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tooth replacement

🦷 Missing Posterior Teeth? Dental Implants are the Solution! 🦷

🦷 Missing Posterior Teeth? Dental Implants are the Solution! 🦷

If you’ve lost a back tooth, you know how it can impact your ability to chew, speak, and even feel confident about your smile. But don’t worry – dental implants can restore both function and aesthetics!
 
As a periodontal implant specialist, Dr. Todd Britten specializes in placing dental implants that are durable, natural-looking, and custom-fit to meet your unique needs. Here’s why dental implants are the ideal choice for replacing missing posterior teeth:
 
✅ Enhanced Chewing Function: Implants allow you to eat all your favorite foods without discomfort.
✅ Natural Look & Feel: They blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
✅ Long-Term Solution: With proper care, implants can last a lifetime!
✅ Preserve Jawbone Health: Unlike bridges, implants help prevent bone loss in the jaw.
 
If you’re ready to smile and chew with confidence again, don’t wait—let’s talk about how dental implants can change your life! 😊✨

What are the consequences of missing teeth?

There are actually several negative consequences of missing some or all of your teeth. First, missing teeth will affect the esthetics of your face. Not only will your smile be affected by the gaps from missing teeth, but if you’re missing too many teeth, the skin around your mouth won’t be supported properly and will start to sag, making your appear older than you are. Additionally, missing teeth will make it more difficult to chew your food properly and may even affect the way you speak. Finally, missing even one tooth may have emotional consequences; many people feel less confident about their smile when they are missing teeth. If you are currently missing any of your teeth, consider replacing them with dental implants, which can look and feel just like natural teeth. For more information about implants, browse perio.org or talk to your periodontist.

–Perio.org

What to do when a tooth is lost to extraction

Careful management of extraction sockets after a tooth is removed prevents unsightly bone loss and provides a better cosmetic outcome for tooth replacement. To increase the possibility of future implant placement, and to prevent more bone resorption, a ridge preservation procedure may be recommended. Without the use of a bone graft and collagen barrier at the time of extraction, studies show that 30-40% of the jaw bone is immediately lost. This is because your body perceives that once the root is removed, the bone is no longer needed and your body absorbs or removes it, creating a ridge deformity.

These ridge deformities leave you with inadequate bone and tissue thickness for either bridge or dental implant restoration. The defects may have been caused by trauma, developmental defects, periodontal disease, the wearing of dentures, or through previous tooth loss.
Ridge augmentation procedures have been shown to greatly enhance the cleansability and appearance of your restorations. They increase your chance for long term successful dental restoration, both esthetically and functionally. Ridge augmentation procedures may be performed with gum tissue and/or bone grafting materials.

For more info on our surgical procedures, visit:

Surgical Procedures

or contact us!

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Why replace lost teeth

When a tooth is removed, the bone shrinks away and the other teeth in the area will shift to fill the gap. This can sometimes lead to other problems like shifting of other teeth, causing bone loss or decay around the existing teeth as they become more difficult to clean.

Watch this great video from Spear Education about missing teeth and tooth loss!

Click here:
https://spearedu.co/l2DeZob

If you have questions about replacing teeth lost to fractures, decay or gum disease, contact us today

Technology: Our State of The Art CT scanner

In the past, traditional dental x-rays were only able to provide limited information about the condition of a patient’s teeth and jaw bone. Advances in technology now allow us to see fine detailed tooth and jaw anatomy to diagnose conditions that may have been previously hard to detect. Britten Periodontics & Implant Dentistry is now offering the only dental 3D CT Scan that is FDA approved for use on pediatric patients as it delivers the lowest dose of radiation possible on both children and adults.

The VATECH PAX-i3D GREEN cone beam CT Scanner offers fantastic imaging detail and is the only cone beam system considered a “Green CT” due to its extremely low dose, equivalent to only a short time out in the sun. This technology also assists in the digital planning of dental implants for precise accuracy, safety and optimal results. It can also assist in planning for bone grafting, tooth extractions, particularly third molars (wisdom teeth) and suspected pathology such as infected cracked teeth or impacted teeth.

