Maintaining Dental Implants – For Life!

Posted on April 16, 2012 by Dr.Barbat

Dental implants are designed to last your lifetime – with proper maintenance, that is. Although the replacement teeth attached to dental implants are not ‘natural’ teeth, they need regular maintenance so they are a lifetime benefit.

Dental implants require regular dental cleanings, which is the case for natural teeth as well as dental implants. The frequency of these visits, however, can vary from person to person and may pertain to the type of implant they have or their health status. Some people need more frequent dental cleanings because of their susceptibility to bacteria in the mouth, which can lead to periodontal (gum) disease. For those with dental implants, cleanings also help prevent inflammation caused by a bacterial biofilm of tissues surrounding the implant. If this forms and not removed, it can result in eventual disintegration of the bone that supports your implants.

Natural teeth are attached to the jaw bone by the tooth’s root through fibers within the tooth. These fibers extend from the tooth and connect it to the jaw bone and surrounding gum tissues. Dental implants are secured by the bone while surrounding gum tissues hold onto the surface of the implants. The implanted portion, which supports attached replacement teeth, is held by the jaw and gives replacement teeth the same stable foundation your natural teeth once had.

Professional cleanings involve special instruments to avoid damaging the implants beneath the gum tissues. The time also allows for removal of any build-up as well as regular monitoring to ensure your implants are sound and attached teeth are functioning properly. Typically, our patients with implants also see these check-ups as periodic sessions to help them with proper techniques for oral home care, including brushing and flossing to control bacteria.

Implant crowns and other tooth replacements attached to dental implants are made to be remarkably durable. For some, however, enjoying dental implants for a lifetime requires more frequent cleanings and check-ups. The reward is a healthy mouth and the ability to eat and laugh comfortably and confidently. To discuss dental implants or how to avoid (or combat) periodontal (gum) disease, call (586) 739-2155.

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For Our Patients, No Need To Let This Study Alarm You.

Posted on April 11, 2012 by Dr.Barbat

We take dental radiographs (formerly referred to as ‘X-rays’ before digital imaging was used) to reveal periodontal (gum) disease, abscesses, cysts and tumors, as well as the precise location of cavities and other signs of disease that cannot be detected visually. The digital imaging we use has a minute amount of radiation vs. dental x-rays of old systems that used “film.” So, I was naturally concerned when reading about a study that claims people who have had dental X-rays are more likely to develop a type of brain tumor called meningioma.

Meningiomas are the most common tumor formed in the head, with the vast majority being noncancerous. Depending on location, some require surgery to prevent them from causing eventual blindness or neurological damage.

This study involved patients whose tumors required surgery with the average age of participants being 57. This means their dental X-rays were likely of a higher radiation because of older technology. Depending on their age, those who’d had these exams yearly or more often were 1.4 to 1.9 times more likely to have had a meningioma. A troubling aspect of the study is that it relied upon participants’ memory of how many dental X-rays they’d had, including in childhood. Plus, the study fails to show that X-rays directly cause tumors.

It is estimated that the total of medical radiation in the U.S. contributes to less than 1% of all cancers. Four of these ‘older technology’ X-rays is about the same amount of radiation Americans are exposed to in a typical day. The technology we use is more than 90% less of these older technologies.

Our goal, as always, is to protect patients from any risk. This is why we use digital radiographs, water lines that are pure and sterilization procedures that exceed those required by OSHA and the CDC. At this time, even the American Dental Association (ADA) is skeptical about the study’s results. A released statement included, “Studies have shown that the ability to recall information is often imperfect,” and also pointed out that this study included people who received dental x-rays decades ago from older technology.

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Smoking Puts Dental Implants At Risk

Posted on April 9, 2012 by Dr.Barbat

If you smoke and are considering dental implants to replace missing teeth, here is yet another reason to kick the habit. A study in the Journal of Periodontology has shown that smoking can cause dental implants to fail more often than for nonsmokers.

