant.

We recommend asking your dentist for a referral to a periodontist or self-referring to a specialist. If your discomfort is related to your gum health, a periodontist will find the issue.

Metairie cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune sponsors this post. Read details about how Dr. Delaune strives to provide some of the best dental care in Metairie.

Is It Too Late to Save My Loose Tooth?

Posted on December 10, 2023 by AllSmiles.

Is it too late to save my loose tooth? I tripped over a cement parking space block and fell face forward last Thursday, and now I feel my left front tooth is loose. I chipped two other teeth, but they do not hurt. I was flossing two nights ago and thought the tooth was loose, but now, I am sure. My regular dentist is almost 45 minutes away, but I have not seen him in three years. Should I see an emergency dentist for this, or can I schedule an appointment with my regular dentist to be referred to an oral surgeon? – Thank you. Tamra from Athens, GA

Tamra,

Thank you for your question.

If your tooth is loose, you have a dental emergency. It is best to see your dentist or find a nearby experienced dentist who takes emergency cases if the distance is a problem.

What Is the Treatment for a Loose Tooth?

Treatment for a loose tooth depends on its condition and location. Before treating a loose tooth, your dentist will examine and x-ray it. Treatment options may include:

Splinting or bonding. A dentist can stabilize the tooth by splinting or bonding it to adjacent teeth. Splinting or bonding will help tooth ligaments heal on their own.
Root canal therapy. A dentist will also check your tooth for internal damage. If the tooth pulp is affected, you will need root canal treatment to remove the dying tooth pulp after the ligaments heal. Root canal treatment will prevent infection and further problems with the tooth. The dentist will protect your tooth with a dental crown. The American Association of Endodontists confirms that a loose tooth likely needs root canal treatment, which a dentist or endodontist should complete within a few days of tooth trauma.
See a dentist promptly for a loose tooth and to prevent the need for an extraction and dental implant.
Dental implant. You will only need a dental implant for an unsavable tooth. Before agreeing to an extraction, you can get a second opinion from an endodontist (root canal specialist).

Until you see your dentist, take these precautions:

Avoid chewing on the damaged tooth.
Avoid touching or wiggling it.
Do not floss near it.
Eat soft food.
Take anti-inflammatory medication to reduce swelling and promote healing.

Healing will take a few weeks if your tooth ligaments are mildly damaged. More extensive damage can take months. You will have periodic checkups to ensure the healing is progressing well. Closely follow your dentist’s instructions for caring for your tooth after the dentist stabilizes. In time, you can decide if you want your dentist to apply dental bonding to fill the spaces for your two chipped teeth.

Metairie, Louisiana, cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune sponsors this post.

Is There a Special Diet After Dental Implant Surgery?

Posted on April 15, 2023 by AllSmiles.

I am anticipating getting four dental implants in August. I am excited about replacing my teeth but worried about how I will manage on a restricted diet. I get weak if I don’t eat enough. What can I expect after implant surgery regarding eating? How soon after surgery will I be able to eat a regular meal? Thanks. Jordyn

Jordyn,

Thank you for contacting Delaune Dental about what you can eat after dental implant surgery. We will explain the timeline and how to ensure you get enough nutrients.

Is There a Special Diet After Dental Implant Surgery?

After dental implant surgery, you will begin a liquid diet for at least the first day or two. Afterward, you can progress to soft foods that require no chewing. Eventually, you can enjoy foods that require minimal chewing while avoiding hard, crunchy, or sticky foods. Your implant dentist or oral surgeon may recommend a longer liquid diet.

Timeline for Eating After Getting Dental Implants

The timeline below shows what your dentist or oral surgeon may recommend. Please follow your dentist’s instructions on what to eat and when.

24 to 48 hours – Maintain a liquid diet. Drink lukewarm to cool liquid but avoid drinking through a straw to prevent dislodging blood clots at the surgical sites.
Day 3 to 14 – Avoid icy cold or steamy hot drinks. Soft foods that require minimal chewing are best.
Day 15 to week 12 – Eat soft foods that require minimal chewing.

What Types of Foods Can You Eat After Dental Implant Surgery?

A soft-foods diet protects your dental implants

Below are examples of soft foods that require no chewing and food that require minimal chewing.

Soft foods with no chewing

Jello
Applesauce
Pureed fruit, vegetables, and meats
Smoothies without nuts or seeds
Hummus
Yogurt

Soft foods with minimal chewing

Steamed vegetables
Baked fruit
Eggs
Flaky fish
Bananas
Mashed potatoes
Finely diced meat

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water while avoiding sugary drinks. A restricted diet allows your implants and jawbone to fuse. Taking risks and chewing food can cause implant complications.

