Wednesday , May 15 2024

Are Dental Implants the Best Solution for Replacing Missing Teeth?

Dental ImplantsWhen an extraction is necessary, it’s because the structure of the tooth is too weak to support a crown or restoration, or it may be due to the bone loss and periodontal disease within the supporting gingival tissue. Bacteria often goes unnoticed under crowns, bridges or within root canaled teeth, unless x-rays are taken. When the bacteria harbors for long enough, it will literally eat away at the bone structure.

If a tooth is removed and not replaced with an implant, denture or bridge, several adverse reactions begin to take place. The first is that the facial structures can change. As individuals age, the facial contours that once supported the lips and cheeks can change with muscle atrophy and the effects of gravity, but when there is added tooth loss, the facial structures change drastically. The outcomes are an increased aging effect with noticeable sagging and gaunt like features.

This may seem superficial, but there is an underlying cause that increases health risks and disorders. The underlying cause is bone loss. When a tooth is extracted, the alveolar sac (bone socket) begins to degenerate, and the surrounding jaw structure will as well.

The degeneration of bone is caused by lack of contact of the teeth. When healthy teeth are correctly abutting against each other, it creates pressure and friction on the teeth and surrounding bone. This pressure from biting and occluding teeth helps to regenerate bone daily, keeping teeth and the jawbone healthy.

A missing tooth will affect the dentition
When teeth are missing, and there is nothing for the other teeth to bite against, this is when bone loss takes place, and it can happen quite rapidly in both the upper (maxillary) and lower (mandibular) jawbone. Consequently, the occluding teeth will either drop down or lift out of the bone, to try and adequately occlude with their natural bite. If this happens, a patient could potentially lose multiple teeth, because they will become loose and be subjected to bacteria deep within the gumline.

Dental Implants
Dental implants are the ideal resolution; it’s optimal to have an implant (titanium post and porcelain crown) placed. In addition to preventing bone loss and facial contour changes, if you leave an open space between teeth, the proximal teeth will shift, trying to fill in the interproximal space.

Dental implants can be used to replace one or multiple teeth. Implants are also a remarkable solution for holding in a permanent bridge or as an anchor(s) for dentures. If there is significant bone loss, bone grafts can help to regenerate the bone that’s been compromised and assure that the implants are securely supported.

Dental health and proactive measures are essential. Staying on top of your dental health through cleanings, x-rays, and dental examinations are critical to avoid in-depth procedures and to maintain a healthy mouth that’s free of decay, bacteria, and oral cancer. There are multiple treatment options; however, if you need to replace missing teeth, getting dental implants is the best solution for overall health.

Patients and Referring Dentists
Dr. Lázaro has a state-of-the-art practice with new, innovative, and advanced equipment, software, and technology to serve his patient’s oral surgery needs. The office also has conveniently allotted time each day for emergency appointments.

If you or your patient requires a same-day procedure, please call the office to check for availability.

What Kind of Oral Surgery Procedures Does Pinellas Oral Surgery and Implant Center Provide?
At Pinellas Oral Surgery, they provide a wide variety of Oral Surgery and Implant services, which include the following:
• Third molar (wisdom teeth) removal
• Extractions of compromise teeth
• Pre-prosthetic surgery
• Dental implants
• Bone grafting procedures
• BioActive Modifiers (Platelet-Rich Fibrin)
• Ridge augmentation
• Sinus augmentation
• Cone Beam Computer Tomography (CBCT) scans
• IV sedation
• Surgical procedures to aid Orthodontic Treatment

Dr. José F. Lázaro possesses expertise in providing the above procedures in a calm, secure, and safe atmosphere. Dr. Lázaro has developed detailed surgical skills through his years of experience and training. With advanced technology, commitment, and decades of experience in oral surgery, patients can trust that their visit will provide optimal results.

About Dr. José F. Lázaro
Dr. José F. Lázaro was born in San Juan Puerto Rico. He attended Temple University for his pre-dental studies and was admitted to dental school in three years prior to receiving his bachelor’s of Science Degree. Dr. Lázaro earned his Doctor of Medicine Degree (DMD) from the University of Puerto Rico School of Dental Medicine in 1987. He received his Certificate of Postgraduate education in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery from the University of Puerto Rico Medical Science Campus and Honor Student in June of 1990.

Dr. José F. Lázaro has been active in providing Oral and Maxillofacial services to the Veterans Administration, Private Practice, and has also been involved in Academia for over 30 years.

Dr. Lázaro enjoys participating in big game fishing (tag and release), playing golf, and boating. He lives in Clearwater, Florida, and is very proud of his three children.

Pinellas Oral Surgery

1700 66th St N, Suite 101, St. Petersburg, FL 33710

727.467.2759
pinellasoralsurgery.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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