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Dr. Anthony LaVacca

Apr 11
pediatric-dentist-xray-child-blog

Should the pediatric dentist do x-rays on a 4 year old?

By Pediatric Dentist

Starting at age 2 I take all of my kids to the pediatric dentist. X-rays are not something that any of my older children got when they were so young. But my youngest daughter is now 4 years old. Over the past 2 dental checkups, she has had 4 cavities. On her last appointment, our pediatric dentist took x-rays. I know she is concerned about the cavities, but why can’t she just fill the teeth without the x-rays. Naturally, I’m concerned about the radiation on a young child. Is it normal to do x-rays on young kids? I’m not really sure why my daughter is getting cavities. I don’t give my kids sugar at all and I make sure all of their teeth are brushed and flossed every day. I’m just concerned. What’s your take on the x-rays? Simone

Simone – Your concern about your children’s oral health and overall health is completely understandable. Your daughter’s pediatric dentist likely took x-rays for good reasons.

Reasons a Pediatric Dentist Might Take X-rays

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) doesn’t have set guidelines on age for dental x-rays. The Guideline on Prescribing Dental Radiographs for Infants, Children, Adolescents, and Persons with Special Health Care Needs states that diagnostic studies should be based on each patient’s needs, not on age alone.

The AAPD has recommendations for when dental x-rays for a child patient might be needed, regardless of age. The recommendations are based on certain conditions, some of which are listed below:

  • A history of dental caries, or cavities – Posterior bitewing x-rays every 6 to 12 months if the teeth can’t be examined visually or with a probe.
  • Tooth pain or trauma
  • Family history of unusual dental issues
  • Periodontal (gum) disease
  • Loose teeth
  • Unexplained bleeding or sensitivity
  • Unusual characteristics of teeth, including abnormal eruption, growth/development, color, or other unusual factors
  • Erosion
  • Swelling

Some Interesting Facts

  • There is minimal radiation exposure with dental x-rays.
  • Every year, we are exposed to natural background radiation from air, wind, water, the ground, and other environmental factors. Millisievert (mSv) is the measurement used for radiation exposure.
  • The mSv of natural background radiation is greater than the exposure from dental x-rays.
  • Visit the Image Gently website for a comparison chart of natural background radiation and dental x-rays.

Safety First

Although dental x-rays are safe, extra care is taken with radiographs for children. For example:

  • X-rays are not given as a routine, but only when necessary.
  • Patients are protected with a thyroid shield and an apron to minimize exposure.
  • Exposure parameters are set as slow as possible.
  • X-ray exposure time is shortened because children have smaller teeth than adults.

Speak with your children’s pediatric dentist for additional information on why x-rays are needed for your daughter. Learn about the safety precautions that are taken to minimize your daughter’s exposure. Cooperate with the dentist to help identify underlying causes of the recurring cavities to help limit future cavities and improve your daughter’s oral health.

This post is sponsored by Naperville dentist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

Apr 06
dental implants years extraction

Can dental implants be done years after extraction?

By Dental Implants

Can dental implants be done years after extraction? This is 7 years to be exact. In 2010 I had 3 extractions on the top left side. I started out with a partial denture and never really liked it. Now I just hate my partial denture. I am exploring my options and I definitely don’t want a dental bridge. I’m looking for something more permanent that won’t affect my remaining teeth. I’m guessing that having to grind down teeth for a bridge is almost like losing even more teeth. What I don’t know is how difficult it will be for me to get implants now that I’ve waited so long. Should I have started out with implants in the first place or is there some way to get them even though I’ve been wearing a partial for years? Thanks Salvi

Salvi,

Provided you are a candidate for dental implants, it’s not too late to get them. Although it’s been ten years since your tooth extractions, dental implants are probably still an option for you. There are several considerations before your teeth are restored. We’ll discuss three.

Jawbone shrinkage

It’s been ten years since your teeth were extracted, so you might have some jawbone shrinkage. Your body resorbs the bone in places where teeth are missing. Sufficient bone density is needed to support dental implants. If you have bone shrinkage, bone grafting will build it back up. After the grafting procedure, a healing period of a few months is needed before dental implants are placed.