Your implant dentist or oral surgeon will give detailed instructions for post-operative care and a smooth recovery.

Dr. Duane Delaune of Metairie, Louisiana, sponsors this post. Read why Dr. Delaune’s patients consider him one of the best dentists in town.

My Bite Is Off with New Dental Implants

Posted on January 19, 2023 by AllSmiles.

My bite is off with my new three dental implants. I had three missing teeth from my first premolar back that my dentist replaced with dental implants last July. Now that I have the permanent crowns, I told my dentist that my upper and lower left teeth don’t match when I bite down. The upper teeth are too far left of the lower teeth. I saw my dentist for an adjustment three weeks ago, but I am unsure what he adjusted. I do not notice any difference, though. I am worried about how many adjustments my dentist can make before my crowns or implants fail. I don’t know what to do. – Thank you. Kevin D. from OK

Kevin,

Get a second opinion to determine why your bite is off with dental implants

Thank you for contacting our office. Dr. Delaune would need to examine your crowns and implants and take x-rays to determine what is affecting your bite. But it is not okay to experience discomfort after getting your implant crowns.

What Causes Occlusion (Bite) Problems with Dental Implant Crowns?

If you have concerns about your bite (how your upper and lower teeth meet) with new dental implant crowns, the cause may include one or more of the following:

Incorrect dental implant placement – When a restoring dentist (who provides the dental crowns) provides clear communication to an oral surgeon or periodontist, it ensures precise implant placement. Skilled restoring dentists provide a surgical guide that defines implant location angle. Without specific instructions, misplaced dental implants can disrupt your bite. Some dentists have advanced training in implant surgery, providing both the implants and dental crowns for a smooth process.
Incorrect crown restoration – A dental crown must precisely fit the connector on top of a dental implant. If a crown doesn’t fit well, it will affect how your upper and lower teeth meet (your bite).
Bruxism – Teeth grinding adds stress to dental implants and can disrupt harmony between your implants and crowns.
Incompatible dental crown and implant size – When a dental implant is too long or too short for the crown attached, it will affect your bite. The same applies if the crown is out of proportion to the implant size.

The July 2019 issue of the International Journal of Implant Dentistry published an article on occlusal overload with dental implants. According to the report, when the bite force on dental implants is too strong, it may lead to irritation in the gum tissue around the implants (peri-implantitis), which affects the bone if left untreated. So, we urge you to seek a qualified dentist.

We recommend scheduling an exam with a restorative dentist with advanced dental implant, cosmetic dentistry, and occlusion and bite training. A prompt examination and treatment will help prevent further irritation to the gum tissue and bone around the dental implants.

Metairie, Louisiana, dentist Dr. Duane Delaune sponsors this post.

Are a Tooth Post and Core the Only Way to Save My Tooth?

Posted on October 25, 2022 by AllSmiles.

Before my dental appointment last week, I had not heard of a post and core. My dentist says it will save my tooth. I thought a root canal protects a tooth, and I am trying to understand why I might need the extra step. My dentist’s explanation does not make sense. Why would I need a post and core, and what could happen if I decline it? – Thank you. Roderick from Newark, NJ

Roderick,

Thank you for your question.

Your dentist recommends a post and core to preserve your tooth

What Are a Dental Post and Core?

A dental post is a small rod that helps your tooth support a core. A core is a dental filling material for building your tooth to support a dental crown. Dentists use a post and core to strengthen a weak tooth after root canal treatment.

Why Would a Dentist Recommend a Post and Core?

A dentist may recommend a post and core if you lack enough healthy tooth structure to support a dental crown. Sometimes, a dentist must remove so much tooth decay or damage that little structure remains for cementing on a dental crown. A dentist will complete these steps:

Perform root canal therapy to remove tooth decay and infection
Insert one or two posts into the tooth
Fill in the tooth with dental material
Use dental bonding to shape the crown of the tooth
Bond the dental crown to the rebuilt tooth

Will You Use a Your Tooth If You Decline a Post and Core?

Dental implant

If you decline a post and core, you may lose your tooth for these reasons:

Without a post and core, your weak tooth may not be able to support a dental crown in the long term.
If your tooth further weakens, your dentist must remove it.
Replacing a missing tooth is expensive. You can expect to pay $3,000 to $5,000 for a dental implant and crown.

If you are unsure about your dentist’s treatment recommendation for a post and core, you may get a second opinion from an advanced cosmetic dentist. Delaying a post and core can create more concerns with your tooth and result in costly treatment.

Dr. Duane Delaune, a Metairie, Louisiana, cosmetic dentist, sponsors this post.

Will My Face Sag If I Don’t Get Dental Implants?

