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Dr. Anthony LaVacca

Nov 16

Can you get nanodiamonds with that root canal treatment?

By General Dentistry, Root Canal Treatment

What do diamonds have to do with root canal treatments? More precisely, what do nanodiamonds—byproducts of diamond mining and refining—have to do with this dental procedure?

Yearly, about 15 million root canal treatments are performed in the U.S. alone. During the procedure, infected tooth pulp is removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned out and filled. At times, bacteria remain in tips of the root. Bacteria can linger, and a tooth can get infected again. This requires a second root canal treatment.

Gutta percha is the material used to fill a tooth after the infection has been cleaned out. But it’s limited in fighting infection and any remaining bacteria. Researchers from the UCLA School of Dentistry have found that adding nanodiamonds to gutta percha reinforces the filler material. Antibiotic-enhanced nanodiamonds strengthen the filler material and prevent bacterial growth.

What does nanodiamond-enhanced gutta percha mean for patients with root canal treatments?

  • Stronger filler material makes a weak, damaged tooth stronger.
  • Antibiotic-enhanced filler material fights bacteria and reduces the risks for needing future root canal treatments in the same tooth.
  • These combined advantages make it much more likely that a damaged tooth can be permanently saved.

Can you ask your dentist for this innovation in root canal treatment? Not yet. Researchers will spend the next two years refining the process. After that, clinical trials will begin at UCLA. Meanwhile, do what you can to avoid the need for a root canal treatment.

  • If you play sports, wear a mouth guard to protect your mouth and teeth from trauma, which can lead to a root canal treatment.
  • Remove bacteria from your teeth and gums by flossing daily and brushing your teeth twice a day.
  • Limit sugary snacks, food, and drinks, which promote tooth decay.
  • Go easy on your teeth. Only use them to smile and eat. Don’t bite hard or sharp objects, or use your teeth to take off bottle caps or open metal containers.
  • Keep your regularly scheduled appointments for dental cleanings and exams. Early detection is a key to preventing dental issues that require aggressive treatment.

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

Nov 08

1 of my all on 4 implants came out

By All-on-4 Dental Implants, Prosthodontist

I got all on 4 implants in late September. Last week, 1 of them came out completely. Right away I went to the surgeon that put the implants in. Now he says that my jawbone needs some grafting and I have to wait until the original implant spot heals. Does this sound right or can he just put the implant back in and sew it down until it heals? – Uwe

Uwe – Dr. LaVacca needs to examine your implant and jawbone before a second opinion can be provided. Although the All-On-4 procedure was used to anchor your dentures, it is possible that the implant that came out was incorrectly placed.

The size and length of the implants used can determine how stable they are. If implants are too short, or if they are not strong enough, they can dislodge.

Since jawbone grafting is being recommended, it may be that your jawbone needed to be built up before you received implants. If bone grafting is needed, then a healing period at the original implant site is needed.

All-On-4 Implants Second Opinion

In order to receive a satisfactory and accurate answer to your question, we recommend that you get a second—and if necessary, a third—opinion from experienced implant surgeons or prosthodontists. Just as with the All-On-4 placement, your medical history will be reviewed. The implants and jawbone will be examined, and diagnostic studies will be used to help determine what caused the implant to dislodge.

If you have current, post-operative diagnostic studies (x-ray or MRI), bring a copy with you. An implant specialist from whom you receive a second opinion may decide that a new imaging studies are needed.

When an implant fails, the resolution isn’t as simple as immediately replacing it. The cause of failure needs to be determined first to prevent the problem from recurring.

Carefully weigh the options presented to you from each of the specialists you visit for a second opinion, before you choose a provider to correct the issue.

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

 

Oct 27

Is an obturator really needed for infant cleft palate?

By Cleft Palate

Last week my sister and I saw 2 different doctors about my infant nephew’s cleft palate. With each doctor we felt like my sister was being pressured to get an obturator for my nephew’s cleft palate. We didn’t know what to expect before the appointments, but the approach was really rushed. My sister is nervous about the whole thing and really wondering if the device is the right way to go or if there is something else that can be done. I am confused to and haven’t really been much help making a decision so any advice you have is welcomed. Thanks Lynnda.

Lynnda – Dr. LaVacca would really need to do an examination and diagnostic studies to determine the best treatment for any patient. But a cleft obturator is often, and appropriately, recommended when the opening in the palate is large enough to interfere with the feeding, growth, and development of a child.

The oral appliance helps infants with suction when feeding. This will ensure that a baby is getting the food and nutrients he or she needs. Good health and enough weight gain are important factors for a positive outcome in surgery to close the cleft.

It is easy for a prosthodontist to make a customized obturator. An impression of the mouth is made to make the appliance, and the prosthodontist will ensure a proper fit.

Although you have already spoken with two doctors, it may be helpful to schedule another appointment with a board-certified prosthodontist with expertise in making obturators. The opportunity to have the pros and cons explained, ask questions, and find out what to expect after it’s placed can address some of your sister’s concerns.

