(217) 546-3333Advanced Dental Care of Springfield Blog
Implant dentistry: Preserving Natural Dentition
April 9, 2013
Preserving Natural Dentition
Dental implants have become one of the most comfortable and effective means of teeth replacement. The reason for the widespread use of dental implants in state-of-the-art restorative dentistry is the excellent set of aesthetic and functional properties of dental implants. Among the numerous benefits of dental implants, the most important is the preservation of the natural dentition.
After the loss of a tooth, the surrounding bone undergoes resorption (bone loss) extensively due to lack of support. A dental implant placed in the same socket holds the bone and prevents undue loss.
Dental implants can prevent problems by providing a functional replacement for the missing tooth.
Loss of a tooth creates an imbalance in the dental occlusion. The tooth present opposite to the missing tooth becomes functionally compromised. There can be a drifting of the rest of the teeth causing gaps between them and the tight contacts open up. Food particles and debris can get trapped in these gaps and become difficult to remove. Eventually, the teeth undergo decay and might even progress to the stage of loss of vitality if treatment is not done in the right time. Proper oral hygiene in such circumstances becomes difficult, thus increasing the chances of periodontal disease. Dental implants can prevent these problems by providing a functional replacement for the missing tooth.
If crowns and bridges are utilized as an option for teeth replacement, the integrity of neighboring teeth can be affected adversely. This is mainly due to the fact that they derive their support from the adjacent teeth. The periodontal ligament and the bone of the adjacent teeth have to bear extra stresses which in due course of time weaken them and, at times, even lead to their loss. Dental implants are inserted directly into the bone so they do not require support from the neighboring teeth. They function independently and naturally similar to every other tooth in the dentition.
Are you interested in learning more about dental implants? Dr. VanderMolen has the answers you need. Call and make an appointment at Advanced Dental Care today, (217) 546-3333.
Learn about our Free Dental Implant Seminars where you can get more information first hand from Dr. VanderMolen at no obligation.
The Benefits of New and Customized Dentures
April 2, 2013
Replacing Old Dentures with Custom Dentures
Traditional dentures are often worn to replace teeth that have been missing or damaged.
Many older individuals have or need dentures at some point in their lifetime. One of the main problems with traditional dentures is that people say these teeth do not always look as real as they could or should look. If you have traditional dentures and the teeth are noticeably unrealistic looking, you may feel self-conscious about your smile and your appearance. It is at this point that custom dentures would come in handy.
Custom dentures are designed to look as natural as possible.
Custom dentures are designed to look as natural as possible. The purpose of these dentures is to match well with the specific patient, as patient look and needs will vary. The teeth are customized personally for each individual to match the shape of their face and their age. Dr. VanderMolen goes above and beyond to ensure these custom dentures fit perfectly in the mouth and look completely realistic so that you can become confident in your smile once again.
One of the main problems with the traditional dentures is that they are made to look a little too perfect to the point that they often give off a fake appearance. Most traditional dentures display teeth completely aligned with one another, but real teeth do not align exactly like one another, so it is actually best for Dr. VanderMolen to precisely place the teeth of the dentures next to one another in such a manner that they look natural and beautiful without looking unrealistic. Dr. VanderMolen uses acrylic teeth, the most natural choice, for the creation of the custom dentures.
For more information about replacing your old dentures with new custom dentures, contact Dr. VanderMolen of Advanced Dental Care of Springfield at 217-546-3333. We will help you put your best smile forward.
Avoiding Dental Implant Failure
March 18, 2013
Steps to Take for an Ideal Implant Procedure
Dental implants are designed to replace teeth that are missing, broken, or damaged beyond repair. Years of damage can contribute to tooth decay and other serious problems that can cause the teeth to fall out or suffer from severe damage. The idea behind this form of cosmetic dentistry is to improve the smile and allow the patient to feel comfortable when they speak, laugh, and smile once again. However, dental implants can also be considered a form of preventative dentistry because the procedure is used to place fake teeth and tooth roots in the mouth to protect the gum from being exposed. When teeth are missing and the gums are exposed, gum disease and bone loss may occur.
Dental implants are designed to function just as a normal tooth. Aside from function, the implants look and feel natural as well. No one would ever be able to tell the difference as to whether or not someone was wearing dental implants. Dr. VanderMolen places the artificial roots of the teeth into the gums so that he can secure the dental crown. In over 90% of instances, this procedure is very successful. Even though it is considered a highly successful and common dental procedure, there are times when dental implants can fail.
The success of your dental implants depends upon commitment of good oral hygiene for the life of your teeth. In some instances, dental implants may fail due to the lack of experience from the dentist, which is why patients are always advised to see a professional dentist with years of experience under his or her belt. Dr. VanderMolen has the experience you are looking for in an implant dentist. He has a high success rate of helping patients with dental implants, improving their smile and avoiding future discomfort.
For a consultation with Dr. VanderMolen of Advanced Dental Care of Springfield, call 217-546-3333. We have the knowledge and expertise to give you the best possible result and a beautiful smile! Click here for more information on the services available at Advanced Dental Care.
