Green Valley Dental

At GVD one of our top priorities is upholding a standard of excellence while delivering high quality treatment to address our patients’ needs. We continue to build on our professional training by staying current with the latest techniques and technology through research and education. Cleanings/Exams Digital X-Rays Fillings Crowns/Bridges Dentures Extractions Root Canals Cosmetic Dentistry & Veneers Periodontal Therapy Invisalign Pediatric Dentistry Geriatric Dentistry Teeth Whitening Nitrous Oxide TMJ Treatment Night Guards Anti-Snoring Devices Implants

Dental cleanings are an important part of long term oral health and hygiene. The process involves the removal of plaque and bacteria from the teeth and surrounding tissue to prevent dental decay, gingivitis, and periodontal disease. There are varying degrees of cleanings that patients may need, from simple plaque removal and polish to deep scale and debridement. This depends on the location and amount of tarter build-up along with existing oral conditions. Regular dental exams are an important part of long term and preventive dental health. During your exam, the hygienist and dentist work together as a team to identify gum inflammation, bone loss, dental decay, and oral cancer. Your dentist and hygienist will also check your face, neck, and mouth for any abnormalities and discuss any other issues you may be encountering.

Dental X-rays are a vital part of a dental examination There are two main types of dental X-rays: those taken with the X-ray film inside the mouth (intraoral) and those taken with the X-ray film outside the mouth (extraoral). Intraoral X-rays are the ones most commonly used. They provide detailed evidence of the growth of developing teeth, the health of tooth roots and surrounding bone, including the jaw. They also help the dentist zero in on any cavities. Extraoral X-rays, while they also show the teeth, primarily focus on the jaw and skull. They are therefore more helpful in diagnosing malocclusions, impacted teeth, and possible temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD). Types Of Intraoral X-Rays There are three types of intraoral X-rays. Each type helps the dentist visualize a different aspect of the tooth. Bite-Wing X-Rays Bite-wing X-rays, named for the fact that the patient bites down on the film, provide details of both the upper and lower teeth in one section of the mouth. Since each one visualizes an entire tooth, bite-wings are used to evaluate changes in bone density that may result from gum disease and to detect decay. These X-rays are also valuable when the dentist wants to fit a crown or check on the integrity of fillings. Periapical X-Rays Periapical X-rays focus on fewer teeth, but show each entire tooth, from the crown to the root. They include images of any abnormalities of the root or surrounding jaw bone. Occlusal X-Rays Occlusal X-rays are larger than most other X-rays, and are most often used to track tooth development and location in children. Because these X-rays show the entire arch of the upper or lower teeth in the jaw, they help the dentist to evaluate possible bite problems. Types Of Extraoral X-Rays There are many types of extraoral X-rays. Each has a somewhat different purpose. Panoramic X-Rays These X-rays take images of the whole mouth at once, showing all the upper and lower teeth at one time. Panoramic X-rays show positions of developing, fully erupted, or impacted teeth and are also helpful in diagnosing tumors. Tomograms Tomograms are designed to highlight a particular layer of the mouth that might otherwise be obscured by adjacent layers. These X-rays focus on the desired image and intentionally blur those that are in the way of the targeted structure. Cephalometric Projections Cephalometric projections provide an image of the entire side of the head, presenting views of the teeth in relation to the jaw. These X-rays are useful to orthodontists as they develop treatment plans to correct malocclusion. Sialography Sialography enables the dentist to visualize the salivary glands. In order for the procedure to take place, the patient is injected with a dye that allows the salivary glands to be seen on X-ray. This type of X-ray is used to detect blockages of the salivary glands or to investigate conditions such as Sjögren’s syndrome. Computed Tomography Also known as CT scanning, computed tomography shows images of internal structures in three dimensions. This variety of X-ray, sometimes used to evaluate problems of the bones of the face, including fractures or tumors, is also employed to evaluate precise locations for dental implants and complex tooth extractions.

