Digital X-Rays: What’s What?

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You may have an inkling that advanced dental technology plays an important role in our ability to diagnose problems and plan for your improved oral health. However, when it comes to the particular details of digital X-rays, for instance, you may feel at a loss. True, you are likely more than happy to strike the necessary pose we suggest, which will optimize our ability to capture detailed images of your smile. However, you may be looking for specific information regarding why we’re taking X-rays or what to make of the different imaging systems we use. Don’t worry – becoming familiar what’s what in the world of dental imaging is simple.

What Makes Them Digital?

Conventional X-rays require the use of film and processing chemicals. The finished product includes a physical X-ray that we hold in our hand. Digital X-rays – similar to digital photography – are created with the use of computer software. Rather than processing film, we simply upload the gathered image into our computer system for further use.

Why Do I Need X-Rays?

There is a lot happening beneath the surface of your oral cavity that we cannot see by visually examining your smile. Though a glance in your mouth provides us with a jumping off point, we need a detailed, close-up look at the inner working of your mouth and supportive structures to diagnose concerns, suggest treatments, and create personalized care plans with precision.

Types of Digital X-Rays

We may suggest one or multiple types of X-rays depending on your particular needs. Learn more with the following:

  • Panoramic X-Rays: A panoramic X-ray captures an image of your entire mouth at once, rather than portions. This helps us view your sinuses, teeth, and jaws.
  • iCAT Scans: Short for cone-beam computed tomography, this imaging provides us with a three-dimensional view of your mouth and cranium. This helps us make decisions regarding oral surgery, such as procedures including implants or third molars.

ABOUT YOUR SANTA ROSA, CA, ORAL SURGEONS:

Combining experience in oral and maxillofacial surgery with a genuine care for their patients’ health and comfort, the team at Santa Rosa Oral Surgery is ready to improve the health and beauty of smiles in the Sonoma County and North Bay area. To schedule a consultation, contact our office by calling 707-545-4625 (Santa Rosa).

Children And Dental Implants

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You may feel completely filled in and confident about the benefits of dental implants and adult candidacy. However, when it comes to the oral health of your child, you are already well aware that a developing smile does not always qualify for the same treatments as Mom or Dad’s smile. We understand that protecting the beauty and completeness of your child’s smile is your top priority, which is why we are happy to clarify the role implants may play in replacing your son or daughter’s tooth. Become familiar with the particulars and, as always, please contact us, so we may offer your child a consultation and personalized treatment plan.

Can My Child Receive An Implant?

The answer to this question is not black or white. First, we can say definitively that we cannot provide dental implants to young children because their jawbones are still in the process of developing. We must wait until your child’s smile is fully mature before we can place an implant.

What Is The Qualifying Age?

This may vary from child to child. However, the qualifying age for implant placement typically includes 18 years for girls. For boys, the qualifying age is usually a bit older.

Why Might My Child Need A Dental Implant?

Perhaps your child’s permanent tooth fails to develop and you are left searching for a lasting prosthetic. Maybe your little one’s tooth becomes seriously injured or has been removed. Whatever the case, dental implants offer an excellent solution once your child becomes a candidate.

What If My Child Is Still Too Young?

Don’t lose hope – we will guide you toward a replacement solution for the time being. We encourage you to visit us right away, so we can determine what is happening with your child’s smile, while crafting a care plan tailored to your son or daughter’s needs.

ABOUT YOUR ROHNERT PARK, CA, ORAL SURGEONS:

Combining experience in oral and maxillofacial surgery with a genuine care for their patients’ health and comfort, the team at Santa Rosa Oral Surgery is ready to improve the health and beauty of smiles in the Sonoma County and North Bay area. To schedule a consultation, contact our office by calling 707-545-4625 (Santa Rosa).

Do I Need A Post-Extraction Implant?

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The first concern patients voice when they discover they require a tooth extraction addresses what will become of their previously complete smile. Fortunately, we offer dental implants to replace your extracted tooth if you are in need of a tooth replacement. While you may assume every tooth removal requires us to then address the open space, this is not always the case. Learn more about whether you qualify for an implant after your extraction, reasons you may not, and whether you need a tooth replacement at all. Keep in mind, we will work closely with you to ensure you’re on track for a beautiful, complete, healthy smile.