 

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

 

Oct 23

Can dentures cause depression?

By Dentures

I know the question sounds strange but I think it’s affecting my dad. I live in PA so I see him every 2 to 3 months and I talk to him on FaceTime every week. It’s just that I am noticing that since he’s had dentures, which he hates, that his mood is not good. My brother lives near my dad and he says that he has noticed a change also, but he thinks it’s because of seasonal depression. The problem is that my dad has had the dentures for 2 years. His mood has really changed and it’s more constant than seasonal. Is it possible that his unattractive and poor fitting dentures are causing depression? By the way, he has also lost 15 lbs and he didn’t need to lose any weight at all. Thanks. Brenda L.

Brenda L. – Disappointing medical or dental issues can affect a patient’s mood. Dentures that fit poorly, are unattractive, or are otherwise problematic are disappointing. They often affect patients’ eating habits, self-esteem, and social life.

Can dentures affect your emotional health?

To be clear, it is ongoing dissatisfaction with dentures that can contribute to a person’s emotional or mental health. Even studies show that when a patient has ongoing problems or dissatisfaction with dentures, he or she is at risk for depression. A September 2007 study published in the Journal of Dental Research confirms that, in older adults, there is a significant relationship between denture dissatisfaction and depression.

The study included 1,180 adults, ages 65 to 74 years. Among those who were dissatisfied with their dentures, 8% were moderately depressed, and 2% were severely depressed. The study found that patients with higher levels of depression also had higher levels of dissatisfaction with their dentures.

The findings of the study show that your thoughts about the cause of your father’s depression may be correct. It’s important for the dental issue to be addressed. Find a few experienced cosmetic dentists with whom you and your father can have consultations. You will learn about customized, natural-looking dentures that fit well. You can also ask about how dentures can be stabilized with dental implants, which will prevent them from slipping around or falling out, and will prevent jawbone shrinkage. Your father’s smile will look and feel better.

It’s also a good idea to seek medical help to determine if there are other contributing factors to your father’s depression.

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

Oct 19

Pediatric dentist was unkind because of autistic daughter’s service dog

By Pediatric Dentist

Last year our 8 year-old autistic daughter got a service dog. This was one of the best decisions we’ve made for her. She has been so much calmer since we got the dog (Pepper). Now Pepper goes with us almost everywhere. Situations where our daughter would normally withdraw or have a tantrum have been much calmer. We’ve had great success with her doctor’s appointments, which were previously out of control, but we are anticipating that we will have a problem with the pediatric dentist. At the first dental appointment with Pepper we got some weird looks, but it’s obvious that Pepper is a service dog so I just thought it might take a little time for a few people in the office to get used to it. My daughter had one of the best dental appointments ever with Pepper there. Last month when we went to a dental appointment, the dentist made a remark about leaving Pepper in the car the next time. I kindly mentioned that Pepper is a service dog that has made my daughter’s life much easier. The dentist mumbled something that I chose not to listen to. Now I am nervous. I’ve been going over this in my mind but I am not sure what to do about it. Forcing the issue doesn’t seem like a good idea. Should I just ignore it?  Thanks in advance. – Siobhan

Siobhan – Neither forcing nor ignoring the issue will ensure a good outcome for your daughter. We suggest that you schedule an appointment with your daughter’s pediatric dentist to discuss your daughter’s needs. During the discussion express your concerns, and ask questions to find out exactly how the dentist feels about Pepper’s presence in the office. If you think that it’s worth it to continue with the dentist, you may want to give it another try.

Consider a pediatric dentist consultation

On the other hand, if the dentist resists the idea of Pepper’s accompanying your daughter, you may want to explore your options. You can get recommendations from friends for compassionate dentists, or search online for pediatric dentists who accept autistic patients. Call the offices, and ask how service animals are handled when they accompany a patient. You will be able to tell if the office has at least thought about the situation and how it will be received. Consider scheduling a consultation with a few pediatric dentists.

Interestingly, a May 2015 online article was published by the American Dental Association about a pediatric dentist who uses hypoallergenic therapy dogs in his office to help children have positive dental experiences. The interview of the dentist shows how he thoughtfully made this arrangement for children, while maintaining good order in the office. It’s an encouraging article that can give you confidence that you will be able to find an empathetic dentist to meet your and your daughter’s needs.

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

 

Oct 15

Can a prosthodontist really help my teeth if drugs messed up my gums?

By Prosthodontist

Can a prosthodontist really help me if drugs messed up my gums? I had a 8 yr drug habit that has almost totaled my gums and teeth. I am thinking what good are new teeth or implants if I don’t have enough gum tissue to keep them in place. Thanks. A.Y.

A.Y. – A highly experienced prosthodontist can help. First, an examination and diagnostic studies are needed to accurately access the state of your gum tissue, jawbone, and teeth.

