What is a Root Canal?

If you panic whenever you hear the word “root canal,” you’re not alone. However, root canals are common procedures that can make a positive impact on your oral health and overall well-being. Once you know the facts about root canals, you’ll see that they are safe and effective solutions to a number of dental health problems. 

When is a Root Canal Necessary?

When a tooth has become infected and begins to decay, your dentist might recommend a root canal, a procedure in which the inner pulp and root of a tooth are removed to prevent further spread of the infection. 

Internal tooth decay can occur when a weakness in the tooth’s structure, such as a cavity or crack, exposes the inner pulp chamber to bacteria. The most common symptom of internal tooth decay is tooth pain or sensitivity when exposed to changing temperatures. Tooth discoloration and bumps on the gums can also be signs of internal infection. If left untreated, an infected tooth can cause abscesses, or painful lumps filled with pus, and cause bacteria to spread to other parts of the body, such as the face, neck or head.

What is a Root Canal?

A root canal is a common procedure during which general dentists remove the infected nerve and pulp from inside the tooth, clean and sterilize the inner chamber, then seal the tooth and cover it with a restoration. 

Although the saying “about as much fun as a root canal” has permeated American culture, the reality is much different - the root canal process is similar to having a cavity filled, and doesn’t typically cause much discomfort or any pain. Typically, the root canal procedure is a quick, outpatient process that is performed in a general dentist’s office. 

In some instances, however, more comprehensive treatment is needed to completely remove infected tissue. Known as apical surgery, this includes the removal of part of the root. In the event the bone has been severely damaged as a result of tooth abscess, bone grafting and other surgical treatments may be the best solution to restoring comprehensive oral function and health. 

How is the Tooth Restored?

Traditionally, crowns are used to restore teeth following root canal therapies. However, if you frequently require root canal retreatment or have experienced serious damage as a result of an abscess, dental implants may offer a more comprehensive restorative solution. As implants are embedded into the jaw, they help to reinforce jaw strength as well as stimulate healthy bone regeneration which is critical for patients with compromised bone structure. Similarly, implants leave patients with a natural replacement tooth that is impermeable to future reinfection. 

At Lorton – Springfield Dental Implants & Oral Surgery, our Lorton and Springfield locations offer comprehensive bone grafting and dental implant solutions for patients recovering from serious tooth infection. For more information about these procedures, contact your nearest location today. 

The Versatility of Dental Implants

Like any other aspect of dental care, the type of restorative treatment you receive is dictated by your oral health and function needs. Over time, advancements in treatment techniques have opened the door for versatile solutions that have the capability to comprehensively address a variety of dental issues. In particular, innovations in dental implants and implant-supported restorations have transformed how a number of oral conditions can be easily solved. 

Why are Dental Implants so Versatile?

Much of the versatility of dental implants stems from how implants are integrated into the dentition. Unlike traditional restorations which depend on surrounding tissue and teeth for support, implants are surgically embedded into the dentition. Not only does this eliminate the risk of compromising neighboring teeth, but the self-supportive nature of dental implants allows this restorative treatment option to become a fully incorporated part of the dentition. 

Additionally, dental implants are designed to look, feel, and function just like a natural tooth. Not only does this ensure proper integration into the bone, but it also facilitates and enhances normal dental function. The embedment of the implant post into the bone helps to stimulate healthy bone growth, preventing bone resorption as well as preserving the integrity of the facial structure. This beyond-the-dentition advantage makes dental implants and implant-supported restorations ideal for cases of both isolated as well as comprehensive tooth loss. 

The Advantages of Dental Implants for Single Tooth Replacement

Instances where only a single tooth requires replacement are often the result of isolated trauma or infection. Traditional restorative solutions often required bridges as a temporary answer to restoring function and aesthetics to the teeth. However, bridges require the neighboring teeth be filed to make room for the bridge, leaving these adjacent teeth vulnerable to decay and further restorative treatment. 

By using dental implants instead of fixed or removable bridges, patients are able to wholly restore their smiles without compromising their oral health and without damaging the neighboring teeth. 

Why Replacing Multiple Missing Teeth with Dental Implants is a Viable Option

For patients missing several teeth to entire arches, conventional treatment options are often restricted to fixed bridges, partials, and dentures. With the exception of fixed bridges, these traditional restorations lacked stability and reliability, leaving patients uncomfortable and lacking confidence in the functionality and aesthetics of their restored smile. 