Individual implants

It sounds like you prefer individual implants. One dental implant is used to replace each missing tooth. There are several advantages, including:

  • Single implants look better than a dental bridge.
  • Individual implants are easier to keep clean.
  • Each implant will stimulate your jawbone and prevent further shrinkage.
  • Your gums are less likely to recede and show the framework of a dental bridge.

Implant-supported bridge

This option is more affordable, and it can be used to replace several missing teeth in the same area. The bridge is anchored with dental implants, instead of being placed on natural teeth that have been shaved down. Replacement teeth are suspended between the anchors. Over time, your gums can recede and the appliance will be visibly exposed.

Schedule Consultations for Dental Implants

We suggest that you schedule two or three consultations with experienced implant dentists—preferably board-certified prosthodontists, because they specialize in tooth replacement and restorations.

  • Ask friends and family members for recommendations, and compare patient reviews.
  • In advance of your consultations, write down any questions you might have or record them in a mobile device. Ask the same questions of each specialist.
  • Compare your options, the estimated cost, and your interaction with each dentist.
  • Ask to see before-and-after pictures of each prosthodontist’s work for individual implants and implant-supported bridges.

You’ll learn about reliable alternatives to your partial denture that will be durable and natural looking.

This post is sponsored by Naperville implant dentist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

Mar 30
teeth-too-small-gummy-smile-blog

My teeth are too small and only my gums show when I smile

By Cosmetic Procedures

My teeth are too small. My smile is basically 75% gums and 25% teeth. When I was I school, kids called me Gumby. Now some cruel adults make jokes about it when we are kidding around. I don’t joke about anyone’s personal appearance so I am not sure why they go there. I am 36 years old so this is not an issue of growing into my smile. My teeth are just plain too small. I do not want anything artificial like porcelain veneers placed on my teeth. I am just wondering what other options are to help me smile freely and not hold back because people are looking at my gums. Thanks. Melina

Melina – When more gums than teeth show when you smile, it’s usually due to excess gum tissue, as opposed to your teeth being abnormally small. A prosthodontist who is skilled in cosmetic dentistry will examine your teeth and let you know your options.

If you don’t want porcelain veneers, there are other options.

  • Gingivectomy – This procedure is performed after numbing your gum tissue. Either a laser or dental scalpel is used to remove the excess gum tissue and lengthen the appearance of your teeth. The procedure is completed in the dentist office and is usually completed in one visit. It is also referred to as gum contouring or a gum lift.
  • Crown lengthening – This procedure involves the removal and reshaping of excess gum, as well as bone tissue. It exposes more of your teeth so that they appear longer.
  • Composite bonding – Dental composite is mixed to match the color of your natural teeth. It is applied to your teeth, and then shaped and polished to lengthen your teeth.

Regardless of which treatment you receive, if you find an expert cosmetic dentist or prosthodontist to do the work, the results will be seamless. Other than noticing an improvement in your smile, people won’t be able to see the difference between the dental treatment and your natural teeth.

We suggest that you schedule one or two consultations with experienced dentists to discuss your options. Ask to see patient photos of cases similar to yours that were completed by each dentist. This will help you choose the right provider.

This post is sponsored by Naperville board-certified prosthodontist Dr. Anthony LaVacca

Mar 26

Will my duck lips from dentures be permanent?