The Green CBCT scanner by VA Tech America provides innovative technology for ultra-low-dose x-rays in 5.9 seconds and minimizes radiation to both patient and operator.

“I am excited about not only the excellent image quality for diagnostic purposes, but also the increased protection for the health and safety of our patients. The VA Tech Cone Beam CT scanner is perfect for claustrophobic patients.” – Dr. Todd Britten. “I am excited about not only the excellent image quality for diagnostic purposes, but also the increased protection for the health and safety of our patients. The VA Tech Cone Beam CT scanner is perfect for claustrophobic patients, as it is an ‘open air’ scanner. Patients are positioned and stand very still, and in less than six seconds, the scan is done.”

Dentists and dental specialists are using ConeBeam 3-D CT scans more and more frequently as a diagnostic tool for ultimate treatment efficiency and precision, particularly for dental implants, however, they can provide information for full mouth treatment when needed or localized to third molars or even the Temporomandibular Joint. New Green CBCT technology allows your dentist or x-ray technician to select specifically the desired scan while managing radiation dosage to their patients.

“This is a very powerful treatment tool in our practice,” says Dr. Britten. “With it, we can work together with our referring dentists to more confidently map our surgical and restorative treatment plans and place and restore implants with accuracy, while protecting our patients and our staff with lower radiation. I have read thousands of CT scans of the jaws but am still amazed at the fine details that I am now able to see in our VA Tech scans. We often see hairline cracks in people’s teeth that were previously unclear on traditional x-rays, yet causing them discomfort.”

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5 Ways to Replace a Missing Tooth

It is unfortunate when someone loses a tooth, but there are usually several options to replace it.

  1. Removable Partial Denture
  • Worn during the day, can replace one or many missing. We recommend taking them out at night and soaking them in a cleaning solution.  teeth.  Sometimes a partial denture may need metal clasps to help it stay in the mouth.
  • Unfortunately, these metal clasps may be visible when speaking or smiling.
  • They can move a little when speaking or eating, which can be uncomfortable.
  • No need to file down any teeth.
  • This option is often the most economical.

2.  Temporary Partial Denture

  • A short term solution for a missing tooth.
  • We call it a “flipper” because it flips in and out easily.
  • This is used when the tooth will be restored in the future with a bridge or an implant, but is worn during the healing phase.
  • Much like a removable partial denture, but usually less sturdy, less bulky, and less expensive.
  • No alteration to adjacent teeth

3. Bridge

  • A bridge is a fixed solution that stays cemented in the mouth and does not come out.
  • This method involves cutting down the teeth on either side of the missing tooth to be able to connect them together.
  • We recommend floss threaders, which slide under the bridge, to keep it clean.
  • The disadvantages for bridges are cutting down teeth that might be perfectly healthy, and sometimes bridges in the lower jaw do not last as long since the jaw flexes and the unbendable bridge can spring a leak on one side or the other that allows for decay or bacteria to seep in.
  • A bridge can replace one or two missing teeth easily, and sometimes more if there is enough support.

4. Dental Implant

  • A great way to replace a missing tooth.
  • This solution feels and acts the most like a natural tooth when chewing, brushing or smiling.
  • The implant replaces the actual root of the missing tooth and heals in the bone for several months.
  • We then place an abutment, to which a crown will be cemented.
  • A major advantage is no need to alter any other teeth when placing an implant.
  • An implant is a great solution for a single missing tooth, and even more implants can replace many missing teeth.
  • When smiling or talking there is no way to tell the difference between an implant and a natural tooth

5. Do Nothing. There is always the option to do nothing.

  • When a tooth is removed, the bone melts away and the other teeth in the area will shift to fill the gap.
  • This can sometimes create a difficult place to clean and lead to other problems like bone loss or decay around the existing teeth.

What you should know about dental implants

Who is a candidate?

Dental implants can be placed in most adults in good to moderate health. They are not typically placed in adolescents until they have reached full expected growth/maturity. Certain medical conditions that are not controlled well may decrease the effectiveness of implant treatment, so be sure to discuss your medical history with your dentist before treatment.

