Multiple Teeth Replacement Miami

Miami – Multiple Teeth Replacement

Losing a single tooth is disheartening; however, the loss of several teeth can be devastating, especially if the lost teeth are visible when one smiles and/or speaks.

Sadly, missing teeth can negatively affect an individual’s life in a variety of ways: For example, an individual may feel so self-conscious about the missing teeth that he or she avoids asking for a well-deserved promotion. In addition, due to embarrassment, an individual may skip important, once-in-a-lifetime social events (i.e., weddings, family reunions, holiday gatherings, etc.).

The good news is that today, there is no need to continue dealing with the negative aspects of missing teeth or the hassles associated with removable acrylic dental prostheses; instead, patients are choosing to have a Multiple Teeth Replacement Procedure with dental implants at Lamas Dental Specialists in Miami. After this procedure, patients can feel confident in the way they look, they can once again laugh-out-loud, speak, eat and smile without any concerns related to their teeth: Dental implants are providing patients with natural-looking results that are virtually undetectable even when these implants are placed directly next to the individual’s remaining biological teeth. Furthermore, according to the American Association of Endodontists, dental implants offer patients an extremely high success rate of nearly 98 percent.

How Teeth Affect an Individual’s Overall Health

The health of the teeth can affect everything from the way an individual socially interacts with others (i.e., avoiding speaking or smiling due to tooth loss) to causing negative effects on his or her overall, general health: For example, research indicates that the inflammation and bacteria associated with gum disease is linked to dementia as well as heart attacks.

Causes of Missing, Failing and/or Frail Teeth

Missing, failing and/or frail teeth can result due to a variety of issues, including:

• Poor Dental Hygiene

  – gum disease due to poor dental hygiene can lead to tooth loss and/or breakage of teeth. The sticky plaque that accumulates on the teeth contains bacteria (i.e., bacterium Streptococcus mutans). Unless removed, this bacteria-filled plaque becomes a hard substance referred to as tartar (i.e., calculus). Tartar allows the bacteria in the mouth to continue to thrive and the acid that is released by the bacteria after it ferments sugar causes damage to the gum, gum tissue, teeth and even the jawbone. Pockets begin forming at the base of the teeth: These pockets provide the bacteria a perfect place to reside and continue to multiply. As the pockets deepen, more and more of the root is exposed: Eventually, the affected teeth will become loose and fall out. Seeking treatment at the first sign of gum disease is recommended.

• Trauma

  – losing a tooth during an accident or while participating in a sporting event is not an uncommon occurrence. While losing a tooth during these situations is common, if you handle the tooth properly, Dr. Lamas may be able to reinsert the tooth; thus, preventing the need for a dental implant with a crown. If your tooth is lost during an event, gently pick it up without touching the portion of the tooth that rests within the gum (e.g., the root). If the tooth is dirty, you can use milk to rinse it off – again – very gently – do not dry the tooth or touch the root. The tooth must stay moist; therefore, you have a few options: You can carefully place the tooth in your mouth between your gum and your cheek or you can place it in a cup of milk, saliva, or water. Individuals who participate in sports can protect their teeth with a custom-made mouthguard during play.

• The Natural Aging Process

  – as we age, the everyday wear-and-tear we place on our teeth can take its toll, causing damage.

• Sleep Disorders

  – sleep bruxism refers to a condition in which an individual clenches and grinds his or her teeth during sleep: Approximately 32 million people (of all ages) in the United States have this condition. Since sleep bruxism occurs while an individual sleeps, it is a subconscious condition; therefore, this action is not voluntary, which means he or she cannot mentally decide to stop performing this action. However, in order to protect his or her teeth, Dr. William P. Lamas can create a custom-designed mouthguard. This mouthguard is worn as the individual sleeps to effectively protect the teeth. That said, there may be an underlying cause for the disorder. Dr. Lamas may be able to help determine if there is and recommend further treatment.

• Genetics

  – unfortunately, genetics can play a role in the structure of the teeth and even the strength of the enamel. For example, if an individual is born with genetic Enamel Hypoplasia his or her enamel is missing one of the three crucial development phases and is, therefore, weak: As such, the enamel may not be able to withstand the day-to-day forces placed upon it. This would make his or her teeth more prone to decay because the enamel is essentially the tooth’s protective covering.