By Dentures

I got new dentures 4 months ago and from day one they gave me duck lips. These dentures have totally changed my face, especially my profile. I have been back to the dentist 3 times because I hate the way the dentures look. The first 2 times she took them for adjustment, but I am not sure that anything at all was done because they look exactly the same to me. She even told me that some women pay for fuller lips. The problem is that these dentures don’t just give me fuller lips. They give me duck lips. My lips look abnormally large and are not proportioned. This is very emotional for me. I already wasn’t totally happy with my facial appearance but my previous dentures were pretty good. I got the former dentures when I lived in Elk Grove, CA by a fabulous dentist who really was concerned about her work. This new dentist pretends to be concerned or maybe she is concerned but just doesn’t know what she is doing. So now I am trying to figure out how long I can go with these dentures before I have permanent duck lips. I don’t want to make a hasty decision, but I am really skeptical about letting this dentist do the work. I don’t like to switch dentists but I think I will have to in order to resolve this issue. How much time do I have before the damage is done? – Dorcas

Dorcas – If your dentures are giving you duck lips, correcting the dentures will also correct your facial appearance. There should be no permanent damage, but for your comfort and confidence, you should get the issue taken care of quickly.

Depending on the skill of the dentist, dentures can change the shape of your face in a positive or in a negative way. If your dentures are giving you duck lips, there are a few possible causes:

  1. Denture teeth are too long or too thick – The denture teeth can be trimmed to compliment your facial appearance.
  2. Denture teeth are incorrectly angled – They can be removed from the base and repositioned.
  3. There is too much lining in the dentures – The lining can be replaced.

We recommend that you get a second opinion from an experienced prosthodontist. He or she will examine your dentures to determine what is causing the “duck lips” appearance. A prosthodontist with experience in cosmetic dentistry will restore your smile and facial appearance, and improve your confidence.

This post is sponsored by Naperville prosthodontist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

 

Mar 23

Is too late to see a prosthodontist for dental implants?

By Prosthodontist

Is it too late to see a prosthodontist for dental implants? I got dentures 27 years ago and I didn’t know anything about dental implants until a few years ago. I’m ready for a change now because I am getting tired of my dentures. My teeth look fake and my cheeks sag over the dentures. They don’t fit right and I’m really frustrated because these dentures are only 3 years old. I was hoping that the fit would last longer. I’m 60+ and am wondering if it’s too late age wise or too late because I’ve been wearing dentures too long. Thank you. Isabel

Isabel,

It’s not too late to see a prosthodontist for dentures. In fact, a prosthodontist can resolve all your concerns and the issues you are having with dentures.

The fit – After years of wearing dentures, your jawbone shrinks. In time, it becomes difficult to keep a denture in. Your jawbone can be built up with bone grafting. This procedure is completed before you receive dental implants. It takes a few months for the bone grafting to heal. Bone grafting will lift your jawbone to support your facial muscles and take years off of your facial appearance. Adequate jawbone is also needed to support dental implants.

The function – A prosthodontist can help stabilize your dentures with dental implants. The dentures are secured to the implants, so speaking and eating with dentures will feel more like your natural teeth. Your dentures will have maximum stability with four to six dental implants.

The look – You can receive custom dentures that are tailored to fit your facial features and your mouth. They will look like your own natural teeth.

We suggest that you schedule appointments with two or three prosthodontists. Ensure that each dentist has extensive training in cosmetic dentistry. Although any prosthodontist can place your dental implants, beautiful cosmetic dentures require training and skill. You’ll get natural-looking results. The consultations will help you understand your options and select the right provider.

This post is sponsored by Naperville board-certified prosthodontist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

Mar 18

Can I sleep off some of my sedation at the dentist’s office before I drive home?

By Sedation Dentistry

I need sedation dentistry but I don’t want to ask anyone to drive me to my dental appointment. I really don’t want anyone to know about the appointment and there really isn’t anyone I would feel comfortable asking anyway. If I get sedation, will I be able to stay at the office until it wears off? How long will it take to get out of my system? Thanks. Kyle.

Kyle,

After sedation dentistry, most people are drowsy for the rest of the day. You will be barred from driving for the rest on the same day that you receive sedation.

Exactly how long you will be drowsy depends on the medication used and how your body reacts to it. In advance of your dental procedure, a sedation dentist will discuss your dental procedure and the level of your anxiety. Those factors, along with the types of sedation that your dentist offers, will determine which medication is used.