Dental tooth fillings are a restorative treatment, used to improve the appearance and functionality of teeth affected by damage or decay. The filling materials, which can be made from several different substances, help to even out tooth surfaces for more efficient biting and chewing. Dental fillings can last for many years and help keep the tooth looking and functioning at its best. Types Of Dental Fillings Composite Fillings Composite fillings are made of a glass or quartz filler within a resin medium that produces a tooth-colored material. Also known as filled resins, composites are often used in small to mid-size restorations, as they provide strength, durability and resistance to fracture. In addition, the shade of composite fillings is made to closely match the patient’s actual teeth, so that other people will not be aware that dental work has been done. Glass Ionomers Glass ionomers are also tooth-colored fillings that are made of a mixture of acrylic and glass, and are most often used in young children, because they release fluoride. This material is weaker than composites and usually lasts less than five years before a replacement is needed. Amalgam Fillings Amalgam fillings have been used for many years and are considered strong, durable and relatively inexpensive compared to other materials. Although strong and effective, many patients do not choose to use amalgam fillings because the silver color can be visible while eating, speaking or smiling. The Dental Filling Procedure During the filling procedure, the tooth is prepared by removing any decay or damage in the area with a dental hand piece or laser. The surface of the tooth is cleaned and prepared for filling. The filling material is placed in the targeted area, where it will be finished and polished to match the appearance of the natural teeth. Dental fillings are placed during a single visit to a dentist’s office. Some patients may require additional support after their filling procedure, such as the placement of a crown, implant or bridge. A root canal may be needed for severely damaged or infected teeth. The dentist will discuss the filling materials and options with each patient before the procedure to determine the best option.

A dental crown is a restoration that covers or caps a tooth, restoring it to its normal size and shape while strengthening and improving its appearance. Crowns are necessary when the tooth is broken down to the point where a filling will not be effective. Benefits Of Dental Crowns A dental crown can be used for various reasons including covering discolored or misshapen teeth, and in conjunction with bridges and dental implants. Other benefits of dental crowns may include: Holding a cracked tooth together to prevent further damage Covering and supporting a tooth with a large filling Restoring a broken tooth Dental Crown Procedure The dental crown process takes place in two phases or appointments. At the first appointment, the tooth is prepared by filing or reshaping, so the crown can fit in securely and comfortably. The area around the tooth is numbed throughout the procedure with a local anesthetic. After the tooth is prepared, an impression is made of the teeth and gums using a paste or putty. The impression is then sent to a laboratory to make a custom crown, which usually takes two to three weeks. Patients are given a temporary dental crown until the permanent crown is ready. At the second appointment, the new crown is inspected for proper fit and tooth color. The temporary crown is then removed and the new one is cemented onto the tooth. Types Of Dental Crowns There are several different methods of crown restoration, each using a different crown material. Different types of crown material include: Metal Crowns Metal crowns are made entirely of a metal alloy that may include gold, platinum, palladium, or other elements. Compared with other kinds of crowns, metal crowns preserve more of the tooth structure. They withstand biting and chewing forces well and rarely chip or break. The biggest drawback of metal crowns is the metallic color. Porcelain-Fused-To-Metal Or PFM Crowns PFM crowns can be color-matched to the teeth. Second only to all-ceramic crowns in appearance, porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns look like normal teeth. In some cases, the metal underlying the crown’s porcelain can create a dark line. PFM crowns tend to wear down opposing teeth more than metal crowns. The crown’s porcelain portion can also chip or break. Resin Crowns All resin crowns are the least expensive type of dental crown. The drawback is that they are more prone to chips and fractures than other crowns and tend to wear down over time. Ceramic Or Porcelain Crowns These crowns provide the best natural color of all the dental crowns. They are not as strong as PFM or gold crowns, and they may wear down opposing teeth more than metal or resin crowns. Because they are the most cosmetically pleasing, they are commonly used for the front teeth. These crowns provide the best natural color of all the dental crowns. They are not as strong as PFM or gold crowns, and they may wear down opposing teeth more than metal or resin crowns. Because they are the most cosmetically pleasing, they are commonly used for the front teeth. Complications Of Dental Crowns Some patients experience increased sensitivity immediately after the procedure, particularly if the crowned tooth still has a nerve in it. For sensitivity to heat and cold, some patients are advised to use toothpaste for sensitive teeth. Other complications that may occur with dental crowns are: Pain Or Sensitivity When Biting This usually means that the crown is too high on the tooth. If this is the case, the dentist will be able to fix the problem by adjusting the crown. Chip In A Porcelain Crown Resin can be used to repair the remaining crown. If the chipping is extensive, the entire crown may need to be replaced. Loose Dental Crown If the cement washes out from underneath the crown, bacteria can then leak in and cause decay. A dentist should be consulted to resecure the crown to alleviate the problem. In some cases, a dental crown may fall off entirely. If this happens, contact the dentist immediately. The dentist may be able to replace the crown or create a new crown if necessary. With proper oral hygiene, dental crowns can last from five to fifteen years. Patients should consult with their dentist to see if dental crowns are appropriate for their individual condition.

