Category Archives: Dentures
Preventative Dental Care is Crucial to Long-term Dental Health
Preventative dental care, especially dental exams, are a crucial component of preventive healthcare, and they can lead to early diagnosis and intervention for a wide range of oral health issues. Here’s how dental exams contribute to early diagnosis:
- Detecting Dental Decay: During a dental exam, the dentist or dental hygienist thoroughly examines your teeth for signs of decay (cavities). Early-stage cavities may not cause noticeable symptoms, but they can be detected by visual inspection and X-rays during an exam. Catching cavities early allows for less invasive treatment, such as dental fillings.
- Identifying Gum Disease: Gum disease, such as gingivitis and periodontitis, often starts with subtle symptoms like gum inflammation and bleeding. Regular dental exams enable the early detection of these issues. Early-stage gum disease can be managed with conservative treatments, preventing it from progressing to more severe stages.
- Screening for Oral Cancer: Dentists routinely perform oral cancer screenings during dental exams. They check for signs of abnormal tissue, growths, or lesions in the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat. Early detection of oral cancer significantly improves treatment outcomes.
- Monitoring Bite and Jaw Alignment: Dental exams include an assessment of your bite and jaw alignment. Any issues with malocclusion (misalignment) or jaw problems can be identified early. Early intervention, such as orthodontic treatment, can prevent more significant problems down the road.
- Checking for TMJ Disorders: Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can cause jaw pain and discomfort. Dentists can identify signs of TMJ disorders during dental exams. Early diagnosis allows for treatment to alleviate pain and improve jaw function.
- Spotting Tooth Wear: Dentists look for signs of tooth wear caused by bruxism (teeth grinding) during dental exams. Early detection of bruxism can lead to the prevention of dental damage and the implementation of treatment options like mouthguards.
- Monitoring Dental Restorations: If you have dental restorations like fillings, crowns, or bridges, regular exams ensure that these restorations are in good condition. Any signs of wear, damage, or issues with existing dental work can be addressed early to prevent complications.
- Assessing Overall Oral Health: Dental exams provide a comprehensive evaluation of your overall oral health, including the health of your gums, tongue, cheeks, and palate. Any abnormalities or issues can be identified early.
- Educating Patients: Dental professionals use dental exams as an opportunity to educate patients about proper oral hygiene practices, diet, and lifestyle factors that can impact oral health. Early diagnosis is often linked to improved patient knowledge and compliance with recommended care.
Regular dental exams, typically recommended every six months, play a crucial role in maintaining optimal oral health. Preventative dental care not only helps diagnose issues early but also allow for timely intervention and preventive measures, ultimately reducing the risk of more extensive and costly dental problems in the future.
Your Dental Exam can detect issues and lead to early diagnosis!
Dentists can do so much more for us than find cavities or tell us how to properly brush our teeth! In fact, preventative dental care, especially dental exams, can provide us with detection and early diagnosis for multiple diseases and health issues. Our dentists are really our first line of defense and diagnosis for our overall health and our oral health – which go hand in hand.
According to Nico Geurs, DDS, chair of the University of Alabama at Birmingham Department of Periodontology, and director of the UAB Dentistry Wellness Clinic…
“Diabetes, leukemia, and immune compromised patients will exhibit oral signs [of disease]. Many times, these are the first outward signs of the disease and a keen eye could facilitate the diagnosis. Oral health is not separate from overall health.”
Learn what The Mayo Clinic has to say about Dental Exams
Oral Care Impacts Diabetes and Heart Disease
Did you know that, according to Mayo Clinic…
“Poor dental health increases the risk of a bacterial infection in the blood stream, which can affect the heart valves. There is also a strong connection between diabetes and cardiovascular disease and evidence that people with diabetes benefit from periodontal treatment.”
The proof is in the pudding, as they say! A healthy mouth helps contribute to whole body health and vice versa. So, while you may just be brushing and flossing your teeth, you’re also helping the rest of you stay healthy. Learn more about preventative dental care and Whole Body Health.
Preventative Dental Care and the Importance of Oral Health
Oftentimes, we don’t even notice some oral health problems unless they cause us pain or discomfort. Maybe we have signs and symptoms of a problem that we never would’ve noticed until later on, when issues have progressed.
Related Article: 11 Things Your Dentist Wants You to Do Differently
The good news is, your dentist can look for multiple signs and symptoms that show signs in our mouths – such as oral cancer, Crohn’s Disease, and other serious health problems. So, when you get your regular dental checkups, you’re doing so much more for your overall health and wellbeing. That goes to show you how amazing preventative dental care is for you and your family!
Early diagnosis through dental exams can determine health issues such as:
- Crohn’s Disease
- Diabetes
- Oral Cancer
- Anemia
- GERD
- Intense stress
- Osteoporosis
- Dementia
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Heart Disease
Don’t Wait for a Toothache
Experiencing tooth pain is no small thing. In fact, tooth pain can ruin your day or put you in a bad mood. Sharp pain can make it difficult to concentrate at school or work, and extreme sensitivity can ruin mealtimes. What causes these frustrating tooth pains? Let’s take a closer look at the top five reasons for tooth pain and see when it’s time to visit your dentist!
Top 5 Reasons for a Toothache
- Decay: Plaque and bacteria in the mouth do more than just bother your gums, they also begin to dissolve your enamel on your teeth. When your enamel gets broken down, your teeth aren’t as strong anymore and are more susceptible to weak spots and pain. When bacteria concentrate in an area, you can experience a cavity/holes in the teeth. When this happens, your teeth may feel sore and sensitive.
- Related Article: “Mask Mouth” is more than Stinky Breath: Gum Disease is on the Rise
- Sensitivity: Has a certain tooth developed sensitivity to cold and/or hot temperatures? Tooth sensitivity can happen for a myriad of reasons and is often the indicator of an underlying symptom, so it’s important to let your dentist know if you’re experiencing extreme sensitivity.