A sedation dentist is responsible for your safety. Although you can briefly rest after your appointment, you won’t be allowed to rest or sleep in the office with the goal of driving yourself home. It’s simply not safe, and it’s definitely not worth the risk. Your dentist will recommend that you go home and rest. If there is no one that you want to ask to drive you to and from your appointment, consider getting private transportation.

It’s best to have a consultation with a sedation dentist first to find out what is involved in your treatment and how many appointments are required. It will help you determine the best way to travel to and from your dental appointments. Your dentist will require that you have transportation before you receive sedation, so be prepared to make appropriate arrangements.

This post is sponsored by Naperville dentist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

Mar 14

Are All on 4 implants from Greece safe?

By All-on-4 Dental Implants

It looks like Greece is the new travel dentistry hotspot, including All on 4 implants. That’s what I read online. I know South America and Mexico are suspect but is Greece different? If the cost of implants will drop 70% by going to Greece, I think even with the plane ticket and lodging I will still come out ahead. I’ve always wanted to go to Greece anyway. This sounds like a no brainer. Has your office received any reports, good or bad for dental implants there? Thanks. Mildred

Mildred,

Although we haven’t received any reports for or against dental implants from Greece, the country is known for sub-standard medical care. Although the British frequent Greece for fast and low-cost dental care, it’s not risk free. Several years ago, British women over 41 were alerted that Greece was the most dangerous place in the world for them to visit. Personal safety is a serious concern.

There are some critical factors that make All-on-4 dental implants successful:

  • Diligent implant planning, surgery, and several follow-up visits are required.
  • A highly skilled dentist who is experienced in the procedure is needed.
  • High-quality implant fixtures must be used.

The plummeting economy in Greece has caused many of its residents to be conservative with medical and dental care. This is likely the reason that medical and dental professionals are promoting tourism and cheaper fees than other countries. It also means that dental professionals are performing fewer implant surgeries, which can increase the risk of implant failure.

Before you decide to receive dental implants abroad, there are a few things you should consider:

  • If you experience complications, where will you go for follow-up visits? It’s unlikely that you will return to Greece for treatment, because it no longer makes your All-on-4 implants more affordable.
  • How will you verify that the oral surgeon and his or her location are properly certified to provide implants?
  • Can you hold the implant dentist accountable if something goes wrong?

Traveling outside of the U.S. for All-on-4 dental implants, or any other type of implants, comes with great risk. We recommend that you compare options and costs with several implant dentists in the U.S. and choose high-quality implants that will last.

This post is sponsored by Naperville board-certified prosthodontist Dr. Anthony LaVacca

 

 

Feb 28

Will Invisalign make my gums look better?

By Invisalign

Can you help me determine if Invisalign is the best choice for my issue? My teeth have lots of spaces in between them and a few overlap. Also my gums are uneven and it makes it look like my teeth are even worse. I talked to my dentist about my teeth and gums and all she said was I can refer you to an orthodontist. She said it like I should know the process. I need some feedback and she was so curt that I don’t want to talk. Will Invisalign even out my gums as my teeth get straighter? Thanks. London

London – Orthodontic treatment, including Invisalign, will straighten your teeth, but it won’t resolve the issue with your gums. There is cosmetic treatment that can improve the appearance of your gum tissue.

Gingivoplasty – This procedure uses a laser or a periodontal instrument to shape your gum tissue. It’s done right in the dental chair. Most recontouring, or reshaping, can be completed in one visit.

Gingivectomy – If you have excessive gum tissue around your teeth. A gingivectomy can be used to remove it and sculpt the gum issue in a way that complements your smile.

In either case, the process is quick, it’s done right in the dentist’s office, and your gums will heal quickly.

When you visit an orthodontist, be certain to let him or her know that your goals for your smile include aligning your teeth and ensuring your gums are proportionate with them. Your orthodontist will include your goals in a customized treatment plan. If your orthodontist isn’t trained in reconstruction of gum tissue, he or she will work with a trained dentist or periodontist who is skilled in that area.

You might consider scheduling consultations with two or three orthodontists who are skilled Invisalign providers to discuss your goals.