Dental implants are a viable option as they can be used to stabilize new and existing multiple-teeth restorations of varying sizes. As they are fully integrated into each patient’s jaw, they work in conjunction with the rest of the smile to provide patients with lasting oral function and aesthetics. At Lorton-Springfield Dental Implants and Oral Surgery, dental implants can be used to support a wide array of multi-tooth prostheses, including bridges, overdentures, and hybrid dentures. 

Finding the Best Dental Implant Solution for Your Smile

Northern Virginia oral surgeon Dr. Snehal Patel and his team are dedicated to helping all patients find the right restorative solution for their smile. By offering a wide range of dental implant and implant-supported treatment options at both our Lorton and Springfield dental practices, our team offers comprehensive, versatile solutions for diverse dental problems. Contact your nearest Lorton-Springfield Dental Implants and Oral Surgery practice today to learn more about the advantages of implant dentistry.

Bone Grafts 101

When it comes to preparing for dental implants, some patients may require extra treatment. At Lorton-Springfield Dental Implants and Oral Surgery, Dr. Snehal Patel and his team specialize in helping patients achieve long-lasting restorations through preliminary bone grafts.

What is Bone Grafting?

Dental bone grafts are used to recreate or reinforce bone in the jaw. There are different types of bone grafts, each which target a unique part of the bone structure. Among the most common and most effective bone graft procedures are

• Sinus lifts, which raise the height of the bone on the upper jaw
• Ridge expansion, which uses bone grafts to improve the structure of the jaw where the sockets sit, also known as the bone ridge.
• Socket preservation, during which sockets of extracted teeth are filled with material to prevent reabsorption into the jaw.

Why would I Need Bone Graft?

The jaw bone is the foundation of your smile and dental function. Your jaw is greatly affected by your oral health. Periodontal disease, misaligned bite, and cavities can all negatively affect the health of underlying bone. These conditions can cause the bone in the jaw to shrink. As the bone shrinks, the jaw fails to provide sufficient support for remaining teeth, which may fall out.

Bone grafts are especially beneficial for patients looking to improve their smile with dental implants. Since the implant post is surgically inserted into the jaw, the bone must be strong enough to support the post and the restoration. Patients with insufficient bone quality may require bone grafting procedures prior to implant placement, to ensure that their restoration is successful and long lasting.

What materials are used in bone grafts?

The materials used in dental bone grafts fall into three classes, based on how they are integrated into the bone.

• Autogenous bone grafts utilize the patient’s bone taken from another part of the body. Because the bone is from the patient’s body, autogenous bone grafts encourage bone growth and have a high integration success rate.
• Allogenic bone grafts are dental grafts taken from a donor. As the bone contains no live cellular activity, allogenic bone grafts serve as framework around which the patient’s existing bone can grow.
• Xenogenic bone grafts are taken from a non-living, non-human species. Similar to allogenic bone grafts, xenogenic bone grafts provide a foundation for the patient’s bone to regenerate around. Both allogenic and xenogenic bones undergo extensive preparation to minimize rejection when placed in the jaw.

In addition to these bone-based materials, synthetic bone grafts can also be used as a safe and successful alternative to actual bone. These include demineralized bone matrices, graft composites, and bone morphogenetic proteins.

Bone Grafts in Northern Virginia

At Lorton Springfield Dental Implants and Oral Surgery, our dental team specializes in providing patients with exceptional dental care. For more information on our bone grafting options and dental implant procedures, contact our Lorton and Springfield practices today.

Preparing for Dental Implants - Ridge Modification

When it comes to restoring dental function with dentalimplants, insufficient bone density may require some patients to seek more preliminary treatment to prepare the jaw for successful implant placement.

Ridge modification is among the most effective methods of creating a solid foundation for dental implants. Not only can the procedure correct distortion caused by dental trauma or infection, but it can also remedy chronic distortion caused by developmental defects.

What is Ridge Modification?

Ridge modification, also known as ridge augmentation or ridge expansion, is a surgical procedure that aims to correct the shape of the jaw bone ridge and gum line. By creating a consistent and stable ridge, this grafting procedure widens the area available for implant placement.

