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Is it an emergency if I lost my healing cap?

Posted on by smiles4u.

Six months ago I had implant surgery and I’m currently waiting for it to heal completely so I can get the crown placed. Today, I noticed a large hole in my mouth – it completely freaked me out! I think the healing cap must have come off and I have no idea where it is. This is costing me so much and now I’m worried that I could get an infection or potentially damage the implant. Why do these things always happen on the weekend? I left a message on my dentist’s answering service, but I’m not sure if he will even call me back until Monday. Can it wait until then? — Ann

Dear Ann,
First, take a breath and try to relax. While healing caps don’t typically fall off, it can happen and there’s likely not any immediate concern.

After six months, the soft tissue around your dental implant should be well on the way to being healed so the chances of an infection are pretty slim. The main thing you want to watch until you can get it fixed is that you don’t injure the area – eating softer foods can help. If you notice food getting caught, try to pack it with cotton or gauze, or you can use a temporary denture adhesive that is found in the dental section of most grocery or drug stores to cover it.

Your dental implant should be fine looking at the long-term. Just be sure to make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible before the tissue could collapse or try to heal over the top. If you wait too long, that could make it much more difficult to place the crown.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Read more about why many consider Dr. Delaune to be the best dentist in New Orleans.

Can I get implants instead of dentures?

Posted on by smiles4u.

I’m finally at a point in my life where I have access to dental insurance. It’s been a while since I’ve had consistent dental care and unfortunately, I’ve lost several teeth due to advanced periodontal disease. My gum line is very low and I’m wondering if I could get implants instead of dentures? — Mike

Dear Mike,
When you need to replace missing teeth, there’s no doubt that implants are a great choice for several reasons. With dentures, you lose at least 50% of your chewing efficiency simply because they don’t stay in place. With dental implants, you can eat normally and they will also help preserve your jawbone and prevent facial collapse – a condition that happens over time when you are missing teeth. When the jawbone is no longer supporting teeth, the body will begin to absorb the minerals and use them elsewhere in the body. If you suffer from facial collapse, eventually there will be no bone left, making it nearly impossible to wear dentures. Your face will also start to look sunken in, making you appear much older than you really are.

Are you a good candidate for dental implants? The answer to that question will depend on your overall health and whether or not you’ve had a lot of bone loss due to the advanced periodontal disease. You may need some bone grafts in order to provide enough bone to hold the implants. It’s certainly worth checking into, but just be sure you find an experienced dentist who has done a lot of dental implants and clocked many hours of continuing education in the area.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Read more about why many consider Dr. Delaune to be the best dentist in New Orleans.

Can a teenager get dental implants?

Posted on by smiles4u.

My teenage son has a tooth that over the last few months has gotten darker in color. He hasn’t really been too concerned how it looks and it doesn’t seem to be causing him any pain. I didn’t think someone so young could have a dead tooth, but I guess he must have hit it on something. I’ve also heard that when you have a dead tooth it is painful. I’m taking him in to have it looked at and if the dentist confirms that it is dead, can he get a dental implant? It’s summer right now, but I don’t want him to go back to school with a big gap in his smile. — Eileen

Eileen,
Anyone at any age can have a dead tooth. Most often, trauma to the tooth is the cause, but you should have it looked at by a dentst to confirm.

In most cases, a dead tooth doesn’t need to be removed. It can actually be saved by a root canal.  It can’t be brought back to life, but it can look almost good as new again when treated.

If your dentist would happen to determine that the tooth needs removed, an implant is not the best option at this time because his jawbone still has a lot of growing to do. He could be well into his early 20’s before it actually stops growing.  Some dentists will place mini dental implant in teens, however there are concerns that the implant won’t be esthetically pleasing as the jaw grows and other permanent teeth move into place around it. For now, don’t worry about how to replace the tooth, just get him in for an exam and go from there.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Read more about why many consider Dr. Delaune to be the best dentist in New Orleans.

Should I get a ceramic or metal implant?

Posted on by smiles4u.

I have read a lot about ceramic dental implants recently. Many sources have said I should go with ceramic over metal. When I brought this up to my dentist he told me that he only does metal implants. Why should I choose ceramic over metal? I like my dentist, so I’m wondering if it’s worth the trouble to find a new one who does ceramic implants? — Steven

Dear Steven,
Most dental implants are titanium or titanium alloy. Both are a top choice with dentists because they are very strong, have longevity and they integrate with the bone extremely well.

