If you have lost a tooth in your upper jaw, you may have noticed that the bone has receded in the location of the empty tooth socket. You may not think this is a problem, especially if the surrounding teeth haven’t shifted much. However, if you’re planning on replacing your missing tooth with a dental implant, you might not qualify based on where the bone has receded in your jaw. Thankfully, there is a bone grafting procedure called a sinus lift that can help ensure your candidacy for dental implants!   The Problem with Upper Jawbone Loss Tooth and bone loss in the upper jaw presents a unique problem. Your sinus cavities are located directly above this bone. When the bone atrophies without teeth, it loses both height and density, and the sinus cavity shrinks along with it. In most cases, the bone is too short for a dental implant to be safely inserted without puncturing the sinus membrane above.   How a Sinus Lift Helps A sinus lift is a type of bone grafting procedure th ...

  Did you know that sedation dentistry has helped more patients than those with dental anxiety? Even if you don’t fear going to the dentist, but have a sensitive gag reflex or get restless easily, sedation can benefit you, too! Your dentist will be able to help you determine which type of sedation is right for your specific needs. A variety of patients can take advantage of sedation dentistry, including those with:   Mild to severe dental anxiety or phobia.  Sedation is most commonly used for patients who have dental anxiety or dental phobia about the dentist or dental procedures. Sedation options range from nitrous oxide and oral sedation to IV sedation and general anesthesia.   Sensitive gag reflex.  Patients with a sensitive gag reflex may find it impossible to complete their dental appointments comfortably. Sedation helps put patients into a deep state of relaxation that minimizes or reduces their gag reflex during the duration of the appointment.   Complex d ...

  Have you noticed that your gums bleed easily when you brush and floss? Or do they appear red and swollen? These are common symptoms of gum disease, a progressive condition affecting the health and function of your oral structures (gums, bone, and teeth). In fact, gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults! It’s a good idea not to put off gum disease treatment if you’re showing signs. Here are three reasons why:   Gum disease won’t go away on its own.  Gum disease is a progressive condition, meaning once it develops, it will continue to worsen unless your periodontist intervenes with treatment. It’s important to seek treatment at the first signs of gingivitis, the only stage of gum disease that is reversible. Otherwise, gum disease can only be managed with routine periodontal maintenance every 3-4 months after initial treatment.   Gum disease harms more than your gums.  Tender, swollen, and bleeding gums are only the first problems that ...

  You may not be worried that you’ve lost a tooth, especially if the gap doesn’t show when you smile. But did you know that there are dangers that come with not replacing a missing tooth? While it might not be noticeable at first, your oral structures are changing without a tooth. Don’t become a victim of these four dangers of not replacing your lost tooth! 1.       Jawbone Loss One of the biggest concerns with tooth loss is the subsequent bone loss that occurs in your jaw. Over time, this bone will atrophy (shrink away), creating a “divot” where your tooth once was. This can increase the risk for surrounding teeth becoming loose. 2.       Changing Bite  Along with jawbone loss comes the risk of your surrounding teeth shifting out of place. This will cause a noticeable change in your bite that may lead to TMJ problems and difficult biting and chewing foods comfortably. 3.    &nbs ...