What Happens When a Dental Implant Fails and How to Handle It?

Posted on February 26, 2025February 26, 2025 by admin

What Happens When a Dental Implant Fails and How to Handle It?

Dental implant problems are rare, but they can still happen. At Topeka Oral Surgery, knowing the warning signs can help you catch issues early and get them fixed quickly.

Common Signs of Implant Failure

1. Severe Pain

It’s normal to feel some discomfort for a few days after getting implants. However, if the pain doesn’t improve or gets worse, especially when biting or chewing, it could mean the implant is failing.

2. Bad Breath or Unpleasant Taste

If you notice bad breath or a strange taste in your mouth that doesn’t go away even after brushing and rinsing, it could be a sign of infection.

3. Swelling and Redness

Swelling is expected after implant surgery, but it should go down after a few days. If the swelling, redness, or bleeding continues, it might mean your body is mounting a reaction to the implant surface.

4. Loose Implant or Crown

Your implant or attached crown should feel secure, just like a natural tooth. If it moves or feels loose, there could be an issue with the implant or the part connecting it to the crown.

What to Do If You Notice These Signs

Don’t ignore problems with your dental implant. Waiting too long can make it harder to fix the issue and may lead to more serious health problems.

If you notice any of the above symptoms, call Topeka Oral Surgery right away at (785) 228-0500. Early treatment can save your implant and protect your overall health. We would like to see you within 48 hrs.

To schedule a consultation at Topeka Oral Surgery, fill out the form below, and we will contact you to arrange an appointment at your convenience.

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Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

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Transitioning from Dentures to Dental Implants

Posted on December 27, 2024March 3, 2025 by admin

Transitioning from Dentures to Dental Implants

Making the switch from dentures to dental implants is a BIG change, but it can greatly improve your oral health and overall quality of life. The majority of patients wish they had made the transition earlier as the ability to chew is greatly enhanced with the dental implants. To help you make a smooth transition, here are some important tips from Topeka Oral Surgery :

Understand the Process

Our oral surgeon specializes in dental implants and will provide personalized advice based on your needs. We will educate you about the entire implant process, from the surgery to the recovery time and aftercare. Being well informed can help ease any anxiety and help you feel mentally prepared.

Choose the Right Timing

Timing plays a crucial role in the transition to dental implants. Plan the procedure during a time when you can take a break from work or other responsibilities to focus on healing. Be aware that you may need several days to recover before resuming your regular activities.

Prepare for Oral Surgery

Make sure to follow your oral surgeon’s instructions carefully before surgery, which may include fasting , avoiding certain medications, or smoking cessation. After the surgery, a soft food diet will be necessary for a few days. Avoid putting excessive pressure on your implants to allow them to settle and fuse with the jawbone. Also, follow your medication regimen and avoid strenuous activities during the initial recovery phase of approximately 7-10 days.

Set Realistic Expectations

The dental implant process is a gradual one, often taking several months to complete. While some procedures may be completed in a single stage, others may require more time for proper integration with the jawbone. Temporary dental restorations may be used until the implants fully integrate, at which point permanent restorations can be placed. We strive to use temporary teeth in the anterior maxilla, an area where tooth show is common, in particular when you smile.

Take Care of Your Implants - Topeka Oral Surgery

If you smoke or drink excessively, now is a good time to quit, as these habits can affect healing and the long-term success of your implants. Ideally stop smoking 6 weeks prior to surgery. Once healed, make sure to brush and floss daily to keep your new teeth healthy and fresh. If you experience any unusual symptoms, such as pain, pressure, or signs of infection, contact our office right away for an evaluation, we can always find time towards the end of our day.

Each patient’s experience is unique, so it’s important to work closely with your oral surgeon and care team to ensure a smooth and successful transition from dentures to dental implants. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at Topeka Oral Surgery and fill out the request an appointment form below.

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Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

What Happens if Food Gets Stuck Under My Dental Implants?

Posted on December 2, 2024March 3, 2025 by admin

What Happens if Food Gets Stuck Under My Dental Implants?

