Soundview Family Dental: October 2019

Monday, 21 October 2019

How Many Teeth Do Adults Have?

[et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="section" _builder_version="3.29.3" min_height="3251px" fb_built="1" _i="0" _address="0"][et_pb_row admin_label="row" _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" _i="0" _address="0.0"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" _i="0" _address="0.0.0" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.0.0.0"]

When it comes to going to the dentist and taking care of our teeth properly, we often don’t think about the anatomy of the teeth we have. Other than having our wisdom teeth removed in our teen years or early 20s, or when they begin to cause us pain, do we know how many teeth we have? Do we genuinely understand the structure of this incredible part of our body? Perhaps it is finally time to count those adult teeth.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="1" _address="0.1"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.1.0"][et_pb_video src="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iqMkPJfrApU" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.1.0.0"][/et_pb_video][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="2" _address="0.2"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.2.0"][et_pb_text _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.2.0.0"]

The Layers of Our Teeth

Before we count our teeth, let’s look at the tooth itself. There are three primary layers of each tooth. The visible outer layer of each tooth is called enamel. This is the white, bright layer you love to show off when you smile. Enamel is a hard surface that protects all inner layers from the damage of decay and daily use. The enamel makes your teeth healthy, as it is the strongest tissue in the body. Dentin is the second layer, or middle layer, and makes up most of each tooth. It is most similar to bone tissue and is composed of tiny tubes that connect it to the pulp of the tooth.

The pulp is the third layer of each tooth, and it is comprised of blood and nerves. When you have tooth pain, this layer is why it feels so severe. The pulp is the innermost layer of each layer, and it is known as the “life-source” of the tooth. The crown is above the gum line, and the part of the tooth that lies below is the root. The root attaches to your jawbone. Teeth are a lot more complicated than they look.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="3" _address="0.3"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.3.0"][et_pb_text _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.3.0.0"]

Baby Teeth And When We Lose Them

After teething is complete, children have 20 teeth. There are ten teeth on the bottom and ten on the top. As baby teeth begin to fall out, this is the best time for children to learn and cement healthy, lifelong oral hygiene habits so they can take care of the adult teeth that they will have after all of their teeth grow in. Without wisdom teeth, adults have 32 teeth. There are rare cases in which some adults do not lose baby teeth. In some of these cases, you can have these teeth pulled and replaced with implants or other tooth replacement solutions, or they can be left as they are. It will be discussed with your dentist as the situation arises, and generally, they are only pulled if the remaining baby teeth are causing you pain, discomfort, or disrupting the adult teeth around it.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="3.29.3" module_alignment="center" _i="4" _address="0.4"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.4.0"][et_pb_image src="https://soundviewfamilydental.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/girl-showing-her-teeth.jpg" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.4.0.0"][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="1" _address="0.4.1"][et_pb_text _builder_version="3.29.3" hover_enabled="0" _i="0" _address="0.4.1.0"]

Of these 32 adult teeth, there are eight incisors, four canines, eight premolars, and 12 molars. Of the 12 molars, there are four wisdom teeth. A person will have a complete set of permanent, adult teeth by their teen years, and commonly, the four wisdom teeth are removed so the other teeth can grow in comfortably. Removing the wisdom teeth also helps to prevent misalignment of other permanent teeth.

Teeth Adults Have on Top

Adults have both primary and secondary teeth on the top and bottom. On the top, you will see four incisors, two canines, and these “sharper” teeth are primarily for chewing food. We also have four molars on the upper half of our mouth. Like the canines and incisors, they are used for eating, and their broad surfaces are best for grinding down food so it can be swallowed safely.

Teeth Adults Have on Bottom

Our bottom teeth are much the same, including canines, molars, and incisors, although some in higher numbers. Found on the bottom are six molars, three on each side of our mouth, two canines, one on each side, and four incisors located at the front. One type of tooth only found on the bottom of our mouth is the premolar, a tooth located between the cuspid and molar. They are physically similar to these two teeth and physically located between them. Premolars are also known as bicuspids, and they, like our canines and other “sharp” teeth, are used to tear and cut food that we eat.

