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Dr. Anthony LaVacca

Dec 27

Could my toothache cause my cheek to swell?

By Dental Crowns, Toothache

A toothache can cause swelling in your cheek if there is an abscess. When you have a tooth infection, a collection of infected material, or pus, can form in the middle of the tooth. This collection of infected material is called an abscess.

The abscess can spread into your jawbone and cheek. The infection will continue to spread until it’s treated, so recommend that you promptly make an appointment with your dentist. The tooth will likely require a root canal treatment.

If your tooth is weak or cracked, a crown may be used to protect it. But there is no need for concern about the crown. Porcelain crowns are made to have the characteristics and color of your natural teeth. You will be given a prescription of antibiotics to prevent further spread of the infection.

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

Dec 27

Replacing a failed dental implant

By Dental Implant Mistakes, Dental Implants

I had 3 dental implants placed and 1 of them failed. It needs to be removed. Replacing it will require bone grafting. I am not prepared to spend the kind of money that an implant and bone grafting would take. Any suggestions for an alternative? – William T.

William – A fixed dental bridge can replace the tooth (a fixed bridge cannot be taken out of your mouth). It would not require an implant or bone grafting. If you still have a concern with jawbone shrinkage in the location of the missing tooth, you can consider a soft tissue graft or bone grafting.

If you’re interested, review Dr. LaVacca’s has a web page specific to reasons that dental implants fail.

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

Dec 25

Over 60 and getting new cavities

By Health Issues and Teeth

If you’re over 60 and getting cavities, even though you haven’t had them for years, it could be that medication is a contributing factor.

There are more than 500 medications that have dry mouth as a side effect. Medication for anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, allergies, asthma, high cholesterol, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease—all have dry mouth as a side effect.

Normally, the properties in saliva neutralize acid and fight bacteria in your mouth. When your mouth is dry, it’s more difficult to fight bacteria. Bacteria can lead to tooth decay, loose teeth, or completely losing some of your teeth.

What can you do about it? Sip on water to keep moisture in your mouth, chewing gum increases saliva production. If you chew gum with sugar in it, be sure to chew it after the sugary taste is gone.

Let your dentist know if you are taking medication that promotes dry mouth. He or she will closely monitor your teeth and gums. Fluoride rinse may be recommended or fluoride toothpaste may be prescribed.

Avoid gum disease and treatment for tooth replacement by taking the necessary precautions.

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

Dec 25

Baby Bottle Tooth Decay

By Pediatric Dentist

Baby bottle tooth decay is the term used when infants and toddlers get decay in their teeth—even though the teeth are temporary.

Why should you be concerned about decay in a child’s temporary teeth? Teeth affect the ability to chew, speak properly, and to have a healthy-looking smile. Healthy first teeth affect healthy adult teeth.

If babies or toddlers are put in bed with a bottle, or if they drink lots of sugary drinks, tooth decay is promoted. Inadequate fluoride also promotes tooth decay.

What can you do to keep your baby’s teeth and gums healthy? Avoid filling his or her bottle with sugar water, sugary juices or soda. Before teeth erupt, after feeding, wipe his or her gums with a clean, soft damp cloth. Avoid giving him or her sugary snacks.

When teeth erupt, brush them with a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. As your child’s dexterity improves, teach him or her to practice good oral hygiene. Teach your child to brush and floss his or her teeth.

When teeth appear, have a dentist examine your child’s teeth and gums. Don’t take temporary tooth for granted.

 

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

Nov 27

I’m bulimic. How can I preserve my teeth?

By Bulimia, Implant Dentistry

I wish I could say that I am recovering from bulimia but I am not. I am struggling. I do well for a few months, and then I slip back into the habit again. I can see the effect on my teeth. Is there anything I do to preserve my teeth? – Kaye

Kaye – There are some steps you can take to preserve your teeth. Rinse your mouth often—especially after vomiting. Avoid brushing your teeth right after vomiting, because your teeth are in a weakened state. Brushing your teeth will only weaken them further.

Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay, so ask your dentist for prescription-strength fluoridated toothpaste. Your dentist will determine if fluoride treatments will be beneficial.

Continue to work on your recovery. If the damage to your teeth is extensive, be assured that your smile can be restored with porcelain crowns or dental implants.

Be open with your dentist and work with him or her to preserve your teeth.

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

Nov 27

Is bottled or tap water better for teeth?

By Tooth Decay

Is there anything wrong with drinking bottled water or is tap water better for teeth? My husband and I have had this conversation several times. He thinks we should just buy a water filter and use tap water. I like the convenience of bottled water. Your advice? Thanks – Kim

Kim – Your husband may be concerned because most bottled water does not contain fluoride, but tap water does. There are some brands of bottled water that do contain fluoride, but you must read the labels to be sure.

When you don’t have access to tap water, look for bottled water with fluoride. You can also ask your dentist for a prescription for fluoridated toothpaste. Fluoride reduces the risk of tooth decay. In addition to drinking water that contains fluoride, you can protect your teeth by limiting the amount of candy you eat, and the amount of soda, energy drinks, sport/thirst-quenching drinks, and juices you consume. Drink water throughout the day to reduce acid build up in your mouth and remove debris, and brush and floss daily.