Daily care of your dental implants is essential for maintaining their long-term health. While flossing is important, some patients still experience small food particles getting stuck between their implants. This can lead to discomfort and potential problems, such as gum disease, if left unaddressed.

If you’re having issues with your dental implants, don’t hesitate to reach out to the experts at Topeka Oral Surgery. Our team is here to offer advice and support to help keep your dental implants in optimal condition. Here are some helpful tips to manage this common concern.

Can dental implants affect my eating habits?

One common concern for individuals with dental implants is whether they will impact their ability to eat. The good news is that you can eat most foods with dental implants! They work just like natural teeth, so you can enjoy tough foods like steak, corn on the cob, and raw vegetables. Just be sure not to bite on hard objects or use your teeth as tools to avoid damaging your implants. We recommend that the majority of your cherwing be performed in the back of the mouth instead of your front teeth.

What should I do if food gets stuck around my implants?

Dental implants are made of biocompatible materials that fuse with your jawbone. A restoration is placed on top of the implant to give it the appearance of a natural tooth, ensuring a tight seal with your gums. While it’s rare, food can get stuck under an implant if it was not properly placed. Flossing twice a day can help ensure food does not get trapped around your implant crown.

Using an oral irrigator for cleaning

Once your implants are placed, one of our oral surgeons will guide you on how to properly care for them. Brushing and flossing twice daily are key to maintaining good oral hygiene and removing food from between your implants. For stubborn debris, many patients find an oral irrigator helpful such as a water pik, which your dentist may offer at his or her office. IIf food remains stuck around your implant and you’re unable to remove it, don’t hesitate to call your dentist’s office for assistance.

Why is keeping your dental implant clean important?

If food particles are left trapped between your dental implants or around the gumline, you may experience sensitivity or redness. It’s important to remove the debris quickly to prevent the risk of gum disease or infection. This can lead to periodontitis and subsequent bone loss around the dental implant.

Enhance your oral health with dental implants

Living with missing teeth can make tasks like eating and speaking difficult. Dental implants are the best solution to fill the gap in your smile and protect against future issues like gum disease. If you’re interested in learning more about dental implants or need advice on how to care for them, contact Topeka Oral Surgery today. Our team in Topeka is committed to helping you maintain a healthy and beautiful smile for years to come.

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Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

What is Oral Surgery?

Posted on November 29, 2024March 3, 2025 by admin

What is Oral Surgery?

Feeling nervous about oral surgery is normal, especially when it involves your teeth and gums. At Topeka Oral Surgery, our skilled surgeons can sometimes perform multiple procedures during one visit, depending on your oral health and the treatments you need.

Whether it’s a simple or complex surgery, we ensure safe and effective care. We also take the time to explain everything before and after the procedure so you feel confident and informed. Contact us to schedule your first appointment in Topeka, Kansas, and learn how we prioritize your oral health. We are able to perform various surgeries under sedation (oral or IV sedations).

Do You Need Oral Surgery?

Oral surgery can address many dental problems and keep your teeth and gums healthy. Even if surgery sounds intimidating, it might be the best way to resolve your issue and prevent future complications. At Topeka Oral Surgery, we offer treatments like tooth extractions, dental implants, and biopsies of oral lesions. We provide sedation options to help you stay calm during the process.

Types of Oral Surgery We Offer

Before recommending surgery, our oral surgeons carefully evaluate your teeth, gums, and jawbone with advanced imaging. Based on your condition, we suggest options to improve your oral health. Here are some of the key procedures we offer:

Tooth Extractions: – If a tooth is severely damaged or affected by gum disease, it may need to be removed to protect the surrounding teeth and gums.
Dental Implants – Missing a tooth? We can surgically place a metal screw in your jawbone to replace the root. This implant is finished with a natural-looking crown or bridge.
Bone Grafting – If your jawbone is too weak for a dental implant, bone grafting strengthens the area, making future implants possible.

Can Multiple Surgeries Be Done at Once?

In some cases, it’s possible to combine procedures to save time and visits. For example, tooth extractions and dental implants can sometimes be done together. However, certain treatments, like bone grafting, need time to heal before moving forward. During your first consultation, our team will explain which surgeries can be combined and which ones need to be scheduled separately.

