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Dr. Anthony LaVacca

Jun 20

If frenum is removed will my gap close?

By General Dentistry, Tooth Gap

I have a large piece of fleshy tissue between my teeth that has created a pretty big gap. I guess the technical term is frenum. If the frenum is removed why wouldn’t my teeth grow closer and close the gap? Do I really need braces? – Nick

Nick – Your case needs to be evaluated by an orthodontist. Removing the frenum, or muscle tissue, before you have orthodontic treatment can create scar tissue that will prevent the gap from closing. In some cases, only minor tooth movement is required to close the gap, and it may be possible to accomplish the closer with a retainer.

If too much muscle tissue is removed, when the gap is closed, a dark triangle will be left between your teeth. Generally, it is best to close the gap first, and then remove the frenum with a simple surgical procedure. An orthodontist will let you know your options.

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

Jun 18

Does my prosthodontist need to whiten my dentures or will whitening toothpaste work?

By Dentures

My dentures won’t get white. I have used several brands of fizzing tablets just for dentures and they are not working. I called my prosthodontist’s office and they told me to come into the office. If I can do this myself for cheaper I would rather do it myself. Will whitening toothpaste work or does my prosthodontist really need me to come in to get my dentures white? – Iris

Iris – Whitening toothpaste will only scratch your dentures. It won’t whiten them. The chemicals that whiten and strengthen natural tooth enamel will harm your dentures.

If you can’t get your dentures white, have your prosthodontist examine them. He or she has the correct products and materials to whiten your dentures without damaging them. Your prosthodontist will also let you know how to care for your dentures at home to keep the denture teeth white.

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

Jun 04

All on 4 or snap on dentures?

By All-on-4 Dental Implants

I need dentures and I definitely want implants for them. Should I ask my dentist for all on 4 or snap on dentures? I want to have in mind which option is best before he recommends something else just for money. – Elijah W.

Elijah – Before you receive dental implants, find a qualified implant dentist to determine if you are a candidate for them. Candidacy depends largely on your medical history. The dentist will also perform diagnostic studies to determine if you have enough bone density for implants.

Depending on the amount of bone density you have, All-On-4 procedure may be recommended, or bone grafting for standard implants or snap-on dentures may be the best option for you. The All-On-4 procedure is commonly used for patients who lack the bone density needed for standard implants. We suggest that you not ask for a specific procedure until you find out your options from an experienced dentist.

After you receive your initial recommendation, it is advisable to get a second opinion before you make your final decision.

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

Jun 04

Lost filling and tooth cracked – best at home remedy for pain?

By Damaged Tooth, Toothache

The filling in one of my upper molars was probably 15 yrs old. I started to feel some sensitivity in the tooth about 4 months ago. 2 weeks ago the filling fell out and over the weekend the tooth cracked. I am terrified of the dentist. I don’t care a whole lot about the tooth because it’s in the back of my mouth. I just want to know what I can do about the pain at home so I can avoid the dentist. Ibuprofen is not working. – Tony

Tony – If over-the-counter medication is not alleviating your pain, you need to see a dentist. You can find a dentist who is gentle and who enjoys treating nervous patients.

If there is a problem with the tooth, your pain may increase. If the tooth is infected, other teeth may be affected and eventually cause you more pain.

Schedule an appointment with the dentist first to explain your anxiety. A dentist who treats fearful patients has techniques to help you relax. If necessary, sedation dentistry can be used to calm your fears.  It is important that you see a dentist promptly.

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

May 29

help! what should i do about a mouth ulcer?

By Oral Health

i was hoping that it would go away but it’s been 2 weeks so i am thinking that maybe there’s a problem or something special that i need to do. how do i get rid of a mouth ulcer? peter

Peter – There are various causes of an ulcer in your mouth. The ulcer is usually not serious and goes away within two weeks. Some ulcers last longer. A tooth infection, or abscess, can cause a sore in your mouth. A virus or bacteria may also be the cause, and certain conditions or diseases may result in mouth ulcers. Do you have a fever or a general feeling that something is making you ill? If you have these additional symptoms, see your dentist or medical doctor right away.

If you have no additional symptoms, you can consider using antibacterial treatment that is made specifically for mouth sores. If you don’t get any relief in a few days, schedule an appointment with your dentist. He or she will examine the ulcer, and if necessary perform a blood test or biopsy to determine the type of mouth ulcer you have and how it should be treated.

If you prefer, you can schedule an appointment with your dentist or doctor right way, without trying to take care of the mouth ulcer yourself.

This post is sponsored by Naperville dentist Dr. Anthony LaVacca

May 22

Snap on denture post broke!

By Affordable Implant Dentistry

I am in the process of getting snap on dentures. I think one of the implant post broke. It feels pretty lose around the gum. If it broke will it have to be redone? I just want to know before I go to this dentist because I don’t know him that well. I just need some independent advice. Thank you. – Marlene

Marlene – If one of the implant fixtures broke, it will need to be removed and replaced. The implant dentist may need to reposition the implant so that your jawbone will correctly heal around it.

