Sinus lifts take place in the rear of the mouth near the molars, as the upper jaw typically
doesn’t have as much bone as the lower jaw, and tooth loss is likely to increase the loss of bone in these areas.

If you’re missing a tooth and want to be considered for a dental implant, how can you know if you’ll need a sinus lift beforehand? Here are a few reasons why someone might need a sinus lift before dental implant treatment.

You’ve Been Missing Teeth for a While

People who have been missing teeth in their upper jaw are more likely to have lost bone over a period of time.

The roots of our teeth are constantly stimulating our jaw bone, allowing it to stay strong and healthy. For people who have missing teeth, the jaw bone is no longer being stimulated, and the body begins to reabsorb it as a result.

Once teeth are lost and alveolar bone—the bone that supports the teeth—is lost, it can’t be regenerated, although you can grow new bone with the application of dental implants [1]. However, in order for dental implants to be successfully placed, there must be enough bone in the jaw to support the implant initially.

You’ve Had Gum Disease

If you’ve had gum disease at some point in the past, especially if it was a more aggressive form, you may have sustained bone loss in your jaw. In addition, people who have advanced gum disease are more likely to lose teeth as a result.

While people who have active gum disease will need to receive treatment before they can qualify for dental implants, this doesn’t mean that gum disease hasn’t already impacted the bone in your jaw. Only your dentist can tell with x-rays what the state of your alveolar bone is.

Fortunately, sinus lifts can greatly increase the success of dental implants in patients with lacking jaw bone [2].

Your Maxillary Sinus Is Too Close to the Jaw

Everyone’s sinuses are shaped differently. If the size and shape of the maxillary sinus—the sinuses closest the nose—are too close to the upper jaw, you may not be able to get dental implants without a sinus lift, even if you do have enough bone in your jaw to support a dental implant.

Sinus lifts are often the best choice for people who aren’t able to get shorter dental implants [3]. Your dentist can let you know what your options are based on your exam and x-rays during your consultation for dental implants.

While dental implants are an excellent choice for missing teeth, without enough supporting bone, the implant is more likely to fail. Your dentist or oral surgeon will make the best recommendation for you to ensure your dental implant procedure is as successful as possible.

Ask your dentist if you’ll need a sinus lift before qualifying for dental implants during your next appointment!

Sources:
1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15850992
2. https://www.perio.org/consumer/sinus-augmentation
3. https://file.scirp.org/pdf/OJST_2016122916515007.pdf

The post Do You Need a Sinus Lift Before Dental Implant Treatment? appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

The actual implant consists of a small screw that’s inserted into the jaw onto which a dental
crown will be placed. These sturdy restorations are designed to last a lifetime.

But can dental implants actually help prevent gum disease? Here’s what you need to know
about gum health after getting dental implants.

Implants Support Alveolar Bone

Dental implants help support the bone that supports teeth, which is called alveolar bone. This
bone—located in your jaw—helps keep your teeth healthy along with your gums and other
connective tissue.

When your alveolar bone is strong, you’re less likely to lose teeth. Jawbone naturally recedes
when a tooth is lost, as the bone is no longer being stimulated by that particular tooth and so
the body doesn’t see a need for it.

Lost jawbone can make your face appear less full and more sunken, leading to an older
appearance. Dental implants can essentially halt the bone loss process and generate better
jawbone density even if you’ve been missing teeth for years.

Dental Implants Can Still Be Affected by Gum Disease

Just because dental implants can support healthy alveolar bone doesn’t mean that your teeth
will now be immune to gum disease.

Dental implants aren’t able to get cavities, but gum disease can still affect the gum tissue
surrounding your new dental implant. This means that your dental implant is still susceptible to
the effects of gum disease.

For this reason, your dentist will want to ensure your gums are healthy before considering
dental implants for your smile. You cannot have existing gum disease and get dental implants,
but you can have dental implants and get gum disease.

How to Know if You Qualify for Dental Implants

Fortunately, even if you’ve had gum disease in the past, you can still qualify for dental implants
as long as your gum disease has been resolved by your dentist.

If you have an existing gum infection, your dentist will need to cure the problem before
considering your candidacy for dental implants.

You’ll also need to have enough alveolar bone to support dental implants. However, even if
you’ve sustained jawbone loss over the years, you may be able to get a bone graft in order to
receive dental implants.

Patients who may not qualify for dental implants include those who currently have gum
disease, those who smoke, or those who don’t have enough jawbone and are not able to
receive a bone graft.

Considering Dental Implants?

You don’t have to live with missing teeth. Dental implants have a 98% success rate and the
majority of patients are very satisfied with their restorations [1].

