Gum disease is a widespread condition that affects millions of individuals, often without them even realizing it. Left untreated, it can lead to serious oral health issues like tooth loss, bone damage, and even systemic health concerns. If you’re dealing with signs of gum disease, such as red, swollen, or bleeding gums, seeking treatment from a periodontist is essential. But how exactly does a periodontist treat gum disease?
At Periodontal Associates, we believe that education is the first step to better oral health. That’s why we’re breaking down the various treatments and procedures periodontists use to help patients combat gum disease and restore their smiles.
Early Detection and Diagnosis
The first step in treating gum disease is accurate diagnosis. Periodontists are specialists trained to catch gum disease in its earliest stages before it becomes a more significant problem. During your visit, the periodontist will perform a thorough examination of your gums, teeth, and jawbone. This examination might include periodontal probing to measure the depth of gum pockets and X-rays to detect bone loss.
Each diagnosis is tailored to the individual, ensuring that we address the unique severity and progression of the disease. By identifying gum disease early, we can often use less invasive treatments to restore your oral health.
Scaling and Root Planing
For mild to moderate cases of gum disease, the most common and effective treatment is scaling and root planing. This deep-cleaning procedure goes beyond regular dental cleanings.
- Scaling involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline, where it builds up and promotes bacterial growth.
- Root Planing smooths out the tooth roots, making it harder for bacteria to reattach and helping your gums heal and reattach to your teeth.
This non-surgical procedure is a first-line treatment that can significantly reduce gum inflammation and prevent further progression of gum disease. Many patients notice a marked improvement in their gum health following the procedure.
Advanced Treatments for Severe Gum Disease
When gum disease progresses to a more advanced stage, known as periodontitis, surgical and regenerative treatments may be necessary. Periodontists have specialized training in procedures aimed at repairing the damage caused by periodontitis.
- Pocket Reduction Surgery: Also known as flap surgery, this procedure reduces the size of gum pockets to prevent further bacteria buildup. It allows for easier cleaning and maintenance at home.
- Bone Grafting and Soft Tissue Grafting: These procedures restore lost bone or gum tissue, providing support for the teeth and preventing further deterioration. This regenerative approach not only halts the disease’s progression but helps to rebuild the foundation of your oral health.
- Laser Therapy: Using advanced dental lasers, periodontists can precisely target and remove infected tissue while promoting faster healing. Laser therapy is often less invasive than traditional surgery, leading to shorter recovery times.
The choice of treatment depends on individual needs, and periodontists work closely with patients to craft a personalized care plan.
Comprehensive Support for Long-Term Health
Treating gum disease isn’t just about addressing the immediate symptoms; it’s about preventing recurrence and maintaining long-term oral health. Periodontists play a critical role in helping patients adopt practices to preserve their improved gum health.
Education on proper brushing and flossing techniques, combined with professional maintenance cleanings, ensures you can keep gum disease at bay. Many periodontists also collaborate with general dentists to monitor your oral health, ensuring a team-based approach.
By partnering with a specialist and staying proactive about your oral care, you can protect your gums and teeth for years to come. To learn more, visit our page on periodontics.
Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontics
What does a periodontist do that a general dentist doesn’t?
While general dentists focus on overall oral health, periodontists specialize in preventing, diagnosing, and treating gum disease. They also perform advanced procedures like dental implants and bone grafting, making them the go-to experts for complex oral health issues.
Is gum disease reversible?
Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, is reversible with proper care and treatment. However, once gum disease progresses to periodontitis, the damage to bone and tissue becomes permanent. That said, periodontists can manage periodontitis to prevent further damage and restore as much oral health as possible.
At Periodontal Associates, we are dedicated to improving the oral health and quality of life of our patients in Middlesex County, MA. With decades of experience and cutting-edge treatments, our team is here to help restore your healthy smile. Schedule an appointment today!
Periodontal disease is a condition that impacts the health of your gums due to the buildup of plaque and bacteria. If allowed to progress, it can threaten your oral health and eventually lead to tooth loss. Thankfully, intervening with treatment early allows you to reverse or halt its progression. This article explores how it is done.