Our Wisdom Teeth

Although we have 32 permanent teeth as adults, we have our four wisdom teeth removed to avoid overcrowding. Overcrowding can cause a variety of oral health issues in adults. If an adult does not have their wisdom teeth removed, they run the risk of increased tooth decay, misaligned teeth, impacted wisdom teeth, and an increased risk of periodontal disease. If you are in your 20s or even early 30s and know that you have not had your wisdom teeth removed, speak to your dentist about the procedure at your next appointment.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="6" _address="0.6"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.6.0"][et_pb_image src="https://soundviewfamilydental.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/young-couple-brushing-teeth.jpg" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.6.0.0"][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="7" _address="0.7"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.7.0"][et_pb_text _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.7.0.0" hover_enabled="0"]

Oral Hygiene is Simple - But We’re Forgetful

It can be pretty simple to take care of your adult teeth, although we often need reminders in our busy lives. Despite knowing how many permanent teeth adults have, we don’t always take care of them as we should. Remember to always brush your teeth gently twice a day for two minutes using a fluoride tooth place. Brushing will help to clean food and bacteria from your teeth, mouth, and tongue, and fight the icky morning breath that no one likes to have. Gum disease and the build of bacteria and tartar are significant causes of bad breath, so just this simple twice-daily routine will help keep you smelling and feeling fresh.

Avoid sugary drinks, such as soda or other sweet beverages. However, soda is not all about sugar. The acid in soft drinks, in diet soft drinks, is truly what breaks away at the strength of our adult teeth and its enamel, creates cavities and stains, and erodes teeth from the inside. It is best to limit soft drinks for your health, but if not for any other reason, do it for your adult teeth.

Taking Care of Our Adult Teeth

We have 32 adult teeth, and once our wisdom teeth are removed, 28. Brushing and flossing will keep all top and bottom incisors, canines, molars, and bicuspids looking bright and healthy. Don’t forget to visit your dentist regularly and always be honest about any dental concerns you have.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

How Many Teeth Do Adults Have? is courtesy of: www.soundviewfamilydental.com

Soundview Family Dental
201 5th Ave S Suite 103, Edmonds, WA 98020
(425) 563-6360
Our Edmonds Location

Sunday, 20 October 2019

What To Expert From Oral Surgery

Wisdom teeth aren’t always a problem for everyone. However, for most people, wisdom teeth mean a great deal of pain and additional dental issues. When your dentist recommends wisdom tooth removal, there is likely no room for the teeth to come in, which will cause alignment issues. Or you are already experiencing discomfort. Whatever the reason may be, if this is the first oral surgery, you probably have questions, including what to eat after wisdom teeth removal.

Wisdom teeth, or any tooth that is impacted, will need to be surgically removed. Your dentist will give you post-operative instructions as to how to care for the wound, and what you should and shouldn’t do. You must follow these instructions. Oral surgery is serious, and complications can arise, the most significant being an infection.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="1" _address="0.1"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.1.0"][et_pb_gallery gallery_ids="4051" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.1.0.0"][/et_pb_gallery][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="2" _address="0.2"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.2.0"][et_pb_text _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.2.0.0"]

What to Expect From Oral Surgery

When your dentists remove wisdom teeth, they will need to cut them out. This is slightly different from a standard extraction. Wisdom teeth, because they are located in the back of the gum line, they are difficult to remove, making pulling them out, not a suitable solution. The dentist will make an incision into the gum, to gain full access to the tooth. Once the tooth is out, the cut will receive stitches, and a gauze pad will be placed. The gauze should remain in place for 30 minutes and then discarded.

You should start taking medicine before the anesthesia wears off to reduce pain. There will be significant swelling over the first couple of days but will go away. You can expect there to be a fair amount of bleeding, and this completely normal and should stop after the first 24-48 hours.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.29.3" module_alignment="center" _i="3" _address="0.3"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.3.0"][et_pb_text _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.3.0.0"]

What Should You Avoid?

One of the most frequently asked questions for dentists about wisdom tooth removal is what they should avoid doing. While you may want to stop certain activities such as brushing or flossing your teeth to avoid touching the area, you should continue good oral care habits starting the day after surgery.

You should avoid using a straw. Suction is not recommended, as this can cause a dry socket. Your dentist will also recommend that if you are a smoker, that you should stop smoking. If you find it impossible to quit smoking, you should refrain for at least the first 48-hours following surgery. Similarly to using a straw, smoking can increase your chances of a dry socket.