Dental implants may help prevent bone and tooth loss, but remember that keeping your smile
healthy is going to be key to preventing gum disease with your dental implants. Talk to your
dentist today to see if you qualify for these quality tooth replacements!

Sources:
1. https://www.perio.org/consumer/gum-disease-myths

The post Can Dental Implants Help Prevent Gum Disease? appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

Generally, bridges are used in place of actually having to replace the missing tooth. For implant
supported bridges, the use of this restorative procedure prevents the need for more implants
than are necessary and instead relies on surrounding implants to support the bridge.
Here’s what you need to know when considering an implant supported bridge for missing teeth.

More Flexibility When Placing Dental Implants

Implant supported bridges give your dentist more flexibility when placing your dental implants.
For example, if you have an area in your mouth that’s missing more jaw bone, your dentist can
opt to place the implant in an area that has sufficient bone to properly support the bridge.

Implant supported bridges also evenly distribute pressure. For example, if you grind your teeth,
your dentist might not want to replace each tooth with a dental implant and instead opt for an
implant supported bridge, which will distribute your biting and chewing pressure across the
bridge rather than just on individual teeth.

Your dentist may want to skip a space in your mouth for a variety of reasons, so an implant
supported bridge gives your dentist this flexibility when restoring your smile.

What You Can Expect During the Procedure

An implant supported bridge will be a multi-step process. First, your dental implants must be
placed and allowed to heal. During this time, the actual implant part of your dental implant will
fuse to the bone in your jaw to make a sturdy replacement for your natural teeth. You may
receive a temporary bridge during this time while your permanent bridge is made.

Then, the restoration process is completed. Your dentist will have crowns made that match
your natural teeth and place the crowns on the end of your dental implant while an additional
crown will be made to fill in the space in the middle. Once the procedure is complete, the
bridge will look like part of your natural smile!

Benefits of an Implant Supported Bridge

An implant supported bridge offers benefits over having other, less secure restorative work
such as a partial denture. Implants last for life, so they’ll feel more permanent and comfortable
than a removable denture. In addition, an implant supported bridge will look just like your
natural teeth and allow you to chew and speak well. An implant supported bridge may also be a
more cost-effective option, as it won’t require every tooth to be replaced with a dental implant.

If you’re considering getting dental implants, you may be able to qualify for an implant
supported bridge. Your dentist can help you determine how this restorative option would help
restore your smile and if you’re a candidate for the procedure. You can securely replace missing
teeth with an implant supported bridge!

The post What Is an Implant Supported Bridge? appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

What types of gum grafts are commonly done and what can you expect from this procedure?

Connective Tissue Gum Graft

For this gum graft procedure, a flap of skin is removed from the roof of your mouth in order for
your periodontist—a gum specialist—to access the connective tissue underneath. Once the
connective tissue is removed, it’s attached to the gum tissue where a tooth root is exposed.
Your oral surgeon will reattach the flap of skin removed from the roof of your mouth once the
connective tissue is used. After this, you’ll need to follow your doctor’s instructions for healing.

Free Gingival Gum Graft

Similarly to a connective tissue gum graft, tissue from the roof of the mouth is still used, but
there isn’t a need to access the connective tissue. In this procedure, the flap of skin that’s
removed will be placed directly on the affected gum tissue.

People who qualify from this procedure typically have thin or weak gum tissue and will need
this flap of skin to supplement and strengthen the existing gum tissue in addition to covering
the exposed tooth root.

Pedicle Gum Graft

During a pedicle gum graft, gum tissue is actually removed near the tooth that needs the graft.
Only people who have enough existing gum tissue near the affected tooth are candidates for
this gum grafting procedure.

For a pedicle gum graft, only part of the gum tissue is cut while the other part remains
attached. The gum tissue is then pulled over the exposed root to cover and protect it and is
then attached into place.

What to Expect During a Gum Graft

The name gum graft is worse than it sounds, as the procedure is relatively simple. Local
anesthesia will be used unless you arrange otherwise before the procedure. The procedure
itself typically doesn’t take much time, and you’ll be able to return to your normal activities the
next day.

Your oral surgeon may provide you with a list of suggested foods for the next week or two while
your mouth heals. Typically, softer foods are suggested and can help facilitate faster healing of
your gum tissue. Full recovery time can be expected in approximately two weeks. Be sure to
follow any instructions your doctor gives you for after the procedure!

Only a professional dentist or periodontist can tell you if you need a gum graft. Typically, gum
grafts are reserved for people who have experienced gum disease and gum recession as a
result. Since gum recession can be unsightly and painful, gum grafts can help many people to
regain healthy gum tissue and protect their tooth roots!

