Dentures Archives - Adam Brown Dentistry

Your Teeth as You Age – Adam Brown, DDS

Jon Dalton George2024-01-28T19:56:46+00:00January 28th, 2024|Adam Brown DDS, Dentures, General, Oral Health|

Your Teeth as You Age

Every new day brings in an older and wiser version of ourselves. But we don’t just become wiser; our bodies change too. Teeth are especially prone to change and incur wear over time, something that older readers may have already experienced.

In fact, nearly 1 in 5 adults over the age of 65 are missing all of their teeth — a testament to how the evolution and rapid change of our tooth health can lead to real dental damage. The longer you use something, the more wear and tear it will go under — this is true for your teeth, too!

As you age, the increased likelihood of dental problems is nothing to ignore. And with age introducing new problems and concerns, some people can see a lifetime of care for their teeth seemingly evaporate in months.

“You have people who have maintained their oral health their entire lives, only to see it go down the tubes in six to eight months,” – Judith Jones, Professor at Boston University’s dental school and elder-care spokeswoman for the American Dental Association.

While there are a number of causes for the increased risk in older teeth, the overall change in your teeth is most to blame. Teeth soften as we age, increasing challenges and risks, among other changes.

So don’t leave your aging teeth to fight for their health alone; schedule an appointment with a qualified dentist today to preserve dental health and stay healthy for the long run. And there’s no better dentist to go to for that type of preventive care than Adam Brown DDS. Years of experience helping older patients in the Monroe area equip this office to provide the best care for aging teeth.

What Makes Our Teeth?

Most people believe that our teeth are an extension of our bones — but that’s a common misconception. It’s likely rooted in the fact that your teeth and bones mostly comprise calcium. Additionally, much like our bones and joints, a lifetime of use can create pain and damage, especially if left untreated. While they have these things in common, the two have unique differences.

Bones are living tissue – teeth are not. Most readers know that bones can heal and repair themselves, but teeth can not. This means preservation and additional care are key to having teeth that can stand the test of time. Teeth have four different types of tissue, all of which can experience changes or damage with age:

Enamel – Your enamel forms the outer layer of your teeth, protecting the more sensitive inner parts of your tooth from damage Enamel is the strongest substance in your body, so it plays its role as a protector well.

Over time, your enamel is prone to erosion, opening up gaps in protecting your teeth. And because these cells aren’t living, the cracks formed are permanent. Additionally, this layer is the part of your teeth that can stain, leading to discoloration.

Dentin – Dentin is the layer wedged between your enamel and cementum. Dentin serves a similar role to enamel, protecting the crown of your teeth. Still, it is much softer than enamel, so it can develop decay and cavities rapidly, especially if left untreated.

If there’s been a specific part of your mouth causing you discomfort, it could be the case that your dentin is taking a beating. If that’s the case, it’s important to schedule a check-up with a dentist right away!

Cementum – Cementum is a substance covering the root of your tooth. It connects your teeth to the gums and is softer than both dentin and enamel. This and the next layer are important to keep protected, as damage or decay to these components could spell real problems.

Pulp – Also known as the nerve in your tooth, this layer has blood tissue and nerves that connect your teeth to the rest of your body. Often, we talk about how dental health plays a role in your overall health. If you need an example of this, look no further than the pulp, which plays a bridge between oral and overall health.

The Factors that Change Our Teeth

Still, why are our teeth more prone to damage and disease when we age? There’s no singular answer to this, but rather a number of factors that create an overall more vulnerable oral health for older patients.

Wear and Tear

The longer you use something, the more wear and tear it will go under — this is true for your teeth, too!

Daily use over the course of years can damage your teeth, erasing enamel, an important layer for healthy teeth! Teeth are also more likely to crack or break with age, so avoid hard foods or ice to ensure longevity. Those with enough wear and tear may consider crowns or veneers, both offered by Adam Brown DDS.

To prevent some of the more severe impacts of dental wear and tear, you could try and chew your food evenly. Some people chew with specific parts of their mouth, which compounds the risk of overuse and damage.

Dry Mouth

According to studies by the National Library of Medicine, over 46% of those over the age of 65 experience dry mouth.

Countless medications have side effects that contribute to dry mouth, which could be a cause in this large number of affected people. While dry mouth creates discomfort, you may be surprised at the damage it can cause to your teeth. Saliva is important in fighting off bacteria growth, contributing to tooth decay. Look to switch medications if the issue persists, or drink more water to prevent your mouth from getting too dry.

Overeating and Drinking Certain- Foods

While most foods in moderation won’t impact your teeth negatively, a lifetime of consumption can create real problems. Foods high in acid spell trouble for your enamel, especially if used consistently over the course of years. Other foods that create stains, like coffee and red wine, can lead to real discoloration and a less polished smile.

