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Dr. Anthony LaVacca

Feb 24

When a sinus lift is needed for dental implants

By Dental Implants, Sinus Lift

A sinus lift is also known as sinus augmentation or elevation. It is required when the sinus cavity enlarges due to bone shrinkage that occurs when upper back teeth are missing. As the jawbone shrinks, the sinuses grow and consume more space. Also, as we age, sinuses grow in volume.

The procedure raises the sinus floor, and bone grafting, or augmentation, provides the bone density required to support dental implants. The bone is added below the sinus cavity, but it does not cause sinus, speech, or intonation problems. Your implant surgeon will explain which technique will be used to raise the sinus cavity.

Autogenous, or your own bone tissue, provides the best results and the fastest healing period. Bone can be also obtained from human cadaver tissue banks, animal bone tissue banks, or synthetic tissue. All sources are regulated for sanitation and safety. Your implant dentist will explain your options, and what to expect from each of them.

After the grafting is completed, there is generally a four to twelve month healing period—depending on your case and the source of the bone tissue—after which dental implants can be placed. The strong, dense bone will support dental implants and ensure they will last. At times, the augmentation and dental implant placement can be completed as one procedure, but enough stable bone must be present.

After the bone heals around the implants, a dental crown will be secured to the implant. Your implants will feel and function like natural teeth.

The sinus lift, or augmentation, has been safely used for decades. The results are predictable. The procedure increases your chances of having successful implant placement and retention. Most patients experience only minimal discomfort with the procedure.

If you require dental implants in the area where upper back teeth were located, your implant dentist will determine if you have adequate bone density. Examination and diagnostic studies will help your implant dentist make the determination. If a sinus elevation is required, your options will be explained.

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

Feb 21
my-wife-has-no-upper-teeth-blog

My wife has no upper teeth and her face is sagging

By Dental Implants, Dentures, Facial Collapse

My wife is only 57 yrs old and she has full upper dentures. I am watching her go through periods of deep depression as we both notice that her face is starting to sag. She is very active and very conscious about her appearance. Unfortunate circumstances in life led to loss of most of her teeth and dentures were recommended 6 years ago. I will do what I have to so she can get her confidence back. Will dental implants help her face regain its shape? Thanks Tomas

Tomas – The first step is for your wife to receive an evaluation from a skilled implant dentist who will determine if she is a candidate for dental implants. Your wife’s medical history needs to be reviewed and diagnostic studies are needed.

Teeth are necessary to stimulate jawbone growth and retention. The jawbone supports teeth and facial muscles and tissue, including the cheeks, chin, and lips. When your teeth are missing and facial sagging occurs, it means that jawbone shrinkage has started. When dentures rest on the jawbone, it accelerates shrinkage. Individual dental implants or implant-supported dentures can help.

Dental implants help preserve jawbone. But they also require sufficient jawbone density to support them. When bone grafting is needed there are several options.

  • Autograft – This process harvests your own bone tissue. Depending on where you have adequate bone density that can be used for grafting, the bone can be harvested from the back of your jaw, or from your chin, shin, or hip. This is the safest, most effective means of grafting.
  • Allograft – The source is human cadaver bone from a reputable tissue bank. Donors are screened for infectious disease, and the tissue is thoroughly processed and sterilized. There are risks though, which are similar to the risks of blood transfusion.
  • Xenograft – Bone tissue is provided from an animal. Commonly, cow bone is used. Tissue banks screen the tissue for safety.
  • Alloplast – There are various types of synthetic bone tissue available. Based on your needs and current research, the implant surgeon will determine what is best for your case.

We recommend that you and your wife schedule a few consultations with skilled prosthodontists. A prosthodontist has two years of post-graduate training specific to the replacement and restoration of teeth. Prepare questions for the consultation and take notes to compare the options and risks explained by each specialist. Your preparation will help you and your wife make an informed decision about her oral health.

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

Feb 17

How many implants are needed for a lower denture?

By Dental Implants, Dentures

Surveys indicate that 80% of patients who have a lower denture are not happy with they way it fits or functions. A mandibular denture can lift when you speak or chew, or cause pain in the molar areas.

Although as few as two implants can be used to stabilize the denture, the number of recommended implants may vary, depending on the issues you are experiencing.

  • Dentures that lift when you speak or chew – This problem can occur due to lack of jawbone density or insufficient seal of the denture against your jawbone. Often, two dental implants between the premolar and canine area are sufficient. Your implant dentist will ensure proper spacing of the implants to prevent the denture from tipping and coming off the implants.