About Periodontal Disease
There are different stages of periodontal disease. The earlier you take action, the greater chance you have of being able to reverse the damage.
In its earliest form, gingivitis, the gums are often red, swollen, and bleed when brushing or flossing. Here is where it can be totally reversed with the help of good oral hygiene and professional care.
Once the disease progresses to periodontitis or advanced periodontitis, steps can be taken to improve oral health and halt its progression. While you may not be able to fully reverse it at this stage, you can keep the disease from getting worse.
How to Reverse Periodontal Disease
So, how is periodontal disease treated? How can you reverse it? There are a few steps you can take to improve your oral health.
Give Your Oral Hygiene Routine a Boost
To reduce the risk of bacterial infections that cause and feed periodontal disease, you have to properly care for your teeth and gums. It’s no surprise that one of the best things you can do to help reverse early-stage periodontal disease is to begin practicing good habits when caring for your oral health.
- Brush thoroughly twice a day using a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. This will help to remove plaque and bacteria before they build up.
- Floss every day to reach the areas your toothbrush can’t.
- Swish and rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash to remove anything harmful left behind.
Have Routine Cleanings
Visiting your dentist regularly is so important for reversing periodontal disease. It doesn’t matter how well you care for your teeth, professional cleanings just take it to the next level. They can uncover areas where your brushing and flossing have missed, giving you a greater chance of being free and clear of plaque and tartar buildup.
You should have one of these cleanings at least every six months. However, if you are battling periodontal disease, your dentist may recommend you visit more frequently.
Undergo Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing are highly effective procedures for those with more advanced periodontal disease. This treatment gives your gums a deep cleaning by removing plaque and tartar below the gumline where it usually forms pockets.
Scaling removes all of this buildup while the root planing smooths out the roots and allows the gums to fit smoothly against the tooth once again.
Engage in Healthy Habits
Developing some healthy habits can have a positive impact on your oral health. For instance, eating a well-balanced diet rich in nutrients can support your immune system and strengthen your teeth. Limiting sugary foods can reduce your risk of plaque buildup.
And, of course, if you are a smoker or use tobacco in any form, stop. Not only does it weaken your immune system, but it can also make it harder for your gums to heal.
Reverse Your Periodontal Disease at Periodontal Associates
If you are interested in improving your oral health and reducing the impacts of periodontal disease, the professionals at Periodontal Associates can help.
Contact us today to book an appointment at one of our two convenient locations: Framingham 508-875-6185 or Newton 617-964-6185.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is caused by plaque buildup that leads to gum infections. Poor oral hygiene, smoking, underlying health conditions, and genetics can all be contributing factors.
Does scaling and root planing hurt?
Local anesthetic is typically used for the procedure so that you do not feel anything, but once it wears off, you may have some mild discomfort and soreness. Over-the-counter pain relievers work great at providing relief.
Dental implants continue to grow in popularity as the best option for tooth replacement thanks to their aesthetic and functional benefits. They are designed to provide a long-lasting, natural-looking solution to restore smiles and improve oral health. However, patients who are considering dental implants often ask about the cost before making any treatment decisions.
This article explores the factors that impact the cost of dental implants in Framingham, MA.
Average Cost of Dental Implants
In Framingham, the cost of a single dental implant typically ranges from $5,000 to $7,500. This price includes the implant, the surgical procedure to place it, the abutment, and the dental crown. A few appointments will be necessary from start to finish, and the cost of these visits should also be included in this cost.
Any additional treatments that are needed to complete the dental implant will often be in addition to this amount. Of course, the best way to know just how much you can expect to pay for your dental implant is to schedule a consultation with your dentist.
Factors that Impact the Cost of Dental Implants
Many factors are considered when determining the cost of a dental implant procedure. Let’s take a closer look.
