Call us at 501-753-7366 to schedule your complimentary dental implant consultation!
Different treatments for different situations
When opting for new dental implants, its imperative the first thing that happens, is implant dentist Dr. Khullar, perform a thorough and comprehensive exam of your mouth. Then, and only then, can he decide which options are available and what will work best for you. Obviously, no two patients are the same so special detail and consideration needs to be given when deciding what you need.
Treatment options
Depending on the situation of your mouth, teeth, gums and bone, Dr. Khullar could include some of the following in his treatment suggestions:
Sinus Augmentation
A dental implant is essentially an artificial tooth root that's attached to the jawbone. Eventually, a replacement tooth or bridge will be firmly fixed to this root, restoring complete function to the tooth. The key to a successful and long-lasting implant is the quality and quantity of jawbone to which the implant will be attached. If bone has been lost due to injury or periodontal disease, a sinus augmentation can raise the sinus floor to allow for new bone formation.
In the most common sinus augmentation technique, a tiny incision is made near the upper premolar or molar region to expose the jawbone. A small opening is cut into the bone and the membrane lining the sinus on the other side of the opening is gently pushed upward. The underlying space is filled with bone graft material and the incision is closed.
The bone, which is used for this procedure, may be from your own body or from a cadaver. In some specific cases, implant dentist Dr. Khullar might use synthetic materials, which can be used to stimulate bone formation. The implants are placed after healing has occurred; sinus augmentation has been shown to increase the success of dental implant procedures.
Ridge Modification
Ridge modification is an effective procedure for treating deformities in the upper and lower jaws. These deformities can occur as a result of periodontal disease, trauma, injury, wearing dentures, or developmental problems. Such defects can leave insufficient bone for the placement of dental implants and an additional unattractive indentation in the jaw line adjacent to the missing teeth.
During the ridge modification procedure, the gum is lifted away from the ridge to fully expose the defect in the bone. The bony defect can be filled with bone graft material, which can help regenerate lost bone, or a bone substitute. Finally, the incision is closed and several months of healing will be required.
Depending on the case and type of procedure, dental implants may be placed during the ridge modification procedure or when healing is complete; much depends on the precise condition of the bone. Ridge modification improves the cosmetic appearance, functionality of the mouth, and the chance of enjoying dental implants for many years.
Bone Grafting
Bone grafting is often closely associated with dental restorations such as bridgework and dental implants. In the majority of cases, the success of a restoration procedure can hinge on the height, depth, and width of the jawbone at the implant site. When the jawbone has receded or sustained significant damage, the implant(s) cannot be supported on this unstable foundation and bone grafting is usually recommended for the ensuing restoration.
Initially, implant dentist Dr. Khullar, will thoroughly examine the affected area in order to determine the general condition of your teeth and gums. If periodontal disease is present or your adjacent teeth are in poor condition, these factors will be fully addressed before the bone grafting procedure can begin. Dr. Khullar will also recommend panoramic x-rays in order to determine the precise width and depth of the existing bone. On occasion, a CAT scan may be recommended to determine the bone condition. Depending on these results, Dr. Khullar, may also anesthetize the area and explore into the gum in order to determine what kind and how much bone is required.
The bone grafting procedure can often take several months to complete. Bone is typically harvested from your own body (or on rare occasions obtained from a “bone bank”) and added to the affected site. This bone will fuse with the existing bone and the migration of cells will cause firm adhesion and cell growth. Supplementing the jaw with bone will result in greater bone mass to help support and anchor the implant(s).
During the surgery, Dr. Khullar will numb the grafting and extraction sites using local anesthetic. A small incision will be made to prepare the site for the new bone and it will be anchored into place. On occasion, a synthetic membrane may be used to cover the new bone. This membrane prevents soft tissue and bacterial invasions, and encourages new bone growth. The surgery does not require an overnight stay, and you will be provided with comprehensive instructions for your post-operative care. Dr. Khullar will prescribe medications to help manage infection, discomfort and swelling.
You have options and you have support
The biggest benefit to you in terms of your oral care is just knowing the facts. When you know what the causes, symptoms and treatments are, you are more likely to prevent the disease in the first place. At Dentalways, we are committed to supplying you with all the information you need to make healthy, informed decisions about your oral care. If, at any time you have questions or want further information, just give us a call. We are here to help.