5-Day Guide For What To Eat Following Wisdom Teeth Removal

To ensure you have the best recovery possible for your wisdom tooth removal, you will want to follow the guidelines of what you should and shouldn’t eat the week following surgery. Keep in mind that the area will be extremely sore.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="5" _address="0.5"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.5.0"][et_pb_video src="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JmmRivuxTOc" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.5.0.0"][/et_pb_video][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="6" _address="0.6"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.6.0"][et_pb_text _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.6.0.0"]

Day 1

On the day of surgery, you will have a moderate amount of discomfort. It is likely you’ll be hungry but won’t want to eat. You should avoid solid foods altogether. Instead, stick to liquids like broth. It is essential that you get enough liquid in your diet, juice, and water are great options. You will want to avoid using a straw as this could cause a dry socket. Dry socket is when the blood clot that forms after surgery is dislodged. This condition can be excruciating. Sucking through a straw can cause the blood clot to come out.

Day 2

After 24 hours, moving on to soft foods is encouraged. You still will want to avoid anything hard, but you can eat items with some substance, including yogurt, pudding, jello, and soups. If possible, avoid the food sitting on the incision site. There will be a great deal of sensitivity, so avoid having overly hot or cold foods.

Day 3

On day three, you will want to continue eating soft foods, including pudding, jello, soup, and applesauce. You can also incorporate mashed potatoes into your diet for a change of pace. However, you should let any hot food or drinks cool to room temperature. This will reduce the likelihood of causing discomfort.

Day 4

Continuing with liquids and soft foods is crucial for the next two days. On day four, you can consume cream of wheat, oatmeal, and ice cream. Popsicles can also be eaten, but if you find that the cold of ice cream and popsicles to be uncomfortable, it might be best to avoid for the best few days. In general, many find the cold to be soothing for the swollen gums.

Day 5

Day five is the last post-operative day, where you should still be having softer foods. Macaroni and cheese and eggs are great additions to the diet, that provide some nutrition and flavor, while still being easy to eat. You can now begin eating more substantial items. But you will even want to avoid overly crunchy foods. A great example would be tacos and nachos. The chips and shells can be too crunchy and injure the incision site.

Day 6 and Beyond

Starting day six and beyond, you will still want to be careful about what you eat and drink. Avoid overly hot or cold items for at least the first week. You may notice that around day six that there is less sensitivity, less swelling, and it is much easier to chew. However, you should avoid anything overly chewy. After eating, it is important to keep the teeth and gums clean. Using a soft bristle tooth gently cleanse the area. Your dentist will likely instruct you to do a saltwater rinse beginning on day 2. It is important not to be overly aggressive with the rinse and simply swoosh around your mouth.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="7" _address="0.7"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.7.0"][et_pb_text _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.7.0.0"]

Conclusion:

Oral surgery shouldn’t be taken lightly. Aftercare is a considerable part. Follow all your dentist’s instructions for taking care of the incision site and keeping the area clean. If you are in doubt about what to eat after wisdom teeth removal, it is best to speak to your dentist. However, if you follow these guidelines for the first five days, you will be well on your way to healing and have fewer chances of complications.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

What To Expert From Oral Surgery is available on: www.soundviewfamilydental.com

Soundview Family Dental
201 5th Ave S Suite 103, Edmonds, WA 98020
(425) 563-6360
Our Edmonds Location

Monday, 7 October 2019

Operation Gratitude Halloween Give-Back Campaign Underway at Soundview Family Dental in Edmonds, WA

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 7th, 2019

Edmonds, Washington - Teaching children the value of giving back by donating Halloween candy in support of Operation Gratitude is a win-win for kids, parents, and dentists.

This Halloween, local trick-or-treaters will join kids across the country when they donate their extra Halloween candy to Operation Gratitude at local collection site: Soundview Family Dental in Edmonds, WA. The sweet treats will be included along with handwritten thank you letters in Care Packages sent to U.S. Service Members deployed overseas and hand-delivered to Veterans and First Responders serving in their local communities.

[caption id="attachment_4037" align="aligncenter" width="621"] Operation Gratitude Halloween Give-Back Campaign at Soundview Family Dental in Edmonds, WA[/caption]

Americans spend an estimated $2.5 billion dollars on a whopping 600 million pounds of Halloween candy each year. In 2018, more than 440,000 pounds of candy was donated to Operation Gratitude and distributed to America’s heroes in signature Operation Gratitude Care Packages and local deliveries around the country.