This post is sponsored by Naperville dentist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

Feb 23

Can a pediatric dentist help my daughter stop swallowing toothpaste?

By Pediatric Dentist

My 4 year old daughter likes to swallow toothpaste. Can a pediatric dentist help her? I’ve already talked to her, given her time out, and taken her to our family dentist, but she keeps swallowing it. I do only give her a pea-sized amount of toothpaste on her brush, so it’s not much, but she swallows it almost every time. She puts the toothbrush in her mouth, swallows the paste, and then brushes her teeth. She thinks it’s funny for some reason. I’m not sure what to do about this other than take her to a pediatric dentist for a second opinion. Your thoughts? Thanks. Jill

Jill – We understand your concern. It’s good that you’re taking precautions by only giving your daughter a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. But it shouldn’t be swallowed on an ongoing basis. If it contains fluoride, swallowing large amounts of toothpaste can cause stomach pain, intestinal problems, breathing problems, and other medical issues.

Usually, an experienced pediatric dentist has treated many more children than a family dentist. He or she might have helped other patients with the same issue. Also, a pediatric dentist has experience with different behaviors in children and can offer practical suggestions.

We have a few suggestions, too:

  • Closely supervise when your daughter brushes her teeth.
  • Reward her with something meaningful when she doesn’t swallow her toothpaste.
  • Time-outs aren’t working, so consider withholding a privilege she really enjoys if she swallows toothpaste.
  • Instead of allowing her to brush her own teeth, brush them for her until the habit is under control.
  • Keep the toothpaste out of your daughter’s reach.
  • Choose a toothpaste flavor that your daughter doesn’t like.
  • Use organic or natural toothpaste. Your dentist can ensure your daughter’s teeth have enough fluoride.
  • Be patient, kind, and consistent with helping your daughter make improvement.

If you schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist, he or she can give you more suggestions to help your daughter break the habit. Your daughter might respond better if the dentist speaks with her about the habit. It’s likely a temporary phase that will improve with time.

This post is sponsored by Naperville dentist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

Feb 17

Am I stuck with dentures now?

By Dentures

I started wearing dentures in 1997. At that time I didn’t know anything about dental implants. Dentures have been okay. But now they are so loose. No matter how many times they get relined, they still don’t fit right. Most of the time when I eat, my dentures lift up. I’m noticing that my face looks baggy, too. It is uncomfortable and embarrassing. I’m starting to notice a lot of commercials about dental implants for dentures. I don’t know if you can get implants after wearing dentures for so long. Can I get implants after wearing dentures so long, or am I stuck with dentures now? – LeVon

LeVon – The problems you’re describing with the fit of your dentures and your facial features are common after wearing dentures for years. When all of your teeth are missing, your jawbone gradually shrinks. Jawbone supports your facial muscles, so as it shrinks, your face begins to sag.

Jawbone shrinkage makes it difficult for your dentures to fit well and stay in place—particularly when you’re eating. Dentures can also rub against the ridge of your gums and make them irritated and sore.

If you’ve have significant jawbone shrinkage, the bone has to be built up to support dental implants. But first, an examination is needed, along with a review of your medical history, to determine if you are a candidate for dental implants.

A few months after your bone grafting heals, dental implants can be placed to support your dentures. You will probably need new dentures. And a skilled prosthodontist who has training in cosmetic dentistry can provide you with natural-looking dentures.

Two to eight implants can be used to support your dentures. The bone grafting and dental implants will have many benefits.

  • Your dentures will be stable and no longer lift when you eat.
  • Building up your jawbone will provide support for your facial muscles and prevent or greatly reduce sagging.
  • Implants stimulate jawbone and will minimize shrinking.
  • Cosmetic dentures will look like natural teeth.

We recommend that you schedule consultations with two or three prosthodontists to answer any questions you have and to discuss your options. Take notes so you can compare your consultations and decide which dentist will provide you with cosmetic dentures and dental implants to support them.

This post is sponsored by Naperville prosthodontist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

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