Meet with an Oral Surgeon Today

At Topeka Oral Surgery, your oral health is our top priority. We provide advanced treatments such as tooth extractions, dental implants, and bone grafting to enhance your smile and boost your confidence. Contact us today to book an appointment and discover how we can help you achieve a healthier, happier smile in a comfortable manner using sedation as necessary.

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Hours of Operation

Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

When Is the Right Age to Get Dental Implants

Posted on November 25, 2024December 10, 2024 by admin

When Is the Right Age to Get Dental Implants

Dental implants are often the top choice for adults needing to replace missing teeth. But when children or teens lose a tooth due to an accident or a congenital condition, is an implant a good option for them?

At Topeka Oral Surgery we will perform a thorough exam and schedule appropriately for a patient’s dental implant, which can be based on age.

Is There a Minimum Age for Dental Implants?

Dental implants are typically recommended once a patient’s jaw has fully developed. If implants are placed before the jaw stops growing, they can disrupt further bone development, potentially leading to issues such as:

Bite misalignment
Gaps between teeth
Bone loss around the implant
Changes in facial appearance

Most teens reach full jaw maturity by 18 to 20 years old, although for some, it can extend into their mid-20s. To ensure a stable outcome, we often advise waiting until skeletal growth is complete. We prefer to wait until the patient turns 18 years old to confirm if bone development is finished before proceeding with surgery.

Temporary Options for Younger Patients

For younger patients who are not yet candidates for implants, we offer alternative solutions to maintain function and appearance. Our experienced surgeons at Topeka Oral Surgery may suggest a removable partial denture as temporary solutions.

Dental Implants in Topeka, Kansas

If you are in Topeka and considering a long-term solution for missing teeth, the specialists at Topeka Oral Surgery can guide you. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about the benefits of dental implants and see if they are the right fit for you. You can fill out the contact us form below. (insert contact us form below)

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Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

Dental Bone Graft Healing Stages – Topeka Oral Surgery

Posted on November 22, 2024November 11, 2024 by admin

Dental Bone Graft Healing Stages - Topeka Oral Surgery

At Topeka Oral Surgery, if you lose a tooth as an adult, 40-60% of the bone and tissue that supported it can break down within six weeks. But with bone grafting and dental implants , you can restore your jawline and smile confidently and minimize post extraction alveolar bone loss.

What is a bone graft?

A bone graft is made of small pieces of bone, which may come from a cadaver bone bank, which is highly regulated by the FDA.

What are the healing stages after a bone graft?

Here’s what you can expect after your procedure, according to Topeka Oral Surgery:

1. Stitches

After surgery, you’ll have stitches to close the area. Be sure not to touch or pull your lips back to check. This could disturb the stitches and slow healing.

2. Bleeding

Some bleeding is normal after surgery, and you may see light oozing or blood in your saliva for the first 12 to 24 hours. Using gauze or tea bags can help control the bleeding if necessary

3. Swelling

Swelling in your mouth, cheeks, or face is common in the first 24 to 48 hours. Applying ice packs for 30 minutes on, 30 minutes off can help reduce swelling. After 48 hours you can switch to heat.

4 .Pain

Mild discomfort is typical after surgery. It’s best to start taking pain medication before you feel pain to keep it under control. You may also need antibiotics to prevent infection—be sure to complete the full prescription unless you experience any reactions.

5 .Diet

After surgery, you’ll need to stick to liquids and soft, cool foods for a while. Avoid hot, hard, or crunchy foods, as they can damage the graft. As you heal, try to return to solid foods as soon as possible. After 2 weeks of healing you can return to a regular diet.

6 .Oral Hygiene

Follow your post-surgery oral care instructions to promote healing and prevent infection.

Topeka Oral Surgery is here to help in any way for bone grafting needs. Call us today at (785) 228-0500 to get started.

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Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

What You Need To Know About A Dental Bone Graft

Posted on November 18, 2024November 11, 2024 by admin

What You Need To Know About A Dental Bone Graft

What is Bone Grafting?

Bone grafting for dental implants is a common and painless treatment that becomes necessary when a patient lacks sufficient healthy bone structure for a successful dental implant procedure.