Maintaining a Strong Support System – Your Gums

Your teeth aren’t alone in oral hygiene. Your gums are an important part of keeping your oral health in check. Gum disease that leads to a receding gumline exposes your teeth to more damage, increasing risks of disease and problems.

“Age itself isn’t a cause, but the periodontal disease often slowly gets worse and goes undetected — and untreated — for decades, leading to more severe problems in the seventh decade of life and beyond.” – Harvard Health Publishing.

As the researchers at Harvard Health Publishing said, if untreated, you’ll encounter severe problems ranging well beyond just your tooth health. Adam Brown DDS offers periodontal treatment that will give your teeth the strong supporting cast they deserve for a healthy life.

The Role of Ongoing Preventative Care

While knowing the factors and what to avoid can prevent some damage, few things are more effective at keeping your teeth healthy than consistent and ongoing preventative care. Many wait until a problem is unignorable to make the jump to schedule a dental appointment, but at that point — irreparable damage could have already happened, squashing a lifetime of care and attention to your teeth. Even worse, a lot of our elderly population is experiencing gaps in care during an important time for checkups and treatment.

“Medicare does not cover routine dental services. Nearly 24 million Medicare beneficiaries lack critical oral health coverage, six meaning many older adults do not receive regular dental services.” – Johnson, Dental Economics.

With new patient specials and an office dedicated to getting you the help they need, Adam Brown DDS is looking to tackle this gap and provide those who need care with best-in-class treatment options. So, don’t hesitate to call and explore your options!

A Dentist Who Understands

We all know that aging creates problems, but having a patient and understanding dentist who’s ready to face those challenges alongside you is necessary to reverse the trends of poor senior dental health across the country. Reviews of Adam Brown DDS echo just that —

“Dr. Brown was friendly and very accommodating. He is honest in his dealings and tries to work with patients’ situations. My parents are both elderly with various health issues that can make visits difficult for both patients and doctors. He has been kind and patient with them. They love him!” – Google Review for Adam Brown DDS.

With the right care and preventative treatment, you can keep the teeth of your youth and have a much healthier mouth and body in turn. Schedule an appointment with Adam Brown DDS today and see about starting a new journey for positive dental health — even after the seventh decade!

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Is It Time for an Upgrade? Choosing Between Invisalign, Dental Implants, and Dentures

Andrae Bergeron2022-02-14T15:42:40+00:00February 10th, 2022|Dental Implants, Dental Trends, Dentures, Invisalign|

Invisalign, Dentures, and Implants Monroe NC

If you feel this is the year to upgrade your smile, you have options. Adam Brown DDS offers several dental treatments that can give you the smile you’ve always wanted!

Three of the most popular treatments include Invisalign, dental implants, and dentures.

The solution that works best for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences, and our office can help you make the right decision. But for now, let’s break down these three types of dental treatments and discuss how they can take your smile design to the next level!

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign is an alternative to traditional metal braces. These clear aligners are used for teeth straightening, and they gradually shift teeth into their optimal positions.

When using Invisalign, you don’t have to worry about metal brackets, wires, and other inconveniences of traditional braces. Most teenagers and adults who wear their aligners for the recommended 22 hours a day can correct their orthodontic problems.

The Benefits of Invisalign

When wearing metal braces, there are many foods that you must avoid, including corn-on-the-cob, popcorn, caramel, chewing gum, and chewy candies. Carrots, hard fruits and vegetables, nuts, and steak are also off-limits.

Because you can remove your aligner trays before meals and snacks, you can eat (and drink) whatever you wish, as long as you brush or rinse your teeth with water before re-applying the aligners.

The most obvious benefit of using clear aligners is that they are virtually invisible. Everyone knows you are undergoing orthodontic treatment when wearing traditional braces, but the average onlooker would not be able to tell when you are wearing Invisalign; the thin clear plastic is almost invisible.

Furthermore, it is easier to maintain oral hygiene when taking Invisalign treatment. It is common to notice stains on your teeth after wearing metal braces, if not gingivitis or cavities. Essentially, it is pretty challenging to brush and floss around metal wires and brackets, and even if you dedicate the extra time and effort, you may not be able to get into all the places you need to.

All you have to do with Invisalign is remove the aligners, then brush and floss as you usually would. You can even clean your trays by soaking them in a cleaning solution or brushing them with a soft-bristle toothbrush.

Invisalign proves as effective as traditional braces for many patients, and they are much more comfortable. The smooth plastic fits snuggly to teeth, and you don’t have to worry about any brackets or wires poking your gums or cheeks.