“Operation Gratitude’s mission is to thank all who serve, forging strong bonds between grateful Americans and the Heroes who serve and protect them,” according to Kevin Schmiegel, Lieutenant Colonel, USMC (Ret.) and CEO of Operation Gratitude. “The Halloween Candy Give-Back Program provides every American child the opportunity to learn about service, sacrifice, and generosity.”

Candy and handwritten thank you letters for deployed Service Members, Veterans, and First Responders will be collected at 201 5th Avenue South Suite 103 Edmonds, WA 98020 on November 4-6, 2019 from 7 am - 3 pm.

Visit www.operationgratitude.com/express-your-thanks/halloween-candy to learn more.

Dr. Eric Kitts of Soundview Family Dental stated, “We are proud to participate in the Operation Gratitude Halloween Give-Back Campaign to reduce excess sugar consumption, prevent dental decay, and teach children the importance of saying ‘Thank You’ to all who serve.”

About Operation Gratitude

Demonstrating that actions speak louder than words, Operation Gratitude is a national nonprofit organization that provides tangible ways to forge strong bonds between Americans and their Military and First Responder Heroes through volunteer service projects, acts of gratitude, and meaningful engagements in communities nationwide.

Through its customized Care Package programs, Operation Gratitude has provided opportunities for millions of Americans to say “Thank You” to more than 2.3 million of our nation’s Heroes since 2003. In 2019, Operation Gratitude launched its Make Every Minute Count Campaign with the goal of delivering 525,600 Care Packages – one every minute of the year – to Service Members, their families at home, Veterans, and First Responders.

Awarded a 4-Star rating from Charity Navigator and a Platinum rating from Guidestar, 94 percent of Operation Gratitude’s expenditures go directly to programs that support our nation’s men and women in uniform at home and abroad.

To learn more, visit www.operationgratitude.com.

Operation Gratitude Media Contact: communications@operationgratitude.com

###

For more information about Soundview Family Dental, contact the company here:

Soundview Family Dental
Eric Kitts
(425) 563-6360
https://soundviewfamilydental.com/
soundviewdental@comcast.net
201 5th Ave S Suite 103, Edmonds, WA 98020

The post Operation Gratitude Halloween Give-Back Campaign Underway at Soundview Family Dental in Edmonds, WA was originally published to: https://soundviewfamilydental.com/

Soundview Family Dental
201 5th Ave S Suite 103, Edmonds, WA 98020
(425) 563-6360
Our Edmonds Location

Friday, 4 October 2019

How Often Do Dental Implants Need To Be Replaced?

For those that have been considering dental implants, you probably have because you’ve heard great things. Dental implants provide a more comfortable way to replace missing teeth. They also are more sturdy than dentures, meaning that the dental restoration won’t fall out while chewing or speaking. While these handy devices, patients often have numerous questions about them. The top one being how long will they last? Secondly, if there is anything they can do to prevent implant failure.

While dental implants may seem like a newer innovation in the dental field, they’ve been around for decades. Dental implants were first created back in 1952. A Swedish native, Ingvar Brånemark used his background as an orthopedic surgeon to create a better way to affix dental restorations. However, it wasn’t until 1982 that they made their first splash in the dental community. Since then, ongoing research has been done to improve the durability and long-lasting abilities of these titanium posts. But the good news for patients is they can already expect amazing results.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="1" _address="0.1"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.1.0"][et_pb_gallery gallery_ids="4027" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.1.0.0"][/et_pb_gallery][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="2" _address="0.2"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.2.0"][et_pb_text _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.2.0.0"]

What Options Are Available With Implants?

Dental implants, if you don’t know, are titanium posts that are surgically placed by your dentist under the gum line or into the jawbone. These posts act as the support system for your dental restoration. Depending on your unique situation will dictate which implant-supported device your dentist will recommend. There are three main types:

Implant-supported bridge
Implant-supported denture
Implant-supported crown

These are all similar to their non-implant counterparts, but the way they attach is much different. Instead of using other teeth or adhesives to stay in place, each of these connects to the abutment of the implant and use that as their support.

Are Dental Implants Permanent?

The American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons have concluded that dental implants placed here in the United States by a licensed dentist have a 95% success rate on average. The success rate of the implant will significantly depend on who placed it, where it was placed, and how well a patient cares for it afterward.

