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New Year Offer: 25% Discount on all our services, Hurry Up! Call: 9154680698
New Year Offer: 25% Discount on all our services, Hurry Up! Call: 9154680698
New Year Offer: 25% Discount on all our services, Hurry Up! Call: 9154680698
New Year Offer: 25% Discount on all our services, Hurry Up! Call: 9154680698

PROSTHODONTICS

Dental implants are a popular and effective solution for replacing missing teeth. They serve as artificial tooth roots, providing a stable foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth. Here’s an overview:

What Are Dental Implants?

  • Structure: Implants consist of three main components:
    1. Implant post: A titanium or zirconia screw surgically inserted into the jawbone to serve as an artificial root.
    2. Abutment: A connector that supports and secures the replacement tooth or crown.
    3. Crown: The visible, prosthetic tooth that looks and functions like a natural tooth.

Benefits of Dental Implants

  • Durability: Can last 10-30 years with proper care.
  • Natural appearance: Mimic the look and feel of real teeth.
  • Improved function: Allow for normal chewing and speaking.
  • Bone preservation: Prevent bone loss in the jaw by stimulating bone growth.
  • Adjacent teeth preservation: Do not require alteration of neighboring teeth, unlike bridges.

Types of Dental Implants

  1. Endosteal Implants: Placed directly into the jawbone, the most common type.
  2. Subperiosteal Implants: Positioned on top of the jawbone under the gum tissue, used when there is insufficient bone height.
  3. Zygomatic Implants: Anchored in the cheekbone, used in cases of severe bone loss.

The Implant Process

  1. Initial Consultation: Assessment and imaging to determine suitability.
  2. Preparation: Bone grafting (if needed) to ensure a stable foundation.
  3. Implant Placement: Surgical insertion of the implant post into the jawbone.
  4. Healing Period: 3-6 months for osseointegration, where the bone fuses with the implant.
  5. Abutment Placement: Attaching the abutment to the implant.
  6. Crown Placement: Custom-made crown is fixed to the abutment.

Who Is a Candidate?

Ideal candidates are individuals:

  • With good oral and general health.
  • Having adequate bone density.
  • Free from gum disease or other oral infections.
  • Non-smokers (or willing to quit during the healing process).

Maintenance

  • Maintain excellent oral hygiene (brushing, flossing).
  • Regular dental check-ups.
  • Avoid habits like smoking or chewing hard objects.

 

  1. What are dental implants?
    Dental implants are artificial tooth roots, typically made of titanium or zirconia, that are surgically placed in the jawbone to support replacement teeth such as crowns, bridges, or dentures.
  2. Are dental implants safe?
    Yes, dental implants are a well-established, safe, and effective treatment for replacing missing teeth when performed by qualified professionals.

Eligibility

  1. Am I a candidate for dental implants?
    Most people with good oral and overall health are candidates. Adequate jawbone density and healthy gums are necessary, though bone grafts can address deficiencies.
  2. Can smokers get dental implants?
    Smoking can impair healing and increase the risk of implant failure. Dentists often recommend quitting before and during the healing process.
  3. What if I don’t have enough bone for implants?
    Bone grafting or alternative techniques like zygomatic implants may be used to build up bone or bypass areas with insufficient density.

The Procedure

  1. Is the dental implant procedure painful?
    The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so discomfort during surgery is minimal. Post-operative pain is typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
  2. How long does the dental implant process take?
    The process can take 3-6 months or longer, depending on healing time, osseointegration (bone fusion), and any preparatory procedures like bone grafting.
  3. How many visits are required?
    This depends on your treatment plan but typically involves multiple visits for consultation, surgery, healing check-ups, and crown placement.

Aftercare and Maintenance

  1. How do I care for dental implants?
    Maintain proper oral hygiene by brushing, flossing, and using an antibacterial mouthwash. Regular dental check-ups are essential.
  2. Do dental implants last forever?
    While implants are durable, they may last 10-30 years or more with proper care. The crown may need replacement after 10-15 years due to wear.
  3. Can implants get cavities?
    Implants cannot develop cavities, but the surrounding gums and neighboring teeth remain vulnerable to decay and gum disease.