Dental implants have one of the highest success rates of all implant-in-bone types, including hip joints and knees. Because smoking affects blood flow to supporting bone and gums tissue in the mouth, healing can be compromised. Smokers typically heal at a slower pace and have greater risk of infection after implant placement. Researchers in the study found that 15.8% of implants failed in smokers, versus 1.4% of implants in non-smokers.

To give your dental implant(s) the best opportunity of providing lasting tooth replacement, don’t smoke. If you smoke and are contemplating dental implants, realize smoking’s impact BEFORE you have implants placed. While dental implants are designed to last your lifetime, you have a responsibility to ensure they are successful and stay healthy.

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More Men Are Finding Dental Care Is Career-Wise!

Posted on April 5, 2012 by Dr.Barbat

The Academy of General Dentistry states that nearly 18% of men in the United States claim they don’t have time for regular dental visits, with about 5% who don’t even have a regular dentist. However, these percentages seem to be declining as more men venture back into the dental office, many who are in the workforce.

In years past, many men spent their entire careers with just one or two employers, not having to worry about how their overall appearance affected their professional life.

Today, men (and women) are more susceptible to lay-offs and company closings. More than ever, middle-aged men are competing with younger men in the job market. With appearance a heightened factor in their lives, they’re becoming more aware of the positive effects of an appealing smile. Men are finding that a healthy, flattering smile has definite value in the business world.

Because regular cleanings and twice-yearly checkups can enhance how a person looks AND feels, we’re also seeing more men who are committed to these visits as well as their oral home care regimen.

To discuss improving the health and appearance of your smile, call (586) 739-2155 and ask for a free consultation. We’ll be happy to answer your questions and discuss options that will work best for you.

Posted in Cosmetic Dentist, dentist shelby twp, detroit dentist, smile makeover, teeth whitening, veneers, Your Health, Your Teeth | Comments Off

Sleep Apnea Suspected To Contribute To Depression

Posted on April 2, 2012 by Dr.Barbat

Sleep apnea occurs when the airway becomes blocked during sleep, restricting an intake of sufficient oxygen. Recent research now suggests that people with sleep apnea also have increased risk of depression.

Researchers at the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) found that women with sleep apnea are five times more likely to develop clinical depression and men with sleep apnea are twice as likely. While over 80% who listed classic symptoms of sleep apnea had never been ‘officially’ diagnosed, the participants in their study averaged a threefold higher risk of depression compared to adults who have no breathing troubles during sleep.

Sleep disruption can be a risk factor for developing depression, and a lot of symptoms of those who have sleep apnea display similar symptoms to people who have depression. Although the effects of depression and sleep apnea can be difficult to distinguish, it is felt that there is a connection between the two.

Sleep interruptions that characterize the disorder have been shown in previous research to affect mood. The periodic declines in oxygen during sleep can lead to brain changes by triggering stress or inflammation. Although this study shows an association, rather than cause-&-effect, the researchers feel it’s plausible that sleep apnea could directly cause depression. The findings clearly indicate that the brain requires a pattern of steady sleep.

If you, or someone you know, display symptoms of sleep apnea, please contact us. For mild to moderate sleep apnea, a simple oral appliance worn at night may be all that’s needed for peaceful sleep.

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Tooth Loss Equals Bone Loss, EXCEPT With Dental Implants!

Posted on March 30, 2012 by Dr.Barbat

If you lose a tooth, what occurs BELOW the gum tissue may surprise you! Many people are unaware that natural tooth roots create a type of stimulation to their jaw bone. This stimulation keeps the jaw bone at a healthy height and width. Without it, however, the bone begins to “melt away.” This decline in bone mass is known as resorption.

Over time, resorption can create many problems. For denture wearers, they typically notice that their denture, which fit well when it was first made, begins to slip and seems loose. As resorption continues, the problems become visual by looking in the mirror. Deep wrinkling occurs around the mouth and the corners of the mouth turn downward, even in a smile. Eventually, jowls form and the mouth seems to collapse into the lower face, giving one a “granny look.”