The Traditional Method for Multiple Teeth Replacement Vs. Multiple Teeth Replacement with Dental Implants

The conventional method used for replacing multiple missing teeth involved cementing a bridge using the teeth located on either side of the teeth that were missing as the anchors, creating a removable partial to replace the missing teeth or, if all the teeth in an upper or lower arch are missing, a full, traditional denture would be created.

• A Traditional Dental Bridge

  – to place a traditional, fixed bridge, the dentist needs to grind down the neighboring teeth. This grinding down process prepares the adjacent teeth to hold caps that anchor the fixed bridge. Unfortunately, if at some point the bridge becomes compromised (e.g., loosens, cement breaks free, etc.) the grinding down of the anchoring teeth leaves them susceptible to decay, which may lead to the need for a root canal at a later date. Furthermore, these bridges do not offer the patient any additional biting support. When Dr. William P. Lamas performs a Multiple Teeth Replacement Procedure with dental implants using an implant-supported bridge or several single implants, there is no need to damage any other healthy teeth.

• A Partial or Traditional Denture

  – partials and traditional dentures have been the only options for replacing multiple teeth in different areas of the mouth or a full arch of missing teeth for quite some time. Now, dental implants are making these uncomfortable acrylic dental appliances a thing of the past. Although, initially, dental implants are more expensive than these removable devices, dental implants are considered a permanent solution: Therefore, future fittings, messy adhesives and new appliances are not necessary. Many of Dr. Lamas’ patients state that the benefits they receive with dental implants are well-worth the added cost. Furthermore, partials and traditional dentures cannot stimulate the alveolar bone the way that dental implants can.

Jawbone Resorption: A Common Occurrence with Traditional Tooth Loss Solutions

The portion of the jawbone that holds the root of a tooth (i.e., the alveolar bone/jawbone) remains strong due to the stimulation it receives while an individual bites and chews food; however, when a tooth is lost, the root is gone and this stimulation ceases.

Once stimulation stops, the jawbone begins to deteriorate through a process referred to as resorption. As the jawbone deteriorates, it shrinks. This shrinking causes dental prostheses that once fit well to become loose and depending on the areas and number of teeth that are missing, an individual’s facial characteristics may begin to change (e.g., hollow-looking cheeks, etc.).

Dental Implants Stop Deterioration by Stimulating the Jawbone

Since several dental implants are used to replace the roots of the missing teeth, the alveolar bone is stimulated, which prevents continued resorption. Once the Multiple Teeth Replacement with Dental Implants Procedure is complete, patients enjoy a completely natural-looking result that feels just like their natural teeth.

The Benefits of a Multiple Teeth Replacement Using Dental Implants with Dr. William P. Lamas in Miami

Currently, a dental implant is the only option available to permanently replace a missing tooth. Dr. William P. Lamas regularly performs Multiple Teeth Replacement Procedures using implants at his office in Miami. He uses posts that consist of the metal titanium as well as non-metal posts made of the ceramic Zirconium. The titanium implants have three parts: the post, the abutment and the crown; whereas, the Zirconium implant is a single piece.

There are numerous benefits to replacing missing teeth with dental implants, here are a few:

• A Sturdy Solution

  – dental implants are able to stabilize an entire implant-supported bridge; thus, making these bridges much more functional when compared to their temporary counterparts. A Multiple Teeth Replacement bridge using dental implants is stronger than a traditional bridge; therefore, it will not move around like its cemented counterpart may.

• A More Sanitary Option

  – the metal surrounding conventional bridges has a tendency to become exposed due to gum recession and the washing out of cement: These gaps left behind from lost cement and receding gums are not only unsightly but can also lead to gum disease. Multiple Teeth Replacement with dental implants are easy to clean and keep sanitary, which makes gum disease less likely.

• Dental Implants Fuse with the Jawbone

  – once these implants are inserted into the jawbone, the body itself begins depositing bone around them: This fusion process is referred to as osseointegration. It is this osseointegration process that makes dental implants so secure. The dental implant becomes the patient’s new root system. Dental implants are especially good for the jawbone because the resorption process is halted. Many of Dr. Lamas’ Multiple Teeth Replacement patients develop a stronger jawbone after their dental implant procedure.

Who Should Consider Dental Implants?

Anyone who is missing one tooth, several teeth or an entire arch of teeth may be a good candidate for dental implants. Furthermore, individuals who have failing teeth that have yet to be extracted should consider dental implants.