- Chipped Tooth: Although enamel is extremely tough and durable, sometimes we experience a chipped or broken tooth whether it be from an injury or whatnot. Try to not chew on ice, pens, open packages with your teeth, and so on to prevent any breakage. A crack in the tooth can cause extreme sensitivity and pain. Sometimes, a crack may not be clearly visible to you and may be in the back area of the tooth. If you think you may have a crack, visit your dentist right away. Treatment options often include crowns and root canals, depending on severity.
- Dental Abscess: Also caused from an excess of bacteria, an abscess forms when bacteria builds up inside your tooth’s pulp. This causes an infection and leads to swelling and soreness, or a toothache. Pus can also develop around the tooth, so it’s important to visit your dentist right away if you see these symptoms. An x-ray can confirm the diagnosis and often antibiotics are used to fight the infection.
- Gum Disease: Gum disease is as worrisome as it sounds and affects many adults every year. Gum disease, or periodontitis, is when bacteria eat away at your gums. This is most often caused from bad dental hygiene and excess bacteria in the mouth. Gum disease can make your gums feel tender, or sometimes bleed, and cause tooth pain. The earlier you catch gum disease and begin treatment and better dental hygiene, the better. If you notice a toothache and swollen or red gums, come in and see your dentist quickly for an examination.
Oral Bacteria and Health
Bacteria in the mouth cause tooth decay – by feeding on the sugars in the foods and drinks we consume – they leave behind the waste, in the form of a biofilm known as dental plaque.
Our mouths have lots of bacteria that is usually harmless. (Did you know that the bacteria in our body aids with digestion and other biological tasks?) However, if you do not brush or floss regularly, oral bacteria can reach dangerously high levels. When this happens, tooth decay, gum disease, and oral infections can be the nasty result.
Bacteria and Decay Create Health Risks Throughout the Body
We talk a lot about the early diagnosis of disease during dental exams, here is evidence that the oral bacteria and high level of inflammation associated with the serious gum disease known as periodontitis can play a role in diseases in other parts of the body.
The following health issues and diseases are linked with poor gum health:
- Infections from Abscesses: In some rare instances, severe tooth decay can lead to an abscess. The infection can travel to the heart, brain, or lungs, causing severe illness or even death.
- Cardiovascular Diseases: There are researchers who suggest that heart disease, stroke and clogged arteries are linked to the inflammation and infections caused by too much oral bacteria.
- Pregnancy and Birth Complications: Severe gum infection has been linked to premature births and low birth weight.
- Endocarditis: This is an infection of the inner lining of the heart. This can occur when bacteria from other parts of your body, such as your mouth, move through your bloodstream and become attached to damaged areas in the heart.
Read More: Oral Bacteria: Are Healthy Teeth Just About a Pretty Smile?
Why is Preventative Dental Care So Important?
- Your dental hygienist can remove most of the stains that dull and discolor your teeth, so you’ll be left with a brighter, whiter, healthy smile.
- Having your teeth cleaned can prevent gum disease, which leads to early tooth loss.
- In America alone, one person dies from oral cancer every hour, but many of these cancers are curable with early diagnosis when detected at an early stage during routine cleanings that includes oral cancer screenings.
- A strong link exists between cardiovascular disease and gum disease. Because getting your teeth cleaned twice a year helps prevent gum disease, it can also reduce your chances of potentially deadly heart attacks and strokes.
- During a professional dental cleaning, it’s easy for your dentist to detect early signs of problems such as broken fillings and tooth fractures.
- Many dental insurance plans cover cleanings, and you’ll save money on dental expenses in the long run by taking advantage of your policy.
- If your dentist finds any serious problems during a teeth cleaning or exam, the office can help you make financial arrangements to cover the necessary procedures.
- Professional dental cleanings give your dentist or hygienist an opportunity to compare the state of your oral health to that of previous visits. If you’re moving in the wrong direction, immediate intervention can put you back on track.
- Regular check-ups and dental cleanings help prevent and resolve persistent bad breath.
Are you looking for a dentist in San Antonio? Learn more about how GPS Dental Offers Affordable Dental Care.
Nearly all oral diseases don’t cause pain until they are very advanced, so early detection through preventative dental care is key to stopping/helping any health problem. Make sure to see your dentist once every 6 months to stay on top of your overall health and wellbeing. Give us a call today to make your appointment!
GPS Dental is Accepting New Patients
If you’re looking for a new dental home, Dr. Skrobanek and his Team at GPS Dental look forward to meeting you during your dental exam and cleaning. Preventative dental care and dental exams can detect signs of disease elsewhere in the body. Experts say infections inside your mouth can cause health problems in other parts of the body and signal diseases such as leukemia and diabetes. You may want to think twice before delaying your dental checkup, as you could be delaying early diagnosis.
Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek is a dental implant dentist and his experienced, friendly team at GPS Dental offer affordable family dentistry and gentle dental care in the San Antonio, TX area. Our Brooks City Base dentist office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at (210) 633-3477 to make an appointment.
Straighten Teeth with SureSmile Clear Aligners at GPS Dental
SureSmile Clear Aligners are a type of orthodontic treatment that aims to straighten teeth and correct malocclusions (misalignments of the bite) discreetly. These aligners are a popular alternative to traditional braces, offering several benefits:
- Clear and Virtually Invisible: SureSmile Clear Aligners are made from a transparent, BPA-free plastic material, making them nearly invisible when worn. This discreet appearance is a significant advantage for individuals who want to straighten their teeth without the noticeable look of metal braces.
- Customized Treatment: The treatment process begins with a digital scan or impression of your teeth. These 3D images are used to create a customized treatment plan that outlines the gradual movement of your teeth. Each set of aligners is precisely designed to move your teeth according to this plan.