The Materials Used
Dental implants can involve different materials, which can affect the total cost. While the implant itself is often made of titanium, other materials can be used to create this artificial root. Another example is the dental crown. While porcelain crowns are the gold standard, many other material options can be used in their place. Depending on what your dentist recommends and what you choose will either increase or decrease the overall cost of getting dental implants in Framingham.
The Dental Practice
There are many steps to getting dental implants, from the initial consultation with your dentist to follow-ups once the implant is placed. Because dental practice sets its prices, you should do your research and choose someone who has the experience and precision to properly place your implant.
In other words, to ensure a successful procedure, you may want to base your decision on skill rather than going for the cheapest option.
The Complexity of the Procedure
In addition to the dental implant, abutment, and crown, some patients require additional procedures — which can increase your cost. For instance, solid bone density is required of a good candidate for a dental implant. Without it, you may still be able to move forward, but not without having a procedure, such as bone grafting or a sinus lift to improve your bone density.
Although this is not something every patient will encounter, it must be considered when discussing the cost of dental implants.
Learn More About Dental Implants
Are dental implants right for you? The skilled team at Periodontal Associates can help restore your smile and improve your oral health with dental implants. Find out how much the cost will be based on your needs by scheduling an appointment today at our Framingham office 508-875-6185 or our Newton Centre office 617-964-6185.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get dental implants?
On average, it takes about 5 to 8 months to get a dental implant. However, this length of time varies for each person as some require additional treatments and healing times.
How painful is getting a dental implant?
The dental implant surgery itself should not include any pain thanks to the local anesthetic used to numb the area. Once it wears off, it is not uncommon for patients to temporarily feel some level of pain and discomfort. Medication is typically provided to help with relief.
Getting dental implants can be a life-changing decision if you are someone who is missing one or more teeth. They not only look like real teeth, but they function like them, too.
The process of getting dental implants is quite long and there is no denying that the cost can be quite high. This leaves many patients questioning their longevity and whether or not they are worth the time and investment.
The good news is that dental implants are the best, high-quality solution for tooth replacement — and they have a long lifespan. But just how long do dental implants last? Let’s talk about it.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants typically come in three pieces— the implant itself, the abutment, and the dental crown. To give you a very broad idea of how it works, the implant is placed in the jaw as the anchor and the abutment attaches to it, holding the crown in place.
Because the implant is fused with the jaw bone, it can last upwards of 25 years. The dental crown, on the other hand, has an average lifespan of about 10 to 15 years. Both of these can last even longer with the right care and attention.
Factors that Impact Dental Implant Longevity
How long your dental implants will last can depend on a few factors that you may or may not have control over. Taking these into consideration can help you to determine how long they may last for you.
- Poor oral hygiene
- Bruxism (grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw)
- Smoking
- Medical conditions, such as diabetes
- Certain medications
- Poor bone quality
- Smoking
If you have any of the above, discuss with your dentist how long you can expect your dental implants to last.
Caring For Your Dental Implants
Providing exceptional care for your implants can extend their life. You will keep decay, gum disease, and bacteria at bay — and promote a healthy mouth.
Brushing and Flossing. You will want to brush and floss your teeth and gums at least two times per day, especially before going to bed. A Waterpik is also a very effective tool for thoroughly cleaning around your implant and under your crowns.
Routine Dental Visits. Visit your dentist every six months for a professional cleaning. This will elevate your oral health and allow your dentist to catch any problem areas before they grow. Regardless of how well you care for your teeth at home, there are still areas you miss — and your dentist will address them.
Ditch Bad Habits. Taking care of your teeth means having to give up some bad habits. If you smoke, bite your nails, grind your teeth, or find yourself chewing on pen caps, stop. These can cause serious damage to your natural teeth as well as your implants.
Learn More About Dental Implants
If you still have questions about dental implants or want to find out if they are a good option for you, the team at Periodontal Associates can help. Schedule an appointment today at one of our two convenient office locations.
Framingham Office: 508-875-6185
Newton Centre Office: 617-964-6185
Frequently Asked Questions
Will insurance cover the cost of dental implants?