On many occasions, Dr. William P. Lamas can extract a tooth and immediately insert a dental implant: This method is beneficial for the patient because it eliminates the need for two surgical sessions and by inserting the dental implant directly following the extraction, bone resorption is prevented. To replace multiple teeth, Dr. Lamas may use a dental implant supported bridge or, depending on location of each tooth, a separate dental implant for each missing tooth.

Individuals who have lost an entire arch of teeth may also be eligible for Multiple Teeth Replacement with dental implants. Dr. Lamas can either use one of the revolutionary techniques designed for full arch replacement (i.e., All-on-4® or TeethXPress®, etc.) or he can create the patient a set of implant-supported, removable dentures (i.e., Implant-Bar or Implant-Retained Dentures).

A Consultation with Dr. William P. Lamas for a Multiple Teeth Replacement Procedure in Miami

What to expect:

• During your initial consultation, Dr. Lamas and his staff will need to know if you take any medications, vitamins or herbal supplements on a regular basis; therefore, please bring a list of these products with you (information should include dose, number of times taken a day, etc.).
• If you have a chronic condition, such as heart disease, high blood pressure and/or diabetes, please let Dr. William P. Lamas know at this time.
• Any previous surgeries should be discussed, as well as complications resulting from these procedures and/or allergies to medications, or latex.
• Dr. Lamas will examine your mouth. Typically, once the examination is complete, X-rays and/or a Computed Tomography Scan (CT or CAT Scan) will be taken. These images allow Dr. William P. Lamas to determine the density of the bone in the areas where you are missing teeth as well as to see where your sinus cavities and alveolar nerve are located.
• Once he has completed reviewing your radiology reports, he will create you a personalized treatment plan. If the teeth Dr. Lamas is replacing during your Multiple Teeth Replacement Procedure still need to be extracted, he will include the extraction procedure within your surgical treatment plan.
• Treatment options, anesthesia, cost and payment options will all be discussed at your initial consultation.
• At Lamas Dental Specialists, patients are always encouraged to ask questions.

Sedation Options

At Lamas Dental Specialists in Miami, we want our patients to be comfortable throughout their dental procedures: For this reason, we offer our patients several different sedation options.

Sedation options during a teeth replacement procedure in Miami include:

• Twilight Sedation

  – given intravenously during the procedure. The patient remains somewhat conscious, but comfortable. He or she will not recall the procedure. Patients who receive this type of sedation will need to bring a driver with them to the office on the day of their Multiple Teeth Replacement Procedure.

• Orally-Administered Sedation

  – patients take this sedation in the form of a pill approximately an hour before the procedure. The strength of the medication determines the effect it will have on the patient. Patients receiving this type of sedation are required to have a driver with them on the day of their Multiple Teeth Replacement Procedure.

• Laughing Gas

  – the patient inhales Nitrous Oxide mixed with Oxygen through a small mask that is placed over the nose during the surgical session. The patient is comfortable; however, he or she does remain awake. Many times, a driver is not necessary following this type of sedation.

• General Anesthesia

  – patients receive this sedation through an IV and remain completely asleep throughout the entire procedure. Patients who receive this type of sedation will need to bring a driver with them on the day of their procedure.

Ultimately, anesthesia is meant to help patients feel calm and ensure they remain comfortable throughout their procedure. During the initial consultation, after speaking with the patient, Dr. William P. Lamas will recommend the type of anesthesia he believes will serve the patient best.

A Multiple Teeth Replacement Procedure with Dental Implants at Lamas Dental Specialists in Miami

Experience is key: Achieving the optimal results following a Multiple Teeth Replacement Procedure with dental implants requires that the implants are strategically placed. In addition, the implants must be inserted at a specific angle. Due to his experience, Dr. William P. Lamas knows the angle at which these implants need to be placed, how to avoid interrupting the sinus cavities as well as the alveolar nerve as he is placing the patient’s dental implants.

1. Once the anesthesia takes effect, the procedure can begin.

2. Small pilot holes are drilled into the bone.

3. Dr. Lamas gently widens these holes so they can accommodate the small dental implants (titanium or Zirconium).

4. Once the dental implants are inserted, an abutment is attached to the titanium implant. It is this abutment that attaches the crown (e.g., visible portion of the tooth) to the titanium implant (e.g., replacement root). If Zirconium implants are used, these are a one-piece design; therefore, an abutment is not necessary.