The post What Is Gum Grafting? appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

Dental implants also provide a sense of confidence and security, as people know that their smile is safe and they won’t have to worry about their tooth falling out or keeping a partial denture in.

For many people who are considering dental implants, they often wonder exactly how much these restorations can cost. Here’s your guide for determining an approximate amount for your dental implant procedure!

A Single Dental Implant

If you have just one tooth that needs to be replaced, the minimum you can expect to pay for a dental implant is typically around $1,500. The costs for dental implants are higher because you’ll need both a dentist and an oral surgeon to fully complete the procedure. A single dental implant could cost as little as $1,500 or as much as $6,000, depending on if you need a bone graft before the titanium post can be successfully placed in your jaw.

Two Dental Implants

If you’re looking to have a pair of dental implants, you can expect to pay a minimum of $3,000 and upwards of $10,000. You’ll likely need multiple visits to complete your restorations and the cost of materials combined with your procedure and care can cost more than many people realize.

Multiple Dental Implants

When you’re missing multiple teeth, dental implants can cost upwards of $30,000. In cases like these, it may be more cost efficient to get implant-supported dentures. Implant-supported dentures cost an average of $34,000 and allow you to only have a few dental implants (between four and six) where a denture will permanently attach onto.

Implant-supported dentures are a secure option for those that don’t want to pay so much to replace each tooth with a dental implant; they make a cost-effective and simpler option that’s just as secure!

Breaking Down the Costs

What constitutes the price of dental implants? Let’s break down the costs to see where these numbers are coming from.

– The cost of the materials for the dental implants themselves typically range from $1,500
to $2,000.
– The dental crown that affixes onto the end of your dental implant can cost between
$500 and $3,000
– This does not include your appointments for digital x-rays, any necessary bone grafts,
and the oral surgeon’s fees.

As you can see, there’s more to the price of dental implants than merely paying your dentist. Fortunately, certain dental insurance plans can help you cover some of the costs of dental implants so you’re not left paying this money out-of-pocket.

If you’re considering dental implants for your smile, schedule an appointment with your dentist today to see if you would qualify and what the specific cost would be. Dental implants can provide you with a sturdy smile that functions well for a lifetime!

The post What Can Dental Implants Cost? appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

What kinds of materials are used for dental implants? Here’s why not every dental implant is
the same and what types of materials you can expect to find for your implant options.

Titanium

Titanium has long been used for dental implants and is the most tried and true material.
Although some people are sensitive to titanium, this material tends to be very biocompatible
and not cause reactions in the body.

Titanium is also used for knee and hip replacements among many other medical procedures
based on how well people tolerate it. Titanium also has the ability to fuse with bone, making it
a secure and trustworthy choice for dental implants.

Titanium also offers the advantage of being flexible in regards to how it’s placed in the jaw. It
can be made to consist of two pieces, which offer more options for dentists to place. This
dental implant material has been used for decades with very high rates of success (currently
about 98 percent).

Zirconia

Some people are concerned about being exposed to metal or having an allergy to metal, so
there’s been a demand for a metal-free dental implant option.

Zirconia comes pretty close. It’s not entirely metal-free, as it contains trace amounts of metal,
but these traces are so minimal they would not cause a reaction. Zirconia tends to be more
biocompatible than titanium, but it does have its disadvantages.

Zirconia is a relatively recent development for dental implants and has not been nearly as
measured for success as titanium. There’s also minimal room for error when placing the dental
implant, as zirconia implants are only made in one piece and so give oral surgeons less flexibility
when placing the implant.

Since zirconia implants are made out of one piece, they also have fewer areas for bacteria to
accumulate and so provide minimal chances of a reaction or infection. However, titanium
implants also have very low rates of rejection and infection, making it comparable to zirconia in
this aspect.

Which One Is Right for You?

If you’re a candidate for dental implants, your dentist can discuss which material would be best
for your implant. There are different reasons each material may be used. People who clench their jaw or grind their teeth may not be able to have zirconia dental implants, as these implants have been known to fracture.

People who don’t want the dark color of metal showing through their gums—this is very rare in
titanium dental implant cases—may want to go with zirconia.

If you’re sensitive to titanium, zirconia may be your only option. You’ll need to discuss your
choices with your dentist to determine which one will be right for your unique smile. If you
don’t have an allergy or sensitivity to metal, titanium implants will likely be your dentist’s first
choice.

