Sinus Lifts & Bone Rebuilding For Dental Implants

Posted on Feb 25, 2013 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

When natural tooth roots are missing from the upper or lower jaw, the bone that was once their foundation begins to shrink. Over time, this bone loss can cause many problems.

A common frustration of denture wearers is uncomfortable rubbing or slips while eating. This is because the bone ridge that the denture was designed to fit is shrinking. Even with adhesives and pastes, a flattened bone ridge can make chewing with a denture difficult. Relines may help for a brief time, but eventually, they seem to do little good.

Bone loss becomes obvious in one’s facial appearance. Deep wrinkling occurs around the mouth, even with dentures in place. The mouth appears sunken-in and the corners of the mouth turn downward. Jowls form and the chin takes on a pointed shape.

To place Dental Implants, a sufficient amount of upper or lower jaw bone must exist. Once the implants are in place, your bone grows around them. This secures them firmly in place, giving a dependable foundation like that of the tooth roots you once had.

In the lower jaw, a nerve runs horizontally through the bone. Placing implants must be done so there is no risk of interfering with this nerve. And, because the upper jaw connects to the sinus cavities, upper placement must be done so each implant avoids close proximity. This is why sinus augmentation, or a ‘sinus lift,’ is occasionally necessary.

A key to implant success is not just in the selection of the implant, but where the implant is placed. When too much bone loss has occurred, bone rebuilding techniques are necessary. Although these extend the treatment time and add to the overall cost, the ability to eat and laugh without worry or discomfort is well-worth the procedure you have, even if added steps are necessary. This is why it is better to have Dental Implants placed before this extent of bone loss occurs.

Some implants are specifically designed to for people who have had a great deal of bone loss. We’ve had excellent results with the ‘All-On-4’ implant system. These are placed at unique angles so they require less bone depth. Another benefit of All-On-4 is their ability to support a full arch using just four implants. Because the cost of implant treatment is largely determined by the number of implants used, this helps to keep overall expenses down.

Today’s Dental Implants are highly-successful and tremendously advantageous for those who once struggled with dentures or partials. If you’d like to know more, call to arrange a Consultation at (828) 274-9440.

Latest From Southern Academy of Periodontics Meeting

Posted on Feb 14, 2013 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

I recently attended the Southern Academy of Periodontics Winter Meeting (held in Charlotte, January 25-26). During this time, I attended clinical lectures that addressed the latest developments in helping patients achieve optimal periodontal health.

Dr. Robert Fazio, a Periodontist and Yale University Instructor, presented the latest on the best use of antibiotics in dentistry. This is of particular interest since inappropriate antibiotic use (typically over-use) has resulted in antibiotic resistant bacteria.  This makes it extremely difficult to treat patients who are periodontally compromised. Dr. Fazio also addressed the latest techniques to treat and prevent periodontitis (gum infections) and infections from dental implants.

Another interesting  program was “Global Diagnosis : A New Vision of Dental Diagnosis and Treatment Planning.” This lecture provided the very best methods for comprehensive diagnosis and treatment services for patients referred by their Dentist or another Dental Specialist. By combining our skills and working as a team, we can each provide the best care for patients who need comprehensive care to maintain or replace teeth.

The Best Time To Replace A Tooth Is Following Extraction

Posted on Feb 09, 2013 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Let’s say you’ve cracked a tooth below the gum line. It’s too late for a crown and now requires removal. There are several reasons why it’s more advantageous to place a Dental Implant at the time of extraction.

By combining the two procedures, you save treatment time and numbing for a second procedure. This also allows for the implant to be positioned into the same place as the just-removed tooth root, so drilling a slot in the upper or lower jaw is not necessary.

Another benefit is the preservation of the natural contours of the gum tissue. Each tooth is bordered by gum tissue that slightly arches with points that dip in-between each two teeth. Immediate implant placement helps preserve these natural contours. This means you avoid the shrinking of these tissues from delay, which gives a flat look.

Many of today’s implants can have teeth attached immediately. If you find that a tooth will have to be extracted, consider the many advantages of having your implant placed as part of the procedure.

An Ideal Implant? Hmmm, Could Be…

Posted on Jan 25, 2013 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

Over the years, Dental Implants have evolved into what is becoming American adults’ preferred method for tooth replacement. And, why not? They restore the ability to chew comfortably, halt bone loss, and are designed to last a lifetime. As a matter of fact, Dental Implants have one of the highest success rates of all implant-in-bone types, including hips and knees.

One fairly recent implant is setting quite a precedent for all others. The ‘All-On-4’ implant system uses unique angles so it works well for even those who have experienced severe bone loss. Because it uses only 4 implants to support a full arch of teeth, it is a more-affordable option that many traditional types.

Another bonus of the All-On-4 is their ability to support teeth as soon as they are placed. They also hold teeth that are non-removable, so you can brush your teeth in your mouth and wake up with a smile!

I can’t think of one reason why a denture wearer would be miserable and struggle to chew when All-On-4 is such an ideal option. To discuss ‘All-On-4’ or any Dental Implant, call (828) 274-9440 to schedule a consultation.