Your Tooth Or Gums Are Unhealthy

If we remove your tooth because it is infected or because it requires removal as the result of periodontal disease, it may not be time for a dental implant just yet. However, an implant may provide you with a wonderful solution once you are clear of existing infection – or, once you have received successful periodontal treatment.

Your Wisdom Tooth Is Impacted

If we remove your wisdom tooth, you will not require a replacement tooth. These are your “third molars,” which form behind the rest of your teeth and are not required for esthetics or daily function. In fact, some people never even develop wisdom teeth.

Your Smile Is Overcrowded

You will not require a dental implant or other prosthetic if we remove your tooth because your smile is overcrowded. In this case, the tooth extraction occurs to create additional space in your smile in preparation for orthodontic treatment to align your teeth.

Your Tooth Is Broken

If you require an extraction due to serious trauma that damages your tooth, a dental implant offers a wonderful tooth replacement option that will restore your entire tooth, including your roots. In some cases, we can perform the extraction and place an implant in one day.

ABOUT YOUR ROHNERT PARK, CA, ORAL SURGEONS:

Combining experience in oral and maxillofacial surgery with a genuine care for their patients’ health and comfort, the team at Santa Rosa Oral Surgery is ready to improve the health and beauty of smiles in the Sonoma County and North Bay area. To schedule a consultation, contact our office by calling 707-545-4625 (Santa Rosa).

How Do I Take Care of My Dental Implants?

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Dental implants are small titanium posts that are designed to mimic and replace the roots of your lost teeth. As such, they offer unmatched support for your dental crown, bridge, or partial/complete denture, making your prosthesis more lifelike in function and appearance. To help ensure the longevity of your dental implant(s) and restoration, however, it is important that you learn how to take care of your dental implants, both at home and at your dentist’s office.

Daily Dental Implant Maintenance

The beauty of dental implants lies in their ability to mimic nature – particularly, the roots that support and sustain your teeth. Besides comfort and function, this improved stability also means that caring for your implant restoration is similar to caring for your natural teeth.

  • Be sure to brush and floss your teeth and restoration at least twice every day to remove food particles and bacterial plaque.
  • Use non-invasive toothpaste to reduce the chances of scratching your implant restoration.
  • Your restoration should not stain, but it can be damaged from excessive pressure; refrain from grinding your teeth, or visit your dentist if you realize that you grind your teeth unconsciously.

Long-Term Dental Implant Success

Besides taking care of your dental implants every day at home, they also require professional care from your general dentist. Routine visits will help keep developing dental issues, like gum disease, at bay, and allow your dentist to suggest treatment if an issue does arise. Depending on your exact needs and preferences, you should schedule a visit at least once every six months, or sooner.

If gum disease or tooth decay in a nearby tooth are detected, then prompt treatment could be necessary to prevent the issue from weakening the oral structures that support your dental implant(s).

ABOUT YOUR ROHNERT PARK, CA, ORAL SURGEONS:

Combining experience in oral and maxillofacial surgery with a genuine care for their patients’ health and comfort, the team at Santa Rosa Oral Surgery is ready to improve the health and beauty of smiles in the Sonoma County and North Bay area. To schedule a consultation, contact our office by calling 707-545-4625 (Santa Rosa).

Orthognathic Surgery: FAQs

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Do you suffer from problems with comfortable daily chewing or effective speaking? Patients whose jaws are misaligned may find relief when they discover the benefits of orthognathic surgery. Rather than struggling with your dental health, daily function, and beauty, you can often find the improvement you need and desire with jaw surgery. Curious about what to expect from surgical jaw alignment and how significantly it may impact your life? Answers to frequently asked questions should help steer you in the right direction.

Orthognathic (Jaw) Surgery: Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Can’t I just receive orthodontic treatment to improve the alignment of my top and bottom teeth?

Answer: If your jaws did not form correctly, you will need more than orthodontic treatment. True, orthodontic systems like braces can first shift your teeth, so they align correctly after your surgical procedure. However, if your jaws require improvement beyond the way your teeth are organized, then you will require both orthodontic care and jaw surgery for comprehensive improvement.

Question: Is improving my jaw alignment really that important? I’ve become accustomed to uncomfortable chewing.

Answer: While some patients have a high tolerance for discomfort, there are serious side effects that come with poorly aligned jaws and teeth. Misalignment may lead to TMJ (jaw joint) disorder as a result of daily strain. You may also suffer from tooth damage, erosion, and sensitivity if you cannot close your teeth together properly. Of course, dental hygiene may also present a significant challenge, which promotes tooth decay, infection, and further complications.