A trained clinician can determine the best treatment plan for you. Ask your doctor to explain the benefits and risks to see if dental implants are a good option for you!

Frequently asked questions about dental implants

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Q: Is implant placement painful?

A: Normally done under local anesthesia, most procedures can be done in the dental office.

Q: How much pain will I feel after implant placement?

A: If there is discomfort with dental implant placement, it is usually minor. Your dentist may prescribe medication to alleviate any pain.

Q: How long does it take to place dental implants?

A: This depends on the location and number of implants being placed, many can be done in 60-90 minutes.

Q: What can I eat after dental implant placement?

A: Your dentist will outline a diet for the next few days including some soft foods.

Q: How long does placement, healing and construction of the replacement teeth take?

A: The entire process usually takes form 3 to 9 months, depending on your treatment plan.

Q: How do I care for my implant?

A: Home care for implants consists of brushing and flossing. Regular dental visits are required for long-term health and success.

Q: How long does an implant last?

A: If your body accepts the implant, it should last many years if cared for properly. Many implants have been in place for more than 40 years.

Q: If my body rejects an implant, what happens?

A: The implant is removed and the site is allowed to heal. Another implant can usually be placed after healing.

Q: Are dental implants covered by insurance?

A: Like most elective procedures, dental implants are not covered by most dental insurance plans.  However, your dentist may offer payment plan options.

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Are you a candidate for implant-supported dentures?

If you’re tired of high maintenance and uncomfortable dentures, you might be able to have implants placed to support your denture. An implant-supported denture is used when a person doesn’t have any teeth in the jaw, but has enough bone to support implants. An implant supported denture snaps into place on dental implants. This prevents the denture from slipping or coming loose in the mouth. It also removes the need for denture paste or adhesives. The implant supported denture can be removed at night for cleaning or, if you have a fixed implant supported denture placed, your dentures will act as permanent teeth.

There are two types of implant supported dentures, bar-retained dentures and ball-retained dentures. Both types of dentures require two or more dental implants to be placed and both will provide you with a beautiful, natural smile.

Bar-Retained Dentures

In the bar-retained type of denture, three or more implants are surgically placed in the gums. Attached to these implants is a metal bar that runs along the gum line. The denture then rests on the metal bar and is attached using clips or other types of attachments. This type of implant-supported denture holds the denture in place without the steel studs used in ball-retained dentures.

Ball-Retained Dentures

Ball-retained dentures, also called stud-attachment dentures, use a ball-and-socket design to attach the dentures to the implants surgically placed in the gums. Traditionally, the denture is fitted with sockets and the implants have a ball on top of them. The denture and implants snap together where the ball and sockets meet.

Many patients prefer implant-supported dentures to traditional dentures because they alleviates much of the discomfort and rubbing of traditional dentures. The denture is held in place far more securely and is less likely to come loose. Dr. Britten is a dental implant specialist who can evaluate to see if you are a candidate for implant-supported dentures. Call us today 727-586-2681 or visit www.brittenperio.com

Sinus Augmentation Procedures: Science Behind These Procedures for Professionals and Patients

The maxillary sinus is a hollow chamber lined by pseudostratified columnar epithelial cells that make up the Schneiderian membrane.  In a healthy sinus, mucous production helps clear the sinus of foreign particles and microbes.  The base of the maxillary sinus often rests on the bone superior to the roots of the maxillary teeth.

The posterior maxilla consists of bone that is highly trabeculated and often has the lowest density in the mouth.  While the mandibular bone can be as dense as oak wood, in comparison, the posterior maxilla can have the density of pine or even balsa wood.  To further complicate matters, after the loss of the posterior teeth the maxilla resorbs in a palatal and superior direction, and the maxillary sinus elongates down to reduce the available native bone height.

These unique challenges in native bone availability combined with the higher occlusal forces in the posterior jaw lead to the posterior maxilla traditionally experiencing the highest dental implant failure rate.  This is especially true when the limits are pushed, i.e. a very short implant is used with a long crown height.  However, through innovation in bone augmentation techniques patients can have implant restorations in this region now with equal success rates to all other areas of the mouth.  Sinus lift or augmentation surgery can assist implant placement by raising the sinus floor to develop more bone.