- Comfortable: SureSmile Clear Aligners are known for their comfort. The aligners are smooth and have no sharp edges or wires that could irritate the soft tissues of your mouth. As you progress through your treatment, you’ll receive a new set of aligners, each slightly adjusted to continue the movement of your teeth.
- Removable: One of the significant advantages of clear aligners is their removability. You can take them out when eating, brushing, and flossing. This means there are no dietary restrictions, and maintaining good oral hygiene is more straightforward compared to traditional braces.
- Effective for Various Cases: SureSmile Clear Aligners are designed to treat a wide range of orthodontic issues, including crowding, spacing, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. While they may not be suitable for all cases, they can address many common alignment concerns.
- Convenience: Treatment with SureSmile Clear Aligners often requires fewer in-office visits compared to traditional braces. However, it’s essential to follow your orthodontist’s recommendations for check-ups and adjustments.
- Shorter Treatment Time: In some cases, SureSmile Clear Aligners may offer a shorter treatment duration compared to traditional braces, although the exact duration varies depending on the complexity of your case.
- Predictable Results: The digital planning and precise design of each aligner make it possible to predict the movement of your teeth accurately. This can lead to more predictable and efficient treatment outcomes.
Related Articles:
- SureSmile Aligners Offer Convenience, Comfort and Invisibility
- The Science Behind the Process: Why SureSmile?
It’s important to note that the suitability of SureSmile Clear Aligners for your specific orthodontic needs will be determined by your orthodontist. They will assess your teeth, discuss your treatment goals, and determine if clear aligners are the right choice for you. If they are, they will create a customized treatment plan to help you achieve the desired results.
SureSmile Clear Aligners Available at GPS Dental
If you want to straighten teeth or improve your smile in any way or would like to know more about the cosmetic dentistry procedures we offer, just give us a call and schedule your consultation!
Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek’s experienced and friendly team at GPS Dental offers affordable dental care for all ages in San Antonio, TX area. Our Brooks City Base dentist office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we promote dental health awareness to our patients and provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at 210-633-3477 to make an appointment.
GPS Dental Can Restore Your Missing Tooth and Your Smile
If you’re missing teeth, those daily tasks can become a challenge; however, we can help you restore your missing tooth and your smile. While keeping your natural teeth is always the number one option, sometimes replacement options are needed to restore and maintain a healthy smile. We can help you decide which of our tooth replacement options, implants, dentures, or implant-supported dentures, is best for you and your smile goals.
It’s so important to our daily lives that we can smile, eat, and talk with confidence. At GPS Dental, we want to make sure our patients always have strong and healthy smiles.
Why Should You Restore Your Missing Tooth?
When one of our patients comes in with a missing tooth, they typically have questions. So, we thought we’d try to answer some of the most frequently asked questions related to missing tooth restoration below.
Q. Why should I replace missing teeth?
A. Our patients always realize that a missing tooth affects their appearance; however, that’s not the only reason we should discuss options to restore your missing tooth. Here are 3 main reasons:
- Your appearance.
- The gap left by a missing tooth can mean more strain is put on the teeth at either side.
- A gap can also mean your ‘bite’ is affected, because the teeth next to the space can lean into the gap and change the way the upper and lower teeth bite together. This can lead to food getting packed into the gap, which causes tooth decay and gum disease.
Q. What happens if I don’t replace my missing tooth quickly?
A. When a tooth is lost, the bone that used to support it disappears quickly. This leads to:
- shifting teeth
- tooth trauma
- periodontal disease
- aging of facial features
- unnatural gums around a future tooth replacement
- lack of bone support for future tooth replacement
Q. How are missing teeth replaced?
A. This depends on the number of teeth missing and on where they are in your mouth. The condition of the remaining teeth also affects the decision.
There are three main ways to replace missing teeth: dental implant, bridge or dentures:
- Dental Implant: an artificial root is placed into the bone of the jaw and a crown or bridge is placed on top.
- Partial or Full Denture: removable false tooth (or teeth).
- Implant-Supported Dentures: An implant-supported denture is an oral appliance that replaces several teeth at once. It’s similar to a traditional denture. But instead of resting on top of your gums, an implant-supported denture attaches directly to your jawbone using dental implants.
Let’s explain dental implant, dentures, and implant-supported dentures in a little more depth …
Restore Your Missing Tooth with Dental Implants
Dental implants act like artificial roots that can be permanently placed in the patient’s jawbone. As the gum tissue and bone grow around the dental implant, they become permanent anchors. A natural-looking porcelain crown will be made giving our patients a beautifully finished result that is attractive, yet helps to improve chewing, maintain bone, and prevent teeth from changing positions. Dental implants can even prevent future problems with a patient’s bite.
Dental implants offer a permanent replacement for missing teeth and an effective solution that will look and feel as natural as your original teeth.
Dental Implant Process:
Dental implants can fix multiple teeth, a single tooth, or a full set of teeth – so the options are plentiful, making dental implants a popular option for replacement. Implants require three major steps to consider and can take a series of visits to our office to fully complete the process:
- Surgical implant placement
- Healing from the surgical placement of the implant(s)/temporary teeth placement
- Replacement of any missing teeth with crowns
While the process may sound extensive, the benefits of dental implants are many.
Dental Implant Benefits:
- Look and act like natural teeth
- Durable, long-lasting
- Feel strong and stable
- Help preserve bone tissue and bone
- Allow you to brush and floss normally
Learn More about Dental Implants HERE.
Restore Your Missing Tooth with Dentures
We fit dentures to replace all or some of the teeth in the upper and/or lower jaw. Dentures improve your confidence when you smile, as well as the clarity of your speech and your ability to chew. Modern dentures provide a firm hold and natural appearance to ensure maximum comfort and function.
- Partial Denture: This is a plate with one or more false teeth on it. It may be all plastic or a mixture of metal and plastic. Both types may have clips (clasps) to help keep the denture in place in your mouth. Depending on where they are, some of these clips may show when you smile or open your mouth.