Complications and Risks

  1. What are the risks of dental implants?
    Risks include infection, implant failure, nerve damage, and sinus issues (in upper jaw implants). However, complications are rare when performed by experienced professionals.
  2. What happens if an implant fails?
    A failed implant can often be removed, and the area can be treated and re-implanted once healed.

Functionality

  1. Do implants feel like natural teeth?
    Yes, implants are designed to look, feel, and function like natural teeth, allowing normal eating, speaking, and smiling.
  2. Can I eat normally with dental implants?
    Yes, once fully healed, you can eat almost anything, including tough or crunchy foods.
  3. Do implants affect speech?
    No, implants can improve speech compared to dentures, as they are stable and do not shift.

Dentures are removable dental appliances designed to replace missing teeth and restore function, appearance, and oral health. Here’s an overview:

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are artificial teeth and gums made from materials like acrylic, resin, and sometimes metal. They are custom-made to fit the unique shape and structure of a patient’s mouth.

Types of Dentures

  1. Complete Dentures: Replace all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw.
    • Conventional: Fitted after the gums have healed from tooth extraction.
    • Immediate: Fitted immediately after tooth extraction but may require adjustments as the gums heal.
  2. Partial Dentures: Replace a few missing teeth and are anchored to natural teeth using metal clasps or precision attachments.
  3. Implant-Supported Dentures: Securely attached to dental implants, providing better stability and function.
  4. Snap-In Dentures: A hybrid of traditional and implant-supported dentures that snap onto dental implants or attachments.
  5. Overdentures: Fit over natural teeth roots or implants, offering additional support.

Benefits of Dentures

  • Restores ability to chew and speak properly.
  • Enhances facial appearance by filling out the cheeks and lips.
  • Affordable compared to dental implants.
  • Customizable for comfort and natural appearance.

Limitations

  • May require adjustments or replacements over time due to gum and bone changes.
  • Can feel less stable than natural teeth or implants.
  • Requires maintenance to prevent infections or odors.

Procedure for Getting Dentures

  1. Initial Consultation: Assessment of oral health and discussion of denture options.
  2. Impressions: Molds of the mouth are taken to create a custom fit.
  3. Try-In Phase: Temporary models are used to ensure proper fit and comfort.
  4. Final Placement: Dentures are fitted, and adjustments are made as needed.
  5. Follow-Up: Regular check-ups to monitor fit and oral health.

Care and Maintenance

  • Daily Cleaning: Brush dentures with a soft toothbrush and mild soap or denture cleaner. Do not use regular toothpaste as it can be abrasive.
  • Soaking: Store dentures in water or a denture-soaking solution overnight to keep them moist.
  • Oral Hygiene: Clean gums, tongue, and any remaining natural teeth daily.
  • Avoid Damage: Handle dentures carefully and avoid using hot water, which can warp them.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Do dentures hurt?
    New dentures may feel uncomfortable initially, but adjustments can improve comfort over time.
  2. How long do dentures last?
    With proper care, dentures typically last 5-10 years before needing replacement.
  3. Can I sleep with dentures?
    While not recommended, some people may sleep with their dentures. Removing them at night helps prevent gum irritation and infections.
  4. Can dentures improve my speech?
    Yes, though there may be an adjustment period, dentures can help improve speech compared to missing teeth.
  5. Can I eat normally with dentures?
    Yes, but certain foods may require more caution. Practice and adjustments can make eating easier.

Dental Crowns

Dental Crowns: An Overview

A dental crown is a cap placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are commonly used to protect weak teeth, cover large fillings, or improve the aesthetics of a smile.

Uses of Dental Crowns

  1. Protect weak teeth (e.g., from decay or cracks).
  2. Restore broken or worn-down teeth.
  3. Cover and support a tooth with a large filling.
  4. Anchor a dental bridge.
  5. Complete a dental implant.
  6. Improve the appearance of discolored or misshapen teeth.

