How Many Implants Does It Take to Replace All Your Teeth?

Posted on June 17, 2024August 13, 2024 by admin

How Many Implants Does It Take to Replace All Your Teeth?

Dental implants often emerge as the top recommendation for replacing multiple teeth due to their ability to offer a permanent and stable solution to replace teeth. It is important to understand how implants are necessary to help alleviate any uncertainties.

Dispelling Misconceptions about Dental Implants

Contrary to popular belief, not every missing tooth requires its own implant. While a single implant can indeed replace one tooth, the actual requirement depends on the number and distribution of missing teeth.

For example, if you have three adjacent missing teeth, only two implants are typically needed to anchor a bridge (see Image). However, if the missing teeth are scattered, each one might necessitate its own implant.

Exploring the All-On-4® Treatment Concept

For those missing an entire arch of teeth, the All-on-4® treatment offers a transformative solution. With this approach, a denture supported by as few as four implants and up to six implants can replace all teeth in an arch. After this procedure you will leave in with a temporary prosthesis that is screwed into the implants and thus it CANNOT be removed. This treatment is reserved for those with poorly fitting dentures or with multiple teeth that are unrestorable.

In certain scenarios, six implants per arch may be required, totaling twelve for a complete mouth reconstruction. The precise number is determined based on individual oral health during a consultation with an oral surgeon.

Why Choose Topeka Oral Surgery?

Opting for Topeka Oral Surgery for your dental implant consultation ensures top-tier care and a path to a brighter smile. Over the years our practice has placed over 10,000 implants. With extensive experience in placing All-on-4® dental implants, we offer personalized plans tailored to restore both your teeth and confidence. We strive to coordinate with your dentist to ensure appropriate occlusion and maintenance of your new device.

Take the initial step toward reclaiming your smile by scheduling a consultation with Topeka Oral Surgery today. Experience firsthand how All-on-4® dental implants can revolutionize your life.

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Why Would You Need a Bone Graft in Your Jaw ?

Posted on June 14, 2024August 13, 2024 by admin

Why Would You Need a Bone Graft in Your Jaw ?

Delaying tooth replacement after tooth loss can lead to jawbone resorption, as the natural stimulation from tooth roots is absent, causing deterioration in the jawbone and undesired changes in facial appearance, complicating dental restoration. Bone grafting presents a solution, stimulating bone regeneration where needed. If you’re facing such issues, visit Topeka Oral Surgery for expert oral surgery solutions to restore your dental health and facial aesthetics. About >40% of the alveolar bone around a tooth that was extracted may resorb overtime, which can be reduced by placing a bone graft into the extraction socket immediately after the tooth is removed.

Why Consider Bone Grafting?

A primary reason for opting for bone grafting is to ensure sufficient jawbone support for dental implants. These implants, titanium posts surgically embedded into the jaw, fuse with the bone via osseointegration, providing a stable foundation for artificial teeth. This process typically takes 3 months.

Ultimately, the goal is to preserve the bone after the extraction until the patient is ready for an implant. It is much more cost effective to do the bone graft at time of extraction than months later.

Consult Topeka Oral Surgery for Bone Grafting

Embarking on a bone grafting journey is pivotal for ensuring eligibility for successful dental implant placement, thereby fostering a complete, healthy, and confident smile. To assess candidacy for bone grafting and explore personalized solutions, schedule a consultation with Topeka Oral Surgery today. Sometimes a large bony graft is necessary prior to implant placement.

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Why Does a Tooth Need to Be Extracted ?

Posted on June 10, 2024August 13, 2024 by admin

Why Does a Tooth Need to Be Extracted ?

Every oral surgeon strives to preserve your natural teeth for as long as possible, ideally for your entire life. However, certain circumstances may arise where a tooth is too damaged or diseased to save, necessitating extraction and replacement. At Topeka Oral Surgery, our tooth extractions prioritize your comfort and safety.

When Is Tooth Extraction Necessary?

Risk of Infection

The primary reason for tooth extraction is when a tooth’s health deteriorates to the point where it endangers surrounding teeth. Severe tooth decay can lead to bacterial spread to the gums, jawbone, and even the body. A compromised tooth may be beyond saving, posing a risk of infection to the rest of your mouth if left untreated. Your dentist will commonly refer you to our clinic for an extraction if they think the tooth is not restorable.

