Discolored Dental Implants?

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To be clear, you’re not going to end up with stained dental implants. What you will end up with if you’re not careful, however, is discolored restorations that sit on top of your implants. We know that the last thing you want to worry about once you’ve gotten your smile complete and lovely looking is the chance of yellowing or a darkening of your otherwise beautiful tooth replacements. The fantastic news is that we can help you very easily avoid the types of problems that leave your smile vulnerable to staining (natural remaining teeth included).

Remember, They’re Not Immune To Stains

One of the benefits you probably learned about when you were introduced to dental implants is the fact that our restorations are crafted from lifelike, stain-resistant materials. Their color is customized and, though they may seem fragile, they’re actually quite resilient. The same is true of your natural teeth! In both cases, while immediate staining is not a concern, long-term discoloration is absolutely a possibility. Keep this in mind, so you don’t end up disappointed down the road.

What To Consider

Remember that there are multiple culprits that lead to the possibility of your dental implants’ restorations becoming stained (as well as your natural teeth). Let’s review these potential dangers, so you remember to limit or steer clear of them:

  • Smoking cigarettes will leave residue on your smile that leads to staining
  • Deeply pigmented beverages and foods coat your teeth and may lead to staining
  • Poor dental hygiene and neglect of professional cleanings may also contribute to staining

Protect Your Implants From Staining

Keeping up with the tips and essential habits we suggest can keep your dental implant restorations looking lovely. To learn more, schedule the time you need in Santa Rosa, CA by calling Santa Rosa Oral Surgery at 707-545-4625 to schedule your visit today.

Dry Mouth Quiz

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You may not spend much time worrying about dry mouth until it happens to you. If you’re a dental implant wearer, this issue can make you feel extremely concerned. Of course, you know that dry oral tissues promote the proliferation of bacteria, which can lead to inflamed gums and other problems. As a result, you worry that inflammation will destroy the incredible amount of effort you put into keeping implants safe. Fortunately, getting your mouth back to optimal condition is easy, though you may require a dental visit for assistance. Find out more regarding good (and bad) choices with our quiz.

Quiz Questions: True or False?

  1. True or False: If you’re experiencing dry mouth, it’s a good idea to consume caffeinated drinks like coffee to help lubricate your oral tissues.
  2. True or False: When you’re already dealing with this problem, there’s no reason to worry about a cigarette habit. Smoking won’t make things better or worse.
  3. True or False: It seems like drinking water is a good idea but it’s not going to do much of anything to solve your problem with your mouth or protect your dental implants.

Quiz Answers

  1. False. Unfortunately, caffeinated drinks may cause your mouth to become drier. While your daily cup of coffee may not be responsible for your dry mouth, it might not be doing much to help.
  2. False. There’s always a reason to worry about cigarettes! Smoking is not good for your oral health, can make the chance of dental implant failure greater, and will certainly make dry mouth worse.
  3. False. Drinking water is a wonderful decision. It helps keep your mouth moist, hydrate your tissues, hydrate your body, and rinse away bacteria that your insufficient saliva flow has been missing.

Protect Dental Implants With Prevention

Dry mouth got you down and you’re worried that it may negatively affect your dental implants? Set up the time you need in Rohnert Park, CA by calling Santa Rosa Oral Surgery at 707-584-1630 to schedule your visit today.

All About Dental Implants At Work

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Perhaps if you are about to embark on the journey of receiving dental implants, you may wonder about how it’s all going to work out. Will it be traumatic in any way to have a smile with implants when it comes to your daily work life? If you know all about the benefits of this solution for your smile, you can guess that things will probably be fine. However, the details are likely what you’re after, so you can feel completely optimistic about your daily quality of life. Let’s delve a little deeper into what life will be like, so moving forward is a cinch.

Benefits You Can Expect

When you decide on dental implants, there are some benefits you can expect in the workplace that you may not have realized. Consider the following:

  • Socializing will feel so much easier either because you’re not worried about a slipping denture or because your missing teeth are replaced and look completely natural
  • Your confidence will be restored in your ability to speak and in your appearance, which makes daily talking, presenting, and going out for promotions more comfortable
  • Eating in the office or heading out with co-workers for lunch? No problem, you can simply eat and enjoy yourself without worrying about a thing

Care On The Go

Protecting your dental implants just means brushing, flossing, and scheduling your checkups and cleanings. If you’re interested in cleaning your smile at work, you’ll need the usual toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss.

Anything To Worry About?

Fortunately, when you choose dental implants for your missing teeth replacement, you don’t really have anything to worry about. There’s no more slippage, there’s no need for any type of special adhesives, and you’ll get the stability you expect from your teeth. Generally speaking, you can go about your life without worrying about your smile (as long as you are caring for it, of course!).

Get Dental Implant Answers In Santa Rosa

When you’re looking for answers about dental implants and your daily life, you need look no further than a dental visit. Set up the time you need in Santa Rosa, CA by calling Santa Rosa Oral Surgery at 707-545-4625 to schedule your visit today.