If a patient is “allergic” or sensitive to metal, a ceramic implant might be recommended. But how do you know if you’re sensitive to metal? Do you break out in a rash from jewelry or are you irritated by the snaps on your pants? If you answered yes to those questions, it’s often nickel that is the problem. You don’t need to be concerned if you haven’t had any sensitivity issues to metal; however, if have exhibited symptoms, it would be beneficial for you to get allergy tested and then follow-up with your dentist regarding the dental implant he uses and if it contains any of the metals that you tested allergic to.

A dentist might also chose ceramic purely for aesthetic reasons so that the underlying metal won’t make the porcelain crown look dark. However, even if there was some darkening, it’s rarely noticeable because most implants are placed in the back of the mouth. Also, if your dentists works with a skilled lab technician, they are experts in adjusting shade and opacity for natural-looking results.

Titanium or a titanium alloy restoration is a safe and reliable option unless you have a sensitivity metal. If you’re still concerned talk with your doctor because he knows your particular case and will be familiar with the materials he uses most and whether or not they will be a concern.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Read more about why many consider Dr. Delaune to be the best dentist in New Orleans.

What’s with the brown line on my implant?

Posted on by smiles4u.

I recently noticed a brown line on my dental implant. I had an appointment for a cleaning and it totally slipped my mind to ask my dentist about it. After the cleaning, the dark line was gone so I just assumed it must have been a stain so I stopped worrying about it. Then I noticed today the line is back, so now I am wondering if something is wrong. If it’s nothing, I don’t want my dentist to think I am paranoid, but why would it show up in the exact same place if it was a stain?  — Mary Ann in Oklahoma

Mary Ann,
It’s highly possible that what you are seeing is a stain. Sometimes porcelain crowns can have slight defects, or they can get a very small crack in them. If there is an indentation or crevice, it can easily collect and show a stain. It’s very possible that your hygienist removed the stain, but it has come back again.

You should probably see your dentist soon to determine if it is a crack because there is a risk that it could give way and completely shatter the crown. Unfortunately your dentist will not be able to predict if or when that could happen. If the defect shallow, you may be able to remove the stain by brushing the area a little more thoroughly or it may be possible to buff the spot, which will smooth it out so it doesn’t collect stain. I also could be possible that you will eventually have to have a new crown made. The good news is that you won’t have to have the entire implant redone, just the restoration that attaches to your implant.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Read more about why many consider Dr. Delaune to be the best dentist in New Orleans.

Could my implant be causing my stinky breath?

Posted on by smiles4u.

I’ve had nothing but trouble with my dental implant. Not only were the appointments grueling, but I had bone grafting as well as a problem with my crown resulting in it having to be re-cemented. To top it all off, I had an infection that just wouldn’t go away, so I was on several rounds of antibiotics. I’m finally to the point where the implant feels ok, but I’ve recently noticed a really bad taste in my mouth and my husband now says I have bad breath. Nothing seems to help. Could this bad taste and smell be coming from my implant? My dentist insists that everything is fine and suggested that I watch the foods I am eating and referred me to my doctor.   — Lisa in Oakland

Lisa,
It seems like you can’t seem to catch a break in this whole process. It must be so disappointing to invest all that time and money and have to endure so many problems. There’s so much expertise and skill that goes into placing implants…that’s why it’s so important to do your research up front when choosing the best implant dentist.

Go ahead and check with your physician, but you should also seek  a second opinion from another implant dentist. The reoccurring infections you have been dealing with could be a sign that there is something wrong. Active infections can cause many of the symptoms you are describing and if ignored and not treated the infection can spread – costing you not only the implant, but even your jaw or something much worse.

A failing implant is not something to brush aside – it’s a very serious issue. Find someone who can get to the root of why you are having these problems. Antibiotics are only a temporary fix until the real problem is addressed and treated. If a proper diagnosis is not made, the infections will continue – and so will the bad smell and taste.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Read more about Find out why many consider Dr. Delaune to be the best dentist in New Orleans.

Is there such a thing as a good deal on implants?

Posted on by smiles4u.

I have a couple of missing teeth and I am thinking about having implants placed. It will be a significant investment for me and I want to be sure I get the most affordable price possible. How will I know if my dentist is giving me a good deal?  – Mark in Idaho

Mark,
It’s always nice when you can shop around and save a little money on things in life. However, dental procedures are not something that you want to cut corners on. Often the best deal might turn out “to good to be true” and one crucial mistake can often lead to spending thousands of dollars more than you intended to get the smile of your dreams.