5. After placing the implants, patients receive a temporary prosthesis. A crown for a single tooth, and a bridge for multiple teeth that are next to one another.

6. The temporary prosthesis remains on the dental implants until the permanent prosthesis is complete. This also gives the implants time to integrate with the jawbone.

7. Patients who had Oral Sedation or IV Sedation are released to their drivers; whereas, patients who had Nitrous Oxide Sedation will usually be able to drive themselves home.

For the safety of our patients, we do not permit the use of public transportation following any procedure requiring sedation.

Recovering After a Multiple Teeth Replacement Procedure at Lamas Dental Specialists in Miami

What to expect during recovery:

• Following your Multiple Teeth Replacement Procedure with Dental Implants, slight bruising and bleeding is expected; however, these symptoms usually dissipate within a few days.
• Inflammation may last for a couple of weeks. Nevertheless, this inflammation is usually confined to the area(s) where Dr. William P. Lamas placed your dental implants.
• Most patients tolerate this procedure well and only experience mild discomfort, even so, Dr. Lamas may provide you with oral painkillers following your Multiple Teeth Replacement Procedure at his office in Miami.

The Results

Results are immediate: Once your Multiple Teeth Replacement Procedure with Dental Implants is complete, you will have a full, beautiful smile. Your replacement teeth will feel just like your biological teeth. Unlike partials, fixed bridges and dentures, Multiple Teeth Replacement using dental implants is a permanent solution that requires no follow-up procedures, no restrictions once they have completed healing and there are no concerns related to cavities.

Longevity Through Proper Dental Hygiene

Patients who properly care for their dental implants increase the likelihood that they will last them a lifetime. The very first ‘modern’ dental implant was placed in the mouth of Gösta Larsson in 1965 and remained completely intact until his death in 2006.

Cost of Multiple Teeth Replacement with Dental Implants at Lamas Dental Specialists in Miami

The only way to determine how much a Multiple Teeth Replacement Procedure will cost is for you to make an appointment by calling 305-440-4114. Scheduling your initial consultation is the first step towards replacing your missing teeth.

Dental Insurance and Implants

Although most insurance companies do not cover dental implants, there are some that do cover portions of the procedure; therefore, Dr. Lamas recommends that his patients contact their dental insurance companies to inquire about their particular plan. However, even if insurance will not cover dental implants, Lamas Dental Specialists in Miami offers patients a variety of payment options.

Payment Options

At Lamas Dental Specialists in Miami, we accept:

• American Express
• Visa
• Discover
• MasterCard

Some of our patients choose to pay for their dental implants by opening a CareCredit or GreenSky account. CareCredit allows patients to set up customized payment plans that are designed to fit his or her specific financial circumstance. GreenSky is similar to CareCredit in that it offers flexible payment plans.

Lamas Dental Specialists in Miami – We are a Step Above the Rest: Here is Why

Whether Dr. William P. Lamas is replacing a single tooth, multiple teeth or an entire arch, he uses his artistic vision and experience to provide his patients with the permanent, beautiful, fully-functional and natural-looking smile they have always wanted. Dr. Lamas’ dedication to providing his patients with the most innovative products and dental solutions available is evident in his desire to remain abreast of the advancements in Periodontics and Dental Implant Dentistry.

At Lamas Dental Specialists in Miami, we understand how tooth loss can affect many areas of an individual’s life: For this reason, we do our best to help our patients solve their dental issues quickly and effectively. As an experienced Periodontist and Dental Implant Specialist, Dr. William P. Lamas will be able to determine which dental implant procedure will serve the patient best during his or her initial consultation at Lamas Dental Specialists in Miami. Once the patient decides to have dental implant surgery, his or her procedure will be scheduled.

Dr. Lamas can replace missing and failing teeth with dental implants using a variety of Multiple Teeth Replacement techniques. Dental implants offer you a comfortable solution to missing teeth; furthermore, these implants feel completely natural and provide patients with a prosthetic dental solution that looks so much like their biological teeth that once put into place, they are virtually undetectable. To learn more about how Dr. William P. Lamas can help you, contact his Miami office at 305-440-4114 today and schedule your consultation. Lamas Dental Specialists is located at 2645 Southwest 37th Avenue, Suite 304, in Miami.

 

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