Posted on August 29, 2022 by AllSmiles.

Upper implant denture

At 44 years old, a severe calcium deficiency has left me with 18 teeth that my dentist says must be extracted, and he recommends dentures. I have two teenagers and prefer not to look like their grandmother after I get dentures. Are implants the only way to maintain my face shape? Thank you. Brienne from Dallas, TX

Brienne,

Thank you for contacting our office. Did your dentist explain why he recommends removing your teeth and replacing them with a denture? Sometimes, tooth removal is less challenging than saving them, and a dentist may not have the skill level or understanding to restore your teeth. Dr. Delaune would need to examine and x-ray your teeth to explain your options and develop a treatment plan.

Does Calcium Deficiency Affect Adult Teeth?

A calcium deficiency can result in various signs and symptoms, including:

abnormal heartbeat
extreme fatigue
muscle cramping
nail changes
numbness and tingling in your fingertips
osteoporosis
poor appetite

Calcium hydroxyapatite is essential for developing and maintaining bones and tooth enamel. According to the American Dental Association, teeth benefit from a healthy lifestyle, including a diet rich in vitamin D and calcium. Frequent snacking and a high-sugar diet promote tooth decay.

How Will Dentures Affect Your Facial Appearance?

If a dentist or an oral surgeon must extract your teeth, your jawbone will shrink if you wear removable dentures. The shrinkage will affect your appearance in ten to twenty years because you lack enough bone to support your facial muscles. Also, you will be unable to retain a removable denture.

Dental implants are the healthiest, most effective solution for replacing missing teeth. Implants have these benefits:

Stimulate the jawbone
prevent shrinkage
Help prevent premature facial sagging

Implant-supported dentures will be stable and improve denture function and fit. Immediate implant placement can halt bone shrinkage and prevent the need for future bone grafting. In many cases, an implant dentist or an oral surgeon will remove unsavable teeth and immediately replace them with dental implants.

We recommend getting a second opinion from a dentist with advanced implant training to determine whether they can save your teeth or if you require extractions and implants.

Metairie, Louisiana dentist Dr. Duane Delaune sponsors this post.

My dental phobia is out of control

Posted on January 25, 2022 by AllSmiles.

My dental phobia is out of control. I am saying this because I have 2 missing teeth that I want to replace with implants. I think that I also need orthodontics because my teeth are shifting badly. The teeth have been missing for 4 years. I still go to the dentist for cleanings (and I am nervous during that) but getting the thought work done like the implants and orthodontics is making me nauseous. My dentist is not sympathetic or patient with my questions. He keeps telling me that I will be fine, but that’s not helpful. I am frustrated. Typically, how painful is the work that I need to be done? – Lance from Harrisburg, PA

Lance –

Thank you for contacting our office with your question.

Painless Dental Care

The dental treatment you need can be painless—especially if you see a gentle dentist who cares about your anxiety.

A gentle dentist has methods to ensure that any injections you might need are painless. And the dentist will help you relax during your appointment. Your phobia won’t be an issue, and you will have a productive dental appointment. This will help the dentist complete as much work as possible in one appointment.

You will benefit by finding two or three dentists who offer sedation. Request a consultation with each of them. Explain your dental phobia, ask questions about the treatment you need, and take notes. Your interaction with the dentists will help you decide whom you are most comfortable with for your dental care.

You are interested in dental implants, so for best results, look for a dentist with advanced implant and cosmetic dentistry training. It will ensure that you get high-quality implants that look natural.

Comfortable Recovery

Diagram of three phases of dental implants for info about dental anxiety and implants

You can get dental implants despite your dental phobia

You can expect discomfort after dental implant surgery, but your dentist or oral surgeon will explain how to manage it. Follow their pre- and post-operative care instructions to make your recovery as comfortable as possible.

Dr. Duane Delaune, a Metairie, Louisiana cosmetic dentist, sponsors this post.

My Crowns Look Like the Dentist Used Sandpaper on Them

Posted on December 17, 2021 by AllSmiles.

I already had crowns on my center front teeth. In October, my dentist replaced a missing tooth with a dental implant. I had worn a partial denture for 12 years to replace the tooth. Now, my smile looks worse than before. My dentist could not get the implant crown to match the front crowns and my natural teeth. The color is still off, so my dentist said he would buff the implant crown to get a match. He could not match my teeth, so he also buffed the crowns on my front teeth. It looks and feels like my dentist used sandpaper on my teeth. The crowns feel rough to touch and when I glide my tongue across the front of my teeth. I contact my dentist regularly to remind him that the issue is not over. But I am thinking about how to resolve it. I just cannot trust him to resolve the issue. Will I need a new implant crown and crowns for my front teeth? – Thank you. Felix from Memphis

Felix,

We are sorry to hear about your unfortunate experience with your new implant crown and existing crowns.