Even if you pay more for Invisalign, understand that emergency dental visits are less likely to occur because clear aligners are remarkably strong. There are no brackets or wires to break off. Moreover, more dental insurance plans are covering Invisalign.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are primarily used to replace missing teeth. Missing teeth can impact chewing and speaking, lead to severe teeth misalignment, and cause gradual bone loss. While there are several ways to replace one or more missing teeth (e.g., dental bridges, partial dentures, complete dentures, etc.), dental implants have become one of the most popular choices because they offer many benefits.

The patient undergoes a minor procedure to replace the missing tooth’s root with a post; then, the dentist puts a permanent dental crown onto the implant.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Getting dental implants is not the cheapest treatment, but it is often the most effective way to replace missing teeth. It can help you maintain clear speech, make chewing food more manageable, and provide superior comfort. Implants also look entirely natural, are easy to maintain, and are durable enough to last for many years.

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are another way to treat lost or removed teeth. A dentist (or laboratory) fabricates these sets of artificial teeth and gums to fit each patient’s mouth. You can get full or partial dentures. In other words, you can either replace a few missing teeth or all teeth on the top or bottom gum line. No matter what type of dentures you receive, you will have them custom-designed to match surrounding teeth and fit your mouth visually.

Benefits of Dentures

Dentures are typically a less expensive solution for improving a smile and avoiding various oral health issues. They can support the structures around the lips and cheeks, plus they allow you to eat foods as you usually would and speak clearly. Your dentist will recommend whether dental implants or dentures are the best treatment for your situation.

Dental Implants vs. Dentures

As we’ve discussed, both dental implants and dentures are viable solutions for replacing one or more missing teeth. The best treatment for you will depend on preference, price, jawbone health, and other factors. Let’s talk about these two treatments in more detail:

Dental Implants Procedure

When getting dental implants, the dentist will replace the missing tooth’s root with an implant that they will cap with a crown. This involves extracting the damaged root and inserting a metal prosthetic root (called a “post”) deep into the bone. Once the bone has grown around the post to secure it, the dentist will place an abutment onto it before applying the crown.

Sometimes, the abutment can be placed during the same procedure as the implant, while other times, it can take a couple of months for the bone to bond to the post.

Dentures Procedure

Dentures are prosthetic, removable teeth for replacing one or many missing teeth. The dentist takes an impression of your mouth (upper gums, lower gums, or both), depending on which teeth need to be replaced. The dentist will also observe your jaw alignment and bite to ensure the dentures can improve your speech and ability to chew.

Then, a lab will fabricate preliminary dentures for the dentist to fit in your mouth and make any necessary adjustments to the set’s alignment and length. The dentist will then order your final set of dentures so that your teeth and gums look as natural as possible.

Costs of Dental Implants and Dentures

Dental implants cost more than dentures. Each dentist’s office varies on price, but the American Dental Association (ADA) estimates that an implant runs from $1,600 to $2,200 per tooth. In comparison, the ADA reports that a patient can receive a complete set of upper or lower dentures for about $1,600.

Maintenance of Dental Implants and Dentures

Caring for dental implants is as simple as caring for natural teeth. All you have to do is brush twice a day, floss once a day, and go to your regular checkups at Adam Brown DDS.

Dentures require more maintenance to remain effective. For instance, you must soak them overnight in water or a cleaning solution. You must also remove your dentures and brush them after each meal or snack, and you will need to ensure that you brush any adhesive revenue from your gums.

Another thing to consider is that you will need to have your dentures refitted now and then as your bite changes. Conversely, dental implants are permanent, though you might need to replace a cracked or broken crown.

Choosing Between Dental Implants and Dentures

Your dentist can help you make the right decision concerning dental implants or dentures. But here are a few factors to consider when thinking about your dental future:

Age

Dental implants can last for decades, meaning that people in their sixties or younger might get the most out of these permanent prosthetic teeth. Many older adults prefer to get dentures because they don’t require a time-consuming or invasive procedure.

Jawbone Density

Before you get dental implants, your dentist must ensure there is enough jawbone material to support the posts. If there isn’t, implants might not be a viable solution.

Age, gum disease, tooth loss, and injury are the most common culprits of jawbone loss. With that said, some dental practices perform bone grafting to support jawbone density, which could be a good option if you can afford the additional time and costs.

Comfort and Effectiveness

In most cases, dental implants feel more comfortable than dentures, and they also make chewing and speaking feel more natural. There are implant-supported overdentures; however, they can provide better comfort and chewing efficacy than conventional dentures.

Oral Hygiene

You also need to consider daily hygiene when choosing between dental implants and dentures. Dentures require more time and effort to keep viable, while implants are lower maintenance. Keep an honest assessment of how willing and able you are to care for your dentures each day.

