Last updated 23 hours ago
If your smile is in need of restorative treatment to replace teeth that have been damaged through decay, extraction, or injury, you have two basic options for your care: dental implants and dentures. Each of these methods has pros and cons to be aware of, and there is no clear-cut solution for every case. Here is a look at some of the factors that may determine the best treatment option for your smile.
Number of Damaged Teeth
When you need to replace all of your teeth, dental implants are an option, but the treatment process may be much more extensive than that of dentures. Single tooth replacement, however, is better suited to implant procedures, which preserve bone in the jaw and allow optimal functionality of the remaining healthy teeth.
Bone Structure in the Jaw
Dental implants are affixed directly to the jaw, and they require an adequate amount of bone to bond successfully after surgery. Bone loss occurs somewhat rapidly after a tooth is lost or extracted, so dental implants may not be the best solution if a significant period of time has passed since the natural teeth were lost. Bone graft surgery can facilitate the placement of dental implants when adequate bone tissue is not present, but this is a rather extensive procedure.
Commitment to Ongoing Maintenance
One of the biggest advantages of dental implants is that they function like natural teeth once the healing process is complete. Alternatively, dentures require more maintenance to keep clean and functioning properly, so they may not be the right choice if you are looking for a low-maintenance restoration to improve your smile.
To get more facts about dentures and dental implants, consult the caring staff at Kahn, Ferrari & Aldieri, DDS, LLC in Long Island. We can help you choose the best restorative option for your smile and provide ongoing care to keep your teeth and gums looking their best. Schedule your initial consultation at our practice by calling (888) 829-9575 or visiting our website.
Last updated 5 days ago
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is a serious dental problem that many patients do not even know they have. The reason for this is that bruxism occurs most often during sleep. As you will learn by watching this video, bruxism is often diagnosed through signs of wear on the tooth surfaces, migraines, and jaw pain. Wearing a night guard can prevent this type of damage and keep your jaw in line while you sleep.
If you suspect that you are grinding your teeth, the doctors at Kahn, Ferrari & Aldieri, DDS, LLC can help you find relief. Contact us for an appointment at (888) 829-9575 or visit our website today for more information about our dental services.
Last updated 7 days ago
If you have noticed that your teeth are more sensitive than usual or that they feel rough to the touch, you may be sustaining damage to the tooth enamel at a time when you don’t even realize it—when you are asleep. Damage to the teeth can occur during sleep if you suffer from bruxism, or tooth grinding, which may be caused by anxiety, stress, nervous disorders, or misalignment of the teeth. Because it is hard to tell that you are grinding your teeth while you are asleep, bruxism is generally identified through such signs as those listed below.
Frequent headaches
Grinding your teeth creates pressure in the jaw that may manifest itself as tension headaches. These headaches are generally recurring and do not subside with the use of over-the-counter pain relievers. Chronic facial pain can also result from bruxism.
Worn tooth enamel
When you grind the upper and lower teeth against each other, the tooth enamel will begin to wear away, exposing the deeper layers of the tooth structure. This may result in tooth sensitivity, visible wear and tear on the tooth surfaces, and fractures or cracks in the teeth. Another complication that may arise from damage to the tooth enamel is infection of the tooth pulp, which will require root canal therapy to repair.
Tightness in the jaw
Along with pain in the face and jaw, you may feel tightness in the muscle that restricts you from opening your mouth fully. Stretching the jaw during the day may help to ease the tension, but treatment for tooth grinding will be needed to fully relieve the problem.
To explore some solutions that may help you stop grinding your teeth at night and restore your oral health, schedule a consultation at the office of Kahn, Ferrari & Aldieri, DDS, LLC. You can reach us on our website or give us a call at (888) 829-9575.