Is It A Canker Sore?

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When it comes to oral pathology, which is the area of care dealing with sores, bumps, and anything that may hint at a disease happening within your mouth, it’s often difficult for patients to figure out what’s going on at home. As a result, we find that you may not know when to schedule a visit with us and when to just “wait and see.” We understand your dilemma and know that a common cause for confusion is the canker sore. Not sure what to make of this issue or whether you should come in for an appointment? Let us clear up a couple facts.

They Usually Go Away Without Treatment

It can be difficult to believe that you don’t need to schedule an oral pathology visit when you experience a canker sore because they certainly look unattractive and feel much worse than they appear! While they can lead to some discomfort, they’re generally not a reason to worry or to schedule a visit. Here’s how to manage your experience:

  • Keep the area clean (rinsing is your best option)
  • Leave the sore alone
  • Keep track of how long it’s been present

When You Need To Come In

Now, let’s say you’ve done all that we suggested and the sore is still around after about seven days. It’s not even showing any signs of shrinking or feeling less uncomfortable. In this case, an oral pathology visit is certainly a good idea. In addition, if your sore is causing you some significant pain, if it is larger than you’ve ever experienced, or if you think it has become irritated, schedule a visit with us! It is, after all, better to be safe than sorry when dealing with your oral health.

Ready for a visit? Schedule care in Santa Rosa, CA by calling Santa Rosa Oral Surgery today at 707-545-4625!

A Quick Test Of Terms

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When you visit the practice of oral and maxillofacial surgeons, you may notice that you quickly feel somewhat inundated with new terminology. Sure, you’ve learned a thing or two from your general dentist, but this is a whole new world! The good news is that while some of the words and phrases you hear may sound complicated, they’re easy to quickly understand and add to your mental files. Let’s start you off with some essentials, so you’re ready to receive the dental care you need.

Test Questions: True or False?

  1. True or False: When talking about any bumps, lumps, changes, or other issues that point to a possible disease of your oral tissues, we refer to this as “oral pathology.”
  2. True or False: If we mention dental implantology during your dental care visit, we are simply referring to the area of care, which includes the placement of dental implants to replace missing teeth.
  3. True or False: While orthognathic surgery may sound quite foreign, it’s simply the term within the field of dentistry and oral surgery that refers to the relationship between your jaws.

Test Answers

  1. True. This area of dental care focuses on illnesses that affect your mouth and surrounding areas. Fortunately, most symptoms are not a big deal. However, we suggest you schedule a visit with us if a lesion or other change shows up just to be safe.
  2. True. The goal is to reconstruct your smile by replacing the entirety of your missing tooth or teeth.
  3. True. Orthognathic surgery refers to “jaw surgery,” so we can ensure your jaws align beautifully for a smile that works well (which then lends itself to a smile that looks more esthetically pleasing).

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).

Digital X-Rays: Your Quiz

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You might be aware that part of your experience at our practice is going to include the use of digital X-rays for a full understanding of your oral health. While our ability to gain an extensive visual understanding of your smile probably seems quite amazing, it doesn’t mean that you don’t still have questions about this type of technology. Let us dispel some myths and fill you in on important details with the help of a quick quiz! Of course, if you find that you still want to learn a bit more regarding our advanced imaging, remember that we will always be happy to answer questions.

Quiz Questions: True or False?

  1. True or False: Digital X-rays are actually safer for the environment than conventional ones.
  2. True or False: When we take X-rays of your smile with a digital approach, you’re exposed to a reduced amount of radiation.
  3. True or False: Relying on digital technology saves time, which means a faster, more comfortable appointment experience.

Quiz Answers

  1. True: Digital X-rays are created without the use of film or processing chemicals. It’s all virtual! We collect images that we then upload into our computer. It doesn’t create waste, it’s very quick, and we can transfer the images electronically to your general dentist if necessary.
  2. True. The reduction isn’t just a small fraction. You’re actually going to be exposed to less than 50 percent when compared with a conventional approach to imaging.
  3. True. The time it takes to take the X-rays, look them over, and then discuss them with you is greatly reduced when compared with processing conventional film.

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).

3 Things To Do Before A Visit

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When you’re thinking about your upcoming visit with our oral surgeon team, you may be thinking about nearly everything other than the basics. Perhaps you’re distracted with wondering which treatment you might need. Maybe you’ve never seen us before, so you are curious about our practice (it’s comfortable and beautiful!), and the list goes on. In order to ensure you show up ready, relaxed, and ahead of the game, we have a few suggestions that can make your dental visit with us all the easier.

#1: Brush Your Teeth

An important step to remember before your visit with our oral surgeon team is to brush your teeth. It will make you feel better and more confident when we ask you to open your mouth, so we can take a look at how things are going in there. It will ensure your breath is fresh, so you don’t feel embarrassed. It will also, of course, allow us to see what’s going on with your oral health with ease.