- Full Denture: Full dentures are a set of custom-made removable replacements for missing teeth. Usually, they require all the teeth in the upper and/or lower half of the mouth to be removed; after removal, the gums must heal over before the dentures can be fitted.
The keyword is: “REMOVABLE“ …
Unlike dental implants and implant-supported dentures, traditional partial or full dentures are removable (not permanently implanted into your mouth). We have a lot of patients who choose Dentures because they can be a quick, non-invasive, and more affordable fix to missing teeth.
If you’re experiencing tooth loss from gum disease, injury, or tooth decay, dentures can help your appearance and smile and restore your ability to speak and eat.
Learn More about Dentures HERE.
Restore Your Missing Tooth with Implant-Supported Dentures
While implant-supported dentures are like traditional dentures, the difference lies in the use of implants for retention instead of adhesive. The implant can reduce the bulkiness of traditional dentures and give more space for the tongue.
This means that the ability to taste food with implant-supported dentures will be greatly enhanced. They’re also sturdier and there’s no need for any adhesive at any time because the dentures are so well supported by the implants. This helps preserve bone, tissue, and muscle tone in the face as well to maintain a more youthful appearance.
Learn More about Implant Supported Dentures HERE.
Related Articles:
- Restore Your Missing Tooth: Dental Implant, Bridge, Or Dentures
- Tooth Replacement: Choosing Between Dental Implants and Dentures
GPS Dental Can Restore Your Smile and Your Confidence
If you’re not sure which tooth replacement option is best to restore your missing tooth and your smile: dental implants, dentures, or implant-supported dentures, schedule your Smile Consultation appointment with Dr. Skrobanek and his expert team in San Antonio, Texas. There is not a one size fits all treatment plan when it comes to tooth replacement, after a thorough exam and a discussion about your smile goals, we will create a customized treatment plan for your individual needs to restore your smile and your confidence.
Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek’s experienced and friendly team at GPS Dental offers family dentistry for all ages in San Antonio, TX area. Our Brooks City Base dentist office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we promote dental health awareness to our patients and provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at 210-633-3477 to make an appointment.
Restore Your Missing Tooth: Dental Implant Bridge or Dentures
When one of our patients comes in with a missing tooth, they typically have a lot of questions. So, we thought we’d try to answer some of the most frequently asked questions relating to dental implant bridge or dentures here.
Q. Why should I replace missing teeth?
A. Our patients always realize that a missing tooth affects their appearance; however, that’s not the only reason we should discuss tooth replacement options. Here are 3 main reasons:
- Your appearance.
- The gap left by a missing tooth can mean more strain is put on the teeth at either side.
- A gap can also mean your ‘bite’ is affected, because the teeth next to the space can lean into the gap and change the way the upper and lower teeth bite together. This can lead to food getting packed into the gap, which causes tooth decay and gum disease.
Q. What happens if I don’t replace my missing tooth quickly?
A. When a tooth is lost, the bone that used to support it disappears quickly. This leads to shifting teeth, tooth trauma and periodontal disease, aging of facial features and unnatural gums around a future tooth replacement, lack of bone support for future tooth replacement.
Q. How are missing teeth replaced?
A. This depends on the number of teeth missing and on where they are located in your mouth. The condition of the remaining teeth also affects the decision.
There are three main ways to replace missing teeth: dental implant bridge or dentures:
- Dental Implant: an artificial root is placed into the bone of the jaw and a crown or bridge is placed on top
- Fixed Bridge: prosthetic tooth that will be attached to the crowned teeth that surround the missing tooth
- Partial or Full Denture: removable false tooth (or teeth)
Let’s explain dental implant bridge or dentures in a little more depth …
Dental Implant
Dental implants act like artificial roots that can be permanently placed in the patient’s jaw bone. As the gum tissue and bone grow around the dental implant, they become a permanent anchor. A natural-looking porcelain crown will be made giving our patients a beautifully finished result that is attractive, yet helps to improve chewing, maintain bone and prevent teeth from changing positions. Dental implants can even prevent future problems with a patient’s bit.
Dental implants offer a permanent replacement for missing teeth and an effective solution that will look and feel as natural as your original teeth.
Fixed Bridge
What happens to a gap left behind in your mouth from a lost tooth? You can fill that gap with a fixed bridge. A fixed bridge is a prosthetic tooth that will be attached to the crowned teeth surrounding your missing tooth. Fixed bridges come in different styles, such as a surgically-implanted prosthetic, or a removable denture. No matter what you choose, your fixed bridge will fill the gap left behind from a missing tooth, as well as correct a misaligned bite and prevent your other teeth from changing position in your mouth.
Partial or Full Denture
We fit dentures to replace all or some of the teeth in the upper and/or lower jaw. Dentures improve your confidence when you smile, as well as the clarity of your speech and your ability to chew. Modern dentures provide a firm hold and natural appearance to ensure maximum comfort and function.
- Partial Denture: This is a plate with one or more false teeth on it. It may be all plastic or a mixture of metal and plastic. Both types may have clips (clasps) to help keep the denture in place in your mouth. Depending on where they are, some of these clips may show when you smile or open your mouth.
- Full Denture: Full dentures are a set of custom-made removable replacements for missing teeth. Usually, they require all of the teeth in the upper and/or lower half of the mouth to be removed; after removal, the gums must heal over before the dentures can be fitted.
Q. Why are dental implants so popular?
Aesthetically, they look just like a healthy tooth; but they also keep the jaw bone stable. If you leave a missing tooth and don’t replace it, over time the jaw bone will disappear. Of course, this can lead to functional problems. Not to mention an aesthetic problem with your face. Because the jaw bone is what supports your cheeks, so the loss of it can lead to small changes, such as deepening expression lines in the face, or ultimately having the look of a collapsed jaw, all causing you to take on a more aged appearance!