Can I Choose More Than One Dental Treatment?

Yes, it’s possible to get more than one dental treatment at a time. Let’s discuss your options:

Can I Wear Invisalign with Dental Implants?

Some patients receive a dental implant and wish to correct their crooked teeth somewhere down the road. Implants are permanent fixtures, meaning they will not move from their original position. But your dentist can use clear aligners to reposition all the surrounding teeth. Typically, you can still get Invisalign in this situation.

With that said, if you only have a few remaining natural teeth, Invisalign may not be the ideal option. Adam Brown DDS can thoroughly evaluate your situation and help you find the best solution.

Which Treatment Should I Get First?

If you have not received dental implants or Invisalign treatment, you may be wondering which you should get first. Understand that Invisalign holds your natural teeth in their sockets and gradually moves them into proper alignment.

On the other hand, dental implants attach directly to the jawbone, which bonds directly to the implant over time. Thus, implants are permanently fixed, and it is typically best to straighten your teeth with aligners before having implants inserted.

When your teeth are aligned before implant placement, it ensures that all your teeth are in their optimal positions. Then, you can replace missing teeth with implants and crowns that look natural and aesthetically pleasing with surrounding teeth. Furthermore, your dentist can ensure that the gap remains healthy during the Invisalign treatment.

Are Dental Bridges a Viable Alternative?

Dental bridges are another type of treatment for missing teeth. Dentists can use a dental bridge, sometimes called a fixed partial denture, to fill the gap left by one or more missing teeth. Essentially, the bridge attaches to the surrounding teeth to support the mouth’s structure.

Dental bridges are less expensive than implants, and most patients who receive them are satisfied with the result. However, some people are confused about the appropriate care and maintenance responsibilities, leading to bridges becoming ineffective or unsanitary.

If you choose to get a bridge, ask your dentist for comprehensive care instructions to ensure your device works well and allows you to maintain oral hygiene.

Conclusion

It’s 2022, and it could be the ideal time to upgrade your smile! While there are many available dental treatments, Invisalign, dental implants, and dentures are some of the most popular options among patients.

Along with considering the information and advice above, contact Adam Brown DDS to schedule a consultation. We would love to speak with you, go over your options, and help you make the best decision for your future smile and dental health!

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Dental Innovation: The Impressive Presence of Implant Overdentures

Andrae Bergeron2020-06-11T13:20:58+00:00January 13th, 2020|Dental Implants, Dentures|

Implant Overdentures, or “Snap-On Dentures,” are the newest and most innovative methods for replacing teeth. What makes them so great? No more adhesives, no more slippage with clunky mouthpieces. Carolina’s Dental Choice is happy to announce that we know offer the Implant Overdenture procedure, and we can’t wait to share the incredible benefits we are already seeing.

Our mouths are filled with a mixture of both soft and hard tissues. The hard tissue areas, such as the teeth and jaw, are connected to soft tissue areas like the gums and tongue. Sometimes, whether due to an accident or occurring naturally, problems can arise with the tissues in the mouth. These problems consist of missing or broken teeth, improperly seated jaw joints, faulty bites, gum and jawbone damage, warn-down dental work, and even some mouth diseases. Reconstructive dentistry, such as Implant Overdentures, is the procedure of replacing missing teeth with materials that are just as durable and long-lasting as the real thing—if not better.

Before implants came along, individuals with missing teeth had to wear dentures or bridges, which simply sit in the mouth. These devices can move around, stick to food, and even fall out since they are not permanently connected to the gums and jaw. Implants, however, are fused to the patient’s jawbone to ensure they do not budge. Once they are in, it’s virtually impossible to tell they are not original. As a matter of fact, it won’t take long at all for you to forget they are implants as well.

What Exactly Are Implant Overdentures?

Overdentures are full implants made of titanium anchors and they are permanently placed into the upper and/or lower jawbone. Time is given for the implants to fuse with the bone—which is critical, as this melding of metal of bone is what keeps the implants from moving. Once the implant is fully integrated into the jawbone, the foundation is set for the dentures to be put into place. Now the patient has a full set of beautiful teeth that are impossible to differentiate from natural teeth.

The process may seem a bit arduous, with multiple visits and healing times needed, but the end result is more than worth it: teeth that look, feel, and operate like new.

How Do They Work?

It’s not difficult to think of what led to the creation of Implant Overdentures. Imagine having a set of teeth glued to your gums. A tooth becomes loose or falls out; the entire rack slips around while you talk or chew. It’s not fun, and often it’s embarrassing and distracting. With Implant Overdentures, the negative aspects of dentures are eliminated.