It is very common for them to pay a percentage of the total cost. However, what your dental insurance will cover will depend on your specific policy. Be sure to reach out and learn about your benefits.
How painful is it to get a dental implant?
The dental implant procedure is done using a local anesthetic to keep you from feeling anything. As it wears off, you may have some temporary discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers for a couple of days are usually all that is needed.
Dental implants are highly sought to replace missing teeth. If they are successfully placed, they have proven to be a long-lasting solution that can boost oral health and improve one’s quality of life.
So, how do you get the highest level of treatment and optimal results? You need the right dentist.
Below are a few tips to help you find the best dental implant dentist in Framingham, MA.
Specialized Training
Most general dentists can perform many types of treatments. It’s why we visit the dentist regularly for cleanings and exams or when experiencing tooth pain and discomfort. They cover general dentistry, restorative dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and more.
There is no denying that a general dentist can perform a long list of procedures to restore your oral health. However, additional surgical training can equip dentists better for dental implants.
When searching for the best dental implant dentist in Framingham, closely examine the dentist’s education and ensure they have the necessary specialized training.
Extensive Experience
Experience is key to finding success with your dental implants. For instance, the post must be surgically implanted in a very precise place within the jaw bone. If not, it can lead to complications and may even fail altogether. Further, those with low bone density may need to first undergo bone grafting to build up a stronger jaw bone capable of securing the implant.
Both of these procedures involve very specific techniques and are best handled by someone with experience. Without it, you are putting your implants – and oral health – at risk.
Technology and Equipment
To provide the utmost care to patients, the latest technology and equipment are a must. This is crucial when it comes to the perfect placement of dental implants.
3D imaging allows dental professionals to create a model of your mouth, making it easier to plan accordingly for the implant placement. Computer-guided surgery then helps the dentist to perfectly place the post in the bone.
These tools can help to reduce the treatment time and discomfort while increasing the success rate.
Seek Recommendations
One of the easiest ways to find the best dental implant dentist in Framingham, MA is to ask for recommendations. Talk to your local friends, family, co-workers, or neighbors and ask if they have invested in dental implants themselves.
For those who have, ask about the dentist they chose and the overall experience. If it was positive, take a look at the dentist’s website and, if you feel like you may have found the right one, schedule a consultation.
Dental Implants in Framingham, MA
Are you looking for dentists who tick all the boxes in Framingham, MA? At Periodontal Associates, our dentists are certified and highly skilled surgical specialists with decades of experience providing the highest-quality dental implants.
From experience to expertise, as well as two convenient locations, what more can you ask for?
Contact us today to schedule your appointment or request an appointment online.
Framingham Office: 508-875-6185
Newton Office: 617-964-6185
Frequently Asked Questions
Does dental insurance pay for implants?
Unfortunately, while many will cover a percentage of the cost to help you move forward with the treatment, most dental insurance plans will not cover the entire cost of the dental implants. Keep in mind that this varies greatly based on the specific coverage of your plan.
Are dental implants painful?
Local anesthetic is used during dental implant surgery, so you should not experience any pain. As its effects begin to wear off, some minor discomfort may be felt, but this is temporary. Dental implants should not cause any pain once they have healed.
The need for artificial tooth replacement is a necessity and dental implants are a wonderful option for individuals who are missing one or more natural teeth. They have been around for decades, but they continue to grow in popularity due to their resemblance to a real tooth, both aesthetically and functionally.
Most patients will find that they are candidates for dental implants, but this treatment is not the ideal solution for everyone.
This article explores what candidates for dental implants have in common.
A Candidate for Dental Implants Will Have Good Oral Health
Good oral health is very important when getting dental implants since opening a mouth up for oral surgery when it is full of decay or bacteria can be very risky. Thankfully, if you do have some trouble areas with your teeth and gums, addressing them before getting dental implants can allow you to be a candidate.
The goal is to make sure that you work with your dentist to address any areas of concern so that you have the best opportunity for successful implants.