Dental implants allow you to be able to chew your food without issue, including fresh fruits, vegetables and nuts. They are easier to care for too; dental implants can be cared for the same way as natural teeth, with a toothbrush and floss.
We’ve talked about a lot, but we haven’t mentioned the greatest, most life changing reason for tooth replacement with dental implants… Implants are a permanent solution!
How wonderful is this? Ask any patient that had conventional dentures and decided to have dental implants placed for better support and they will tell you it was the best decision they’ve ever made!!
Related Articles:
- Tooth Replacement: Choosing Between Dental Implants and Dentures
- Missing Tooth: Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?
What is the process when getting a dental implant:
- First, Dr. Skrobanek surgically places the implant into the jawbone. He may recommend a diet of cold foods and warm soup and soft foods during the healing process.
- Second, the bone around the implant heals. What makes an implant so strong is that the bone actually grows around it and holds it in place and can take some time. Some patients can have the implants and replacement teeth placed all in one visit. While other patients might need to wait until the implant is completely integrated, up to several months, before replacement teeth can be attached to the implant.
- Finally, it’s time for the placement of the artificial tooth/teeth.
- For a single tooth implant, Dr. Skrobanek will customize a new tooth for you, called a dental crown. The crown will be based on size, shape, color and fit, and will be designed to blend in with your other teeth.
- If you are replacing more than a single tooth, custom-made bridges or dentures will be made to fit your mouth and your implants.
- Note: The replacement teeth usually take some time to make. In the meantime, your dentist may give you a temporary crown, bridge or denture to help you eat and speak normally until the permanent replacement is ready.
Q. What is a porcelain crown?
A. A dental crown is a type of dental restoration which completely caps or encircles a tooth or dental implant. They are typically bonded to the tooth and can be made from many materials. It’s easier than you think to turn broken, cracked, or decaying teeth into healthy, clean-looking teeth. Dental crowns, also known as caps, correct your teeth and strengthen them by fitting tightly over your existing teeth. They will mask the appearance of broken or decaying teeth and protect them from becoming even more damaged. Once it’s set, it’s just like having natural teeth.
Q. Why are porcelain crowns used?
- to improve the strength or appearance of teeth
- for a tooth that is severely broken down, has cracks, or has had a root canal to reinforce the tooth
- needed when a large cavity threatens the ongoing health of a tooth
Dental crowns will allow your tooth to function normally again without worrying about the tooth cracking.
Q. Can I always have a bridge to replace missing teeth?
A. You can have a bridge only if you have enough strong teeth with good bone support. Your dental team will help you decide which is the best way of replacing missing teeth.
Q. Can I have a bridge fitted immediately after having a tooth removed / extracted?
A. It can take up to 6 months for your gums to heal properly after an extraction. This means that you may need to have a temporary denture before the bridge is fitted.
Q. How do I care for my bridge?
A. You need to clean your bridge every day, to prevent problems such as bad breath and gum disease. You also have to clean under the false tooth every day. Your dentist or hygienist will show you how to use a bridge needle or special floss, as a normal toothbrush cannot access this area.
Q. When are dentures the best option?
A. Dentures and partial dentures are removable appliances that replace teeth when implants and bridges are not an option. They can be supported by remaining healthy teeth, implants, or they can replace all teeth. We treat all of our denture patients like Cosmetic Smile Makeover patients because we are restoring a patient’s smile.
Related Article: Is Tooth Replacement with Dentures an Option for You?
Q. How are dentures made?
A. We start by taking a series of photographs of our patients face from many different angles. Then we take accurate impressions of the patient’s teeth and their current bite. After careful study and planning we turn our information over to our laboratory artist who will make a custom set of teeth that fit great and look real.
Q. How do I care for my denture?
- Dentures may break if you drop them. Always clean your denture over a bowl of water or a folded towel in case you drop it.
- To clean your dentures, brush and soak them every day. Brush your dentures first, to help remove any bits of food. Use a non-abrasive denture cleaner, not toothpaste. Be careful not to scrub too hard as this may cause grooves in the surface.
- Make sure you brush all the surfaces of the dentures, including the surface that fits against your gums. This is especially important if you use any kind of denture fixative.
- Soak your dentures every day in a denture-cleaning solution. This will help remove any plaque and stubborn stains that are left. It will also help to disinfect your dentures, leaving them feeling fresher. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Don’t keep your dentures in overnight unless there are specific reasons for you to keep them in.
- If you notice a build-up of stains or scale, have your denture cleaned by your dental team.
Q. Should I take my denture out at night?
A. Your dental team may recommend taking out your dentures at night to give your mouth a chance to rest. If you do this, it is important to leave it in water to prevent any warping or cracking.
Q. What is the alternative to a partial denture?
A. The main alternatives are a fixed bridge or a dental implant. A fixed bridge is made by putting crowns on the teeth at either side of the gap, and then joining these two crowns together by placing a false tooth in the space. This is all made in the laboratory and then the pieces are cemented into place with special adhesives. The bridge can’t be removed.
Another option is an adhesive bridge. This has ‘wings’ that are bonded to the back of the supporting teeth, with very little drilling needed.
Q. How do I choose the best tooth replacement option for me?
A. Be guided by your dentist. They will know the condition of your remaining teeth. Tooth replacement options include dental implant bridge or dentures – depending on the best option for your specific situation. Gone are the days of looking older than necessary because of a sagging jawline due to one or more missing teeth.
GPS Dental Can Restore Your Smile and Your Confidence
If you’re not sure which option, dental implant bridge or dentures to restore your missing tooth or missing teeth will be, schedule your Smile Consultation appointment with Dr. Skrobanek and his expert team in San Antonio, Texas. We treat each of our patients individually. We offer options for dental implant bridge or dentures … after a thorough exam and a discussion about your smile goals, we will create a customized treatment plan for your individual needs to restore your smile and your confidence.
Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek’s experienced and friendly team at GPS Dental offers family dentistry for all ages in San Antonio, TX area. Our Brooks City Base dentist office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we promote dental health awareness to our patients and provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at 210-633-3477 to make an appointment.