Dental Crowns: Increase Your Face Value
March 4, 2013
Your teeth are covered by enamel which is considered the hardest tissue of human body. Many forces and loads are applied on your teeth, thus a time may come when the enamel gets worn out and you start feeling sensitivity. Aging, parafunctional habits and bruxism can also cause stress and wear to your enamel. When situations such as these or other trauma occur, a crown may be the best choice to protect and restore your tooth.
A prosthesis which covers your tooth completely is called a ‘Dental Crown’. Apart from protection point of view, dental crowns also serve esthetic purposes on the anterior teeth which make up your smile line. They are a quick and durable prosthesis preserving your smile.
Cosmetic dentistry focuses on the betterment and preservation of the smile. Smile restorations can also involve dental veneers and tooth colored fillings, but dental crowns not only improve the unsightly appearance of your damaged teeth but they are also helpful in restoring their functional value.
The whole process of fabricating a dental crown involves 3 stages. Firstly, Dr. VanderMolen will prepare the damaged tooth to accept the crown. In most cases this involves remove some of the tooth enamel. Secondly, Dr VanderMolen will take the impression of the prepared tooth and the model of the tooth will be fabricated to match your individual smile. After that a temporary crown is placed. Lastly, the permanent crown is fixed on the prepared tooth with cement. Dr. VanderMolen will provide you specific instructions to take care of your crown, ensuring its longevity.
Porcelain is the most widely used material for making crowns and it is considered best for cosmetic dentistry purposes. It is resistant to abrasion and chemical attack. It does not get stained easily and has excellent results considering esthetics. Your new crown will look a feel natural and, with proper hygiene, will last for many years.
Dental crowns can increase your face value by restoring your confident smile. Call for an appointment with Dr. VanderMolen. The team at Advanced Dental Care will suggest the treatments that are right for you. Call us today: (217) 546-3333
Dental Implants: Some Frequently Asked Questions
February 23, 2013
Dental Implants: Some Frequently Asked Questions
A common complaint of dental patients is the edentulous state or tooth loss. Patients come with one or more missing teeth and want a replacement which can last for a lifetime. In the past there was no such treatment available. Fillings, crowns & bridges were available but with a limited life span. Dental implants are the only restorations documented to have such a life. Following are some of the most common questions patients ask about the dental implants.
Q.1: What is a Dental Implant?
A. Dental implant refers to a structural and functional identical alternative to the human tooth root, usually made of titanium, implanted into the jawbone. It provides a strong base to the overlying prosthesis just like a tooth root acts for the crown of natural tooth.
Q.2: How can I know if I am a candidate for dental implant treatment?
A. The decision to have a tooth replacement with dental implants can be carried out after a complete clinical examination by experienced implant dentist, Dr. VanderMolen. He can further carry out a radiographic examination for checking the bone status if necessary. The most important factor regarding placement is the amount and location of the bone present. Good oral hygiene is also an essential prerequisite.
Q.3: Will my implant be successful?
A. Yes. According to the American Dental Association, success rates of dental implants vary, depending on where in the jaw the implants are placed but, in general, dental implants have a success rate of up to 98%. And with proper care, implants can last a lifetime.
Q.4: What is the life expectancy of my dental implant?
A. Dental implants should last for the lifetime of an individual. However, in the case of compromised treatment and/or poor oral hygiene on account of the patient, life expectancy of a dental implant can be affected. Dental implants make a connection with surrounding healthy bone just like a human tooth root and require the same care to ensure their longevity.
Q.5: Is the implant placement procedure painful?
A. Dr. VanderMolen will give local anesthesia before undergoing surgical procedure and the procedure will be painless. In case of patients having dental phobia or wishing to be more relaxed, we also offer sedation. With sedation dentistry, you will be completely relaxed and may not even remember the procedure.
Q.6: How much time will the Dental Implant placement take?
A. The whole procedure can take from 30 minutes to an hour.
Q.7: How long will the healing process take?
A. After the implant is placed, it is left to heal and osseointegrate for 3-6 months. In the last stage, the prosthesis, or crown, is placed over the abutment.
Q.8: Is it safe for human body?
A. Dental implants are manufactured from titanium and they are considered completely safe for your body. These materials are biocompatible.
Q.9: Can a dental implant be placed immediately after tooth extraction?
A. Implants can be placed soon after removal of the tooth. It depends upon the presence and location of healthy bone and the presence or absence of infection in the tooth socket or surrounding bone. In favorable conditions, a fresh tooth socket is considered ideal area for placement of the dental implant. Dr. VanderMolen will determine the procedure that is best in each individual case.
If you have missing teeth and are thinking of dental implant placement, call at (217) 546-3333 for an appointment with Dr VanderMolen at Advanced Dental care of Springfield. Dr. VanderMolen and his staff are available to answer all your questions and to get you on the path to the beautiful smile you have been waiting for.