A Candidate for Dental Implants Will Have Good Bone Density
The density of your jawbone will play a significant role in getting dental implants. When the titanium post is implanted into the jaw, it needs to fuse with the bone to create a strong anchor for your artificial tooth. Unfortunately, without enough bone density, this won’t be able to happen.
There are several reasons that individuals face jawbone loss. However, regardless of the reason, bone grafting can help to rebuild the bone so that it may securely hold the implant in place.
Keep in mind that bone grafting will require additional time as it takes a minimum of four months to heal before you can move on.
A Candidate for Dental Implants Will Have Patience For the Process
Finally, a candidate for dental implants will need to have an understanding that the process is not quick. For instance, you will first have your consultation to determine whether you are a candidate before the next steps are scheduled. If bone grafting is necessary, this will take place first before the post is implanted.
Next, the implant will need at least a couple of months to fuse with the jawbone before the abutment and the custom dental crown can be attached.
In all, expect the process for dental implants to take up to six months — or longer. If you are patient with the process, you will reap the benefits later.
Other Criteria for Dental Implant Candidates
A few other things that should be taken into consideration when determining if someone is or is not a candidate for dental implants are:
- Good oral hygiene to maintain your oral health
- Good overall health
- No use of tobacco, including smoking or chewing
Remember, most people will qualify as a candidate for dental implants as long as they prioritize their treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Implants
Will dental insurance cover the cost of dental implants?
Whether or not your insurance will cover the cost of dental implants depends on your policy. If it does, it will usually cover a percentage.
Are dentures cheaper than dental implants?
Dentures often appear to be cheaper than dental implants. However, they are not designed to last as long which means they will require more frequent replacement — and this cost will add up over time.
Find Out if You Are a Candidate for Dental Implants
If you want to discover how dental implants can transform your life, find out if you are a candidate from the specialists at Periodontal Associates.
Contact us today at one of our two convenient locations to schedule your consultation.
Framingham Office 508-875-6185
Newtown Office 617-964-6185
Dental implants are one of the most popular tooth replacement options available. They look natural, function just like real teeth, and are long-lasting solutions, too. All of these benefits often prompt patients to seek out more information about dental implants — and to find out if they are a good candidate for them.
This patient’s guide to the dental implant procedure will give you a better understanding of what to expect.
Step One: The Consultation
Before you can move forward with a dental implant procedure, you have to know whether or not you are a candidate for it. Setting up an appointment with a skilled periodontist is the best place to start.
During this appointment, you can expect to have a comprehensive oral exam as well as some digital images and impressions. The dental specialist is trying to confirm that you have a sufficient amount of jawbone to support an implant — and that you have good oral hygiene without any sign of infection.
If you are a candidate for the procedure, your next appointment will be set.
Step 2: Placing the Dental Implant
During the procedure, the implant, typically made of titanium or zirconia, will be surgically placed in the jaw. Local anesthesia will be used so that you do not feel anything for the duration.
You will be given post-surgical instructions that you should follow carefully to reduce the risk of infection and give yourself the best chance for success. It will take anywhere from 3 to 6 months for the implant and the bone to fuse thanks to a process known as osseointegration. During this time, the surrounding soft tissue will grow around the implant as if it were a natural tooth root.
Keep in mind that if you do not have sufficient bone mass in the jaw, you will be required to undergo bone grafting before the dental implant can be placed. This may add several additional weeks/ months to the overall process but is necessary to ensure the success of the implant.
Step 3: Adding the Dental Crown
Once your dental specialist feels that the implant has fused to the bone and can become a strong anchor for the tooth, the dental crown will be attached to the post with the help of an abutment. This crown will be customized to match your other teeth in size, shape, and color so that it will blend in well and look just like one of your other teeth.
With this addition, your smile and your bite force will be fully restored.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does dental insurance pay for dental implants?
Some insurance plans will cover a percentage of the cost of dental implants. It is always a good idea to check the specifics of your coverage with your insurance carrier.
How long do dental implants last?