Overdentures are implanted over a multi-step treatment process:

As mentioned earlier, Overdenture implants are first screwed into the jaw and left to adhere to the bone for two months or so. This allows the bone to grow to the implant at a cellular level. A few months sounds like a lot of healing time, but this is the most important part. Also, during this period of time, the patient will be given a temporary set of dentures that covers the gums until it is time for the Overdentures.
While you are waiting for your gums to heal, a customized set of Overdentures will be made so that they can perfectly fit in your mouth. This set, or sets, of Overdentures is created to precisely mimic the color and shape of your natural teeth, so there is no worry of looking or sounding different once the procedure is completed.
The final step is to have the implants securely attached—they snap right in—and inspected. Then your new smile is completed.

At Carolina’s Dental Choice, we offer three types of Overdentures:

Implant-Retained, Gum Supported

This treatment is known as the minimum standard for those in need of a full set of new teeth. Implant-Retained Overdentures sit right on your gums and are kept in place by fastening to the jawbone—upper and/or lower. This Overdenture is removable, as it is secured to the gums with retentive attachments built into the denture itself.

Bar-Retained, Implant Supported

Bar-Retained means that a metal bar is fastened to the gums and is connected to the bone for stability, much like the Implant-Retained. The Overdenture itself is created with attachments that slide onto the bar and lock-in. These are easy to remove and place back in and are typically a bit sturdier than an Implant-Retained Overdenture.

Fixed, Implant Supported

With this treatment, the connecting piece and the Overdenture and combined into one piece. This piece is then attached to the jawbone (with screws), and the only way to have the Fixed Overdenture removed is by scheduling an appointment with a dental clinician. Patients typically like this method most because it is the closest to having natural teeth—no metal bars or brackets that slide or snap into place. It’s one, solid piece that perfectly fits right in.

But Are They Worth It?

There’s a lot more to Overdentures than the old-fashioned ones that are glued to the gums. It is a serious procedure, but so many patients are going this route because the benefits are so much better than any other method. For one, they are much easier to clean, as they are brushed and flossed just as regular teeth are—whether you choose to clean them while they are inside your mouth, or if you pop them out and clean them that way.

Another benefit is that those with severe bone loss due to an accident or simply due to old age, the Implant Overdentures can actually provide additional bone support. The titanium screws used to secure the implants can fill in the space where the bone once was, and this creates added facial stability.

What About Cost?

Just the Implants themselves can cost around $2,500 to $3,000 each, and the dentures could be anywhere from $1,700 to $1,800. This is a lot of money, but a lot rides on the type of insurance the individual has. Luckily, most full dental insurance policies include some restorative coverage, which usually means that up to 50% of the cost can be covered. Your best option is to first contact your insurance provider to see what is covered. It’s also a good idea to schedule an appointment with us to come in and receive a diagnosis and cost estimate. This way you know exactly what you need and what it will cost.

Implants for Individual Teeth

Not only do we offer Overdenture Implants, but we can also replace individual teeth for those who don’t need a complete overhaul. We offer both types of implants because what’s nice about them is that they do not require any further care than one would provide for natural teeth, such as rinsing, flossing, and brushing a few times a day.

After consulting with a dentist, the dental implant procedure is completed in only three steps (similar to the procedure for Overdenture implants):

To begin, the gums are opened and the implant is screwed atop the jawbone. Once it is secure, the gums are replaced and left to heal for a few months.
Next, what is called a “post” is applied to the implant. For this to happen, the gums are separated again at the location of where the implant was connected to the jawbone. The post is attached, which acts as a base for the replacement tooth, and is this is then left to heal.
Lastly, a crown is made and fitted perfectly to match the rest of the teeth.

Though some patients may feel a bit of reluctance to this type of surgery, due to the idea of having titanium pieces applied to the jaw, this really is the healthiest and most successful method of replacing missing teeth. The titanium components meld perfectly with the bone and gums without causing a threat to oral health. As for the stability of the new tooth/teeth, they are just as secure and strong as the surrounding natural teeth.

What Sets Us Apart

You will not find a dental practice that cares about you and your well-being more than we do at Carolina’s Dental Choice. Not only does our family atmosphere immediately put you at ease, our variety of services offered, and the technology used, provide the highest quality of dental work you will find. When it comes to practices such as teeth whitening, preventative care, and restorative and cosmetic dentistry, we have the latest, newest technology to complete all services quickly, easily, and professionally. Here are just a few of the other services we offer:

One thing other dental practices do not want you to know about us is our ability to conduct difficult, in-depth dental procedures. These types of procedures are often left for those few specialty dentists with steady hands and a vast knowledge of the practice. Like us!