First you need to find a good implant dentist who can help you determine what treatment options are best for your situation and then what will fit your budget. Today, many dentists are helping make implants more affordable by offering payment plans or accepting credit. And because implants take several months to complete, most dentists give the option to pay for each procedure as it occurs, which also helps spread out the cost.

Getting the best deal can be a bonus, but focusing on the skill and knowledge of the dentist should be your first priority. After you find that, then it’s time to talk about what options are available to you for your particular situation and whether or not the office can work with you on payments and insurance billing to help make it more affordable.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Read more about Find out why many consider Dr. Delaune to be the best dentist in New Orleans.

Why do my gums look gray around my implants?

Posted on by smiles4u.

I recently had a couple of implants placed, but I think there is a problem and it is very noticeable – the gums around the implants look gray! My dentist didn’t mention anything about this, and now I am worried that I paid a bunch of money and something is wrong with my implants or the materials that were used. Should my gums be turning gray? — Sheila in New Orleans

Sheila,
The grayish or dark color is likely the collar of the implant showing through your gum tissue. This is not uncommon and it can be a result of your gum tissue being too thin, as well as the implant not being placed at the right depth. It is the titanium from the implant visible at the gum line, which can eventually lead to gum recession.

You could have a soft tissue graft done to thicken the surrounding gum tissue or if you haven’t had your permanent crown placed yet, your surgeon could switch out the titanium for Zirconia (a tooth colored material that would eliminate the gray color). Regardless of what you decide, you definitely need to have your dentist take a look at it and make sure there is no bone loss.

There’s no doubt that implants are a major investment. All too often, people look for ways to cut costs or make implants more affordable. Many times that means compromising on quality and unfortunately there are dentists who cut corners or costs in the materials. Find an implant dentist who is properly trained and has the credentials and experience needed to give you the best results possible.

A great deal may be good for some things in life, but not when it comes to dental implants. The “deal of a lifetime” is likely too good to be true and could end up costing you even more money and heartache in the end.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Read more about Find out why many consider Dr. Delaune to be the best dentist in New Orleans.

Why won’t my implant whiten?

Posted on by smiles4u.

I recently started whitening my teeth, but I’ve noticed that my implant – which used to match my teeth – is darker. Why is my implant not getting whiter along with the rest of my teeth? — Rick in Arkansas

Rick,
There’s good news and bad news with your situation. The good news is that the color you originally chose for your dental implant crown is sealed in, meaning it is very resistant to stains. The bad news is that it makes it impossible to whiten. This is because most at home whitening systems only work to remove surface stains and professional whitening systems permeate below the tooth’s surface to oxidize the stain. There are no dental restorations on the market today that work with either of these options. That is why whitening should be done prior to having any dental restorations, and your dental office should have offered it to you upfront and given the color time to stabilize before deciding on a shade.

Unfortunately, your only real option now is replacing the crown. If you’re satisfied with the shade you have achieved with the rest of your teeth, allow a few weeks for the color to stabilize before setting up an appointment. If you are looking to go whiter and want to do it faster, find a good cosmetic dentist who can help you determine what whitening options best suit your situation before you have the crown remade.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Read more about Find out why many consider Dr. Delaune to be the best dentist in New Orleans.

Not enough space for implants?

Posted on by smiles4u.

When I was young, a minor accident knocked one of my teeth out. It wasn’t in an obvious place that could be seen, so I didn’t worry about fixing it. I just recently went to the dentist after not being to one for many years, and I had to have the tooth next to it pulled. Now, I’d like to replace the two missing teeth with implants, but my dentist says I need to do a bridge because there is not enough room for two implants. I don’t understand how there is not enough room and also, the teeth on each side that he would need to crown are healthy, so why would he shave down good teeth?

Sam in Illinois

Sam,

When you lose a tooth, the surrounding teeth will shift.  Since it has been so many years since you lost the tooth, it’s given your other teeth plenty of time to move around, making the space smaller and leaving less room for two implants.

While a bridge may be an option – it’s not the only option.  Most dentists would likely want to find an alternative solution that doesn’t require shaving down healthy teeth, but if your dentist isn’t giving you any other options, it may be time to look for another opinion.

Mini implants might be an option in your case because they need less space. A dentist might be able to place two mini implants or even a single mini or traditional implant that will support two replacement teeth.

Bottom line, there are many options out there… take the time to do a little shopping around to find a dentist who will offer the best solution for you.

This post is sponsored by New Orleans cosmetic dentist Dr. Duane Delaune. Read more about Find out why many consider Dr. Delaune to be the best dentist in New Orleans.