  • Burning or sharp pain when you bite – As the jawbone shrinks due to missing teeth, the tooth nerves can slowly move to the bone ridge. Sensitivity commonly occurs in the nerves in the area where premolar teeth existed. Biting puts pressure on the nerves and causes radiating pain.

    In this case, stabilizing the denture with implants is not enough. The tooth nerves need to be alleviated of the pressure that the denture is placing on them. At least four dental implants will be needed to accomplish this. Careful planning and placement is required to ensure there are adequate bone density, ideal placement, and no pressure on the nerves. Some dentists recommend a bar-retained denture. The customized bar will extend over the nerve-sensitive area and alleviate your pain. Some patients hesitate to receive a bar-retained denture because it is more expensive than receiving implants alone.

Finding a skilled implant dentist is important to the success of stabilizing your denture and addressing the cause of your slippage or pain. We recommend that you seek two or three opinions from experienced prosthodontists. An examination and diagnostic studies are required to determine the best treatment options for your case. In advance of your consultations, prepare questions and compare notes. If you need financing or a payment plan, you can ask each prosthodontist about his or her financial arrangements.

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

Feb 13

If an abutment is broken will I have to get a new dental implant?

By Dental Implants, Prosthodontist

I’ve had problems with the crown on an implant for about 8 months. I went to 2 implant dentists and the second one found that the abutment is broken. He said that it will be hard to get off the implant. It scares me that he is finding it challenging. I am also worried that I might have to get a new implant. If an abutment is broken, will I have to get a new implant? Thanks. Alexander

 

Alexander – An abutment is used to support a dental appliance. It is attached to a dental implant to support a crown. It is also used to support a fixed dental bridge or a removable partial denture.

Abutments can be made of titanium, stainless steel, gold, or zirconia ceramic. After your jawbone fuses to the implant, the abutment is usually screwed into the implant. Time is allowed for the gum to heal around the abutment, after which a dental crown is attached to it. At times, the abutment is placed on the same day that the dental implant is received.

A broken abutment can be time-consuming to remove and replace. The process requires the skill of an experienced prosthodontist. A variety of dental tools, including ultrasonic implants tools, a bur, or screw removal tools can be used to loosen the abutment. The implant specialist must calmly and carefully ensure that the dental implant is not harmed in the process.

Be certain that the dentist you choose to remove and replace the abutment is skilled in addressing dental implant complications. It may be beneficial to get the opinion of a third implant dentist. The abutment will be examined, and your options will be discussed. A prosthodontist can give you an estimate of how long it will take to remove and replace the abutment, and let you know if and how your dental implant will be affected.

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

Feb 04

How does a night guard work?

By Bruxism, General Dentistry

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, usually occurs during sleep. Eight to ten percent of adults grind their teeth, and about one-third of parents report that their children grind their teeth.

Stress, anxiety, sleep disorders, or a misaligned bite can cause bruxism. Regular teeth grinding can cause jaw pain, facial pain, neck pain, earaches, headaches, toothaches, and damage your teeth. A customized night guard from a dentist can help.

What is a night guard?

A customized, dental night guard is an oral appliance made of dental acrylic. The night guard repositions your jaw to prevent teeth grinding. A customized night guard is lightweight—lighter than over-the-counter products—and more comfortable, because it is designed to precisely fit your teeth and mouth.

A night guard should be worn regularly, so if it doesn’t fit properly—as with over-the-counter appliances—it can cause problems with your bite and jaw.

How do you get a night guard?

You may know that you grind your teeth. But your dental hygienist or dentist may notice signs of wear on your teeth, or bulging on the sides of your teeth. Your dentist will recommend a night guard. If you choose to receive one, impressions of your teeth will be taken to ensure a proper fit.

Your dentist will send the impressions to a laboratory to make the night guard. You will return to the dentist to ensure that the appliance fits properly. Adjustments can be made to ensure proper fit, or the night guard may be returned to the laboratory to be re-made.

Your dental hygienist will give you instructions on how to wear and clean the night guard. As you wear it, you will likely notice that you have less neck pain, jaw pain, and facial pain, and fewer headaches.

If you have dental insurance, it may provide some coverage for a night guard. Contact your dental insurance company, or your dentist to find out the details for your plan.