Dentures are prosthetic devices designed to help patients with missing teeth, chew food, improve speaking habits, and improve the patient’s facial aesthetics. The absence of teeth can lead to a sunken, collapsed appearance to the mouth-area. By restoring the physical presence of teeth, this malformation is corrected, the patient’s mouth is supported and the appearance is improved by aesthetic standards. Aesthetic dentures are custom crafted to provide a precise comfortable fit, and to enhance overall facial features. The color of the teeth is carefully selected and the natural differences in tooth shape and size are carefully chosen based on each individual’s age, gender and unique facial qualities. In addition, dentures are made to replicate the gum tissue naturally while providing the proper structure and support for lips, cheeks and face. Types Of Dentures There are three types of dentures: Complete Dentures Complete or full dentures are only required for people who have lost all or most of the teeth on either of the two arches of the mouth. Fixed Partial Dentures Most patients missing only a few teeth opt for fixed partial dentures, also known as “crown and bridge.” These must be precisely installed, especially when in between healthy teeth. Removable Partial Dentures Removable partial dentures are different from fixed partial dentures in that they are normally only used by people who have lost too many teeth for fixed dentures, but too few for full dentures. Stability Of Dentures A frequent issue with dentures is their ability to remain in place during usage. This is based on the following factors: Support The denture may have a tendency to clasp tighter and tighter to the gums as the mouth chews food. The better the support, the less likely the denture is to move vertically closer to the arch upon which it is situated. Stability Movement in the horizontal plane, sometimes described as “slipping” front to back or side to side, can be hazardous to the patient. The quality of a denture base is responsible for preventing movement and maintaining continuous contact with the gums. However, this is heavily dependent on the patient’s oral anatomy. Retention Retention describes the tendency of the denture to move vertically away from the gums, into the lumen of the mouth. The craftsmanship of the denture is tested here, as the better the intaglio or the inside of denture, copies the oral topography, the more effective the seal is. Maxillary dentures, used for the top teeth, achieve better unification with toothless gums due to the improvement in suction from the smooth surface. However, mandibular dentures, used for the bottom teeth, are much more effective if the patient still retains some teeth.

A dental extraction, also known as exodontia, is one of the most common procedures performed at a dentist’s office. The procedure involves removing or pulling a tooth. A surgical extraction may be necessary on certain teeth. Reasons For Surgical Extractions Dental extractions may be performed to minimize overcrowding or in preparation for braces. An extraction may also be performed to remove the following types of teeth: Wisdom teeth Decayed teeth Broken teeth Impacted teeth The Surgical Extraction Procedure More complex extractions may need to be performed by an oral surgeon. Surgical extraction is commonly performed on teeth that have broken at the gum line or have not descended into the mouth, such as wisdom teeth. The extraction procedure is performed under local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. Recovery From Surgical Extraction Patients should eat only soft foods and liquids for the first few days and gently rinse their mouth with warm salt water to relieve swelling and pain. Patients should avoid using a straw as it can induce bleeding. Complications From A Surgical Extraction The dental extraction procedure is safe for most patients with minimal to no complications. While most complications are rare, they may include: Accidental damage to surrounding teeth Fractured jaw Soreness in the jaw Dry socket or exposure of bone in the tooth socket Infection Recovery From A Dental Extraction After the extraction, patients may experience a certain amount of pain. The pain may be relieved by: Applying ice to the external area Rinsing with warm salt water Taking anti-inflammatory medication Antibiotics may be prescribed to fight infection. Patients are also advised to avoid certain foods. Most patients recover completely from a dental extraction within one to two weeks.

