Brent Bradford, DDS - Mini Dental Implant Centers of America - Syracuse, NY

Mini dental implants are a type of dental implant used to replace missing teeth. While they share the same purpose as traditional implants, mini implants are constructed differently. The implant resembles a screw with a ball joint on top. This post is less than 3 millimeters wide, or about the diameter of a toothpick. A traditional implant, on the other hand, has an average diameter of 5 mm. It includes multiple components that have to be placed in stages: first, the screw is implanted. Then, once the bone has fully healed over several months, the connector piece and artificial tooth are connected. The narrow, single-piece design of a mini implant allows for a one-stage placement, significantly reducing the overall procedure timeline.

In the U.S., 120 million people have lost at least one permanent tooth. While the leading cause of tooth loss is gum disease, severe decay, dental trauma, tobacco use, and poor nutrition are other common causes. If missing teeth are affecting your ability to eat a balanced diet, speak clearly, or smile without hesitation, we have solutions that can help. Today, there are many procedures that replace teeth, but one of the most effective is dental implants. Dr. Bradford specializes in mini dental implants, having placed them since 2006. Furthermore, our practice is a Mini Dental Implant Center of America, a testament to Dr. Bradford's knowledge and skill in implant dentistry. What Are Dental Implants? A dental implant is a device used to replace missing teeth. It is a titanium alloy screw that replaces the missing roots that were once embedded in the jawbone. The screw forms the foundation to support a restoration like a crown, bridge, or denture. Who Needs Dental Implants? You may benefit from dental implants if: You are missing one tooth. In this case, we can place a single artificial crown on top of the implant. You are missing multiple teeth. Depending on your situation, we can use multiple implant-supported crowns or an implant-supported bridge. You are missing all your teeth. We can strategically place implants in your jaw that support a denture. You have loose dentures. With dental implants, we can stabilize your ill-fitting dentures.

Out of all New York State residents aged 65 and older, about 17% have lost all their teeth. That makes for a drastic change in their oral health and quality of life. For many years, dentures were the only solution for complete tooth loss (edentulism). Those tried-and-true solutions worked for a time, but like with most medical progression throughout history, there are better options. Thanks to the innovation of mini dental implants, the placement of implant dentures provides our patients with a more stable, durable, and natural-looking tooth replacement option that doesn't break the bank. What Are Implant Dentures? Implant dentures are a set of replacement teeth that are anchored into your jawbone by connecting to mini dental implants. They come in removable, semi-removable, and non-removable options and can replace an entire upper or lower arch or both. Because they connect directly to the jawbone through mini implants, they provide a far more stable and natural-feeling solution than traditional dentures, which merely rest atop the gums. This increased stability brings with it more chewing and biting power, so you can enjoy all your favorite foods again. There are no messy adhesives or constant adjustments to worry about. Just a brand-new smile that won't slip or slide. Implant dentures don't just make your smile look great, they offer additional oral health benefits as well. Traditional dentures only replace the missing teeth, not the missing roots. The function of tooth roots is to hold the tooth in place, but it's also to stimulate the jawbone to encourage the proper growth and maintenance of the surrounding tissue. The mini dental implants used in implant dentures serve the same function as these missing roots, so they help to keep your jawbone and facial tissue from deteriorating or artificially sagging as you age. In a nutshell, implant dentures offer better functionality and better health benefits, all while looking and feeling more natural, too.

Missing teeth profoundly impact our ability to speak clearly, smile proudly, and chew effectively. Prompt replacement of missing teeth can give you your life back. While traditional dental implants are a reliable solution, it takes months—sometimes over a year—to complete the process. For many, this extended treatment timeline is a significant drawback for conventional implants. The prolonged process requires months of healing time, additional expenses, and a delay in achieving the desired restoration of both function and aesthetics. Modern solutions address these obstacles. With mini dental implant technology, we can offer same-day dental implants. Same-Day Dental Implants Are Made Possible With Mini Implants Traditional dental implants are titanium screws that average 5 mm in diameter. They are made of multiple components: the screw, a separate connector piece called an abutment, and the artificial tooth or teeth. Because of the size and design of traditional implants, the process takes months to complete. If the patient does not have adequate jawbone volume to hold the implant, they must undergo a bone grafting procedure to build up the bone first. Not only is this an added surgery, but it takes three to nine months of healing before the bone is strong enough to support the implant. Once the implant screw is surgically embedded in the jaw, the bone must fully heal before the implant is stable enough for a prosthetic. This takes several more months. Finally, the abutment is placed, and the artificial teeth are attached. Fortunately, advancements in implant technology have paved the way for quicker dental solutions. Same-day dental implants are possible because of the mini dental implants used. Mini implants are half the size of traditional implants, with a diameter of less than 3 mm. Because of their narrow size, they are ideal for patients with narrow or weak jawbones. Rarely is bone grafting needed for mini implant placement. Their design is also different, as they are just a single piece: the titanium post has a screw on the bottom and a built-in abutment on top. These features enable Dr. Bradford to place mini implants in one minimally invasive procedure. Additionally, because the implants are immediately stable, he can mount a temporary restoration on the same day, giving you a functional bite and complete smile in a single visit.

