5 DIFFERENT DENTAL IMPLANTS AND HOW THEY WORK

Citracado Dental Group • Jul 26, 2021

Patients in need of replacing missing or damaged teeth have several options, including a combination of screw-like titanium posts and artificial teeth.

Dental implants are available in various configurations depending on the course of treatment and give patients teeth that appear and function like real ones.

Here’s an overview of five different types of dental implants and how they work.

Unlike dental bridges, traditional dental implants do not require the support of two surrounding or adjacent teeth to hold them in place.

Patients of single tooth replacement with a traditional implant can expect a six-to-nine month-long process from the start through full recovery. Depending on a patient’s circumstances, however, it can take longer.

Once patients have gone through consultation and other preliminary phases, the initial surgery entails the implant of a titanium post into the jawbone. Patients are placed under local anesthesia and are awake, but will not feel pain during the surgery.

It’ll take a few months, or longer, for the mouth to fully heal before patients can move on to the next step. As part of this process, the jawbone will begin to grow around the outside of the titanium post as the implant begins to integrate into the bone. This is called osseointegration, which allows the implant to hold firmly inside the mouth.

In the meantime, as osseointegration advances, the dental team will begin to create the crown for the new prosthetic tooth. It is made of porcelain or other material, such as zirconium. The tooth is placed within the mouth as soon as the implant heals. In order for this step to be successful, the dentist must uncover the top of the titanium screw to install the abutment using a small torque wrench. Next, the crown is installed on top.

At its basic level, implant crowns consist of three primary components: the titanium post, the abutment and the crown, which is cemented onto the middle section, or abutment.

Initially, some patients will experience pain, but it’ll be minimal. Over-the-counter medication is enough to address any discomfort during recovery time. Eating soft foods for the first few days is also advisable until the residual pain subsides.

Orthodontic patients have the option of temporary anchorage devices (TADs). These small titanium devices allow for more efficient tooth movement and feel more comfortable. Usually used in addition to braces, TADs can also serve as an alternative to wearing headgear.

Here’s how they work: The small screws are placed on the outside parts of the jaw between teeth. As the name implies, the devices are temporary and need not be placed deep into the jaw. How they are attached and where they are placed create flexibility for the movement of surrounding teeth. Treatment typically lasts several months.

Here are a few other types of implants and a brief overview on how they work.

The A05 (All-on-5) is like an implant bridge that replaces the teeth for an entire jaw. The A05 procedure entails tooth removal and the placement of four to six implants, which are located on each arch. Dentures are then attached to the implants. They will only need to be removed during routine checkups or just a couple of times per year.

An implant bridge is designed for patients with several missing teeth or a missing quadrant. The implants can be spaced out and are connected with the bridge. Several teeth can be placed in one area without the need for multiple implants.

Finally, there are also implants that attach to a full upper or lower denture. These differed from AO5 because patients are able to remove them as needed. Typically, two to three implants are placed per arch, which are attached onto a denture. As a result, the complete denture “snaps onto” the implants, making the denture more stable.

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Nurturing Mental Health: Overcoming Dental Anxiety

By Citracado Dental Group • 25 Apr, 2024

As we make way for May, a month of bright blossoms and the start of warmer weather, we also celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month . During this time, we focus our attention on highlighting the fundamental significance of mental wellness. During discussions surrounding anxiety and depression, one topic often overlooked is dental anxiety - an issue that affects millions around the world. Dental anxiety extends beyond mere dislike about going to the dentist. Rather, it is a complex emotional response that can stem from previous experiences, anticipated pain or discomfort or generalized anxiety disorders. For many people, even thinking about dental procedures can trigger intense fear reactions, panic attacks or behaviors aimed at avoiding dental care altogether. Understanding that dental anxiety isn't just about oral health but is often intertwined with broader mental health issues is vital. If you suffer from anxiety disorders or have had traumatic histories, you may be particularly susceptible to dental anxiety. Here are some tips that you can take to help break the cycle of fear and promote overall wellness. Open Communication: Don't hesitate to discuss your trepidation and fears with your dentist. Our team can tailor our approach based on your or your child’s individual needs and offer comforting reassurances throughout your appointment. Relaxation Techniques: Utilize relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation or progressive muscle relaxation before and during your dental appointment. These methods can reduce anxiety levels and promote a feeling of calmness. Gradual Exposure: If you find yourself overwhelmed by dread at the thought of visiting the dentist, consider gradually exposing yourself to different aspects of it – start with neutral activities like sitting in the waiting room or discussing treatment plans. Sedation Dentistry: If you grapple with intense dental anxiety, sedation dentistry can offer significant relief. This method employs medication to induce relaxation during dental procedures, leading to a more comfortable and stress-free experience. Seeking Professional Assistance: If dental anxiety is significantly disrupting your daily life, it might be helpful to reach out to a mental health professional. Therapy offers valuable coping strategies and tools to effectively help manage your feelings. Dental anxiety doesn't only affect adults - children can also struggle with it, often due to fear of the unknown or past negative experiences. As parents and caregivers, it's essential to establish positive connections with dental care early on. Here are some suggestions: Early Familiarization: Introduce children to the dental environment well before their first appointment. This can help them become used to both their surroundings and the dental team. Role-playing: Encourage pretend play at home that simulates dentist visits. This helps children grow comfortable with the concept of dental procedures in a fun, secure and non-threatening environment. Positive Reinforcement: Praise and reward your child's bravery during dentist appointments. Emphasize the role of oral hygiene in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Plus, many little ones look forward to a visit to the toy chest after a visit! While dental anxiety can present a significant challenge to achieving optimal oral health and overall wellness, by addressing the mental health aspects of dental anxiety and applying practical coping strategies, both adults and children can overcome fears and foster positive experiences with dentistry. At Citracado Dental Group, your comfort and well-being are our top priority. We recognize that dental visits can evoke anxiety in some patients, and we strive to surpass expectations in providing a pleasant and positive experience for every patient. Your visit to our office is not just about dental care; it's about feeling relaxed and at ease during your time with us. To help make this happen, we have a selection of great amenities lined up to make your visit more comfortable and enjoyable. From neck or back pillows and soft blankets to bottled water or juice selections, we aim to create a soothing environment where you can unwind. Need to zone out? You can enjoy your favorite music on a personal iPad or indulge in a hot cup of gourmet coffee or tea from our bar. We also offer complimentary Wi-Fi, headphones for your listening pleasure, and even facial towels and lip balm for an extra special touch. We’re committed to ensuring your trip to our office is an enjoyable one! Schedule your next visit by calling or texting 760-489-5545.