Cosmetic dentistry encompasses not only the health of the teeth, but also their aesthetic value. Various products and procedures exist within cosmetic dentistry with the goal of improving both the well-being and visual beauty of the teeth, giving the individual a higher level of self-confidence. Services provided by a cosmetic dentist include the following: Tooth whitening Porcelain veneers Tooth-colored fillings Dental implants Dentures Tooth Whitening Tooth whitening, has become so advanced and widespread that certain dental companies have marketed their own form of at-home tooth whitening products. While there is some merit to these home bleaching kits, there is nothing that compares to having a professional, nationally board-certified dentist perform this procedure on your teeth. When performed by a professional, the entire whitening process is abbreviated and can be completed in only a few short visits, compared to weeks of at-home treatment. Veneers Porcelain and composite veneers are effective aesthetic cover-ups for damaged or stained teeth. Although some veneers are designed to be removable, most are permanent and are bonded very tightly to the teeth they are protecting. Advancements in technology have improved the bonding agents to the extent that it is quite common for veneers to remain functional for 10 years or more. Fillings Cavities are painful and unsightly holes in the teeth that must be filled with inert material. Contemporary fillings, called dental composite resin, are much closer in hue to the natural color of teeth. This allows the tooth to be protected but still look untouched. Dental Implants A dental implant is an artificial tooth replacement designed to fill the void created by a missing tooth. There are many types of dental implants, ranging from individual crowns to large scale dentures. A cosmetic dentist can ensure that not only will the most comfortable replacement be found, but it will be implanted in the most accurate and aesthetic manner possible. There are numerous options available to improve the overall health and appearance of the teeth and smile. Patients should consult with their dentists to decide which option best suits their specific needs and will most effectively meet their expectations.

Periodontics is a branch of dentistry that treats conditions and diseases of the supporting structures of the teeth, especially the gums. Periodontists commonly treat severe cases of oral inflammation including gum disease. Periodontal treatment is concerned with keeping the gums and bone around the teeth healthy. This involves the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of periodontal, or gum disease. Periodontists perform various procedures on the gums and surrounding tissue within the mouth. Most periodontal treatments focus on treating gum or periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is an advanced stage of gum disease caused by a build-up of plaque and bacteria between the teeth and gums. When left untreated, the gums become swollen and infected and may bleed easily. As gum disease progresses, it becomes increasingly difficult and painful to treat. Periodontal disease can also lead to tooth loss. Plaque Control Treatment Most cases of periodontal disease develop because of bacterial plaque that builds up on the teeth over time. When it is not removed, plaque hardens and causes tartar to develop, which cannot be removed through brushing at home. The tissues and bone that support the teeth are gradually destroyed by this process. A dentist or periodontist can perform a thorough cleaning of the teeth and gums which can assist in controlling the spread of plaque and bacteria in the mouth. This type of professional cleaning should be performed every six months to ensure healthy teeth and gums. Periodontal Disease Treatment A patient is normally referred to a periodontist to treat periodontal disease. Treatment may include: Scaling and root planing – A deep-cleaning method that removes bacteria from below the gum line and the tooth root. Medication – Antibiotics or antimicrobial medications may be used to fight infection and reduce the size of the gum pockets that have occurred because of periodontitis. Surgery – If other methods of treatment are ineffective, flap surgery may be performed to lift away gum tissue so that it can be cleaned underneath. Gum or bone grafts may also be performed to help regenerate any bone or gum tissue that may have been damaged or lost due to periodontitis. Patients can reduce their risk of developing gum disease by practicing proper oral hygiene. This includes thoroughly brushing the teeth at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day. Eating a balanced diet and avoiding smoking can also help maintain dental health. Seeing a dentist for a professional cleaning on a regular basis is essential to maintaining good dental as they can remove plaque and other substances that have built up on the teeth over time.