Sometimes, a dental issue can be corrected with a simple procedure or two. However, a mouth is sometimes damaged so far beyond repair that a complete overhaul is necessary. That's where full-mouth reconstruction comes into play. Major tooth loss affects everyday life, whether through injury, infection, or aging. Dentists estimate that having fewer than eight teeth makes eating fruit, vegetables, and meat more difficult, affecting your diet and overall health. That's just one example of why, when necessary, full-mouth reconstruction can be a life-changing procedure. What Is Full-Mouth Reconstruction? Think of full-mouth reconstruction like a complete house renovation. It uses many different restorative and cosmetic techniques to take something in desperate need of repair and make it beautiful again. However, the real key to that home renovation isn't the equipment or the brand of paint being used but the expert contractor, designer, or expert planner who knows how to craft the finished product and can see how every small detail will affect the bigger picture. Dr. Bradford is that expert planner who can be counted on to create a custom-designed plan specifically tailored to your needs. When you come in for a consultation, Dr. Bradford will start by giving your teeth a thorough examination, taking some digital X-rays, and beginning to shape the step-by-step process of not just any full-mouth reconstruction but your full-mouth reconstruction. Who Needs a Full-Mouth Reconstruction? The field of restorative dentistry spans far and wide, so one of the big questions about this procedure is: How do I know if I need a full-mouth reconstruction or if I just need one or two specific procedures? If you're considering full-mouth reconstruction, the first thing you should do is call an expert like Dr. Bradford, who can provide a professional opinion.

Did you know that 1 in 4 American adults aged 20 to 64 currently has a cavity due to untreated decay? Decay and gum disease are prevalent dental issues as well as the leading causes of tooth loss. Regular visits to the dentist can prevent these issues, while restorative procedures can treat oral health problems that have developed. The purpose of restorative dentistry is to address damaged or missing teeth to restore proper function of the teeth and mouth. At our practice, Dr. Bradford offers a range of restorative procedures to help you regain optimal oral health and prevent future complications. Understanding Restorative Dentistry Restorative dentistry differs from cosmetic and preventative dentistry, although each plays a key role in comprehensive dental care. They share the overarching goal of enhancing dental aesthetics and function, yet they diverge in their primary focus and objectives. Restorative dentistry encompasses dental procedures designed to repair, rehabilitate, and restore the function of teeth affected by decay, damage, or loss. Common interventions include fillings, crowns, bridges, and dental implants. These procedures focus on improving oral health and addressing structural issues. In contrast, cosmetic dentistry concentrates on enhancing the aesthetic appearance of the teeth and smile. Procedures such as teeth whitening, veneers, and bonding fall within this category. The goal of these treatments is to create a visually pleasing and confident smile. Preventative dentistry, on the other hand, emphasizes proactive measures to maintain optimal oral health and prevent dental issues. Regular check-ups, cleanings, and education on proper oral hygiene practices are key components. The purpose of preventative dentistry is to identify and address potential problems before they escalate, promoting long-term oral well-being. Together, these branches of dentistry contribute to comprehensive dental care, providing patients with solutions that promote oral health and a confident, aesthetically pleasing smile.

Tooth loss can significantly affect both oral health and overall well-being, leading to difficulties in chewing and speaking. Beyond the immediate functional challenges, gaps in your smile can also impact self-esteem and social interactions. If you need to replace multiple teeth or all your teeth, a dental bridge can help. At our practice, Dr. Bradford specializes in mini implant-supported bridges to address the immediate consequences of tooth loss and improve long-term outcomes. What Is a Dental Bridge? A dental bridge is a prosthetic that addresses tooth loss. The bridge is a row of artificial teeth that spans the gap left by lost teeth. Dental bridges are customized to your specific oral structure. They can restore your bite and enhance your smile—whether you need to replace two or three teeth in a row or an entire arch of teeth. Because they are made of high-quality dental materials like zirconia, you can trust that your bridge will look natural and blend seamlessly with your remaining teeth. Traditional and Cantilever Bridges A traditional bridge is a row of false teeth with a crown on each end. The crowns adhere to teeth on each side of the gap. Placing a traditional bridge involves removing enamel from the healthy neighboring teeth so that the bridge can fit overtop. If there is only one tooth beside the gap, then a cantilever bridge can be used. However, because these bridges require enamel removal, they impact the healthy natural teeth used as support structures. Additionally, the pressure exerted on these teeth when you bite and chew can cause further damage. Maryland Bonded Bridge The way that a Maryland bridge attaches to neighboring teeth is unique and doesn't require enamel removal. Instead, the false teeth are attached to the back of adjacent teeth using metal wings. While this is a more conservative tooth replacement option, the metal framework is not durable enough to replace teeth that must withstand heavy chewing forces.