Question: What will my smile look after orthognathic surgery? I want my function to improve but I also want my smile to look nice.

Answer: Poor jaw alignment may include abnormal facial skeletal growth, which can impact the appearance of your smile and your face. By aligning your jaws with orthognathic surgery, you can achieve an esthetically pleasing, aligned smile, and improved balance to your facial features.

ABOUT YOUR SANTA ROSA, CA, ORAL SURGEONS:

Combining experience in oral and maxillofacial surgery with a genuine care for their patients’ health and comfort, the team at Santa Rosa Oral Surgery is ready to improve the health and beauty of smiles in the Sonoma County and North Bay area. To schedule a consultation, contact our office by calling 707-545-4625 (Santa Rosa).

Dental Implants: Jaw Health Protection

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Patients are often under the impression that losing a tooth is a cosmetic problem and little else. First, it’s important to realize that your daily function and comfort can become severely impaired with even minor tooth loss. In addition, beyond esthetic and functional concerns is the fact that tooth loss can actually lead to the deterioration of your jawbone. We encourage you to learn more about how this happens and how dental implants can protect the health of your jaw, so you’re familiar with the fact that completing your smile and protecting your oral health is certainly possible. (more…)

Your Guide To Tooth Extractions

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Learning that the best solution for your smile is a tooth extraction can come as a bit of a shock. Fortunately, once you become familiar with the reasons behind this suggestion and the many benefits, it’s easy to understand that protecting your oral health is the number one goal. Once you’re on board, we recognize that you may feel curious about what to expect – with that comes a list of common questions. To get yourself started in preparing for your visit, we invite you stroll through the ins-and-outs of extractions, so you feel educated and certain about your smile’s future.

Planning Your Extraction

It’s important for you to realize that, like any treatment, we take the planning of your tooth extraction seriously because your smile is unique. The location of your tooth and the particular reason for removal both come into play. After examining your smile and speaking with you, we will also take a series of digital X-rays for closer inspection. Once we have mapped out your smile and the tooth in question, we can create a strategic care plan tailored to your smile for efficient treatment that typically requires a single visit.

Protecting Your Comfort

Your comfort is extremely important to us. You should feel very happy to be able to protect your oral health with a tooth extraction. All you need to do is make sure you show up and we will take care of the rest. We take a comprehensive approach to your comfort, ensuring the tooth and surrounding area is numb. We also provide a selection of anesthesia options, so you can enjoy a deeply relaxed procedure.

Replacing Your Tooth

Worrying about the state of your smile after your tooth extraction? There’s no need — we will discuss your options for replacing your tooth ahead of time. In many cases, we can remove your tooth and then replace it with a dental implant within the same visit.

ABOUT YOUR SANTA ROSA, CA, ORAL SURGEONS:

Combining experience in oral and maxillofacial surgery with a genuine care for their patients’ health and comfort, the team at Santa Rosa Oral Surgery is ready to improve the health and beauty of smiles in the Sonoma County and North Bay area. To schedule a consultation, contact our office by calling 707-545-4625 (Santa Rosa).

Dental Implants And Gum Disease

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Patients sometimes become a bit over-excited with the (not at all accurate) idea that they can stop taking care of their smiles if they have replaced their teeth with implants. We encourage you to think of your dental implants and their restorations as your natural teeth, so you don’t make any assumptions along the way that may be to your detriment. Fortunately, by providing your smile excellent care, you can continue to avoid oral illnesses like gum disease through optimal preventive hygiene.

Yes, You Can Get Gum Disease With Implants

Don’t be fooled into thinking plaque is no longer a problem since your tooth and its roots are composed of artificial material. True, your days of worrying about tooth decay are limited only to any natural teeth remaining in your smile. However, potential gum disease concerns will always remain because that tissue is living and needs to stay healthy to support your implants.

As for gum illness with dental implants, we call this peri-implantitis. The bacteria that leads to gum inflammation and eventual infection surrounding natural teeth will also result in similar problems surrounding your implants. This may lead to serious gum health decline and implant failure if not treated.