Are you considering dental implants? Remember that not every dental implant is created equal.
When it comes to your beautiful smile, your professional dentist can help you make the best
choice to give you a solid tooth replacement for life!

The post Are All Dental Implants Created Equal? appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

You should never wait to fix your chipped or cracked tooth, even if you aren’t experiencing any
pain. Here’s why you should make an appointment to get your injured tooth looked at!

Evaluate Tooth for Further Damage

When your tooth has been chipped or cracked, the best course of action is to have it evaluated
by a professional dentist for damage you can’t see. The crack may run deeper than you think
and can even compromise tooth structure, making your tooth more susceptible to future chips
and cracks.

This evaluation also serves to protect your affected tooth from further harm. When you get
your injured tooth treated promptly, you reduce the chances that something else will happen
to your tooth that could cause infection, discoloration, or the need for additional treatment.

The Damage May Affect Your Tooth’s Nerve

The nerves of our teeth rest in the center of the tooth protected by a layer of dentin and a layer
of enamel to keep bacteria out. If your crack or chip is large enough to affect the nerve tissue of your tooth, there is a higher risk for infection as you’re exposing the center of your tooth to bacteria and food particles.

If the crack or chip is deep, the nerve inside your tooth can become infected and die, causing
your tooth to become discolored and eventually leading to the need for a root canal. You
should never wait to seek treatment for a chipped or cracked tooth

When Should You Seek Treatment?

For some people, a cracked or chipped tooth is not painful and so they forgo treatment. By the
time their affected tooth does start to hurt, typically an infection has set in and the tooth may
not be able to be saved.

Although a cracked or chipped tooth isn’t considered a dental emergency, you shouldn’t wait
more than a day or two to seek treatment. It’s always a good idea to contact your dentist to
describe the problem and make an appointment for an evaluation as soon as it happens.

However, if your tooth has cracked to the point that it is jagged, causing extreme pain, or
bleeding, you should see the dentist sooner. In the meantime, salt water rinses and over-the-
counter pain medication may help your discomfort. Always treat an injured tooth with care
until you can get to the dentist.

Treatment options include dental bonding, which is simple and painless, or if your damage is
extensive, a dental crown.

Don’t let your cracked or chipped tooth go to the point that you need root canal therapy to
save your tooth. Evaluation and treatment today can prevent future dental problems and might
just save your smile! If you’ve cracked or chipped a tooth, don’t delay in reaching out to your
dentist for an appointment!

The post Should I Fix My Chipped or Cracked Tooth or Can It Wait? appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

These dental bridges are affixed to dental implants instead of being supported by the
surrounding teeth, so they’re stronger, more secure, and look more natural than a traditional
dental bridge.

With all the benefits of implant supported bridges, here’s how you can find out if you’re a
candidate for these practical tooth replacements.

At Least One Tooth Missing

In order to qualify for implant supported bridges, you’ll need to have at least one natural tooth
missing or more in a row. This enables your dentist to place the implants and then construct a
bridge that will attach and not affect the surrounding teeth.

In fact, implant supported bridges work to strengthen the surrounding teeth. When you lose a
tooth, the bone in your jaw can become compromised in that area, leading to teeth shifting.
When you take advantage of an implant supported bridge, you can help facilitate jaw bone
growth and keep all your teeth in their natural positions while naturally strengthening and
stimulating the jawbone.

Sufficient Jawbone

Just like with traditional dental implants, you’ll need enough bone in your jaw in order to
healthily support your implant supported bridge. Sometimes, people who have lost a tooth lack
the proper bone to support a dental implant, especially if they’ve waited years to replace their
tooth.

If you don’t have enough bone in your jaw to support the dental implants, your dentist may
suggest a bone graft. Although this will add a bit more time onto your procedure, it’ll give you
optimal chances of success for your dental implants.

You’ll first get dental implants in the areas where your missing teeth are and then a temporary
dental bridge while your implants heal. Then, you’ll receive your dental bridge which will be
permanent, secure, and functional.

Good Oral Health

Just like with regular dental implants, you’ll need to be in good oral health in order to be a
candidate for implant supported bridges. If you have gum disease or another type of oral health

condition, it’ll need to be fully treated before you can be considered for this procedure. Keeping
your smile in optimal health with regular checkups is the best way to ensure you’ll be a
candidate for implant supported bridges.

It’s also important that you don’t smoke in order to encourage proper healing of your dental
implant site. If you smoke, your dentist will encourage you to stop or minimize your usage
before and after the procedure. This will help you have your best chances at healing after your
dental implants are placed.