We also commonly perform bone grafting immediately after a dental extraction to try to maintain as much bone height and width as the extraction site heals. This helps us optimize healing outcomes to ensure we can place a dental implant to replace the missing tooth.

Why Might I Need Bone Grafts?

If you’ve lost a tooth, you might require bone grafts to restore the integrity of your oral structure. The alveolar bone, which supports your teeth, is particularly vulnerable to damage from tooth loss. When a tooth is compromised, the surrounding alveolar bone begins to deteriorate due to lack of stimulation. This can also affect the jawbone, leading to further atrophy over time.

Every day that a tooth is damaged or missing contributes to bone loss.

Do Bone Grafts Hurt?

No! Bone grafts performed at Topeka Oral Surgery are painless outpatient procedures. The healing process typically involves little to no discomfort. Post op care is to eat on the other side for 1-2 weeks. We will have you follow up in 3 months to obtain another x-ray to evaluate the bone’s healing. Post-surgery, you will receive antibiotics to prevent infection, and pain medication can be prescribed for particularly sensitive patients or if we use a drill.

How Long Does Healing Take After a Bone Graft?

Healing times for bone grafts can vary from patient to patient. The graft needs time to be metabolized with the existing bone. Most patients can expect the healing process to take up to 3-4 months. Once the structure is stable, you’ll be prepared for the next step in your dental treatment.

While a bone graft is a routine procedure, only a qualified professional can determine if it is the right option for you. Contact Topeka Oral Surgery today for a hassle-free consultation regarding your dental care needs.

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Appointment

Hours of Operation

Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

What Is a Healing Cap for a Dental Implant?

Posted on November 11, 2024November 27, 2024 by admin

What Is a Healing Cap for a Dental Implant?

A healing cap, also known as a healing abutment, is placed over a dental implant to help the surrounding tissues heal. This temporary cap stays in place during the osseointegration phase, which is when the implant fuses with the jawbone. This process takes on average 3 months.

Not everyone who gets a dental implant will need a healing cap. It’s best to discuss this with your dental surgeon (Topeka Oral Surgery )to see if it’s right for you and to understand its benefits and any potential downsides versus closing the tissue over the implant.

Understanding the Healing Cap

To grasp what a healing cap does, it helps to know how a dental implant is structured. An implant consists of several parts:

The Implant Screw

This is a small screw inserted into the jawbone, mimicking the root of a natural tooth. It remains hidden beneath the gums.

The Abutment:

This part sits on top of the implant post and connects it to the crown (the visible part that looks like a tooth).

Why Use Healing Caps?

The healing cap is slightly wider than the implant post to create space in the gums for the future crown. It helps the soft tissue heal around the implant and keeps the implant post safe from plaque and debris.

After the initial surgery—when the implant post and healing cap are placed—the area is left undisturbed to allow for healing. During this time the bone starts to regenerate and bond with the implant post, a process known as osseointegration.

Once this process is complete, you’ll return to the office for the final steps. We will check the healing cap to ensure the tissue is healing well and then have you see your dentist the same day to begin the crown fabrication.

Missing a Tooth and Want to Restore Your Smile?

At Topeka Oral Surgery, our goal is to help our patients regain their health and confidence. If you’re considering dental implants and are in the Topeka Kansas area, we are here to provide you with exceptional care.

We focus on building trust, being transparent, and showing compassion. Your safety is our top priority.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our skilled oral surgeons at Topeka Oral Surgery and learn how dental implants can help you replace a missing tooth.

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Appointment

Hours of Operation

Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

Are Dental Implants Painful After Surgery?

Posted on November 8, 2024November 27, 2024 by admin

Are Dental Implants Painful After Surgery?

Comfortable Dental Implant Procedures at Topeka Oral Surgery

At Topeka Oral Surgery, we prioritize your comfort and use the latest surgical techniques to make your dental implant procedure as easy and painless as possible.

Here’s what to expect:

Pain-Free Procedure

During the procedure, you won’t feel any pain, as we will numb your mouth with local anesthesia before starting. Some patients may feel mild soreness afterward, but it’s typically manageable and should improve within 48 hours.