The average lifespan for a dental implant is 20 to 30 years. Dental crowns will typically need to be replaced in 10 to 15 years. With exceptional oral hygiene, you can give an ever greater boost to their longevity.
Interested in Dental Implants?
If you would like to learn more about dental implants or see if you are a good candidate for the procedure, the dental specialists at Periodontal Associates can help. We have extensive experience in the perfect placement of dental implants.
If you’d like to learn more or schedule your consultation, contact us today. Or, you can request an appointment online.
It’s true — getting dental implants can take a lot of time as the process from start to finish can last several months. Nonetheless, this high-quality way to replace missing teeth is growing in popularity and becoming more and more accessible to patients.
With growth comes new advancements, such as the ability to get implants in one day. While it is not a solution for every patient, certain circumstances do allow it. Let’s take a closer look.
Understanding Same-Day Dental Implants
Being able to get your dental implants in one day is very convenient. You can walk into the dentist missing one or more teeth and walk out with a new tooth, an implant-supported bridge, or implant-supported dentures. How is that possible?
Traditional implants require the tooth to be extracted, the post to be implanted, and time to pass for the implant and the bone to fuse together. This alone usually takes 3 to 4 months, if not longer. Then you will go back and have the abutment and dental crown attached. The entire process can take anywhere from 6 months to a year to complete.
Dental implants that are done in one day will involve the placing of the implant, the abutment, and the crown all in one visit. And, if an extraction is needed, that will be taken care of, too.
While the procedure takes place in one sitting, a couple of visits are required. You will meet with your dentist for a consultation to ensure that you are a candidate for the procedure and handle the prep work for it. Then you will have your implant date and a follow-up visit.
Who is a Candidate for Same Day Dental Implants?
It may sound like an ideal solution, but not everyone is a candidate for same-day dental implants. You will need to have enough bone density to support the implant, as well as good oral health and oral hygiene. No signs of decay or gum disease can be present.
Your periodontist will do an oral examination during your consultation and determine whether or not you are a candidate for the fast-track to dental implants or if traditional implants would be a more successful option. Remember, your dental specialist is always looking at the best option for your oral health — and the one that will yield the greatest results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the alternative to dental implants?
Traditional dentures and dental bridges are alternatives to dental implants. While they work well and have been around for decades, they do not offer the same high-level functionality that comes with dental implants.
Do dental implants hurt?
The dental implant procedure is performed using local anesthetic keeping you from feeling any pain for the duration. It will eventually wear off and you may feel mild discomfort. Over-the-counter pain medication can offer relief.
Learn More About Dental Implants at Periodontal Associates
Are you interested in dental implants? If you want to see whether or not you are a candidate for this gold standard of tooth replacement, our team of highly experienced dental specialists at Periodontal Associates is here for you. We address each dental implant patient with the utmost care and precision.
Contact us at one of our two convenient locations to schedule your consultation today.
Framingham Office: 508-875-6185
Newtown Office: 617-964-6185
Periodontal disease is a progressive condition with symptoms that worsen over time. Over 47 percent of all American adults aged 30 and older have periodontal disease. The condition starts with minor symptoms known as gingivitis, but it can lead to tooth loss when it goes unchecked.
This blog will share the symptoms of periodontal disease from mild to severe. Patients who notice these symptoms should speak to their dentist about reducing their risk of complications.
Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
- Swollen gums
- Red gums
- Gums that bleed or feel tender to the touch
- Teeth that are sensitive to heat or cold
- Gums that pull away from the teeth or recede
- Changes in dental bite
- Painful chewing
- Loose teeth
What Causes Periodontal Disease?
Tartar is the product of bacteria and food particles left to harden on the teeth. When tartar or calculus builds up along, and under the gum line, gums become red and swollen. Bacterial waste products cause irritation and infection.
Stages of Periodontal Disease
Gingivitis
If you have gingivitis, you may not know it. Many people believe that bleeding when brushing or flossing is normal. However, these subtle symptoms can mean a more significant problem is coming.