Speak with your dentist about your risk for tooth decay and your fluoride consumption.

This post is sponsored by Naperville dentist Dr. Anthony LaVacca of Naperville Dental Specialists.

Nov 14
adult-teeth-are-small-blog

Adult teeth are small

By Dental Crowns, Porcelain Veneers

I am 42 years old and my teeth are extremely small. They are the size of a child’s teeth. When I am talking to people—particularly new clients—invariably their eyes are drawn to my teeth, even if it’s only for a moment. My lips are full, so maybe that helps draw attention to my teeth. I have read about dental bonding, porcelain crowns and porcelain veneers. Is there a preferred treatment for small teeth? – Melanie

Melanie – Dental bonding is often used to make small repairs in teeth, such as gaps or cracks. Bonding is somewhat soft. In time, it can wear, stain, or get scratched. It is not ideal for enlarging all of your teeth.

Porcelain crowns cover the entire tooth. It is an excellent means of preserving teeth that are badly broken or worn, and that might otherwise me extracted.

Porcelain veneers cover the front of your teeth. They are an excellent way of enlarging your teeth. Thin layers of porcelain will be bonded to the front of your teeth. A cosmetic dentist will provide you with veneers with color and translucency that looks natural. For a beautiful smile makeover, the cost is approximately $1000 to $2000 per tooth, depending on where you live.

Avoid finding a bargain price for porcelain veneers. Find a few experienced cosmetic dentists, look at pictures of their smile designs, and make a decision that includes quality as a factor—not price alone. If you find that the cost of veneers is not within your budget at this time, don’t opt for a cheap veneers. Wait until your budget allows you to get a beautiful smile makeover with porcelain veneers.

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

 

Nov 13

Human cadaver bone grafting for dental implants

By Bone Grafting, Dental Implants

I am seriously considering getting dental implants in early 2013. I know that I will need bone grafting. What can you tell me about human cadaver bone for grafting? – Kyle

Kyle – Human cadaver bone for dental implant bone grafting, known as allografts, works very well. U.S. donor applicants are pre-screened for infectious diseases before they are accepted as donors. Donated bone is process and sterilized to make grafting safe.

Autogenous bone comes from the patient’s own body. Bone may be available elsewhere in the mouth or from another place in the body—usually the hip.

Xenograft bone comes from a different species, usually bovine bone, which comes from a cow.

Synethetic bone grafting is referred to as alloplast. Although this method is most convenient and the least expensive, some dentists say the success rate is not as good as the other methods.

Your implant dentist will discuss the options with you and address any concerns you have.

This post is courtesy of Naperville implant dentist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.

Oct 24

Thinking about dentures instead of replacing implant teeth

By Dental Implants, Dentures

Between my upper and lower teeth I have 12 implant teeth that need to be replaced. I think the crowns are about 14 years old now and they are worn. I remember how much it cost when I first got the implants and I don’t have that kind of money now. I have retired and my income is limited. I think dentures are the way to go this time. Do you have any tips for me on what to look for with dentures? Thanks – Tommy

Tommy – There are some things you should consider before deciding to receive removable dentures:

  • The original cost of your dental implants included the cost of the implant surgery and placement, which will not be repeated for new implant crowns.
  • There is not much difference in price tween the implant crowns and complete removable dentures, but there is difference in the function.
  • Your chewing efficiency will be cut in half with removable dentures. Also, your palate will be covered, and you will enjoy food less.
  • Your dental implants will need to be removed to receive complete removable dentures. When all of your teeth are missing, your jawbone shrinks, and in about 15 years, facial collapse will occur. Then, if you are able to keep the denture in your mouth, your gums will be sore and irritated.

Many patients are satisfied with removable dentures, but you already have implants in place. Speak with your dentist about the cost of implant crowns versus complete removable dentures. If you decide that you want dentures, find a dentist who will customize the dentures to give you a comfortable fit, and who uses quality teeth for the dentures to give you a natural-looking smile.

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

Oct 10

Replacing a front bottom tooth

By Dental Implants

I have a front bottom tooth that is missing the one that is immediately to the right of the center. What do you recommend for it? Thank y ou! Esther from Iowa.

Esther,

Replacing lower front teeth (mandibular incisors) requires excellent skills, because the teeth are small. If the teeth on either side of the missing one are in good condition, a dental implant can be used for the replacement. A very small implant will need to be used, and care must be taken to allow enough space between it and the adjacent teeth so that no damage is done to the roots of those teeth.

A dental bridge is another option. The bridge requires the adjacent teeth to be shaved down and to have crowns placed on them. The replacement tooth will be suspended between the two crowns. The bridge must be designed correctly to avoid damaging the remaining tooth structure.

Be sure to find an implant dentist with experience in working with smaller teeth. Check the dentist’s implant credentials to ensure he or she has the skills required for replacing tooth.

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

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