The Invisalign® system uses virtually invisible aligners, rather than metal bands, brackets or wires, to straighten teeth comfortably. The aligners are custom-made to fit the teeth, and are easily removable so patients can eat, drink, brush and floss. The advantage that Invisalign teeth aligners have over regular braces is that they are virtually undetectable. How Does The Invisalign System Work? The Invisalign system uses advanced 3-D computer-imaging technology to project tooth movement in a patient’s mouth. This allows the dentist to create a series of clear, custom-made aligners, also called repositioners, that gradually move the teeth in line with one another. A patient wears each aligner for about two weeks, then moves on to the next set, and then the next, until the teeth-positioning goal has been met. What Does The Invisalign System Treat? In addition to straightening crooked or misaligned teeth, Invisalign aligners can eliminate crowding and large spaces between teeth. More complex conditions, such as overbites, underbites and crossbites, can also be treated. What Are Some Of The Benefits Of Invisalign Aligners Over Regular Braces? Invisalign aligners offer many benefits over traditional metal braces. They may include: Cosmetic appeal Lower cost Flexible-payment options Little to no impact on daily life Less pain Greater flexibility because aligners can be removed at any time Easier to keep teeth clean and healthy No dietary restrictions No “tightening” required Who Are Good Candidates For Invisalign Treatment? The Invisalign system is an effective tool for straightening teeth, and is suitable for patients who are fourteen years of age and older, and who want to: Straighten crooked or misaligned teeth Eliminate teeth crowding Close up large spaces between the teeth. Correct overbites, underbites and crossbites A person interested in Invisalign aligners should contact a dentist or orthodontist. How Does Invisalign Treatment Start? The first step is for a person to make an appointment with a dentist or orthodontist, who will decide whether the Invisalign system is appropriate. If so, a course of treatment is mapped out. Steps in the treatment process include: Bite impressions are made and sent out for processing Aligners are created using advanced 3-D computer imaging based on the bite impressions The patient receives the custom-made aligners The patient wears the clear and removable aligners day and night Aligners should be removed only when the patient is eating, drinking, brushing and flossing; the more they are taken out, the longer it will take to achieve the desired goal. How Long Does Invisalign Treatment Take? Typically, Invisalign treatment takes about a year from start to finish. The patient sees the dentist or orthodontist for a brief appointment every 6 to 8 weeks to review progress. The next set of aligners is given to the patient at each visit. Does The Invisalign System Work? Yes; Invisalign aligners have been shown to be highly effective at straightening teeth. Is Invisalign Treatment Covered By Insurance? If a person has dental insurance that covers orthodontic treatment, Invisalign treatment may also be covered.

Pediatric dentistry is an area of dentistry that specializes in treating the oral healthcare needs of children. Pediatric dentists provide regular checkups, cleanings and fluoride treatments, and overall oral treatment and care for children's teeth. Pediatric dentists also commonly apply sealants to children's teeth to prevent cavities. A pediatric dentist provides overall oral care for children, including treatment for: Cavities Teeth defects Dental injuries Malocclusion Gum disease Speech-related disorders Tongue tie (restricted frenulum) Oral conditions related to other diseases or underlying conditions Mouth guards for sports Dental appointments for children are important not only to evaluate tooth and gum health, but to educate them on preventing dental problems throughout their lives. A child should have her or his first dental exam about six months after the first tooth erupts from the gums, and should visit a pediatric dentist every six months thereafter. During a first dental visit, the pediatric dentist will examine the child's teeth for decay and other dental problems. The dentist may ask the accompanying caregiver about thumb-sucking or pacifier habits, and overall dental health. The dentist will then advise the caregiver and child about proper oral care, which includes brushing, flossing and fluoride treatments. A follow-up visit is usually scheduled for six months later, beginning the dental-maintenance process that will help to ensure good oral health throughout the child's life. A pediatric dentist can offer specialized oral care that a general dentist may not be able to. A pediatric dentist is trained in examining and treating children in an environment that has been designed to make them feel comfortable.