Implant supported bridges offer many benefits that traditional bridges can’t. Your implants will
never need to be replaced, your bridge will be stronger, and you won’t have to compromise the
health of the neighboring teeth to support a traditional bridge. Make an appointment to talk
with your dentist about an implant supported bridge today!

The post Who Is a Candidate for an Implant Supported Bridge? appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

Dental implants have many long-term benefits that you’ll soon see. Here’s why implants are the
best investment for your smile in the long run!

Stimulate Bone Growth

One of the best benefits of dental implants is that they stimulate bone growth in your jaw.
When you lose a tooth, the bone that once supported that tooth will begin to diminish over
time. Without a replacement, the body has no need for this bone. When your jaw bone loses
density, your face can begin to have a shrunken or aged appearance.

With dental implants, the bone in your jaw is once again stimulated by a “tooth”. This will help
enhance the fullness of your face and may even give you a younger appearance. This will also
help your jaw remain strong and healthy over your lifetime!

Save Money on Future Replacements

Since dental implants have the potential to last a lifetime with the proper care, they save you
money on future replacements. With dentures and bridges, a replacement is inevitable after a
few years. With dental implants, you have a permanent solution that will never need to be
replaced. Only the dental crown will need to be replaced, and these crowns have the potential
to last a decade or even longer!

Reduce Risk of Cavities

Since dental implants aren’t able to get cavities, you’ll help reduce the chances that bacteria
from tooth decay or gum disease will build up on your replaced teeth. This could facilitate a
healthier smile with the proper home care and regular visits to your dentist!

Keep Teeth from Shifting

Dental implants prevent your teeth from shifting over time. Teeth shifting happens as the result
of missing teeth, which the body will then compensate for by slowly moving the remaining
teeth into their place. Dental implants help your teeth stay in their proper positions over your
lifetime, so you won’t have the need for cosmetic work as the result of shifting!

Enjoy Food Again

You’ll never have to worry about your dental implant falling out or causing you any discomfort,
unlike some cosmetic tooth replacements. This means you can enjoy all the foods you used to
enjoy before you lost your tooth or teeth. In fact, since dental implants function just like your
normal teeth, you’re unlimited in what you can have to eat!

Improve Confidence

Dental implants not only provide you with an array of long-term physical benefits for your
smile, they provide lasting emotional benefits as well. They often give patients the confidence
to smile again, to fully express themselves, and to enjoy foods out in public. Even your speech
may improve, as missing teeth can make it difficult to pronounce words properly.

From inspiring confidence to providing you with a sturdy, functional, and beautiful solution to
your missing teeth, dental implants are rapidly becoming the most popular choice to restore
smiles. Have you been considering dental implants? Make an appointment with your dentist
today to discuss the long-term benefits dental implants may have in store for you!

The post What Are Long-Term Benefits of Dental Implants? appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.

They Last for Life with the Right Care

Dental implants have a 95% success rate among patients. This means the chances for rejection or infection of your new dental implant are very slim. Since the titanium post is inserted into your jaw, dental implants help facilitate bone growth so your appearance and functionality are the best they possibly can be without your natural tooth. Your dental implants will last for life if you take proper care of them. What this means is brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly to ensure your implants are healthy. You may never need to replace your dental implant as long as it doesn’t become loose, damaged, or infected.

Crown Replacement

The actual implant plant of your dental implant is only part of what completes your smile. The other part is a dental crown, which is affixed to the end of your dental implant to complete the restoration. Although extremely durable and a great replacement for natural teeth, your dental crown will not last forever. On average, crowns will need to be replaced every 15 years. They may last longer if you take proper care of them. Since teeth in the rear of your mouth tend to wear more than your front teeth, any dental implants placed in this area may need a crown replacement sooner.

Things That Impact the Life of Your Dental Implant

Once your mouth fully heals after the procedure, your new dental implant won’t require much more maintenance than your other teeth do! However, in order to keep your dental implant healthy and to make it last for the longest possible time, you need to know about the things that could impact the life of your dental implant.

These things include gum disease—which could affect your gum tissue and cause the implant to loosen—as well as chewing on objects like pencils or ice that can damage your dental crown. Making your implant last will include regular dentist visits, proper care of your smile, and giving up smoking to keep your implants at their healthiest!

From mini dental implants to traditional implants, these effective tooth replacers allow you to fully enjoy your smile again. The great thing about dental implants is that they’ll last for life with the right care! Your dentist can help ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy enough to sustain the implant as well as advise you on when you’ll need a crown replacement. Consider dental implants to replace your missing tooth for your best smile!

The post How Long Do Dental Implants Last? appeared first on Your Dental Health Resource.