#2: Write Down Your Questions

You’re probably full of questions, which is always a very good thing. Whether it’s a little question you almost feel foolish asking or a very serious question that has you worried, we suggest you don’t attempt to remember everything. Instead, make sure you leave your visit feeling like you got all of your questions answered by simply bringing a list with you. Jot ideas down during the days leading up to your appointment.

#3: Complete Patient Forms At Home

Set yourself up for the easiest possible appointment with our oral surgeon team by completing your forms at home instead of waiting to do so at our office. You can walk in, check in, sit down for a brief moment, and then quickly come back for your appointment!

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).

3 Things That Are Normal After Oral Surgery

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One of the most challenging aspects of going home after oral surgery is the fact that you are a patient, not an oral surgeon. As a result, you may find that you have trouble deciding whether something you notice is just a normal part of the recovery process or if it’s a reason to become alarmed and contact us. While we are always more than happy to take your call, so you can check in with us about anything related to your oral health, we know that a little additional knowledge is always helpful. We’ve got a few details to cover, so you aren’t faced with any unwelcome surprises.

#1: Skin Discoloration

Did you know that it’s completely normal to notice some changes in the color of your skin after oral surgery? As you know, bruising can appear in many hues! If you notice your skin looks different, rest assured, this is a common change that will fade as you recover. Of course, if it looks out of the ordinary, please call us.

#2: A Little Discomfort

We will be glad to prescribe you with pain medication that is appropriate for your needs. As a result, you can expect a mostly comfortable and relaxing recovery process. However, with any surgery including oral surgery, you may notice a bit of soreness. This is nothing to be worried about. If severe pain or persistent discomfort continues, give us a call. If you’re frustrated because it hurts a little bit to open your mouth, this is completely normal.

#3: Minor Inflammation

Dealing with a little swelling? No problem. This is normal, as well. We will provide you with instructions regarding remedies to ease inflammation in aftercare details.

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).

Q&A: Oral Surgery And Your Child

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Are you surprised to find that your general dentist has suggested you bring your child to our practice for oral surgery? Whether your son or daughter is 12 or 22, you may think that the types of treatments we offer are typically reserved for more mature smiles. As a matter of fact, we often see younger patients! In most cases, the treatments we offer provide a pathway toward a smile that can remain healthy for many years to come. In addition, our efforts often help guide (or protect) smiles in regard to alignment. Learn a little bit more about what you can expect.

Questions and Answers

Question: My child’s canine is impacted and my dentist suggested I come see you. Is this really necessary? Won’t the teeth just eventually come in on their own?

Answer: In some cases, it is absolutely essential. We can provide you with a closer look at what’s going on with the use of advanced imaging, such as X-rays. If efforts are not made to help an impacted canine tooth, this can lead to serious problems with oral health and alignment.

Question: I was told I should bring my teenager in to you because his wisdom teeth seem like they might be a problem. Can’t oral surgery for this wait a while?

Answer: You can wait, of course, but we do not suggest it. You see, wisdom teeth have a reputation for causing some serious problems! Don’t let these easily extracted molars damage your child’s smile. The sooner you act, the better. The longer they remain in place, the more challenging removal becomes and the more damage they may cause!

Question: What should I do if I know that my child requires oral surgery but I’m not sure where to begin, I’m worried about affordability, but I want to make sure her mouth remains healthy?

Answer: Don’t spend even a moment of time worrying about any of the details. The best thing to do is to schedule a visit, come talk with us, and learn everything you need to know. You can then go home, think it over, and make choices that work for you.

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).

Smoking And Dental Implants: Your Questions

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You may assume based on what you’ve heard that it’s impossible to be a smoker and to receive dental implants. While we would love to know each one of our patients chooses to avoid tobacco because it is detrimental to your oral health in more ways than one, the fact is that smoking is not necessarily going to disqualify you from receiving implants. It’s true that it’s not a good idea and can lead to challenges. However, there are certainly many factors we can discuss. For a leg up on the details, let’s get started with some questions and answers.

Questions and Answers

Question: So, does this mean that in some cases, individuals who smoke can still receive dental implants?

Answer: Yes! You got that right. If you smoke, you may still prove to be a good candidate for implants. Keep in mind that qualifying is on a case by case basis. If you are interested, please come speak with us!

Question: So, why is it often necessary to avoid smoking cigarettes before implant placement and then after surgery? Is this real or is it a myth?

Answer: When you smoke, it can negatively impact your ability to heal. As a result, it is generally recommended that you avoid smoking for some time before an oral surgery procedure and then throughout the recovery process.

Question: Will my dental implants definitely fail eventually as a result of smoking?

Answer: Smoking while you wear implants does not suggest that your implants will definitely fail. In fact, it only lowers the chance of success by a small amount. However, every bit counts when it comes to protecting your oral health. Remember, we are happy to discuss the details with you during your consultation.

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).