You have the option of getting a second opinion from an experienced implant dentist. He or she will examine the implant and let you know what needs to be done to replace it.

It may not be true in your case, but sometimes in an effort to save money, cheap implant fixtures are used. If you get a second opinion, you can ask about the quality of the implants that were used to support your dentures. This information will be useful in determining the dentist you choose to replace your implant.

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

May 17

Will dentures get rid of my gum disease?

By Dentures

I have gum disease and it’s been a long fight and many visits to the dentist. I still am struggling with it but it’s much better than it was last May. All these dental visits have cost me a lot of money even though I have dental insurance. I don’t want to say that I am giving up but I think it will be easier if I get dentures. My dentist doesn’t want me to get them. She says that I really should keep my own teeth. Will dentures get rid of the problem? If my life would be easier I will find another dentist to give me dentures. Thank you for your help. Marjia

Marjia – If you have periodontal disease, or gum disease, it needs to be treated. Getting dentures won’t make it go away. In fact some people are affected by periodontal disease after they receive dentures, even though they were not previously affected by it.

If dental plaque builds up between the dentures and your gums, an infection can result, and if it’s left untreated, gum disease will occur.

Many people need dentures, and dentures benefit people who would otherwise be without any teeth. There are some problems unique to denture wearers. The dentures can rub on your gums and irritate them. Dentures can loosen or slip around. You will find it more difficult to eat and speak with dentures. When all of your teeth are missing, your jawbone begins to shrink and your face will develop a shriveled appearance, making you look much older than you are. You can prevent jawbone shrinkage, but it requires the placement of dental implants to support your dentures, which is an additional expense.

Your dentist’s efforts to save your natural teeth are in your best interest. Continue to receive your treatments for periodontal disease and preserve your smile. You will be happy that you did.

 

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

May 16

Pediatric dentist asked us to leave

By Pediatric Dentist

I took my 5 yr old twins to the pediatric dentist yesterday. They both were nervous because this is a new dentist for us. We just moved her in February. The dentist told me to come back when the girls are ready for an appointment. She didn’t have any patients for my girls. I thought that a dentist who specializes in treating children would have a little more patience. What can I do to get the girls more comfortable at the office? Thank you. Jess

Jess – You may be able to take your daughters to the office when they don’t have appointment. They will have a chance to get comfortable with the environment and perhaps meet a few staff members. You can also ask if they are able to briefly visit the dentist.

If your children are still not comfortable after another visit, you can consider finding another dentist. But if you choose to find a new dentist, before you make a final decision have a few consultations and take your twins with you. You all will get a feel for the office, staff, and dentist, and you will be more comfortable with your decision.

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

May 14

Will dental implants heal if I’m diabetic?

By Dental Implants

I have 4 missing teeth that I want replaced. I know I can get a bridge but I prefer not to disrupt my other teeth to get it. The problem is that I am diabetic. It may not be a problem but I am wondering if the implants will heal or if I will regret getting them. Thanks. Garrett

Garrett – Many diabetic patients receive dental implants, but their diabetes has to be well-controlled to receive them. If diabetes isn’t properly controlled, infection and improper healing can result.

Before you receive dental implants, your implant dentist will review your medical history to ensure that you are a candidate for the treatment. Diagnostic studies will also be performed to ensure that the implants can be properly placed. Diabetic patients often have a longer healing period than non-diabetic patients, but they can successfully receive dental implants.

We recommend that you have consultations with a few experienced implant dentists. Finding a skilled implant dentist is always important, but especially so if you have a health condition that requires special care for the implant process. You can discuss your concerns and ask questions about implant placement, and find out what you can expect if you are a candidate for dental implants.

 

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

Apr 22

Why are my gums bleeding?

By Gum Disease

My gums have been bleeding on and off for the past 3 months. Now it’s getting really bad and it’s scaring me too. I brush my teeth every day. What could be causing the problem? – Razi

 

Razi – Bleeding gums are most frequently related to inadequate removal of plaque between your teeth and gums. Plaque buildup can cause your gums inflammation, or gingivitis. If the bleeding increases and your gums become infected, you have developed periodontal disease, or gum disease.

But bleeding gums can also be the result of aggressive tooth brushing. Certain medications and certain medical conditions can cause your gums to bleed.

Be certain to regularly floss and brush your teeth to remove plaque and prevent bacterial from growing on your teeth. Schedule a dental appointment to have your teeth and gums examined. If there is a plaque buildup, a deep dental cleaning can remove it and prevent you from developing further problems. Until the issue is completely under control, you may have to receive dental cleanings more often.

If your dentist finds that your bleeding gums are not related caused by a dental issue, he or she will refer you to your primary care doctor.

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

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