Patients with gingivitis will also observe that their gums are red and possibly swollen. They may experience heat and cold sensitivity. In advanced cases, they may feel tenderness or soreness.
Fortunately, most cases of gingivitis are reversible if you have excellent home hygiene. Brush and floss as instructed, and receive a professional cleaning. You may want to switch to an electric toothbrush to remove plaque more effectively.
Periodontitis
If patients leave gingivitis alone or overlook the symptoms, it will progress to periodontitis. Periodontitis has stages that progress as follows:
- Moderate Symptoms
- At this stage, the support structure around the teeth have suffered irreversible damage. Deep pockets form between the teeth and gum tissue, allowing food, bacteria, and plaque to collect. Gums begin to recede, altering the patient’s appearance. The patient may have bad breath that does not respond to treatment.
- Severe Symptoms
- Teeth become loose due to further breakdown of their supporting structures. The patient’s dental bite may suffer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Periodontal Disease
Can I prevent periodontal disease?
Periodontal disease is preventable in most patients. If you practice excellent oral hygiene, tartar will not have a chance to accumulate and damage your gums.
What are some risk factors for periodontal disease?
Certain habits and conditions raise your chances of developing this problem:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Alcohol use and smoking
- Type 2 diabetes
- Osteoporosis
- Insufficient vitamin D and calcium in the diet
- Excess body weight
Contact Periodontal Associates
If you have any symptoms listed in this article, you must take action to save your teeth. Please discuss this condition with your dentist and formulate a plan to control periodontal disease. With prompt attention, you can preserve your smile in the long term.
Contact us at our convenient Metro West locations in Framingham and Newton Centre today.
Since each tooth supports the one next to it, missing one or more teeth can negatively impact your oral health.
A dental bridge is an effective way to fill the gap, restoring functionality and appearance. Though, while it comes with a long list of long-term benefits, it does require some getting used to since it changes the way your mouth feels.
Let’s take a look at how long it takes to get used to a dental bridge.
What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge fills gaps left behind by missing teeth. There are a couple of ways this is done, including traditional bridges and dental implant-supported bridges. Both work well to fill the space, restoring the bite and aesthetics.
Traditional bridges use the healthy teeth on either side of the gap as anchors. Dental crowns attached the bridge to the natural teeth, securely filling the space and holding the artificial teeth in place.
Dental implant-supported bridges are held in place by the implant itself. The number of implants that will be needed to maintain the integrity of the bridge will depend on how many teeth you are replacing.
Filling these gaps is so important as it prevents future oral health concerns. After all, not addressing these open spaces can cause teeth to shift, affecting your bite and putting you at greater risk of tooth decay. It can also change your facial structure and lead to bone loss.
Getting Used to a Dental Bridge
Both traditional bridges and dental implant-supported bridges work well to replace missing teeth, but they also take some getting used to.
Your dental bridge is new hardware that has been added to your mouth. It is going to change the way everything feels – especially when speaking and eating. It is important to know that this is normal and temporary.
Following the dental bridge procedure, you may notice some tooth sensitivity, soreness while chewing, and even changes in your bite. Don’t get discouraged, any discomfort you feel should dissipate within a couple of days.
But how long does it take to get used to your new dental bridge? When will it begin to feel normal?
You can expect your dental bridge to begin feeling like it has fully integrated with your natural teeth in about two weeks. After this time frame, you should be used to the way it feels, eating and speaking without even thinking twice about it.
Keep in mind that dental implant-supported bridges are done in phases over time and take a bit longer to fully complete compared to traditional bridges. This means that your teeth may feel a bit different at different times throughout the process. But again, once they are fully complete and the gap has been filled with a bridge, give it two weeks and it will start feeling normal.
Are You a Candidate for a Dental Bridge?
To preserve your oral health, it is important to replace missing teeth. Are you a candidate for a dental bridge? Periodontal Associates will be able to guide you through the process so that you have the greatest chance of success – and long-term oral health.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment at one of our conveniently located offices.