What is the Ridge Modification Procedure?

There are two types of ridge expansion procedures, each with unique benefits:

Hard tissue: Hard tissue expansion is used to reconstruct the bone structure in the affected area. After an incision is made, the bone grafting material is inserted into the damaged area to recreate the improved ridge shape. To keep the bone graft in place and encourage healthy bone formation, biocompatible titanium mesh may be used.
        

Soft tissue: This procedure is designed to improve the appearance of a deteriorated area before the final restoration. During soft tissue ridge expansion, a soft tissue graft is sutured into place at the treatment area. The donated soft tissue may be taken from another place in your mouth, such as the palate, or may be a fabricated soft tissue substitute. Often, soft tissue ridge modification is used in combination with hard tissue ridge expansion to ensure a natural looking smile following the final restoration.

How Long Does it Take to Recover from Ridge Augmentation?

Recovery time is dependent on a number of factors, such as the size of the augmentation and patient health. If ridge modification is required for implant placement, your oral surgeon may recommend waiting until the graft is fully integrated into the bone to ensure a stable foundation before placing the implant.

While recovery time may vary per patient, the results are consistent for every patient. By reinforcing the weakened jaw structure, a ridge expansion procedure creates a stable foundation for long-lasting dental implants. This new stability helps improve not only the overall dental function and the aesthetic appeal of your new smile.

Ridge Expansion in Northern Virginia

For more information about the benefits of ridge augmentation, contact the dental team at Lorton-Springfield Dental Implants and Oral Surgery. Dr. Patel is available to help you choose the right dental restoration for your smile.

Dental Implants and Diabetes: Are Implants an Option for a Type-2 Diabetic?

If you are considering dental implants and have type-2 diabetes, you may be concerned about possible complications that can arise. Type-2 diabetes is the most common form of the disease that plagues individuals today, and is typically a result of blood sugar levels that are too high in the body for long periods of time. In the initial stages, the body produces too much insulin, then may not produce insulin at all. When the disease is not managed properly, it can lead to a host of problems, including poor oral health.

In this article we’ll explore whether dental implants are an option for those with type-2 diabetes. If you’re a diabetic and in need of oral or maxillofacial surgery, call the Lorton Oral Surgery offices at your convenience at (703) 436-4633 to book a consultation.

Diabetes puts you at a greater risk of having periodontal disease, otherwise referred to as gum disease. Dry mouth, tooth decay, infection, and loss of teeth is common when periodontal disease is left untreated. However, if you manage type-2 diabetes well through diet, exercise and any necessary medication, you can stave off gum disease as well.

By maintaining your blood sugar levels and taking good care of yourself, you will be much more likely to have healthy gums. If you have good oral health, you will be a good candidate for dental implants. Your oral surgeon will evaluate your mouth and let you know if you are good to go. Make sure you inform your surgeon that you have type-2 diabetes when you first make an appointment.

A dental implant procedure begins with the insertion of a titanium post into the jaw bone. This will be placed where you have a missing tooth. From that point, complete healing must happen as the post becomes anchored in place over the next six to twelve weeks. A small connector known as an abutment is attached to the post after healing is complete. Finally, an artificial tooth is attached to the abutment. Referred to as a crown, it will be created by the oral surgeon to match the rest of your teeth.

Pain relievers will help to manage any discomfort after oral surgery. Rinsing your mouth with warm, salty water is effective as well. Monitor your gums closely after the procedure. If you have any problems with healing, notify your oral surgeon. Be sure to keep your blood sugar levels under control as well.

With proper care and good oral hygiene, your dental implant can be a long-term replacement for any missing teeth. It is essential that you take control of type 2 Diabetes in order to maintain good gum health and take good care of your teeth. Otherwise, you could find yourself battling with gum disease and other complications that could make you lose your implant as well.

Dental Implants and Diabetes: Are Implants an Option for a Type-2 Diabetic?

Bone Grafts for Dental Implants: Why A Bone Graft May Be The Perfect Remedy For What Ails You

June 17th, 2014 by Dr. Patel

If you have been missing one or several teeth for a period of time or if you have damaged teeth, you may be considering getting a dental implant. With a dental implant, new teeth are surgically implanted into your jaw using metal posts to give you a healthier, more beautiful smile and better function of your teeth. However, in order for this type of surgery to be successful, the dental implant must be completed in an area of the mouth where the bone is strong and healthy enough to support the implantation of the metal posts.