What in-depth procedures do we conduct, exactly? A process called restorative dentistry is one. This is any process by which extremely damaged teeth are repaired by adhering bone and tissue with metal and ceramic materials in order to make them whole again. Once the materials are adjoined to the teeth, they are sanded and smoothed to perfectly match the other healthy teeth. And, over time, your mouth begins to accept these new materials and strengthen them by growing new bone and tissue around the restored teeth. Needless to say, this process requires a steady and experienced hand. Lucky for us, we have multiple dentists who excel in this type of procedure.

At Carolina’s Dental Choice, our expert team is ready to perfect your smile. If you have missing teeth and are ready to get your beautiful smile back, come let us take care of you. Using our top-of-the-line technology and equipment, we can create dental implants to fit perfectly in your mouth and fill those voids where teeth used to be.

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Why Dental Implants May Be the Right Choice for Your Oral Health

monroe2020-07-16T16:59:46+00:00June 28th, 2018|Dental Bonding, Dental Crowns, Dental Implants, Dental Trends, Dentures, Fixed Bridges, Implants, Teeth Whitening, Veneers|

Carolina’s Dental Choice is committed to the philosophy of restorative dentistry, which is reproducing or repairing teeth and adjoining bones and tissue, through the use of metal and ceramic materials. Though dental implants have been around, in some form, for more than 40 years, it’s surprising how many people today don’t know the procedure is an option to replace a missing tooth or even multiple teeth. Implants are the closest in comparison to natural teeth. They are just as secure, long lasting, and easy to manage.

DENTAL IMPLANTS AND HOW THEY WORK

An implant is a titanium “root” which is placed into the jawbone in order to support a crown, bridge or denture. Ceramic crowns, onlays or veneers address the appearance of the “new tooth.” Over time, the human body completes the process, by growing bone and tissue around the tooth. This provides the artificial implanted tooth with even more stability and permanence.

Treatment generally is a three-part process that takes several months, according to the American Dental Association:

Step 1) The dentist surgically places the implant in the jaw, with the top of the implant slightly above the top of the bone. A screw is inserted into the implant to prevent gum tissue and other debris from entering. The gum then is secured over the implant. The implant will remain covered for approximately three to six months while it fuses with the bone, a process called “osseointegration.” There may be some swelling, tenderness or both for a few days after the surgery, so pain medication usually is prescribed to alleviate the discomfort. A diet of soft foods, cold foods and warm soup often is recommended during the healing process.

Step 2) The implant is uncovered and the dentist attaches an extension, called a post, to the implant. The gum tissue is allowed to heal around the post. Some implants require a second surgical procedure in which a post is attached to connect the replacement teeth. With other implants, the implant and post are a single unit placed in the mouth during the initial surgery. Once healed, the implant and post can serve as the foundation for the new tooth.

Step 3) The dentist makes a crown, which has a size, shape, color and fit that will blend with your other teeth. Once completed, the crown is attached to the implant post.

TOP ORAL CARE TIPS FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS

Dental implants can be an option at just about any age, as long a patient has healthy gums and adequate bone to support the implant and is committed to maintaining basic oral care. Implants do not require any further care than one would provide for natural teeth, such as rinsing, flossing, and brushing a few times a day.

“Dental implants are very successful and long lasting but as with any surgical procedure, there might be complications,” writes Dr. Anveeta Agarwal, a consultant oral pathologist. “The best way to avoid dental implant failure is to make sure you practice good dental hygiene and visit your dentist regularly for dental check-ups and cleanings.”

Dental implant care tips include:

Practice good oral hygiene – brush twice a day and floss once daily. Using interdental brushes, brushes that slide between teeth, can help clean the hard to reach areas around your implant.

Quit smoking – smoking can weaken the bone structure and can contribute to implant failure.
Visit your dentist – cleanings and exams every six months can help ensure your implant is in good condition, and that it stays that way.
Avoid chewing on hard foods – don’t chew on hard items such as ice and hard candy because they can break the crown and your natural teeth.

The American Dental Association considers two types of implants to be safe. They are:

Endosteal implants — these are surgically implanted directly into the jawbone. Once the surrounding gum tissue has healed, a second surgery is needed to connect a post to the original implant. Finally, an artificial tooth (or teeth) is attached to the post-individually, or grouped on a bridge or denture.

Subperiosteal implants — these consist of a metal frame that is fitted onto the jawbone just below the gum tissue. As the gums heal, the frame becomes fixed to the jawbone. Posts, which are attached to the frame, protrude through the gums. As with endosteal implants, artificial teeth are then mounted to the posts.

Though some patients may be reluctant to undergo dental surgery — as well as the idea of having titanium pieces implanted to the jaw — dental implants offer a viable tooth replacement option when other attempts have failed. Patients may have tried bridges or dentures and been unhappy with the results, but dental implants are a healthy alternative.