Dental crowns are a popular restorative dental tool because of their versatility. They are primarily used to protect and restore a damaged tooth, but they can also be used to support dental bridges, replace a completely missing tooth with mini dental implants, and all potentially in the same day. In fact, a traditional crown is the most common restorative dental option in America. With all their popularity, it's important to know exactly what a dental crown is, what it can do, and the options available to you with Dr. Bradford. Uses for Dental Crowns When you have a damaged or decayed tooth that is still worth saving, that's where dental crowns come in. After all, this is restorative dentistry, not destructive dentistry. But what if your tooth is damaged so badly it needs to be extracted first, or you're already completely missing a tooth? How about dealing with the aftermath of undergoing a root canal? Dental crowns can help with all of these and more. Traditional Dental Crowns A traditional crown is essentially a cap placed on top of and around the damaged tooth that protects, fortifies, and restores it to its former glory. To prepare for this procedure, the remaining tooth enamel will need to be shaved down so that the custom-made crown fits perfectly. The idea is to have a seamless integration with your natural teeth and a snug fit between crown and tooth. The goal, as always, is to save as much of the original tooth and its functionality as possible while protecting it from future harm. Supporting a Dental Bridge When is a dental crown, not a crown? When it's part of a dental bridge! We don't always think of crowns and bridges as being part of the same appliance, but in a traditional three-tooth bridge, they are. The two crowns are what Dr. Bradford attaches to the healthy teeth on either side of the gap in order to support the artificial tooth (pontic) that's going to fill the empty space. So, while they may not get all the glory, the crowns are really doing the heavy lifting here.

Oral surgery may be needed in certain circumstances. Whether it's removing an infected or broken tooth or extracting problematic wisdom teeth, oral surgery can be an important component in maintaining your oral health and well-being. Dr. Bradford is an experienced dentist, and he and his caring team have your comfort in mind when planning and implementing any oral surgery procedure. Understanding the Oral Surgery Process A surgical dental extraction is necessary when a tooth below the gumline needs to be removed, such as impacted wisdom teeth. When teeth are impacted, they do not completely erupt from the gumline due to overcrowding. In these cases, the tooth is likely to cause pain and inflammation, damage other teeth, and increase the risk of decay or gum disease. If your wisdom teeth are impacted, you will likely need oral surgery so they can be properly removed. At your consultation with Dr. Bradford, he will evaluate your teeth and take digital X-rays. These CBCT scans help Dr. Bradford see the condition of your teeth, gums, and jawbone. Using these precise images, he can create a treatment plan that addresses your unique needs. When it's time for the procedure, Dr. Bradford will prioritize your comfort. We understand that anxiety plays a part in any medical procedure—in different ways for all of us. Our experienced, caring staff will answer your questions, address your concerns, and help you relax during your procedure. Modern dental techniques mean that most oral surgeries are nothing like what you might envision from outdated perceptions. Advances in technology, precision tools, and minimally invasive approaches have transformed oral surgical procedures, promoting efficiency, comfort, and faster recovery times for patients. Whether it's a surgical tooth extraction or a mini dental implant placement following an extraction, the process is very efficient, minimizes discomfort, and has high rates of success. At the end of your procedure, you'll receive specific aftercare instructions. Following these closely ensures proper healing.