Eating becomes difficult with a denture that slips and moves. Uncomfortable rubbing occurs and many people resort to a diet of soft foods that dissolve easily in the mouth. Denture adhesives and pastes only help for brief periods and have to be reapplied frequently.

Even those who have lost one or several teeth will experience bone loss in the area where they are missing teeth. It is a fact that those who lose a tooth will most likely lose an adjacent tooth next.

Dental Implants are anchored in the jaw bone, recreating the presence of tooth roots. They not only provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth, they help to halt the process of resorption. They also restore your ability to bite and chew all types of foods comfortably.

For those who wear dentures or partials, or are contemplating replacing a crown-&-bridge combination, there are many reasons that Dental Implants are becoming adults’ preferred method of replacing teeth. Because we are experienced in the placement and restoration of all types of implants, we’ll be happy to discuss which would work best for your individual needs. For a free consultation appointment, call (586) 739-2155 to arrange a time convenient to you.

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Why Proper Bite Alignment Is Important

Posted on March 26, 2012 by Dr.Barbat

For some folks, if their smile looks attractive and nothing hurts, they think their oral health is fine. Yet, a bite that is not aligned properly can cause many problems, such as:

• Headaches – When the upper teeth and lower teeth do not meet properly, it can cause strain on the jaw joints as well as head, neck and shoulder muscles. Eventually, this can cause frequent headaches, sore jaw joints, and lead to migraines.

• Broken & Cracked Teeth – An improper bite causes distorted movements for teeth, particularly when biting and chewing. Teeth that are broken, chipped or fractured can result. Repairing these generally requires crowns or veneers. When a tooth breaks below the gum line, the tooth must be removed and replaced.

• Worn Teeth – Many people with an improper bite become “bruxers.” Bruxing, or grinding, usually occurs during sleep and leads to worn teeth.

• Clenching Teeth – A misaligned bite often leads to clenching teeth at night. While headaches can be the result, this can also cause restless sleep, fractured teeth, headaches and facial pain.

While the list goes on, these are the most common problems that arise from a misaligned bite. This is why we so carefully check your bite alignment after placing crowns, bridges or veneers.

Don’t let an improper bite cause expensive and uncomfortable problems. If you suspect your bite may be “off,” remember that this will not correct itself on its own. We’ll be happy to explain methods of bite realignment, which include tooth reshaping, crowns, oral appliances and Invisalign. Call (586) 739-2155 for a free consultation appointment.

Posted in Cosmetic Dentist, dentist shelby twp, detroit dentist, invisalign, Neuromuscular Dentistry, Sleep Loss, Sleep problems, smile makeover, TMJ, veneers, Your Health, Your Teeth | Comments Off

Dental Care & Pain Are NOT Related!

Posted on March 21, 2012 by Dr.Barbat

For those who have a fear of dentistry, or anxiety associated with dental visits, most seem to have developed this from an experience as a child. Perhaps a dentist was too rough, or failed to deliver sufficient novocain before a procedure, or began the procedure before allowing the novocain to take effect. When such a traumatic experience occurs in one’s young life, no wonder they EXPECT to have pain when undergoing future dental care.

We treat many patients who have high levels of dental fear, some who can be classified as dental phobics. These are people who literally break into a sweat when just calling a dental office. Many avoid care until an emergency need arises, and then must have costly repairs that could have been prevented had they been able to receive regular check-ups and cleanings.

We begin by inviting fearful patients to visit our office for a conversation. They are seated in a comfortable arm chair in our Consultation Room. During this time, we discuss their fears and explain the comfort options available. We suggest most start with a procedure that includes oral sedation, when they feel ready.

Oral sedation is in pill form and allows the patient to relax even before they arrive to the practice. A companion brings them and the patient is drowsy by the time they get to the office. This helps them avoid the anxious feelings typically associated with dental visits.