“For some people, ordinary bridges and dentures are simply not comfortable or even possible, due to sore spots, poor ridges or gagging,” states Colgate. “In addition, ordinary bridges must be attached to teeth on either side of the space left by the missing tooth. An advantage of implants is that no adjacent teeth need to be prepared or ground down to hold your new replacement tooth/teeth in place.”

Additionally, implants serve a cosmetic function. Missing teeth may impact a person’s ability to get a job.

How Dental Implants Can Improve Your Ability to Get a Job

“Poor oral health can significantly diminish quality of life in a number of ways – the most obvious being a person’s ability to eat, sleep and speak,” according to a 2016 report from the North Carolina Oral Health Collaborative. “However, there are also social and economic consequences that can impact a person’s job readiness and performance, and ultimately the economic stability of communities. A survey of North Carolina adults revealed that the impact of oral health on job readiness is greatest among those from low-income households.”

DENTAL IMPLANTS AND COST

Because dental implants can be used for one or more teeth, and the replacement teeth can vary in size and complexity, assigning a cost-point for the procedure can be challenging. At Carolina’s Dental Choice we usually see prices fluctuating anywhere from the $1,000 to the $3,000 range. Before making any final decisions on payment though, it is a good idea for a potential patient to consult with a dental practice and insurance company in order to clarify how much of the cost may be covered.

At Carolina’s Dental Choice we provide information about payment, including insurance, Medicaid, and our in-house saving program online, and we are happy to discuss this information with you in person or over the phone.

OTHER OPTIONS TO DENTAL IMPLANTS

In addition to dental implants, Carolina’s Dental Choice offers traditional dentures, bridges, partials, which replace teeth. Cosmetic options we offer include teeth whitening and veneers, which are porcelain and permanently bonded to your natural teeth. They can enhance tooth shape, color, length and size. Dental bonding repairs teeth with a tooth-colored resin (stable plastic material) that enhances your smile and can be done in one quick and easy visit.

CAROLINA’S DENTAL CHOICE IS HERE FOR YOU

It is our practice to have private consultations with our patients to discuss your teeth, your options, and your treatment. Our dental practice embodies family dentistry by treating our patients like family and working with you to make you smile!

You may find information including new patient forms on our website. Contact us today at 704.239.9519 to schedule your appointment!

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Carolina’s Dental Choice’s New Technology: The 3 Dimensional Digital Device

monroe2020-07-16T17:23:35+00:00March 26th, 2017|Dentures|

3D Head Scanner, Monroe NC, Carolinas Dental Choice, Dentist Office

Carolina’s Dental Choice has recently had a full makeover from new interior design to new technology and equipment. The new upgrades help provide patients with a comfortable environment and excellent dental services. The new equipment gives you the most thorough x-rays of your teeth. The 3 dimensional digital device is a unique piece of technology that allows your dentist to view a 3D scan of your entire mouth. The x-rays make it easy to view teeth at every angle.

How it works

The 3 dimensional digital device is a tooth x-ray technology that allows the patient to receive a full head scan to get images of the entire jawbone and teeth. The technology is a tall stand-up machine that has a cylinder that rotates from the shoulders up to the jawbone. The cylinder slowly rotates around the client’s head and takes 3D and 2D photos. This gives the dentist a clear view of the jawbone from every angle. The device collects three different types of 3D data and even creates a virtual patient in 3D. Images taken with this innovative technology show things like bone structure and nerve canals. The images create a stronger since of safety when doing oral surgeries such as dental implants. Dentist feel more confident using this equipment and patients report feeling safer and more secure with tangible images of the jawbone and teeth. The 3 dimensional digital device collects three different types of data that creates:

Ease of Operation
High Definition Images
Increased Diagnostics

Schedule an Appointment

Eager to check out the new technology and remodel at Carolina’s Dental Choice? Make an appointment with Dr. Brown and his excellent team today at Carolina’s Dental Choice in Monroe, North Carolina. Make an appointment by calling (704)289-9519.

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Dental Implant Supported Dentures from Carolina’s Dental Choice in Monroe

monroe2020-07-16T17:23:42+00:00February 24th, 2017|Dentures|

Smile, Dentures, Dental Implants, Dentures, Carolina's Dental Choice, Monroe NC

Get the 411 on Dental Implant Supported Dentures from Carolina’s Dental Choice in Monroe!

So you are ready to eat and speak with confidence? Dentures may be the solution that can bring back your smile. For those of you who may not already be familiar with dentures, they are loosely defined as removable teeth replacements that are custom fit to your mouth.