Why Do Your Dental Crowns Look Dull?

Your dental crowns are dull because your dentist buffed away the glaze on the porcelain. Not only do your crowns look dull, but they are also at risk of staining quickly and turning yellow.

Can a Dentist Restore the Shine on Your Crowns?

Dental crowns photo from Delaune Dental in Metaire, LA

A cosmetic dentist can improve the shine of your crowns

A cosmetic dentist can polish your porcelain crowns to restore the shine as much as possible. A dentist with advanced cosmetic dentistry training understands how to use diamond polishing instruments, polishing paste, and ultra-fine diamond polishing paste to help your crowns look glossy and smooth.

Be prepared for an out-of-pocket expense if you do not have dental insurance or if your insurance limits your benefits for cosmetic dentistry. But you will get results and feel relieved about your smile.

Choose a dentist with advanced cosmetic dentistry training to avoid another disappointing experienced.

Duane Delaune, DDS, an cosmetic dentist of Metairie, New Orleans, sponsors this post. Read why patients say Dr. Delaune is one of the best dentists in Metairie.

Is Oral Sedation Strong Enough for Tooth Extractions?

Posted on December 6, 2021 by AllSmiles.

I am 27 years old and need three teeth extractions. My dentist is extracting them in the office but says sedation is enough. I have severe dental anxiety and wonder if sedation is enough. Also, after the site heals, I will be getting dental implants too. It’s hard to believe that anesthesia is not an option for extractions or dental implants. – Thanks for your help. Hayden from Denver

Hayden,

Thank you for choosing our office for your question.

Is Oral Sedation Strong Enough for Extractions?

Oral sedation is strong enough for most tooth extraction cases. Although we do not know the circumstances of your case, unless your dentist expects serious complications, there is no reason to give you general anesthesia. Even with impacted wisdom teeth, dentists and oral surgeons use conscious sedation, and patients stay comfortable throughout the procedure.

Anesthesia increases surgery risks. Surgeons and dentists avoid using more sedation or anesthesia than necessary to keep you comfortable and calm. If your dentist recommended general anesthesia, we would advise you to get a second opinion.

Also, at 27 years old, your jawbone is still somewhat pliable, and not much cementum accumulation is on the tooth roots. Your extractions should be straightforward. It’s a rare case of a 27-year-old with truly difficult wisdom teeth. And if your issue were extraordinarily complex, your dentist would refer you to an oral surgeon who would still likely use oral sedation—not anesthesia.

And it is the same with dental implants. Your dentist will numb your mouth and give you sedation for painless dental implant surgery.

Duane Delaune, DDS, an cosmetic dentist of Metairie, New Orleans, sponsors this post.

Will Lingering Sensitivity After a White Filling Lead to an Extraction?

Posted on November 29, 2021 by AllSmiles.

I am afraid that lingering sensitivity after a white filling is going to require a dental implant. Last April, after my dentist filled my tooth, it became sensitive to cold. I returned to the dentist, and she said that the cavity was so deep that the tooth might be irritated. She recommended putting a temporary crown over the tooth and later a root canal if the sensitivity continued. The tooth is still sensitive, but I am hesitant about getting a root canal. If I do not get a root canal, is there a chance of losing the tooth and needing an implant? – Thanks. Dean from PA

Dean,

Thank you for your question.

Will Lingering Sensitivity After a White Filling Lead to Root Canal or Extraction?

Whether lingering sensitivity after a filling requires root canal treatment depends on the status of your tooth. If the sensitivity gets worse, it is probably due to an infection that requires root canal treatment.

What Causes Delayed Sensitivity After a Filling?

Delayed sensitivity after a filling may mean that some decay got into the tooth pulp. Sometimes your body’s defenses will get rid of the infection.

Will You Need an Extraction?

Lingering tooth sensitivity should not lead to an extraction and implant unless you neglect the tooth

You will not need an extraction and dental implant unless the sensitivity worsens and you leave it untreated. You are seeking help, so it seems to be an unlikely scenario for you. Even so, despite what you may have heard, dentists make root canal treatment painless. If you have dental anxiety, ask your dentist about sedation options.

We do not understand your dentist’s work on your tooth or why she placed a crown over a sensitive tooth. But if a tooth is sensitive after a white filling, it is best to give it time to recover. Sometimes, the more you do to a tooth, irritation will increase. If the tooth gets worse, you can give your dentist a chance to resolve it, or you can get a second opinion.

Dr. Duane Delaune, an cosmetic dentist in Metairie, Louisiana, sponsors this post.