To say that dental implants are permanent is not yet accurate. Research suggests that with proper care, a wearer can get 25 or more years out of the implant; it hasn’t concluded if they will last forever. But when compared to dentures and bridges that need to be replaced after ten years, then yes 25+ years is considered permanent. Most individuals won’t ever need to mess or have their implants replaced in their lifetime.

Signs A Dental Implant is Failing or has Failed

Anything human-made can fail. This is the case with dental implants. Though they are made of titanium, they still can have problems. There are two primary ways a dental implant can fail. The first is by shifting out of location. When an implant shift typically there wasn’t enough bone tissue to support placement. While dentists do everything in their power to ensure this doesn’t happen sometimes it can. Below are a few of the complications you could experience from the implant/surgery that could indicate a failure.

An infection around the implant or surrounding area
A loose implant or the implant falls out entirely
Nerve damage to the gums. Includes numbness, pain, or tingling at the chin, gums, or lip
Presence of sinus problems, which aren’t normal to the patient. This could indicate the implant touching the sinus cavity.
Uncommon, but peri-implantitis. The bone and gum surrounding the implant are inflamed with a bacterial infection or inflamed from an aggressive bite force.

Peri-implantitis is treatable. You must see your dentist for treatment, though. Without treatment, you could be risking the implant and damaging the site of where the implant was placed. If you notice any of these above signs, you should consult with your dentist. While complications can happen, it may are avoidable if you follow the recommendations from your dentist.

Will I Know If I Need My Implant Replaced?

Shortly after having the implant installed, there are some signs you’ll need to have it removed or replaced. If the implant travels, it will need to be removed and a new one installed. As will all surgeries, there is a chance of infection. If an infection is left untreated, it could damage the tissue. If you notice any warning signs such as a discharge from the wound, fever, or bleeding, you should contact your dentist right away. You should have regular visits with your dentist every six months.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="6" _address="0.6"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.6.0"][et_pb_image src="https://soundviewfamilydental.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Row-Of-Teeth-With-Single-Dental-Implant.jpg" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.6.0.0"][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="7" _address="0.7"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.7.0"][et_pb_text _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.7.0.0"]

Non-Implant Alternatives

Some are cautious about having oral surgery or don’t want to risk or chance implant failure. There are traditional methods you can use to replace missing teeth. These have worked for decades and are still relevant in the dental field. Other options include the following.

Bridges

Bridges can be tooth-supported or resin bonded. No matter which option is selected, bridges semi rely on the health of the surrounding teeth. Bridges are also designed to replace one to three missing teeth in a single area. They can’t fix teeth that are on opposite sides of the arch. A tooth-supported fixed bridge is comparable to a dental implant, with very few disadvantages. The only potential downside could be a bone loss because the jaw bone isn’t being stimulated.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are adaptive. These can be used to fix several gaps in the top or bottom arch, regardless of their location. A partial denture will use your healthy teeth as support and a fake palate to hold everything in place. These aren’t extremely comfortable and are known to cause bone loss. These replace your teeth, gums, and bone. Partial dentures are more cost-effective versus dental implants.

Complete Dentures

When you hear dentures, complete sets are probably what you think of. These are glued into place with a store-bought adhesive. They replace the gums and teeth or a full arch, which could be the top or bottom. These are often the least expensive choice for total teeth replacement but have some downsides. Dentures aren’t as comfortable, secure, and often don’t look as natural.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

How Often Do Dental Implants Need To Be Replaced? is courtesy of: https://www.soundviewfamilydental.com

Soundview Family Dental
201 5th Ave S Suite 103, Edmonds, WA 98020
(425) 563-6360
Our Edmonds Location

How Painful is Getting A Dental Implant?

Have you been considering getting a replacement for your missing tooth? Our teeth and gums comprise our smiles. These are crucial to how we feel about ourselves and are the main point of our confidence. When a tooth goes missing, we look for ways to fill the gap. One of the newest ways dental offices are offering to restore smiles is with dental implants.

Dental implants are not the same as bridges and dentures. While they fundamentally do the same things, fill a gap, an implant involves surgery and healing. It is essential to know what the procedure involves, as to understand what kind of or level of pain to expect.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.29.3"][et_pb_column _builder_version="3.29.3" type="4_4"][et_pb_video src="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A7FYMRExufg" _builder_version="3.29.3" hover_enabled="0"][/et_pb_video][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="3" _address="0.3"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.3.0"][et_pb_text _builder_version="3.29.3" hover_enabled="0" _i="0" _address="0.3.0.0"]

Will Surgery Hurt? What To Expect From the Procedure

Breaking down dental implants should be done in two parts. The first part is the surgery itself, and the second is the recovery. Dental implants are surgically put in by your dentist. This requires them to cut into the gums. As you can imagine, this does sound painful. But before your dentist gets started, they will use a local anesthetic.