Orthodontics

Teeth may also require extraction as part of orthodontic treatment. If your smile lacks adequate space for proper tooth alignment, an oral surgeon can collaborate with your orthodontist to remove specific teeth to help make space for the ideal smile. This prevents issues like crowding, which can affect smile aesthetics and lead to long-term complications.

Impaction

Impacted teeth, trapped under gum or bone, often necessitate extraction. Wisdom teeth are commonly extracted due to impaction, but other teeth can also become impacted. While oral surgeons typically attempt to facilitate the emergence of impacted teeth, extraction may be unavoidable in certain cases.

Additionally, tooth extraction may be necessary for full-mouth restoration to accommodate an implant-supported denture or fixed prosthesis, a service provided by Topeka Oral Surgery.

Maintain a Full, Healthy Smile through Comprehensive Oral Care

At Topeka Oral Surgery, our mission is to preserve your natural teeth whenever possible. When extraction is necessary, we can often remove the non-viable tooth and replace it with a dental implant, ideally on the same day if possible, ensuring you maintain a full, healthy smile. Explore further information about tooth extractions on our website or simply schedule a consultation to learn more.

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Can Dental Implants Really Last A Lifetime?

Posted on June 7, 2024August 9, 2024 by admin

Can Dental Implants Really Last A Lifetime?

Losing teeth can significantly impact your daily life, but fortunately there are effective treatments available to restore them. Dental implants, often considered the top choice, offer a long-term solution. At Topeka Oral Surgery, a common inquiry revolves around the durability of dental implants. While they are often hailed as lifelong replacements, is this truly the case?

Understanding Dental Implants

Dental implants, crafted from biocompatible titanium, mimic natural tooth roots. They fuse with the jawbone, providing a sturdy foundation for replacement teeth. Once the implant integrates fully, an abutment is attached to connect it to the gum or crown. Custom-made crowns complete the restoration, blending seamlessly with your natural smile in a screw retained fashion.

Why Dental Implants Stand Out

Dental implants have become preferred for tooth replacement due to their ability to restore confidence in your smile, enable normal biting and chewing, and prevent potential health issues linked with tooth loss. They cannot get dental caries and they do NOT require drilling on adjacent healthy teeth.

Longevity of Dental Implants

The notion that dental implants last a lifetime stems from research indicating that approximately 95 percent of implants remained functional for over 30 years. With proper oral hygiene and maintenance, patients can expect implants to endure for decades, often even longer. The health of the oral tissue alongside the implant is integral to longevity of the implant.

Factors Affecting Lifespan

However, untreated oral diseases like periodontitis and peri-implantitis can jeopardize implant longevity. These conditions lead to gum recession and diminished jawbone volume, compromising implant stability. Maintaining gum health again is crucial for preserving implants.

Additionally, while the implant itself may endure, the prosthetic (bridge, crown, or denture) typically requires periodic replacement. This routine procedure safeguards the implants, maintains surrounding teeth.

Ensuring Long-Term Restoration

At Topeka Oral Surgery, we prioritize delivering high quality dental solutions. During consultations, we tailor treatment plans to your needs and offer guidance on preserving implants. Discover more about the benefits, eligibility, and varieties of dental implants for a lasting smile by visiting us anytime for an implant evaluation.

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Dental Implants or Dentures – Which is Better ?

Posted on May 24, 2024August 13, 2024 by admin

Dental Implants or Dentures - Which is Better ?

When it comes to addressing missing teeth, there are four main options: Do nothing, obtain a denture / partial denture, use a dental bridge or obtain dental implants. Other than doing nothing, the three restorative options above aim to maximize functionality and aesthetics to your smile, but they have notable differences in terms of cost, durability, maintenance, and overall impact on oral health. Deciding between them can be a complex process, as it depends on individual circumstances and preferences. This Blog will highlight the key disparities between these choices to assist you in making an informed decision about which option suits you best, brought to you by Topeka Oral Surgery.

Delving into Dental Implants for Tooth Replacement

Dental implants, typically made of titanium, are carefully inserted into the jawbone to act as sturdy replacements for natural tooth roots. Through a process called osseointegration, these implants form a secure and permanent bond with the jawbone, which takes approximately 3 months after implant placement.