Tooth Replacement: Choosing Between Dental Implants and Dentures
Choosing the right solution for your missing teeth can depend on multiple factors, and dentures and dental implants have their own advantages and disadvantages to also take into consideration. Missing teeth are unhealthy for your oral health and can also impact your self-esteem and your smile. That’s where tooth replacement options come in at GPS Dental. We offer both dental implant and denture options to restore a healthy, beautiful smile. The question is – which option is right for you?
Related Article: Dentures vs. Implants: How to choose and why
Missing Teeth is Common
Missing teeth are actually quite common today. According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID), Nearly 70% of adults aged 35 to 44 years have at least one missing tooth, and 1 in 4 people over the age of 74 are missing all of their teeth. Implant and denture procedures and technology have advanced incredibly over time.
In fact, our forefathers, such as George Washington, would use a combination of rare hippopotamus ivory, human bone and metal fasteners to replace missing teeth. Today, our technology is much more advanced. Both dentures and dental implants serve the same function. They:
- Improve speech
- Support your facial muscles
- Help you chew
- Increase self-esteem
- Enhance your smile
Let’s take a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages of dentures and dental implants.
Related Articles:
- Is Tooth Replacement with Dentures an Option for You?
- Tooth Replacement Options at GPS Dental: Dentures and Dental Implants
Dental Implants
The AAID states that, “Modern dental implants have been used successfully for over 30 years. They are the strongest devices available to support replacement teeth – and even better, they allow these new teeth to feel, look and function naturally.”
Read how dental implants are becoming increasingly popular.
Advantages:
- Designed to function just like your natural teeth.
- Dental implants cannot slip or fall out.
- You won’t deal with bone loss or deterioration.
- Can eat all foods.
- A very long-lasting solution.
Cons:
- Cost – dental implants often cost more than dentures.
- Procedure/surgery – if you have multiple teeth missing, that could be multiple surgeries for the dental implants. You also have to have a healthy jaw to support the implants.
Learn more about dental implant procedures according to The Mayo Clinic.
5 Signs You’re a Candidate for Dental Implants
Most people are great candidates for dental implants. There’s an estimated 125 million Americans that are missing one or more teeth, and if you’re one of them, it’s good to know if you’re eligible for a dental implant. Here are 5 signs of a good candidate.
- You have good oral hygiene.
- Your teeth and gums are in a good health condition.
- Your jaw has good bone density for the implants.
- You’re willing to stop smoking, or are a non-smoker.
- You have patience for the dental implant process, as it can sometimes take a bit of time to fully complete.
Related Article: FAQ: Dental Implants as a Tooth Replacement Option
Dentures
Dentures are removable sets of teeth that come in either full sets or partial sets. They stay in your mouth with an adhesive, and are often used for older patients, or patients who don’t have enough healthy teeth to support crowns/bridges. With so many advancements in denture dentistry, dentures look more natural than ever.
Advantages:
- Less expensive.
- Restore your smile and support facial muscles.
- Decrease the rate that oral bones will deteriorate.
- Removable for proper cleaning.
- No surgery needed.
Cons:
- Can slip or move around.
- You may have some restricted chewing capacity.
- May need to be remade after time.
Denture Types Explained
Talking with your dentist is the key to finding out if tooth replacement with dentures is an option for you and if so, which denture option is best for you.
Tooth Replacement with Dentures: Full Denture
A full denture will have teeth that are fixed to a plate, which then will sit over your gums and natural suction will keep it in place in the mouth. Each plate will be made with an acrylic material that is the same color as your gums, making it impossible to see the dentures when you smile. This creates an illusion of a perfect smile!
Tooth Replacement with Dentures: Partial Denture
Partial dentures are made to go around any healthy teeth that remain. They clip onto any remaining teeth and are colored to match your gums as well.
Learn All About Dentures from WebMD.
GPS Dental Can Restore Your Smile
To find out if you’re a dental implant candidate, call 210-633-3477 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Skrobanek. Our goal, at GPS Dental, is to make sure our patients have a healthy and beautiful smile and to achieve that result, it is important that our team partners with each patient. We look forward to helping you get the smile you deserve.
Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek’s experienced and friendly team at GPS Dental offers affordable dental care for all ages in San Antonio, TX area. Our Brooks City Base dentist office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we promote dental health awareness to our patients and provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at 210-633-3477 to make an appointment.
Whole Body Health: Oral Care Impacts Heart Disease and Diabetes
Did you know that, according to Mayo Clinic, “Poor dental health increases the risk of a bacterial infection in the blood stream, which can affect the heart valves. There is also a strong connection between diabetes and cardiovascular disease and evidence that people with diabetes benefit from periodontal treatment.” The proof is in the pudding, as they say! A healthy mouth helps contribute to whole body health and vice versa. So, while you may just be brushing and flossing your teeth, you’re also helping the rest of you stay healthy.
Learn More about the Mayo Clinic Study HERE.
Regular Dental Visits
Regular dental visits are a wonderful way for your dentist to not only help maintain the health of your teeth, but also look for any developments that may lead to health issues in the future. It’s important to inform your dentist about any changes in your oral health, or any recent illnesses or chronic conditions.
Even if they may not seem directly related to your oral health, it’s a possibility that they could be linked to your whole body health now or in the future. Your dentist may recommend a certain at-home care regimen depending on your symptoms, or medications you may be taking. A strong at-home dental health care routine is essential to everyone, including patients with heart disease and diabetes. A healthier mouth is a healthier you!
Healthy mouth, healthy body: https://www.ada.org/~/media/ADA/Publications/Files/patient_61.ashx
Related Article: Do You Need Your Teeth Cleaned? It’s Safe to Visit Our Dental Office
Heart Disease
Plaque and bacteria in your mouth can have a significant effect on other parts of your body, which was mentioned above in our quote from Mayo Clinic. Bacterial endocarditis, which is a health condition where the lining of the heart and the valves become enlarged has also been linked to plaque. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, is also linked to plaque.