This is very similar to what you would get in a fillings procedure. After the area is completely numb, the dentist can make an incision to expose the jawbone. You will feel no discomfort, as the area is entirely anesthetized.

After making the area more accessible, a hole can be drilled for the implant. While drills might also sound painful, your jawbone has no nerves to feel any pain. The most discomfort you could feel is pressure. You won’t feel any of the drilling. The dental implant can then be screwed into place. The process of numbing the area, making the incision, drilling, and installing the implants will take about an hour. Once your dentist is satisfied with the placement, he or she will close up the incision. While the local anesthetic is still in effect, the patient will feel no pain at all. Your dentist may give you pain medication before starting the procedure so that when the anesthetic wears off, you have sufficient pain relief, just in case. That’s when the healing process begins.

What To Expect When Healing?

You can expect some tenderness after the anesthesia wears off. However, it isn’t unmanageable. Your dentist will likely recommend that you take an over the counter pain reliever for any discomfort felt during the healing process. It is essential that you follow any aftercare points distributed by your dentist. This can include the following:\

Avoid straws for 24-hours following surgery.
Expect some minor swelling for 2 to 3 days.
The day following rinse with salt water 3 to 4 times daily.
Avoid overly hot food in the first 48 hours.
Stick to a liquid diet for 24-48 hours.
Avoid smoking for at least three days following surgery.
Use Tylenol® for any discomfort.

Recovery and healing will be different for everyone. The consensus is that you should not have much pain throughout either the procedure or recovery. If you are having pain, especially days later, you should seek medical attention, or schedule an appointment with your dentist for a follow-up. While surgery is not known to be pain-free, dental implants are one of the more accessible operations to have. Most patients equate the pain too significantly less than having a tooth pulled.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.29.3"][et_pb_column _builder_version="3.29.3" type="4_4"][et_pb_image src="https://soundviewfamilydental.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/girl-thinking.jpg" _builder_version="3.29.3" hover_enabled="0"][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.29.3"][et_pb_column _builder_version="3.29.3" type="4_4"][et_pb_text _builder_version="3.29.3" hover_enabled="0"]

Should You Consider Dental Implants?

If you’ve been thinking about getting dental implants, the first step is talking to your dentist. Your dentist can provide in-depth information about the procedure, what to expect, and aftercare instructions. The office will also tell you of cost comparisons between different replacement solutions. Dental implants aren’t right for everyone. Some patients will require additional procedures. Bone grafts and sinus lifts are two standard procedures patients need for improving jaw bone quality.

Those that have worn dentures for years may find it necessary to have those additional procedures to improve the condition of the bone. Bone loss is a significant problem for denture wearers and a common cause for making a person not an ideal candidate for dental implants. During an initial consultation, your dentist will look at the quality of your remaining teeth, gums, and jawbone to determine if dental implants are right for you. However, even if you aren’t a good candidate right now, you aren’t entirely excluded from getting dental implants. Your dentist may develop a treatment plan to include the above procedures, bone grafts, and sinus lifts, to prepare the area for an implant.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.29.3"][et_pb_column _builder_version="3.29.3" type="4_4"][et_pb_text _builder_version="3.29.3" hover_enabled="0"]

Conclusion:

Having any type of surgery can be scary. You might be overly worried about the drilling, cutting, or having to have sutures. The bottom line is that you shouldn’t have any pain when getting dental implants. Nor should you much discomfort throughout recovery. During the procedure, you will be wholly numbed; For the days following Tylenol® or other over the counter, products can be enough to settle any pain in the area due to sutures.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

The article How Painful is Getting A Dental Implant? is available on: https://www.soundviewfamilydental.com

Soundview Family Dental
201 5th Ave S Suite 103, Edmonds, WA 98020
(425) 563-6360
Our Edmonds Location