For the 36 million Americans who are without any remaining natural teeth, a condition known as edentulism, the solution for decades, even centuries, has been to get dentures. But these days, there are more denture options than ever. The questions of removability versus stability, which type of dental implant to use, and whether traditional or modern is the right choice have never presented more choices for those seeking to replace their teeth. At Syracuse Implant Dentures, Dr. Brent Braford is experienced and knowledgeable in all varieties of dentures. He can explain the ins and outs of all your options and help you make the right decision for your budget and desired lifestyle. Different Types of Dentures There are many varieties of dentures out there, but there's one big aspect that separates all of them—those that use dental implants, which are known as implant dentures, and those that do not. Considerations such as how stable you want your new teeth to be, how much you want them to look like real teeth, and the sort of price point you're looking for will determine which type of denture type is right for you. Traditional Dentures Also known as complete or full dentures, traditional dentures are designed to replace all your teeth. They rest on top of your gums and rely on that connection, as well as covering the soft pallet, to maintain a stable connection so they don't slip or slide while eating or speaking. The These are a tried-and-true method to replace all of your teeth, but they are the least stable option we'll mention here. They are removable at home for comfort and convenience, but that comes with the danger of loss or damage. Partial Dentures Partial dentures are used when someone still has some of their remaining natural teeth. They connect to your existing teeth through metal or plastic clasps and can also be removed at night for cleaning and comfort. With proper cleaning and care, they can last 7-10 years.

Dr. Bradford is dedicated to delivering the best dental care to his patients. To help achieve this, he incorporates the latest advancements in dental technology into his practice. By staying at the forefront of innovation, he ensures that his patients receive the most effective and cutting-edge treatments. A foundational technology used every day at our practice is digital X-rays. This 3D imaging technique is used in dental offices to capture detailed images of the teeth and surrounding structures. Dr. Bradford uses cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans to assess patients' oral health and assist in treatment planning. Your free consultation with Dr. Bradford includes a complete dental exam and a CBCT scan. Understanding Digital X-Rays In years past, your dentist may have used traditional film-based X-rays, but modern digital X-rays offer several advantages: Improved image quality: Traditional X-rays create two-dimensional images, while digital ones provide high-resolution 3D images, allowing dental professionals to visualize even small details with greater clarity. Less radiation exposure: Digital X-rays use less radiation than traditional film X-rays, reducing radiation exposure. Quick image processing: Digital X-rays produce images almost instantly, eliminating the time-consuming chemical processing required for traditional film X-rays. Enhanced viewing and analysis: The digital format allows dental professionals to manipulate and enhance images for better viewing. Dr. Bradford can zoom in, adjust brightness and contrast, and use color coding for a more detailed analysis. Easy storage and retrieval: Digital X-rays eliminate the need for physical film storage since they are stored electronically. This facilitates easy retrieval of patient records and enables efficient sharing of images with other healthcare providers if necessary. Environmentally friendly: Since digital X-rays don't require film or chemical processing, they are considered more environmentally friendly. What Is CBCT? Both CT (Computed Tomography) scans and CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) scans are imaging techniques that use X-rays to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body. However, they differ in their applications. CT scans are typically used for broader medical imaging, providing detailed views of internal structures throughout the body. On the other hand, CBCT scans are specifically designed for dental imaging, focusing on the oral and facial regions. CBCT scans use a cone-shaped X-ray beam, capturing high-resolution 3D images. They are particularly valuable for dental implant planning. While CT scans offer comprehensive views for general medical diagnoses, CBCT scans provide precise, localized images crucial for dental procedures. When you visit Brent Bradford, DDS, for your free consultation, the CBCT system will simply rotate around you to generate these precise images.

The idea of tooth extraction, sometimes known as "pulling" a tooth, can be scary. It may bring up visions of a cartoon dentist with comically oversized pliers. But fear not! Modern tooth extraction is a fairly routine and painless process. There are a number of reasons why tooth extraction may be necessary, from infection to overcrowding and taking care of impacted wisdom teeth. If you think you'll need a tooth extraction now or in the near future, Dr. Bradford can examine your teeth, take some digital X-rays, and let you know if an extraction is necessary. Signs You May Need a Tooth Pulled Contact Dr. Bradford if you're experiencing any of the following symptoms: Advanced tooth decay Dental trauma such as broken teeth Impacted teeth that have not broken through the gums Severe gum disease Overcrowded teeth Problematic wisdom teeth If that last one sounded any warning bells for you or a loved one, we recommend allowing Dr. Bradford to look at your wisdom teeth as soon as possible. Considering that approximately 5 million Americans have their wisdom teeth removed each year, it's a common problem, but not that should be ignored. Types of Tooth Extraction There are two types of tooth extraction procedures, each with a different level of invasiveness and complexity. It all depends on where the affected tooth is located. Simple Extraction A simple extraction is performed on teeth that are easy to access and are still structurally intact. After applying a local anesthetic, Dr. Bradford will use special dental tools to loosen and lift the tooth out as gently as possible, ideally in one piece. Simple extractions are easy to recover from. Most patients feel only minor discomfort and can usually get back to normal activities right after the procedure is over. Surgical E