Types of Dental Crowns

  1. Porcelain or Ceramic
    • Best for front teeth due to their natural appearance.
    • Stain-resistant and custom-matched to tooth color.
  2. Metal (Gold or Alloy)
    • Extremely durable and ideal for back teeth.
    • Less aesthetic due to metallic color.
  3. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM)
    • Combines strength and natural appearance.
    • Metal underneath may show if gums recede.
  4. Zirconia
    • Strong and aesthetically pleasing.
    • Resistant to chipping or cracking.
  5. Resin
    • Cost-effective but less durable.
    • Prone to wear over time.
  6. Temporary Crowns
    • Made from acrylic or resin as a short-term solution while waiting for permanent crowns.

The Dental Crown Procedure

  1. Initial Consultation
    • Examination and imaging to assess the tooth.
    • Treatment plan and material selection.
  2. Tooth Preparation
    • The dentist shapes the tooth by removing a small portion to accommodate the crown.
    • An impression is taken for a custom fit.
  3. Temporary Crown Placement
    • A temporary crown is placed while the permanent crown is fabricated.
  4. Crown Placement
    • The permanent crown is cemented in place after ensuring proper fit and color match.

Benefits of Dental Crowns

  • Restores functionality for chewing and speaking.
  • Protects and preserves the natural tooth structure.
  • Provides a natural and long-lasting appearance.

Care and Maintenance

  1. Practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily.
  2. Avoid chewing hard foods or using teeth as tools.
  3. Attend regular dental check-ups to monitor the crown’s condition.

Lifespan of a Dental Crown

Dental crowns typically last 10-15 years or longer with proper care. Factors affecting longevity include oral hygiene, material type, and habits like teeth grinding.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Is getting a dental crown painful?
    No, the procedure is usually painless with local anesthesia, though some sensitivity may occur after placement.
  2. Can crowns be whitened?
    No, crowns cannot be whitened. It’s best to whiten natural teeth before getting a crown to ensure color matching.
  3. Can a crown fall off?
    Rarely, but improper fit or adhesive failure can cause it to loosen. If this happens, consult your dentist immediately.
  4. How do crowns differ from veneers?
    Crowns cover the entire tooth, while veneers cover only the front surface. Crowns are used for structural repair, while veneers are primarily cosmetic.
  5. Are crowns covered by insurance?
    Insurance often covers crowns partially if they are for restorative purposes, but not for purely cosmetic reasons.

Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are fixed prosthetic devices used to replace one or more missing teeth. They consist of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) anchored by crowns or attachments to adjacent natural teeth or implants (abutments). Dental bridges help restore function, aesthetics, and oral health. Here’s an overview:

Types of Dental Bridges

  1. Traditional Bridge
    • The most common type.
    • Made up of one or more pontics held in place by dental crowns cemented onto adjacent teeth.
    • Requires the preparation (shaving down) of adjacent teeth.
  2. Cantilever Bridge
    • Used when there’s only one adjacent tooth to support the bridge.
    • Less common due to the potential for additional stress on the supporting tooth.
  3. Maryland Bridge (Resin-Bonded Bridge)
    • Comprises a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of adjacent teeth.
    • Minimally invasive as it doesn’t require crowns on adjacent teeth.
  4. Implant-Supported Bridge
    • Uses dental implants instead of natural teeth for support.
    • A durable and long-term solution, especially for multiple missing teeth.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

  • Restores Smile and Confidence: Fills gaps to enhance appearance.
  • Improves Chewing and Speaking: Restores functionality.
  • Prevents Teeth from Shifting: Maintains proper alignment by preventing remaining teeth from moving into the gap.
  • Distributes Bite Force Evenly: Helps reduce stress on remaining teeth.

Process for Getting a Dental Bridge

  1. Consultation: Examination, X-rays, and treatment planning.
  2. Preparation: Shaping the abutment teeth (for traditional bridges) or placing implants (if implant-supported).
  3. Impressions: Taking molds to fabricate a custom bridge.
  4. Temporary Bridge: A temporary bridge may be placed while the permanent one is being made.
  5. Fitting and Cementation: The permanent bridge is adjusted for fit and cemented.

Care and Maintenance

  • Brush and floss daily, including under the pontic (use a floss threader or specialized floss).
  • Avoid hard or sticky foods.
  • Regular dental check-ups and cleanings.