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Are you fed up with unreliable denture adhesive? Disgusted by its unpleasant taste and the mess it can leave behind? You may want to consider implant dentures as a more stable and convenient alternative. Implant dentures use a number of dental implants to secure an appliance rather than denture adhesive. These dental implants actually become fixtures in the patient’s jaw after they are placed by an implant dentist. This phenomenon occurs because the dental implants are made of titanium, and the surrounding bone in the jaw is capable of forming a strong bond with that metal. Dental implants function similarly to the roots of biological teeth, so implant dentures have a number of benefits over conventional dentures that use denture adhesive. Of course, dental implants help to anchor a denture in place, reducing the risk of an untimely slip-up, which can occur with denture adhesive. Additionally, dental implants can withstand stronger chewing forces so patients who opt for this treatment can eat a wider variety of foods. These dentures also feel more comfortable because they are structurally complete. And of course, you don’t have to tolerate the unpleasant taste of denture adhesive when you choose dental implants. In order to benefit from dental implants, patients must have enough bone tissue at the implant site to support osseointegration. At your consultation, your implant dentist will evaluate the quality and quantity of your bone tissue to make sure that osseointegration is likely to be successful in your case. If you have worn conventional dentures for a long period of time, bone loss may be an issue. However, that doesn’t necessarily rule out this treatment. Your implant dentist may be able to use certain techniques to maximize available bone or proceed with implant placement following a bone graft. If you want to free yourself from annoying denture adhesives, schedule a consultation at the office of Dr. Buchanan to learn more about dental implants and whether this might be a suitable treatment solution for you.
Gum disease can be easily treated when it’s caught early, but the condition comes with more severe symptoms and requires more complex interventions if it has the opportunity to progress to a more advanced form. Therefore, patients should monitor their gum tissue for warning signs that periodontal disease may be present. If you notice any of these issues, you should consult with your family dentist for an evaluation and treatment. Redness or swelling in the gums: This symptom indicates inflammation in the gum tissue and is often a sign of gingivitis, which is the mildest form of gum disease. Bleeding gums: Bleeding in the gum tissue is always a cause for concern, even if it only happens when you’re brushing or flossing your teeth. If you experience this symptom, be sure to inform your dentist. Bad breath: If you have persistent bad breath that doesn’t go away despite diligence in your oral hygiene routine, it could mean that disease-causing bacteria are building up along your gumline. Pockets between the gums and the teeth: This symptom represents more advanced periodontal disease and may need to be treated surgically depending on the extent of the damage to gum tissue. Your dentist can evaluate you and suggest possible treatment options. Patients cannot resolve gum disease on their own, so they must seek care at their family dentistry practice. If the disease is not diagnosed until the later stages, it may be necessary to see a specialist for treatment. However, gingivitis typically responds to a thorough professional dental cleaning with no need for more invasive interventions. Gum disease can ultimately result in tooth and bone loss, among other consequences, if it’s not addressed promptly. Knowing the signs of gum disease and monitoring your smile for these issues can give you a head start on identifying the condition and seeking treatment as early as possible. Call our office to schedule an evaluation if you notice any gum disease symptoms.