This results in a stable foundation onto which various prosthetics, such as porcelain, ceramic or acrylic crowns can be securely attached. One popular prosthetic is the implant-supported denture, which can be anchored to as few as two to four dental implants, effectively replacing an entire set of missing teeth. This meticulous procedure allows an individual to replace existing teeth that are unrestorable or to help create a better fitting denture. Locator retained dentures can also help create an aesthetically pleasing smile. These procedures are commonly done at Topeka Oral Surgery on a weekly basis.

While every case is unique, Ideal candidates for dental implants include the following:

Possesses healthy gums and sufficient bone density to support and fuse with the dental implant.
Does not excessively grind or clench their teeth, as pressure on implants can compromise their longevity.
Is a non-smoker or is willing to quit, as smoking can impede the healing process and heighten the risk of implant failure.

Although you may be a smoker or may grind your teeth – you can still have dental implants placed with success. Simply adjustments to the prothesis may be required over time.

Dental implants are widely regarded as the premier choice for replacing missing teeth. Individuals who meet the necessary health criteria can undergo this treatment and enjoy enhanced oral health and superior stability compared to traditional dentures. Traditional dentures are NOT as secure as locator retained dentures (image below).

Considering Dentures as an Alternative

In cases where implants are not recommended or if there is not enough bone to place an implant, dentures serve as an alternative. Traditional dentures sit on top of the gums, adhering either through dental adhesives or the mouth’s natural suction. They offer a non-surgical approach to replacing missing teeth, relying on their design to fit securely over the gums.

While dentures may be less invasive, they may not offer the same level of stability as dental implants. Therefore, traditional dentures are only recommended when there are oral health or general health conditions that would hinder the success of implant placement surgery.

Take the Next Step to Reclaim Your Smile

Now equipped with a better understanding of dental implants and dentures, it’s time to consider your options for reclaiming your smile.

If you reside or work in Topeka, Kansas, we welcome you to schedule a consultation at Topeka Oral Surgery for dental implant assessment. Our skilled team will evaluate your specific needs, address all your inquiries, and devise a personalized treatment plan to help restore function and aesthetics to your mouth. To request an appointment – please fill out the contact us banner below.

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What are dental implants made of ?

Posted on May 10, 2024August 27, 2024 by admin

What are dental implants made of ?

Topeka Oral Surgery specializes in providing advanced dental solutions, including dental implants, renowned for their durability and ability to resist dental decay. Dental Implants can last over 20 years.

What Are Dental Implants Made Of?

Topeka Oral Surgery specializes in the placement of dental implants. The implant itself, a small screw post surgically placed into the jawbone, is crucial for stability. Typically crafted from a titanium alloy, the same material trusted in various medical implants like those for hips and knees. Titanium boasts exceptional durability and biocompatibility, minimizing the risk of allergic reactions and ensuring a secure fusion with the bone over time. This will NOT set off a metal detector in an airport!

What Material Composes the Abutment?

After the fusion process, an abutment serves as a connector for attaching the replacement tooth securely. Traditionally, titanium has been a preferred choice due to its reliability and compatibility. However, alternatives like gold or zirconium are gaining popularity, especially for their aesthetic appeal and natural tooth color matching.

What Materials Are Used for Replacement Teeth?

Once the implant and abutment are set, the final step involves attaching the replacement tooth. Depending on your specific needs, your dentist may recommend various options like single crowns, bridges, or full dental arches. These replacement teeth can be crafted from diverse materials such as acrylic, nylon, metal, porcelain, ceramic, or even lightweight titanium, aiming to mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth seamlessly.

How Long Can You Expect Them to Last?

Dental implants themselves boast impressive longevity, potentially lasting a lifetime, while replacement teeth may require replacement after 20 years. Unlike a natural tooth, a dental implant CANNOT get a cavity.

Trust in Quality Dental Implants

Rest assured, our dental implants are meticulously crafted from high-quality materials, ensuring optimal aesthetics, comfort, and durability. If you seek further insights into dental implant composition or wish to explore treatment options, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with Topeka Oral Surgery. Your smile deserves the best care possible.

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Are Dental Implants Better than Real Teeth?

Posted on April 19, 2024August 27, 2024 by admin

Are Dental Implants Better than Real Teeth?