Two general techniques for a sinus augmentation exist.  The first, called a crestal approach or indirect sinus “tap” involves drilling the planned implant osteotomy short of the sinus floor, then using an osteotome or other instrument to elevate the remaining bone, add additional bone graft in the site, then place the dental implant.  This technique is appropriate for sites where 7+ mm of native bone remain before the procedure.

The second technique, called a lateral window or direct sinus graft, involves elevating a periodontal flap and creating an osteotomy window at the lateral aspect of the maxillary sinus in order to elevate the sinus membrane and add bone graft.  This may be done as a separate procedure or together with placing the dental implant.

Between 5-8 months is expected for complete healing of the graft.  The lateral window sinus graft is appropriate when 6 mm or less of native bone exist as seen on a CT scan.  Both sinus augmentation techniques are most often done under conscious sedation in our office.

Since 2015, we have added L-PRF technology to all of our sinus grafts.  Leukocyte-Platelet Rich Fibrin is derived from the patient’s own blood. A simplified chairside procedure results in the production of a thin, compressed layer of platelet rich fibrin that is strong, pliable and suitable for suturing. This natural fibrin network is rich in platelets, growth factors and cytokines that are derived from the blood platelets and leukocytes, improving not only bone growth but also natural infection defense.  This is typically combined with a 50:50 mixture of bovine (cow) and human donor bone graft material.  The results have been excellent!  Our lateral window sinus grafts have shown a 98% infection free success rate in that time.  Healing is typically easier than expected and many patients even report that their sinuses actually feel better and clearer than before the surgery!

If you or your team have any question about sinus augmentation procedures, please contact us at any time. As always, we are committed to continuing to work with all of you to provide our patients with the highest level of care available.

Click here for a Zimmer Sinus Augmenation Brochure for Patients

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4 Ways to Replace a Missing Tooth

Fixed Bridge

A bridge is an option when there are teeth on either side of the missing tooth.

Advantages
It stays cemented in the mouth and does not come out.

Disadvantages
This does involve cutting down the teeth on either side of the missing tooth to be able to connect them together. Floss threaders, which slide under the bridge, should be used daily, to keep it clean.

The disadvantages for bridges are cutting down teeth that might be perfectly healthy. If there is a leak under the anchor teeth of the bridge, decay can occur below. A bridge can replace one or two missing teeth easily, and sometimes more if there is enough support.

Removable partial denture

A removable partial denture is worn during the day. This is used to replace one or many missing teeth.

Disadvantages 
-Sometimes amay need metal clasps to help it stay in the mouth which may be visible when speaking or smiling.
– They move a little when speaking or eating, which can be uncomfortable.
-We recommend taking them out at night and soaking them in a cleaning solution.

Advantages
There is no need to file down any teeth, and this option is usually the most economical. A full denture can replace all missing teeth.

Dental Implant

An implant is a great way to replace a missing tooth.

Advantages
This solution feels and acts the most like a natural tooth when chewing, brushing or smiling. A major advantage is no need to alter any other teeth when placing an implant. An implant is a great solution for a single missing tooth, and even more implants can replace many missing teeth. When smiling or talking there is no way to tell the difference between an implant and a natural tooth.

Disadvantages
The implant replaces the actual root of the missing tooth and heals in the bone for 3 to 7 months and we then begin the restorative phase. We or your dentist then place an abutment, to which a crown will be cemented. Dental implants are usually a more costly option, at least initially, but are often the best long-term investment.

Do Nothing

There is always the option to do nothing.

Advantages
Saves money, at least initially

Disadvantages
When a tooth is removed, the bone shrinks away and the other teeth in the area will shift to fill the gap. This can sometimes lead to other problems like shifting of other teeth, causing bone loss or decay around the existing teeth as they become more difficult to clean.

If you have questions about replacing teeth lost to fractures, decay or gum disease, contact us today at 727-586-2681.

www.brittenperio.com

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