Thursday, 3 October 2019

The Dental Implant Process Time

Have you been considering dental implants? Have you been wondering what to expect throughout the process? For example, how long the procedure steps will take? Dental implants are the fastest-growing solution to replacing missing teeth, permanently. These surgically implanted support posts are designed to securely hold a replacement fixture in place using a patient's jaw bone as the anchor of support. The dental implant process timeline can be confusing, which is why we’ve created this helpful dental implant 101 article to help.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="1" _address="0.1"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.1.0"][et_pb_gallery gallery_ids="2432" fullwidth="on" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.1.0.0"][/et_pb_gallery][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="2" _address="0.2"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.2.0"][et_pb_text _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.2.0.0"]

The jaw bone, when not compromised is an excellent choice for implant installation. However, this can be a problem for patients that have inadequate bone and tissue quality to work with. Those that have worn dentures for many years may learn that their jaw bone has eroded making them a less than ideal candidate for dental implants. But this doesn’t mean that they can’t have them there are additional steps needed to ensure proper implant placement and that it will fully fuse with the bone. Your dentist may recommend a bone graft or sinus lift in this situation.

Before getting dental implants, your dentist will want to look over the quality of your mouth, precisely your jaw bone quality, if you have remaining teeth, their condition, and your gums. He or she will take x-rays to get a more in-depth look, as well as perform a physical exam. Once a patient has been giving the okay to proceed, the dentist will go over the dental implant procedure. What to expect from the surgery, including how long it will take and what his plans for placement may me. The office staff will typically go over what the expected cost is and when to schedule.

Are You A Good Fit For Dental Implants?

Dental implants can work for those missing or have:

One tooth
Multiple teeth in the same location
Multiple teeth throughout the arch
An entire arch
Replacement for all teeth
A broken tooth - extraction and replacement

Dental implants can also be a fantastic option for patients that currently wear restorative dental appliances such as bridges, crowns, or dentures. Other things that will make you the right candidate include:

Overall healthy smile
Good oral hygiene
Sufficient bone tissue

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="4" _address="0.4"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.4.0"][et_pb_video src="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A7FYMRExufg" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.4.0.0"][/et_pb_video][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="5" _address="0.5"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.5.0"][et_pb_text _builder_version="3.29.3" _i="0" _address="0.5.0.0"]

What To Expect From Dental Implant Surgery?

The first thing to note, this isn’t going to be like any surgery you may have had before. While most operations you’ll need to check-in and a trip into the operating room, dental implants are performed as an outpatient procedure.

Dental implant surgery isn’t as easy as you might think, and it also takes longer than expected. Depending on the location of the implant and how many you need to have placed, it will determine how long of a session you’ll be in there for.

If you need to have teeth extracted before dental implants, your dentist may require multiple trips to remove the teeth, then installing the dental implants. Likewise, if you have to have a bone graft due to inadequate bone tissue, you won’t have dental implants placed that day. Your dentist will require the graft to heal first.

The implant surgery will require your dentist to cut into the gums. This allows him access to the jawbone. A dental implant looks similar to a screw and is screwed directly into the bone. Once it is firmly in the bone, your dentist will suture the gum closed. If you are having a full arch replaced, you will likely have four implants placed on the top or bottom of the jaw.

Some dentists will offer a temporary denture, bridge or crown that can be worn the same day after implants are installed. These can be designed to work with the healing process. The healing phase can take several months. The bone and the implant need to fuse together in a process called osseointegration.

Once the healing process has been completed, you are now ready to receive an abutment that attaches to the dental implant. While you might think this is where you will get your permanent teeth, you would be wrong. The soft tissue will need to heal once more before your dentist can make a mold of your teeth and jaw to create the dental appliance, crown, bridge, or denture.

While many dentists claim that dental implants are fast, have little discomfort, and offer a natural-looking solution to missing teeth, the recovery time or process isn’t discussed as often. Every patient is different and will recover at different times. But getting dental implants isn’t typically something that happens overnight. You will have to start with a consultation, determine if you are the right candidate. You may have to have additional procedure steps to accept the dental implant, such as a bone graft. But one thing is the same for every patient, it is essential to healing correctly, and following your dentist’s guide for aftercare and how long it will take is necessary.

If you have questions about implant dentistry or the dental implant process time, speak with your dentist before your surgery day. He or she should be able to answer all your questions regarding what to expect as well as aftercare and your specific healing timeline.

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

The Dental Implant Process Time is available on: https://www.soundviewfamilydental.com

Soundview Family Dental
201 5th Ave S Suite 103, Edmonds, WA 98020
(425) 563-6360
Our Edmonds Location