So, if you’re someone who is suffering from gum disease, which includes excessive plaque in the gums, you are twice as likely to suffer from heart disease. It’s so important to take good care of your gums and teeth to reduce any plaque buildup and see your dentist to remove and excess plaque. Look for the early signs of gum disease:
- Swollen or puffy gums
- Bleeding gums
- Red gums
- Bad breath
- Mouth sores
- Receding gums
Link to the Harvard article about Gum Disease and the Connection to Heart Disease HERE.
Related Article: Oral Bacteria: Are Healthy Teeth JUST About a Pretty Smile?
Diabetes
Diabetes happens when your blood glucose levels are above normal. Patients that struggle with blood sugar control often develop gum disease more often and more severely. This means that they may lose their teeth more often and much quicker. Therefore, it’s extra important to maintain good oral hygiene and visit your dentist often to reduce the chance of gum disease and other health complications.
When almost half of Americans suffer some form of gum disease, why wait?
Now you understand why gum care and keeping your gums healthy is such an important task – they keep your teeth in place! AND you know what to do to help keep you and your smile in the best possible health and avoid Gum Disease.
Related Article: Do You Need Your Teeth Cleaned? It’s Safe to Visit Our Dental Office
If you have questions or concerns about your gum health and the whole body health, please give us a call, the expert team at the offices of GPS Dental will be happy to schedule your dental appointment and help you keep your gums, teeth and mouth healthy. Call 210-633-3477 to schedule your dental appointment or smile consultation.
Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek’s experienced and friendly team at GPS Dental offers affordable dental care for all ages in San Antonio, TX area. Our Brooks City Base dentist office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we promote dental health awareness to our patients and provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at 210-633-3477 to make an appointment.
Is Tooth Replacement with Dentures an Option for You?
Are dentures a tooth replacement option for you? Are you missing multiple teeth and wondering what dental option is best for you? Dentures are a wonderful option to restore your missing teeth and your smile. Dentures are dental appliances that replace missing teeth. They are placed in the mouth and secured by gum tissue and jawbone. Dentures can be either partial or full, depending on the number of missing teeth in the mouth.
Denture Types Explained
Talking with your dentist is the key to finding out if tooth replacement with dentures is an option for you and if so, which denture option is best for you.
Tooth Replacement with Dentures: Full Denture
A full denture will have teeth that are fixed to a plate, which then will sit over your gums and natural suction will keep it in place in the mouth. Each plate will be made with an acrylic material that is the same color as your gums, making it impossible to see the dentures when you smile. This creates an illusion of a perfect smile!
Tooth Replacement with Dentures: Partial Denture
Partial dentures are made to go around any healthy teeth that remain. They clip onto any remaining teeth and are colored to match your gums as well.
Learn All About Dentures from WebMD.
Traditional Dentures vs. Implant Dentures
If your gums are unhealthy, then dentures may not be a viable solution for you. Healthy gums are the key to having comfortable and healthy dentures.
Learn How to Clean Your Dentures.
Learn about the benefits Dentures offer HERE.
Missing teeth can affect your confidence and your smile. Start your journey to a new, healthy smile with dentures! Have questions? Give us a call today!
Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek’s experienced and friendly team at GPS Dental offers affordable dental care for all ages in San Antonio, TX area. Our Brooks City Base dentist office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we promote dental health awareness to our patients and provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at 210-633-3477 to make an appointment.
How GPS Can Help With Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Did you know that your snoring and problems sleeping could be linked to dentistry? Sleep disturbances, such as snoring, could be a sign of obstructive sleep apnea, and your dentist could help.
What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
According to The Mayo Clinic, obstructive sleep apnea is the most common form of sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the throat muscles relax during sleep. When the throat muscles relax, you can stop breathing for moments at time because the soft tissue is collapsing and blocking your airway. Essentially, this means that you could be experiencing breathing pauses hundreds of times every night.
Learn more about sleep apnea Here.
How Common is Obstructive Sleep Apnea and What are the Symptoms?
Nearly 54 million Americans are living with this type of sleep apnea, according to the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. It’s important to look for the common symptoms when sleeping, as not everyone who snores is experiencing sleep apnea. Look for:
- Snoring
- Teeth grinding (often the first sign)
- Gasping
- Choking
- Morning headaches
- Dry mouth
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Irritability
- Worsening of ADHD
Read more HERE.
How GPS Can Help With Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Dentists can be the first line of diagnosis and defense when it comes to obstructive sleep apnea. Dentist’s can look for signs of teeth grinding and talk with you about any other symptoms, or recommend having a sleep study done.
Treatment for sleep apnea is extremely important, because if left undiagnosed, it could lead to more serious health problems, such as:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Diabetes
- Acid reflux
- And more
That’s why it’s so important to consult your dentist if you or a loved one may be experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea. And, at GPS Dental, we have mouth guards that can lower those health risks and treat obstructive sleep apnea.
Research shows that oral appliance therapy, or mouth guard, is an effective treatment option for sleep apnea and snoring. This mouth guard is worn only while you sleep and fits like an orthodontic retainer. These oral appliances support your jaw, to help maintain an open upper airway even as your muscles relax.
More than 100 oral appliances have received FDA clearance and Dr. Skrobanek will recommend the device that is best for you. Oral appliance therapy is covered by many medical insurance plans. Give us a call today to discuss our mouth guards!
Learn more about the link between dentistry and obstructive sleep apnea HERE.
Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek’s experienced and friendly team at GPS Dental offers affordable dental care for all ages in San Antonio, TX area. Our Brooks City Base dentist office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we promote dental health awareness to our patients and provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at 210-633-3477 to make an appointment.