Once here, we have a trained staff member escort them to a comfortable treatment chair where they are covered with a warm blanket. They are closely monitored throughout their visit for both safety and comfort. I numb the areas we are working on and ask the patient questions throughout treatment to ensure they are comfortable and pain-free. Even though the patient is totally relaxed, they are able to communicate with me as needed.

When treatment is completed, we help the patient walk to meet their companion to be taken home. Most patients have no memory of their treatment afterwards. Some remember hearing voices, but that’s typically all they can recall. Once home, they may want to nap for a brief time, although most feel refreshed and ready to resume normal activities by that evening. Because oral sedation has a quick recovery (unlike I.V. sedation), the patient does not have a ‘drugged out’ feeling to recover from.

It’s important to understand that oral sedation is an aid in helping patients overcome their dental fears. Our goal is for the patient to feel they no longer need to be sedated for their dental care, which is what we’ve accomplished with most of our once-fearful patients. After their initial treatment, many realize their comfort here is a priority and we want them to feel they are always in control.

Your dental visits are important for your oral health and appearance as well as your overall health. Getting the proper treatment and feeling good about coming for preventive care can make you feel good from the inside out! Never let fear control YOU! Call (586) 739-2155 and our friendly staff will arrange a free consultation for you. Remember, this is just a chat — you’ll never see a treatment chair! But, it is your first step toward confident smiles!

 

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Crown Lengthening – What It Is & Why It’s Needed

Posted on March 19, 2012 by Dr.Barbat

Crown lengthening, also known as a gum lift, is primarily a cosmetic dental procedure that enhances the appearance of your smile by exposing more of the tooth. When the gum line is uneven, crown lengthening can also recontour the gum line.

In crown lengthening, excess gum tissue is removed around the upper tooth or teeth to make them appear longer when teeth look too short. This is a popular procedure for people who have a gummy smile. This smile (like Katie Couric’s) is when the person has too much gum showing above their upper teeth when they smile. Removing excess gum tissue can give a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Additionally, crown lengthening may be advised for dental health and medical reasons. For example, if decay or a fracture exist under the gum line, this procedure exposes more of the tooth in order to support a tooth-colored filling or porcelain crown.

In the procedure, the selected area of the gums is reduced and carefully contoured through the removal of small amounts of tissue. When necessary, the bone supporting the tooth can be shaped so it follows the regular bone outline. We typically perform crown lengthening while the patient is under a local anesthetic. We use a laser specifically designed for gum procedures, which enables precision recontouring while sealing the tissue simultaneously. This enhances patient comfort and speeds healing time greatly.

Typically, our patients can return to their normal routines in a day or two.  Depending on the patient, complete healing may take one to two weeks.

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Sleep Apnea Can Harm Your Brain & Heart

Posted on March 18, 2012 by Dr.Barbat

Sleep apnea means more than just snoring and sleep disruption. It has the potential to have life-threatening effects on the brain and cardiovascular system.

During periods of apnea, there are intervals that cause interruptions in sleep without completely awakening you. This means some people are unaware that they have sleep apnea. Typically, people with sleep apnea snore and partially awaken gasping and choking in order to inhale sufficient oxygen. This vicious cycle of sleeping-gasping-waking could be occurring up to hundreds of times per night.

These decreases in oxygen levels cause increased blood pressure and stress on the cardiovascular system. About half of those with sleep apnea develop hypertension, which increases the risk of stroke and heart failure.

For people with more than 20 episodes of apnea per night, they have a higher risk of death from abnormal heart rhythms, strokes, and heart attacks. For those who have pre-existing heart disease, recurrent episodes of decreased blood oxygen can cause sudden death.
Because of the tremendous risks of sleep apnea, we offer sleep appliances that are small and comfortable, unlike the cumbersome CPAP. These are customized to each person’s unique structural makeup and enable people with mild to moderate sleep apnea to get a good night’s sleep without the effects of sleep apnea.

If you suspect you have sleep apnea, call our office for a free consultation so your options can be discussed.

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