Geriatric dentistry specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of dental conditions of the elderly population. Elderly patients may experience dental problems due to age-related diseases and functional changes. Dental problems commonly faced by older individuals may include: Periodontal disease Misaligned dentures Missing teeth As humans age, their body parts tend to decay and weaken at an increasing pace. Teeth are affected by aging and and as people age, good oral hygiene can sometimes decline, increasing the possibility of dental problems. Geriatric dentistry includes services such as restorative dentistry, periodontal therapy and tooth replacement options. Common Geriatric Dental Restorations Geriatric dentists may perform reconstructive dental procedures that may include: Dentures Dentures are removable implants that fit to the upper and lower arches of the mouth in patients who have lost a significant amount of teeth. Dentures can be used to replace a full set of teeth, or partial dentures can be created to replace a few teeth. Dental Crowns Dental Crowns are caps or covers that are fitted on top of individually damaged teeth. When a tooth has become decayed to the point that the structure and integrity of the tooth are in jeopardy, the dentist will design a crown to fit over the tooth permanently. Dental Bridges Bridges are used to fill in the gaps of missing teeth, usually between two remaining teeth. The abutment teeth, which are directly adjacent to the missing tooth, are generally covered with a contiguous material that attaches both crowns to the bridge in the middle, which inserts as the missing tooth. Dental Implants Dental implants are are made from titanium and fuse with the bone inside the gums after insertion. They are a permanent anchor used in conjunction with bridges, crowns or dentures. Replacement Fillings Older fillings made with metallic substances such as dental amalgam, gold, resin or porcelain may crack after many years of use or lack of maintenance. Dentists may replace old fillings with new and stronger filling material. While all dental problems and procedures cannot be avoided, geriatric patients are encouraged to continue to practice good oral hygiene which can reduce the need for dental restorations. Dentists will determine which procedures are appropriate for each individual patient.

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) refers to a group of related disorders that result from problems with the jaw or jaw joint, or the facial muscles involved in jaw movement. The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the small joint located in front of the ear where the skull and lower jaw meet; it enables the jaw to move and function normally, and is one of the body’s most frequently used joints. Talking, yawning, chewing and swallowing all involve the TMJ. For the TMJ to function properly, the muscles, ligaments and bones involved in its movement must be working properly; any conditions that prevent them from doing so may cause TMD. Types Of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder TMDs are usually categorized in one of three ways. Muscle Disorders Muscle disorders cause pain and discomfort (myofacial pain) in the muscles surrounding the jaw joint, and in the muscles of the shoulder and neck. This is the most common type of TMD. Joint-Derangement Disorders Joint-derangement disorders are structural, as opposed to muscular, conditions. They can be caused by injury to the lower jaw; wear on the joint, such as from bruxism; severe malocclusion; repeated excessive jaw movements; or the dislocation or displacement of the articular disc, which is a component of the TMJ. Degenerative/Inflammatory Joint Disorders The overuse or aging of the joint can cause degeneration and/or inflammation. This may be a result of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or a perforated TMJ disc. A patient may experience one or more of these disorders at the same time. Causes Of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder What causes TMD is not clear, but symptoms are believed to develop from problems with the jaw muscles or with the joint itself. TMD may be the result of many factors, including the following: Trauma to the head or neck Clenching or grinding of the teeth Bad “bite” or missing teeth Arthritis Malalignment of the upper and lower jaws Stress may also play a role in developing TMD because it can lead to tightening of jaw muscles and clenching of teeth. Symptoms Of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder TMDs can cause discomfort and pain that is constant or intermittent, with symptoms that can include: Chronic pain in the face, jaw, neck and shoulders Chronic pain in or around the ear Limited ability to open the mouth wide Difficulty chewing Uncomfortable “bite” Swelling on one or both sides of the face Clicking or popping noises when opening the mouth Headaches and neck aches Symptoms vary from being barely noticeable to causing seriously debilitating pain. It is also possible that the above symptoms have causes other than TMD. Diagnosis Of Temporomandibular Joint Disorder In order to diagnose TMD, a physical examination, as well as the following tests, may be performed: Clench test X-rays CT scan or MRI scan Computer bite analysis Joint-vibration analysis Many tests for diagnosing TMD are designed to rule out other conditions that may be causing the same symptoms. Treatment For Temporomandibular Joint Disorder Treatment for TMD depends on the severity of the condition, and may include: Stress-reduction exercises Muscle relaxants Low-level-laser therapy Mouth protectors to prevent teeth-grinding Changing diet to soft foods Heat or ice packs Avoidance of extreme jaw movements More extensive corrective treatments include injections for pain relief. If nonsurgical treatment is unsuccessful or if there is joint damage, surgery may be needed. Types of surgery performed for TMD include: Arthrocentesis Arthroscopy Open joint surgery Although TMD can be a chronic condition, it can be effectively managed with proper treatment.