In the realm of dentistry, a primary aim is preserving natural teeth for as long as possible. However, when teeth are extensively damaged or decayed beyond repair, extraction followed by dental implants becomes a viable solution. The durability and longevity of these implants are paramount concerns shared by dentists, oral surgeons, and patients alike.

At Topeka Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, we often address patients’ queries regarding the strength and durability of dental implants, as well as their expected lifespan. Typically, we assure them of the implants’ robustness and potential longevity, subject to diligent oral care and regular check-ups. At this time long term follow is showing them lasting >20 years.

Are Dental Implants Always Successful?

Generally, the majority of patients undergoing implant procedures experience successful outcomes, with implants integrating well with the surrounding bone tissue. But sometimes, things don’t go as usual.

Studies indicate that dental implants boast success rates ranging from 92 to 98 %, meaning they survive the initial procedure and integrate with the surrounding bone of the maxilla or mandible. Nonetheless, complications or long-term failures can still occur.

Another study suggests that 90 to 95% of dental implants remain successful for at least a decade, with various factors influencing their durability, such as patient age, implant length and diameter, and overall jawbone health. Most importantly, success rates correlate to pre – existing health conditions such as diabetes, osteoporosis, smoking, or any disease treated with medications that alter the immune system. These conditions mentioned above can lower the probability of successful integration of an implant.

At Topeka Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, we prioritize the highest standards of care to maximize the success and longevity of your dental implant procedure. Our experienced team ensures thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

What Is the Normal Lifespan of Dental Implants?

The dental implant itself, a small titanium post inserted into the jawbone, provides a stable foundation for artificial replacement teeth. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental care, implants are designed to last a lifetime.

Teeth positioned towards the rear of the jaw endure more wear and tear from chewing and may require replacement sooner than those towards the front.

Do Dental Implants Provide Strong Bite Strength?

Dental implants are favored for their remarkable bite strength, typically reaching 80 to 90 percent of a natural tooth’s strength. This feature offers patients the confidence to enjoy their favorite foods without discomfort or concerns about stability.

How Do Dental Implants Compare with Other Tooth Replacement Options?

Dental implants stand out as the strongest option for tooth replacement due to several factors:

Made from durable titanium, designed for long-term endurance.
Anchored directly to the bone, enhancing stability and resilience.
Additional procedures like , bone grafts can further reinforce implants, making them even more robust.
Compared to alternatives, dental implants generally offer superior longevity and lower risks of loosening.
Impossible to get a cavity on a dental implant

How Do Dental Implants Differ From Natural Teeth?

Dental implants closely mimic the strength and resilience of natural teeth, primarily due to their fusion with the jawbone, providing a secure base for future crowns.

For further insights into the strengths and benefits of dental implants, schedule a consultation with Topeka Oral Surgery & Dental Implants. Our team is dedicated to addressing any questions or concerns you may have. Contact us below today to begin your journey towards a confident smile.

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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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What Can I Eat After Full Dental Implants?

Posted on April 12, 2024August 27, 2024 by admin

What Can I Eat After Full Dental Implants?

Dental Implant Diet

After undergoing dental implant procedures, it’s crucial to be mindful of your diet to promote proper healing and prevent infection. The implant sites require sufficient time to heal, allowing the implant posts to fully integrate into your jawbone. Consequently, it’s advisable to refrain from chewing directly on the implant site to avoid any potential complications. Ideally you want to eat on the other side of your mouth for two weeks to give the surgical site time to heal.

Below is a guide on what to eat following your treatment at Topeka Oral Surgery & Dental Implants:

Recommended Foods:

During the initial stages of recovery, stick to soft foods to minimize the need for extensive chewing. On the first day post-treatment, focus on consuming very soft or liquid foods to alleviate any discomfort and reduce the risk of inadvertently disturbing the implant. Suitable options include:

As you progress through the recovery process, gradually introduce slightly more solid foods that require minimal chewing, such as:

After two weeks you can gradually reintroduce chewier foods like meat or raw vegetables. However, continue to avoid chewing on the implant site to minimize unnecessary forces onto the implant while it is integrating with the bone.

Foods to Avoid:

To safeguard the healing process and prevent potential complications, steer clear of certain types of foods, including:

Avoiding foods that require vigorous chewing, like crusty bread or tough meats, is essential to prevent any disruption to the healing process. Ultimately, after two weeks you should be able to return to a normal diet.