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

Jan 30

Eating disorders and your teeth

By Bulimia and Teeth, Eating Disorders and Teeth, General Dentistry, Implant Dentistry

Eating disorders can result from a variety of mental, emotionally, and social issues. Although the impact on the body physique is most prominent, eating disorders can take a devastating toll on the teeth.

Dentists are frequently the first to observe the signs and symptoms of eating disorders. And although patients may not want anyone to be aware of the disorder, it is very beneficial for a dentist to be aware.

Anorexia and Teeth

An intense fear of gaining wait can cause a person to starve himself or herself. Internal organs, muscles, and teeth will all be affected. Self-induced vomiting creates an abundance of acid in the mouth. Misuse of diuretics and laxatives can cause dehydration. All of the activities deprive the body of saliva and moisture, and promote rapid tooth decay—even loss of teeth.

Bulimia and Teeth

Binge eating followed by periods of purging through vomiting or laxatives has the same damaging effects on the body as anorexia—decreased saliva and dehydration. Teeth suffer in an acidic, moisture-deprived environment. More than 80% of bulimic patients show signs of tooth erosion, which if left untreated will become severe, resulting in teeth that crumble, rot, or fall out.

More than the teeth are affected

In addition to causing teeth to decay and crumble, eating disorders can cause salivary glands to become enlarged, lips to chafe and crack, lesions to form in the mouth, and cause the throat to become irritated and dry.

Treatment

People with eating disorders need professional help to recover from the illness. A dentist will advise you not to brush your teeth immediately after vomiting, but to thoroughly rinse your mouth with water to neutralize the acid from the vomit. As you progress toward recovery, your dentist will discuss ways to protect your teeth from further damage, as well as ways to restore damaged teeth. When you are well on the road to recovery, your teeth can be restored to beautifully match the new you.

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

Jan 28

1 of my all on 4 implants is loose

By All-on-4 Dental Implants, Dental Implants, Second Opinion

I got all on 4 implants last October. 1 of the implants is loose. I know it because I feel the movement around it that I didn’t feel before. Is the All on 4 going to fail? Kyle

Kyle – A loose All-On-4 implant doesn’t necessarily mean implant failure, but you do need to notify your implant dentist of the problem right away.

There can be several causes of a loose implant. Some possible causes are listed below:

  1. Infection – Infection in the surround gum tissue or bone can cause implants to loosen.
  2. Failure of bone to fuse the implant (osseointegration) – If this fusion does not occur, dental implants will become lose. The implant can be removed, repositioned, if necessary, and replaced. Before it is replaced, your jawbone density will be reassessed to ensure proper placement. There are several things that can cause an implant not to fuse. A skilled implant dentist can identify the cause.
  3. Insufficient implants – In some cases, the load on the four implants is too heavy, putting the implants under stress. Additional implants may be needed to support your restoration.
  4. Improper hygiene – Poor oral hygiene, as well as smoking can delay or interfere with the healing process. Patients must be diligent about oral hygiene and avoid smoking during the entire healing process.

An examination is required to determine the cause of the loose implant. You can consider receiving a second opinion on the cause of the loose implant and what needs to be done to correct it. If you choose to seek a second opinion, find a skilled implant dentist. A prosthodontist has two years of post-graduate training specific to the replacement and restoration of teeth. An experienced prosthodontist has placed many types of dental implants and will be able to discuss a variety of options for you.

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

Jan 19

My dentist says mini implants are not strong enough

By Mini Implants

I have horrible dentures and am getting them replaced with new ones. I found a new dentist for dentures that look really good. I want implants for them but I can’t afford the regular implants. Unfortunately after getting hooked on this dentist I found out that he doesn’t do mini implants. He doesn’t like them because he says they are not strong enough. He will only do standard implants. There is just no way I can get regular implants. Do I have to settle for just getting new dentures? Thanks Connie

Connie – It is true that mini implants are not as stable as standard implants, but in most cases, they will stabilize your dentures.

We are unable to say whether or not mini implants can be used for your particular case, so we recommend that you receive a second opinion—and possibly and third option—from an experienced prosthodontist. He or she will perform an examination and conduct diagnostic studies to determine the best and most affordable way to secure your dentures.

The diameter of mini implants is smaller than that of standard implants. The placement is easier, and they are less expensive. The more implants you receive, the more stable your dentures will be. In cases of low bone density, some providers prefer them because they require less bone density to be placed. But they are less stable than traditional implants, and they don’t last as long. With proper placement and proper at-home care, they can five to ten years.