Facial bones will unfortunately begin to deteriorate over time when you do not have a full set of healthy teeth in your mouth. While the bone will not entirely go away, it generally may become too thin or too weak to accommodate a dental implant. The most common remedy that a maxillofacial surgeon may use to remedy this situation is a bone graft.

If a bone graft is required or recommended by a maxillofacial surgeon as part of your dental implant process, the surgeon may feel as though your bone is not strong enough to accommodate the implant. A bone graft is a rather simple type of surgery that supplements the existing bone with new bone. While it was common at one time for this bone to come from other areas of the patient’s body, it is now more common for synthetic or animal bone to be used.

When a bone graft is recommended, the dental implantation process is slightly different. First, the tooth is removed, and the bone graft procedure is completed. The area must heal fully before the dental implant can be completed, and this healing process may take several months.

When one or more of your teeth is missing or damaged, the function of your mouth and the look of your smile can be negatively affected. You may have difficulty talking, eating, drinking and performing other basic functions, but these can be remedied with a bone graft and implant. In addition, a bone graft and dental impact can improve the structure of your jaw and your smile with beautiful results.

Whether you are struggling with a damaged tooth, you have a missing tooth or you have been told that your facial bones will not support a dental implant, a bone graft may be the best remedy. With a consultation with a maxillofacial surgeon like Dr. Patel, you can learn more about this relatively painless procedure, and you can determine if it is recommended for your situation. Contact our offices today at (703) 436-4633 to book your initial consultation. We look forward to meeting you!

Blog Lorton VA, Lorton Springfield Dental Implant & Oral Surgery

You Ask, We Answer: How Long Will My Dental Implant Last?

May 28th, 2014 by Dr. Patel

Whether you’ve just received new dental implants or you’re currently weighing your options, you might be wondering how long dental implants are expected to last once the procedure is complete and they’re fully installed. Below we’ll share some brief insight about implants; if you have any other questions, please contact the Lorton Oral Surgery offices to speak with one of our dental professionals.

Dental implants are a tooth or teeth replacement option that involves surgically placing a new tooth root into your jaw bone. After a settling period, this implant fuses with the surrounding bone and will support a denture or crown as required. The implant itself is made of titanium, the same material that is used in hip replacements or in bone screws used after a serious fracture. These implants are becoming incredibly popular as they are relatively low maintenance and last for a very long time if cared for, typically in the range of 10-20 years. In fact, some papers show that Gösta Larsson – regarded as the first recipient of a dental implant – still had his original implants 40 years after he received them!

Although the difference is small, dental implants failure rates do vary between those placed in natural bone versus those placed in grafted bone. According to recent data, the overall long-term success rate of natural bone implants is over 95%; this figure drops to between 85 and 90% when placed in grafted bone. There are numerous reasons to explain the difference, but the most important note is that as long as they are properly cared for, implants in either natural or grafted bone have a high long-term success rate.

There’s little doubt about it – if you smoke, your dental implants have a far higher probability of failure. Studies suggest that the dental implant failure rate in smokers is more than 2.5 times that of a non-smoker; this is a massive increase in risk that shouldn’t be ignored. We won’t get into the many (many!) reasons to quit smoking cigarettes in this blog post, but know that if you have dental implants you can rest assured that Dr. Patel or your oral and maxillofacial surgeon will be encouraging you to consider kicking the habit.

The most important factor in how long your dental implants last is… you! The care and maintenance of your teeth and gums, as well as your overall bone health – which is especially critical if you’re elderly – will play a critical role in how long your implants last. Of course, this doesn’t mean that you can just brush and floss regularly. You will need to see your dentist and hygienist regularly for checkups and cleanings and so that your dentist can inspect your implants to ensure they’re in good shape.

In closing, dental implants are a safe, proven treatment that will last many years – decades, even – as long as close attention is paid to your oral health. If you have further questions about your dental implants, or if you are concerned that your implants are beginning to wear out, please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Patel and the Lorton Oral Surgery team. We are happy to help!

Blog Lorton VA, Lorton Springfield Dental Implant & Oral Surgery