Pros:

Dentures are convenient.
Getting dentures is usually a very quick process.
With the help of Medicare dentures are low cost.
If the fitting is implemented by a reputable dentist, they are custom fit to the patient’s mouth and make for a snug fit.
Unlike the dentures of the past, most dentures do not interfere with speaking or eating in comfort.
Dentures also help support facial muscles that would normally sag without support.

Cons:

Some people find the removal of dentures to be a tedious task.
Believe it or not, just like we lose our keys occasionally, we also lose our dentures!
Cleaning dentures is not always an easy task and cleaning solutions are costly.
Bottom line, dentures are tried and true products that can help improve your confidence with a great smile.

Can everyone wear dentures?

Normal and basic dentures rest on the gums but if you do not have enough teeth in the jaw you might want to consider another option like Dental Implants.

With dental implants, dentures have a special place to attach by snapping onto the implant. This helps to make the denture accommodates your mouth and creates a more comfortable feel. The implant- supported denture is much like a normal denture and still must be removed at night and cleaned routinely. If having a removable mouth fixture seems like too much then fixed options are available. You can speak with Dr. Brown at Carolina’s Dental Choice for other options like dental bridges or dental crowns.

Types of dentures with implants

There are two forms of dental implant dentures, bar-retained and ball-retained.

With either form the denture will need at least two implants to support the appliance. The dentures will be made as normal with an acrylic base that resembles the gums and porcelain or acrylic teeth that will appear almost like natural teeth.

BAR-RETAINED

The bar-retained dentures utilizes a thin metal bar to wrap around the jaw and attached to the implants. Here, clips or some form of attaching method is installed to attach to the bar so the denture can securely fit to the implants.

BALL-RETAINED

With the ball-retained dentures every implant holds a metal attachment for the attachment on the denture to fit into. The implants usually contain ball-shaped attachments for the socket-shaped dentures to fit into.

Both forms of implant-supported dentures are highly effective and easy to use. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Brown (704-289-9519) to find out which method would work best for you in consideration with the shape and form of your jaw.

Procedure for getting dental implants with dentures attached.

Once you lose teeth, it begins to wear away the bone in the jaw. For this reason the implants are placed at the front of the jaw because this area contains the most structure and the least amount of nerves.This procedure is usually very timely. With multiple surgeries, implants, and the placement of dentures

Dentistry, Carolina's Dental Choice, Dental Implants, Dentures, Cosmetic Dentistry

normally takes around five to seven months. This procedure usually requires two surgeries. The first surgery is to insert the implants in the jaw under the gums. After about three to six months, the second surgery takes place to expose the implants.

4 Steps to a Successful Treatment:

Meet with Dr. Brown for a Consultation

Meeting with Dr. Brown for an initial consultation offers an opportunity to discuss your options for Implants and Dentures. This information will help you become familiar with the different procedures. Together, you and Dr. Brown can decided which option best fits your needs. Along with discussing the procedure, your dental history will be reviewed, x-rays will be taken, and impressions of your teeth and gums will be made.

First Procedure

In the first surgery, the implants will be placed into the jawbone. This is done by creating an incision in the gum and inserting the implant. A small hole is drilled in to the bone for the implant to attach and then is stitched up. After the implants are secured it is important to allow your jaw to heal. The dentist will wait three to six month to schedule to next step.

Second Procedure

Next the dentist will take x-rays, to ensure the implants have fused with the jawbone. If all is well, the second surgery will proceed. This surgery is a simple and easy procedure. A small incision is made to reveal the top of the implant. Once the top of the implants are visible, a healing cap is placed on them, this helps the gum tissue through the healing process. After about two weeks the healing caps will be replaced with abutments and impressions will be taken to create the dentures.

Dentures

After about five to seven months, a metal bar is placed on the abutments. Then, the dentures will be placed in and examined for a proper fit. After the lineup is fixed correctly and examined several times the teeth are placed into the framework permanently. At this time, the ball or bar attachment will be secured.

The Follow Up

After everything is complete it is important to take proper care of your new teeth. This means eating the correct foods, cleaning properly, and coming to the dentist for routine checkups.

Cleaning

Remove dentures at night
Remove to clean daily
Carefully clean dentures and attachments

Dental checkups

You will need to schedule regular appointments for the dentist to check the stability of your dentures
The clip on the bar-retained denture will need to be changed every six to twelve months.

Foods to avoid

Coffee and tea
Popcorn
Sticky foods
Nuts
Corn

With implant-supported dentures, your dentures will be more stable and secure to help you enjoy the things you love. Your new dentures will make eating and speaking natural and easy.

We encourage you to make an appointment with

Dr. Brown at Carolina’s Dental Choice today

by calling 704-289-9519.

Dr. Brown and his team of highly qualified professionals

will be happy to speak with you about any of your dental concerns.

For more information, you can also visit the website

at https://adambrowndds.com/.

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