Yes, Prevention Is Easy

Of course! Keeping your dental implants clean and your gums nice and healthy is a breeze when you commit to daily preventive care. We will provide you with specific instructions regarding the frequency with which you should schedule dental checkups and cleanings as well as step-by-step dental hygiene suggestions. For the most part, you can expect to brush your teeth two times a day, floss your teeth once daily, and make sure you’re keeping up with consistent preventive visits. Stay on top your dental hygiene and you can look forward to healthy gums that stay that way.

ABOUT YOUR ROHNERT PARK, CA, ORAL SURGEONS:

Combining experience in oral and maxillofacial surgery with a genuine care for their patients’ health and comfort, the team at Santa Rosa Oral Surgery is ready to improve the health and beauty of smiles in the Sonoma County and North Bay area. To schedule a consultation, contact our office by calling 707-545-4625 (Santa Rosa).

Dental Implant FAQs

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You could read page upon page of literature explaining the scientific details of dental implants and how they work, speak with friends who have implants about their experiences, and even read message boards online. What you won’t achieve, however, without asking us the specific questions you’re curious about regarding your personal experience – is an expert response from a dental professional. For those occasional questions and curiosities about this tooth replacement option, we always encourage you to bring your questions directly to us, so we can ensure you receive the right answer. Consider some common questions and answers as a good example.

Question: How long will my dental implants last? Will I need to replace them often?

Answer: Your dental implants may last the rest of your life. While there is always a small chance of failure or damage, successfully placed implants should last for several years when provided excellent care.

Question: What can I do to prolong the life of my dental implants?

Answer: Take good care of your smile, of course. This is often the best pathway for any type of restoration or prosthetic. Fortunately, this is quite easy. You will need to continue brushing your teeth two times a day with a toothbrush that has soft bristles – don’t over-scrub or purchase abrasive products. Make sure when you brush you do so twice a day for two-minute sessions. Flossing is essential once a day. As for your professional dental care, you will need to continue scheduling preventive care appointments for cleanings and checkups.

Question: How do you know my crown will look right once you restore my implant?

Answer: We create a strategic plan before your surgery to ensure you receive precise placement of your dental implant post. As a result, whether you receive one implant, multiple implants, or a full arch of implants, your smile will appear balanced and beautiful.

ABOUT YOUR ROHNERT PARK, CA, ORAL SURGEONS:

Combining experience in oral and maxillofacial surgery with a genuine care for their patients’ health and comfort, the team at Santa Rosa Oral Surgery is ready to improve the health and beauty of smiles in the Sonoma County and North Bay area. To schedule a consultation, contact our office by calling 707-545-4625 (Santa Rosa).

All About Surgery Day: Your FAQs

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The day of your oral surgery is a wonderful day. You are ready to embark on a journey that will improve your oral health, so you can enjoy daily comfort, function, and often a smile that looks just as wonderful as it feels. However, we understand if you’re feeling some last minute jitters before your appointment. It’s a big – albeit highly beneficial – decision you have made to safeguard your oral health. To make sure you feel comfortable about your upcoming visit, we are happy to answer some common questions about what you can expect.

Surgery Day FAQs

Question: How will I know what to do before my surgery?

Answer: We will speak with you about what to expect and will provide you with instructions for pre-surgery preparation, so you won’t have to remember all of the details on your own.

Question: Will I need a ride home from my surgery?

Answer: Yes, you will most likely need a friend or loved one to drive you home after your oral surgery, whether you’re undergoing a treatment that requires general anesthesia or conscious sedation. Keep in mind that we offer a variety of amenities for the person who accompanies you to your visit (such as free WiFi and refreshments).

Question: What should I wear?

Answer: The best decision you can make is to show up in something that makes you feel comfortable. Don’t wear anything that bothers you, feels scratchy, or feels particularly restrictive. You should strive to feel relaxed.

Question: Can I eat a meal before my appointment?

Answer: If you are receiving general anesthesia for your oral surgery, we may instruct you to avoid eating and drinking for a particular amount of time before your surgery. In most instances, the cutoff time is midnight.

ABOUT YOUR SANTA ROSA, CA ORAL SURGEONS:

Combining experience in oral and maxillofacial surgery with a genuine care for their patients’ health and comfort, the team at Santa Rosa Oral Surgery is ready to improve the health and beauty of smiles in the Sonoma County and North Bay area. To schedule a consultation, contact our office by calling 707-545-4625 (Santa Rosa).