Importance of Dietary Choices:

During the recovery period after your dental implant procedure at Topeka Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, it’s essential to avoid high-sugar foods. These not only increase the risk of infection but can also hinder the success of your implant by fostering the growth of harmful bacteria in your mouth.

Post-Healing:

At your 3 month follow up we will evaluate your implant and soft tissue to make sure it is healthy and stable enough to be restored. No diet changes are necessary at this time.

Learn More About Dental Implants

Topeka Oral Surgery and Dental Implants provides comprehensive dental implant surgeries. Explore the topic of dental implants in depth by contacting us below.

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Can Smoking Cause Dental Implants Failure ?

Posted on April 5, 2024August 27, 2024 by admin

Can Smoking Cause Dental Implants Failure ?

Improvements in technology and treatment approaches have transformed dental implants into a resilient and cost-effective solution for dental rehabilitation. With a success rate averaging between 95% and 98% over a decade when placed correctly and maintained well, dental implants stand as a reliable option. Nonetheless, there exists a narrow margin for implant failure, with smoking emerging as a significant risk factor. Research suggests that smokers experience failure rates between 6.5% and 20% when it comes to dental implants.

How Smoking Influences Oral Health

Smoking introduces nearly 4,000 distinct gases and chemicals into the body, which readily penetrate the bloodstream via the mouth’s lining. These toxins, including carbon monoxide, hinder oxygen circulation to oral tissues, leading to cellular damage. Smoking is associated with an increased likelihood of developing periodontal disease, oral cancer, and peri-implantitis, which is an infection surrounding the implants.

Moreover, smoking impedes wound healing. During dental implant insertion, incisions in the gums are made, sometimes accompanied by tooth extraction. Adequate blood and oxygen supply are imperative for gum tissue healing, yet nicotine can constrict blood vessels, disrupting this vital process. Topeka Oral Surgery recommends regular oral pathology sessions to make sure nothing is serious.

Impact of Smoking on Dental Implants

Research underscores the potential complications smoking poses to the long-term success of dental implants. While osseointegration—the fusion of implant and bone—may still occur, it might proceed at a slower pace. However, upon exposure for abutment attachment and permanent tooth installation, smoking heightens susceptibility to periodontal disease and bone loss. Bacterial growth and bone erosion around the implant induced by smoking heighten the risk of implant failure.

Smoking increases the likelihood of peri-implantitis, a condition marked by bacterial infection causing gum recession, implant pocket deepening, and bone loss.Consequently, untreated peri-implantitis can lead to implant loosening and failure.

Moreover, smoking diminishes saliva production, leading to dryness in the mouth. Saliva not only maintains oral tissue moisture but also aids in rinsing away bacteria, plaque, and food debris, which are detrimental to dental health.

If bone grafts accompany dental implants, smoking can hinder bone healing, particularly in implants placed in the upper jaw near the sinuses due to diminished bone volume.

Mitigating Implant Failure Risk

While being a smoker doesn’t preclude you from receiving dental implants, several measures can enhance outcomes and diminish implant failure risk:

Transparency

Inform your doctor about your smoking habits and any other health conditions for tailored care.

Smoking cessation

Ideally, quit smoking; alternatively, cease smoking at least one week before implant surgery and refrain for two to three months afterward.

Maintain Oral hygiene

Consistently brush and floss, being gentle around the implant area. After receiving replacement teeth, commit to daily brushing and schedule regular cleanings and checkups to catch any issues early on.

Having a history of smoking, or currently smoking, does not automatically disqualify you from being a candidate for dental implants at Topeka Oral Surgery & Dental Implants. Our team will carefully assess your overall health, dental history, and smoking habits to tailor a personalized treatment plan that optimizes the success of your implant placement and recovery process.

Request an Appointment for Your FREE Implant Consultation at Topeka Oral Surgery

Schedule your consultation with Topeka Oral Surgery today! Our experienced team is here to provide you with a FREE implant consultation, tailored to your unique needs. Don’t wait any longer – book your appointment now and let us help you achieve the smile of your dreams.

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Tuesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

Wednesday: 7:30AM - 4:00PM

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Saturday: By Appointment

Sunday: Closed

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

Saturday: By Appointment

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