Dental implants are an option to replace missing teeth and provide a fixed solution to removable dentures. Dental implants are natural-looking replacement teeth that are fixed in the jaw. Implant treatment provides an option to correct the most troublesome cases associated with missing teeth and ill-fitting dentures. An artificial tooth root made of titanium, an implant is surgically placed into the jawbone to support tooth-replacement structures such as crowns, bridges and dentures. While the implant mimics the root of the tooth, the replacement structure looks and feels just like a natural tooth, providing patients with a permanent solution that replicates the fit and feel of natural teeth. Benefits Of Dental Implants Dental implants have many benefits over other tooth-replacement methods. Enhanced Esthetics Implants are placed within the gums. The crowns that are attached to them emerge in a manner similar to a natural tooth. This offers a more realistic and natural look compared to other alternatives. Reduction Of Bone Loss When a tooth is lost, the supporting bone structure gradually recedes over time. Dental implants integrate with the jawbone and stimulate its preservation, allowing the bone to stay healthy and intact while maintaining natural facial contours and appearance. Preservation Of Adjacent Teeth Other methods like fixed bridges must be anchored to adjacent teeth, unnecessarily sacrificing their quality and health. Dental implants are independent and do not rely on the support of other teeth, thus providing the ability to preserve the good teeth. Easier Eating As the jawbone shrinks, chewing efficiency is reduced, making it difficult to eat certain foods. Dental implants can restore chewing efficiency comparable to that of natural teeth, allowing patients to eat their favorite foods with confidence and without discomfort. The Dental Implant Procedure All treatment begins with a thorough exam and consultation. Typically, the process can take from 3 to 6 months. In some cases, the process may take longer because additional treatments, such as bone grafting, may be required to build up the bone so it can support an implant. The procedure and time frame depends on several factors: Dental health Condition and quality of the jawbone Number of teeth involved Dental implant restorations usually take place over a few appointments and involve several steps: The First Step A dentist or oral surgeon will cut into the gum to expose the bone. One or more implants are precisely placed into the jawbone to mirror the location of the root of the missing natural tooth. The Second Step After appropriate healing has taken place to allow for the implant to fuse within the bone, impressions of the teeth and bite are taken to custom-fabricate a connector post or abutment, and crown. The Final Step At the final appointment, the oral surgeon reopens the gum to expose the implant. The abutment and crown are attached to the implant, completing the process. Some patients may experience minor soreness after the dental implant procedure which can be treated with over the counter ibuprofen medication. Dental Implant Results Patients receive all the benefits of natural teeth with their dental implants. It is important to continue good oral hygiene with the implants to prevent bacteria buildup, which can cause gum disease or bone loss.