Sufficient jawbone is needed to support dental implants. If you don’t have enough jawbone, bone grafting can be used to build up the missing bone. Depending on your case, and the prosthodontist you choose, donor bone tissue or synthetic bone will be used.

Periodontal (gum) grafting is performed to add gum tissue where the original tissue is missing or damaged.

After bone and gum grafting heals, the dental implant process can begin. Expect the entire process to take several months or more. The different phases of restoring your smile require a healing period before starting the next step.

You can schedule consultations with several prosthodontists to discuss your options and ask questions. Keep in mind that a comprehensive exam and diagnostic studies are required to accurately project what you can expect in terms of the treatment needed, how long each phase may take, and the cost of restoring your smile.

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

 

Oct 07

For teeth’s sake! May have a little milk with my tea?

By General Dentistry, Oral Health

Each day, approximately 158 million Americans drink tea. What’s that have to do with your teeth? Tea stains your teeth—in fact, because of its higher tannin content, it’s more likely to stain your teeth than coffee. Tannin is a compound that gives tea its dark color.

Of course brushing your teeth daily can help limit surface stains in tooth enamel, and so can rinsing your mouth with water after drinking tea. But research shows that adding a little milk to your tea can help prevent stains in tooth enamel.

The study, published in the November 2014 issue of the International Journal of Dental Hygiene, shows that the casein protein in milk binds the tannins in tea and limits their staining properties. The study showed that the effectiveness of milk on teeth is greater than whitening toothpaste and comparable to some bleaching gels!

Many people like their tea “straight,” without milk or cream. But for those who can tolerate a little milk in their tea, in addition to diligent oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings, it can help keep your teeth white!

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

 

Sep 30

My dentist and I can’t agree on porcelain veneer color

By Porcelain Veneers

I always thought that the final details of my porcelain veneers are my decision. My dentist keeps telling me that she really doesn’t like the shade I picked. She thinks that the color should be 2 shades lighter than what I picked. This might become a deal breaker for me to get veneers from this dentist. How can I convince her to submit my case so that I can get veneers? – Stefanie

Stefanie – Schedule an appointment with your dentist to discuss your concerns. Explain how important it is to you to receive veneers in the color of your choice.

It is ultimately the patient’s decision, but listen closely to your dentist as to the reasons that she is recommending a lighter color. You likely can reach an agreeable decision. If you can’t, we suggest that you seek a second opinion. Veneers are big investment. You should be thrilled, not hesitant, with the results.

 

This post is sponsored by Naperville dentist Dr. Anthony LaVacca

Sep 25

Will mini implants be better for me if I have CRPS?

By Affordable Dental Implants, Dental Implants

I was diagnosed with CRPS (complex regional pain syndrome) in 2013. I am in my 5th year of dentures and they are really uncomfortable. I want to stabilize them with dental implants, so I am thinking that since I have CRPS that I should do smaller implants. Will it be better if I do mini implants? Thanks. Malcom

Malcom – As you likely know, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) affects the central nervous system. The syndrome is rare (affecting approximately 26 out of every 100,000 people). It causes intense, chronic pain and usually occurs after injury (e.g., a bone break or a sprain), stroke, or heart attack. The pain from CRPS is disproportionate to the pain that is usually felt from the injury or surgery—and it is chronic. In addition to pain, CRPS can cause swelling, redness, sensitivity, and decreased mobility.

Dental implants—whether they are mini implants are standard implants—are surgically implanted. If you suffer from CRPS, you can anticipate pain that is more significant than usual at the implant site, and it can persist for life. In advance of surgery, many specialists recommend a local anesthetic nerve block to prevent the pain from the surgical site from entering the central nervous system.

Although we cannot advise  you as to what to do for your case, we recommend that you schedule an appointment with a pain specialist who is very familiar CRPS to discuss if it is advisable for you to receive dental implants at all, and if you are likely to experience less pain with mini implants.

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

 

Sep 21

Gums still swollen after dental implants were taken out

By Dental Implant Failure, Dental Implants

I had my 4 dental implants taken out 3 weeks ago because over a 10 mo. period there were too many problems with them. My gums stayed swollen and hurting. They are still swollen after 3 weeks. The surgeon told me they are still healing but I am not sure they should be swollen and hurting like this. Is this normal? – Quince

Quince – Even after your dental implants are removed, it is still possible to have some swelling and pain if there is an infection in your gums. We suggest that you get a second opinion to have the implant sites examined.

When implants are placed or removed, some pain and swelling is normal. When pain and swelling persist, there is a problem. Pain after removal should diminish within a week. A prosthodontist, a specialized dentist with training in implant placement and tooth restoration, can help. An examination will be required, along with diagnostic studies (x-rays), unless you’ve had them recently.

It will be helpful to bring your dental records along with you to the appointment. We hope that you get some and answers and relief very soon.

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

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