Baton Rouge Dentist

My smile was ruined by an affordable dental implant doctor

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My two front teeth had become loose, so I began searching for an affordable dental implant dentist. I found an ad that met my criteria. When I went in for the estimate, I was told I needed those teeth to be extracted at that time, as well as bone beads to help with the healing.

After six months, and no front teeth, the dentist told me he could not perform the implant surgery because I didn’t have enough bone, and my gums needed treatment. He indicated I would need additional procedures prior to the surgery. Now I have no front teeth, no idea if they should have been removed originally, and just want my smile back!

What should I do?

Hank

Dear Hank,

The fact that you don’t know the cause of your loose teeth is a significant red flag. If the cause was periodontal disease, you would not have been a candidate for dental implants to begin with. The doctor should have discussed this with you from the get-go. It’s difficult to tell if your teeth could have been saved without knowing the cause. This is s a major concern.

However, it is likely, going forward, that you will need additional treatments prior to the implant surgery, in order for the implants to last. It would be a good idea to consult another dentist before proceeding. Also, there is no reason that you should not have been given temporary replacement teeth. Typically offices offer partial dentures, of flippers to keep the other teeth from moving, maintain the right amount of space, and to help make it easier for you to eat. It is not too late for these.

Make an appointment with another dentist to assess all of this this before moving forward.

This article is sponsored by Dr. Ryan Perry, Baton Rouge affordable dental implant provider.

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Dental Health

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I was recently diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and was told by my medical doctor that I should inform my dentist of my condition because it can pose dental problems. Can you tell me what dental concerns I need to be aware about?

Thanks, Terri

Dear Terri,

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a disorder that affects the fibrous protein collagen in our bodies. This protein offers strength and elasticity to the connective tissues like the skin, bone, ligaments, cartilage and so on. Connective tissues must have collagen to help in their function and purpose within the body.

This disorder can threaten our dental health in several ways.

  • Periodontal disease is the most major oral manifestation of this syndrome which can lead to early loss of teeth. Patients diagnosed with periodontal disease and EDS usually have attachment loss, mobility of the teeth, and resorption of the roots which enhance the probability of tooth loss. The gingival tissues are very fragile and bleeding can be difficult to control during dental surgeries.
  • Hypoplasia of the enamel is often noted. This is a condition where the enamel does not form properly and is weak in nature. The teeth can also be present with deep groves, pulp stones, and the roots shortened.
  • The lining of our mouths known as the mucosa is very fragile and can tear easily especially when touched by instruments, having orthodontic treatment, eating hard foods, and even brushing aggressively. If stitches are ever needed after a dental surgery they usually don’t hold up because the mucosa is so delicate.
  • Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ) may be present due to the fact that the collagen did not form properly causing movement of the discs and looseness of the ligaments within the jaw joint. This can cause clicking, popping, and pain.

Here is some advice in helping you maintain your oral health

  • Let your dentist and dental hygienist know of your condition. We recommend you get your teeth cleaned every three months, however make sure they limit the use of the ultrasonic scaler and tell them to be gentle.
  • If going through braces, it’s important to go through orthodontics at a slow pace and with caution because movement of the teeth can cause more root resorption and the periodontal ligaments and oral mucosa are very fragile
  • Make sure you are meticulous with your dental hygiene however use an ultra-soft toothbrush and be gentle. Brush your teeth a few times a day and floss daily.
  • Vitamin C helps in the formation of collagen synthesis and increases wound healing. This can be found in a supplement form, fruits, or vegetables.

Post courtesy of Dr. Perry, Baton Rouge Dentist.

PERIO SURGERY VS. DENTURES?

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I need to have a periodontal surgery where they cut the gums and lay them open to clean the teeth and possibly fill in where there is bone loss. With insurance I’m looking at close to $4000, plus I need a deep cleaning prior to the surgery, which is $1200. From what I’ve been told because my bone loss is 6 to 8 throughout my gums, this may not work. I’m 36, and I’m wondering if it would be better to just have my teeth extracted and get dentures. What do you think?

Thanks, Howard

Dear Howard

Sorry to hear about your gum disease problem at such a young age, however your teeth sound like there still savable. Bone loss involving six to eight mm pockets is considered moderate periodontal disease and very treatable especially if your teeth have very little or no mobility. Having the periodontal treatment recommended will stop the progression of the disease, therefore will help prevent you from losing your teeth; however it is vital that you develop exceptional oral hygiene habits and have dental cleanings every 3 months to maintain your smile and dental health.

The periodontal surgery can cost about the same as having all your teeth extracted and having dentures placed. Dentures are not like your natural teeth and most people can’t eat some of the foods they are use to. New denture wearers develop sores and gum pain which can end after a while or can last a lifetime especially if the denture is poor fitting. The bone and gums shrink over the years and dentures can become loose, therefore need to be relined or replaced. Upper dentures seem to stay in place better due to the suction we gain from the roof of the mouth, however lower dentures are another story. On the lower arch we do not get the same suction, there is less of a foundation, and the movement of the tongue prevents the lower denture from staying in place most of the time. If you choose to get dentures we would recommend that you consult your dentist about an over-denture on the lower jaw. This consist of having dental implants placed on the lower arch which then attaches to the denture keeping it stable and more comfortable.

We highly recommend that you save your natural teeth if possible. Always remember you will never have another set of teeth like your own and a denture is the last resort one should take.  If you’re concerned how well your teeth will respond to the periodontal surgery and there longevity you should get a second opinion to help you make the best decision for you.

Post courtesy of Dr. Perry, Baton Rouge Dentist.