Root Canal Treatment: Root Canal Myths Debunked
Have you had a root canal in the past? If so, it probably wasn’t as bad as you thought it was going to be. Did you think it was going to hurt like crazy, only to experience not much more pain than that of having a cavity filled? Did the immense pain you were experiencing before your dental appointment go away after your root canal procedure?
Want to know why? Maybe the information you were getting was incorrect, maybe you were hearing root canal myths … they’re pretty common.
We thought we’d explain more about … the famous root canal. The symptoms you may be experiencing if you’re in need of a root canal. And, we’d like to debunk some of the root canal myths that are most common.
What is a root canal procedure?
Under the hard, outer layer of enamel and dentin is a soft tissue known as pulp that houses the blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue. Root canal treatment is a procedure used to treat a cracked, diseased or infected tooth.
A root canal procedure is a treatment used to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or becomes infected. During a root canal procedure, the nerve and pulp are removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed.
Without treatment, the tissue surrounding the tooth will become infected and abscesses may form. Additional surgical procedures could be necessary, including removal of the tooth.
Related Article: Root Canal Treatment: We’re Answering Your Questions
How do you know if you need a root canal?
Signs You Need a Root Canal include:
- Serious teeth pain when eating or when you put pressure on the area
- Teeth pain and sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the hot or cold stimuli have been removed
- A small, pimple-like bump on the gums near the area of teeth pain
- Darkening of the tooth
Related Article: 5 Common Reasons You Have Tooth Pain after Root Canal
5 Root Canal Myths Debunked:
1. Root Canal Treatment is Painful
Most root canals are virtually pain free! Root canal treatment in fact removes the inflamed and infected pulp of the tooth, which is the source of the pain most have been feeling. Advancements in training, technology, anesthesia, and equipment make the modern root canal treatment much more comfortable than procedures of the past.
2. It’s Easier and Better to Have the Tooth Pulled
Most people think that tooth extraction is better as it is quicker, but this is just not true. If you opt for extraction, you will also need further procedures to replace the missing tooth. By extracting the tooth and replacing it, you will need to make several visits, and spend additional money. If you choose to extract a tooth and not replace it your teeth can shift to fill the open space, causing further damage over time.
Related Article: Tooth Extraction: Reasons for Pulling Teeth
3. Root Canal Treatment Requires Several Visits
Root canal treatment usually requires 1 to 3 visits. It is basically the condition of the tooth that determines the number of visits required.
4. Root Canal Treatment Is Not Often Successful
Root canal treatment has a very high success rate. As long as the tooth and surrounding gums are kept healthy with good oral hygiene, the natural tooth can last lifetime.
5. Root Canal Treatment Causes Illness
Root canal treatments are done to remove bad bacteria from the infected part of the mouth and work to prevent reinfection. Treating the tooth may be the only way to stop an infection from moving from your tooth into other areas of your body through your bloodstream and alleviate the pain you are likely experiencing. A root canal procedure is designed to fight infection, not cause it.
GPS Dental Can Help
We hope that discussing this information about root canals and some of the most common root canal myths about this common treatment has helped to ease some of your fears about the procedure. If you need a root canal, please contact our office today! Dr. Skrobanek and the dental experts at GPS Dental are here to help!
Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek’s experienced and friendly team at GPS Dental offers affordable dental care for all ages in San Antonio, TX area. Our Brooks City Base dentist office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we promote dental health awareness to our patients and provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at 210-633-3477 to make an appointment.
Head Back to School Toothache Free!
Head Back to School Toothache Free!
With the pools closing, the weather cooling down, and the summer BBQs coming to an end, it’s time to start thinking about the fall season and all that comes with it. For a lot of us, the fall season means bonfires, football games, and heading back to school. Maybe a pumpkin spice latte or two… or twelve. With so much to look forward to during the new year, don’t let a toothache put a wrench in your first weeks of back to school plans.
Summertime = Fun Time
Sometimes, with all the excitement that comes with the summer months, dental care can fall to the waste side. When you stay up late or spend the night with a friend, you may be forgetting to brush and floss twice a day. According to Very Well Health, the main reason for a toothache is tooth decay from a lack of oral hygiene and upkeep. If you or one of your family members is experiencing a toothache, GPS Dental can help take care of the problem and get you ready for the fall season pain-free.
Learn more about the causes of toothaches: https://www.verywellhealth.com/why-does-my-tooth-hurt-1059322
Common toothache symptoms include:
- Sensitivity to temperatures – hot and cold
- Pain when chewing
- Swelling
- Bleeding around the gums
Let us Help You Become Pain Free
At GPS Dental, we love helping our patients eliminate their pain and get back to their normal schedules. Fall is a busy time and heading back to school is such an exciting experience for the entire family. We don’t want tooth pain to be a bummer, so we will work to discover the cause behind your toothache and set up your individualized treatment plan for healing.
An Overview of Toothaches: https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/toothache#4
Dr. Gary Skrobanek and his team at GPS Dental in San Antonio will perform an examination of your mouth and may order X-rays to discover the toothache cause. From there, you may be prescribed pain medicine, or may need a cavity filled, or a root canal performed for more serious decay. The quicker we find the problem, the quicker we can fix it for you! To prevent further toothaches from happening, stick to a healthy diet and a routine oral hygiene program.
Related Articles:
Reasons to have a Root Canal. What symptoms should I look for?
“I have sensitive teeth!” How can you reduce tooth sensitivity?
Dr. Gary P. Skrobanek’s experienced and friendly team at GPS Dental offers family dentistry for all ages in San Antonio, TX area. Our Brooks City Base dentist office is conveniently located and offers early morning appointment times Monday through Friday to meet your needs. At GPS Dental, we promote dental health awareness to our patients and provide most dental services, from family and general dentistry to dental implants, sleep apnea, TMJ / TMD Treatment, cosmetic dentistry and much more. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Call us at 210-633-3477 to make an appointment.