A skilled prosthodontist will let you know if mini implants are an option for you. If they are an option, he or she will let you know what you can expect in terms of stabilization and longevity compared to traditional implants.

Costs of both traditional and mini implants will be explained. You will also receive information on how either treatment can be made affordable for you, including financing and payment plans.

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

Jan 13

How much does it cost to replace a run down cap on my tooth if I don’t have dental insurance?

By Dental Crowns, Porcelain Crown

I have 3 caps on my teeth that are all over 15 yrs old and need to be replaced, but I don’t have dental insurance. I am not sure if I will ever have dental insurance. My job gives us medical only and I am considering early retirement due to some health issues. So I am only going to fix 1 cap at a time. How much does it cost to replace 1 run down cap if I don’t have dental insurance? Thanks. Faye

Faye – The cost to replace a dental crown (commonly referred to as a “cap”) involves several factors. A dentist needs to examine and x-ray your teeth to provide you with an estimate of the cost for your case. Costs vary depending on your dentist and where you live in the U.S. Approximate costs, based on several factors, are listed below.

  • The condition of your natural tooth – A dental crown completely covers your natural tooth. It is bonded in place. After your tooth is examined and x-rayed, your dentist will determine if the tooth requires any treatment before the crown is placed.
  • The type of crown you receive – Crown types include all-porcelain, porcelain fused to high noble metal, porcelain fused to noble metal, and porcelain fused to base metal.
    • All porcelain – Both the outside of the crown and its base are porcelain. This is the most natural-looking, but also the most expensive crown. Without dental insurance, the average price range is $1200 to $1500.
    • Porcelain fused to high noble metal – A porcelain crown can have a metal foundation, instead of a porcelain foundation. A high noble metal has a high content of precious metal, usually gold. Without dental insurance, the average price range is $900 to $1300.
    • Porcelain fused to noble metal – The foundation for this crown has a lower amount of precious metal than a crown with a high noble foundation. Without dental insurance, the average price range is $900 to $1200.
    • Porcelain fused to predominantly base metal – A non-precious metal foundation is used for this least expensive option for a dental crown. Without dental insurance, the average price range is $800 to $1200.

Again, the above costs will vary based on the dentist you chose, where you live in the U.S., and your particular case.

We recommend that you have a consultation with a dentist who has training and experience in cosmetic dentistry. Although you want an affordable crown, you will be very disappointed in the results of your investment if the crown does not look natural. A skilled cosmetic dentist has an artistic approach to give you the most natural-looking results, regardless of which option you choose.

Contact a few dental offices to schedule consultations with dentists. The consultations will give you the opportunity to ask questions about treatment recommendations (prepare your questions in advance and take notes), as well as payment options and financing. Remember to ask if consultations are complimentary, or if there is a fee associated with them.

This post is sponsored by Naperville Dental Specialists.

Jan 09

Best dentures options for 80 yr old with floating dentures, losing weight

By Dentures

Our family has longevity on both my father’s and mother’s side of the family. My grandparents and great grandparents all lived well over 90 years old. My dad is 80 years old and has worn dentures for over 20 yrs. His current dentures float and it’s hard for him to eat. He has a good appetite but the dentures make him not want to eat much. He is not overweight and he is losing weight so I am concerned. He has arthritis but no major health problems other than that. What are the best options to replace his floating dentures? Thanks. Jennifer

Jennifer – Your father needs examination and diagnostic studies to make a definite determination of the best options for him, but it is likely that dental implants will remedy the problems with his dentures.

If your father is a candidate for dental implants, mini implants are an affordable option to stabilize his dentures. If it’s within his budget, standard implants will provide even more stability. Floating dentures will be eliminated. The implants are surgically implanted in the jawbone and dentures are secured to them.

Your father will be able to eat and speak with ease and confidence. The stabilized dentures will improve digestion and help nutrients to be absorbed, and weight gain will follow.

Successful implant placement and healing depend on a skilled implant dentist who uses quality fixtures. Without these precautions, implant mistakes and infection can occur, requiring the process to be repeated, and the final, desired result can be delayed for months.

Check the training, experience, and credentials of several implant dentists, and choose two or three with whom you can have consultations. Do a little research on implant-secured dentures to help you determine what questions to ask about the process. Be sure to bring your father with you to the appointments.

Quality implants will last your dad for his lifetime.

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

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