Anesthesia Choices for Your Comfort

Local Anesthesia

Local anesthesia, commonly used for dental implants, is given through a small injection that might cause a quick pinch. This numbs the area so you’ll feel no pain, although you’ll be awake during the procedure. Once it wears off, you might notice a tingling sensation as the feeling returns to your mouth.

Sedation Options

For patients who feel very anxious, we can offer additional sedation:

Moderate Sedation – This option is given as a pill prior to the procedure that helps you feel calm and relaxed, although you’ll still be awake and able to respond to instructions.
Deep Sedation – If necessary, we can start an IV and give medications, which allows you to be extremely comfortable and sometimes fall asleep. This is most commonly used for wisdom teeth removal.

After Your Dental Implant Surgery

Once the anesthesia wears off, some patients feel mild soreness, which usually peaks around 2-3 days and fades within a week. You might have some swelling, bruising, or tenderness near the implant. Over-the-counter pain relief, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, and using an ice pack can help you stay comfortable. Most patients can return to work and their usual routine the day after the procedure.

If you experience any unexpected pain, reach out to us promptly. Severe pain out of proportion may indicate an infection with the implant during the initial 2 weeks of healing.

Schedule Your Dental Implant Consultation

At Topeka Oral Surgery, we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you’re considering dental implants, contact us to set up a consultation today! We’ll walk you through the process, answer any questions, and help you feel prepared and at ease.

Request an Appointment

Appointment

Hours of Operation

Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

Are Implant Supported Dentures Removable?

Posted on October 25, 2024November 27, 2024 by admin

Are Implant Supported Dentures Removable?

When tooth loss becomes a significant concern, it’s essential to understand your denture options. At Topeka Oral Surgery in Topeka, Kansas, our implant dentists provide a variety of solutions, including implant-supported dentures, traditional dentures, implants bridges, and All-on-4 implant systems.

What Are Implant-Supported Dentures?

Implant supported dentures are a method where prosthetic dentures are securely attached to your mouth using titanium posts which can snap onto the implant. These posts use your bone structure to hold the dentures firmly in place, minimizing movement and eliminating the need for adhesive gels.

Are Implant-Supported Dentures Removable?

Yes! Implant supported dentures rest directly on your gums but are also anchored by an attachment called a locator that is screwed into the dental implant. This ensures the dentures remain stable and don’t slip, while still allowing you to remove them for cleaning and maintenance. It’s an ideal option for replacing entire sets of missing teeth.

Benefits of Implant-Supported Dentures

Here are some of the key advantages – Topeka Oral Surgery

Enhance the appearance of your smile
Allow you to eat harder foods
Improve your speech (denture slips and moves less when talking)
Boost your confidence
Eliminate the need for traditional denture adhesives
Replace damaged or decayed tooth roots

The Implant-Supported Denture Process

1. Implant Placement:

Titanium implants are placed in the jawbone and allowed to heal and fuse for support.

2. Abutments Placement:

After healing, dental abutments are attached to the implants, and then a locator attachment is placed when the gum tissue has healed around the implant abutment.

3. Denture Fitting:

The custom made dentures are fitted onto the locators and securely fastened. You are then ready to use your dentures regularly.

The length of the process varies depending on each patient’s needs. Our implant dentists will outline a personalized treatment plan and timeline during your initial consultation.

Alternative Denture Solutions

Implant-supported dentures are just one option for full dentures. Each type has its benefits and potential drawbacks, so it’s important to discuss them with an experienced implant dentist.

1. Traditional Dentures:

These removable prosthetics fit over your gums and are secured by suction. Adhesive gels can help minimize slipping.

2. All-On-4:

Four or more strategically placed implants support a full denture. These permanent dentures snap into place, eliminating movement and the need for removal during cleaning.

If you or someone you know is seeking a lasting solution for tooth loss, contact Topeka Oral Surgery. During your initial consultation, our team will recommend the best option tailored to your lifestyle and health needs. Together, we will create a smile that you can proudly share. Schedule your appointment today!

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Appointment

Hours of Operation

Monday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Thursday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

Monday - Friday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed