What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots, typically made from titanium, that provide a permanent base for fixed replacement teeth. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, implants offer a long-lasting solution that looks, feels, and functions like natural teeth.

The Three Parts of a Dental Implant

The implant is a titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as a root substitute, creating a strong foundation for your new tooth. The abutment acts as a connector that securely supports and holds the tooth while providing a strong foundation for the final restoration, ensuring long-term stability.

The crown is the visible portion of the dental implant that’s carefully crafted to match your natural teeth in both color and shape, using advanced materials and techniques. This custom-made prosthetic is attached to the abutment, completing your restored smile while providing optimal function and aesthetics.

Why Choose Dental Implants?

Enhanced Oral Health

Dental implants preserve the integrity of your surrounding teeth since they don’t require altering nearby healthy teeth for support, unlike traditional bridges that may require modification of adjacent teeth. This independence helps maintain better overall oral health and prevents unnecessary modification of otherwise healthy teeth, while also stimulating natural bone growth and preventing bone loss in the jaw.

Superior Durability

When properly maintained through regular dental care and good oral hygiene, dental implants can last a lifetime without requiring replacement, making them a superior long-term investment. This long-term durability makes them a more cost-effective solution compared to traditional bridges or dentures that typically need replacement every 5-10 years, reducing the need for future dental work and associated costs.

Natural Look and Feel

The advanced materials and techniques used in modern dental implants create results that are virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth in both appearance and function, allowing you to smile, speak, and eat with complete confidence. The titanium post bonds with your jawbone through a process called osseointegration, providing stability that mimics natural tooth roots and ensures your replacement teeth feel and function just like your natural ones.

The Dental Implant Process: What to Expect

Initial Consultation

Your periodontist will perform a detailed examination of your mouth, teeth, and gums to assess your candidacy for implants, including taking detailed measurements and evaluating your oral health history. Advanced imaging techniques, including 3D scans and X-rays, will be used to evaluate your bone structure and plan the optimal implant placement, ensuring the most successful outcome possible.

Preparation Phase

If you require bone grafting, your surgeon will add bone material to strengthen your jaw and create a solid foundation for the implant, using either your own bone or synthetic materials designed for optimal integration. Any existing gum disease must be treated before implant surgery to ensure the best possible outcome and reduce the risk of complications, which may involve scaling, root planning, or other periodontal treatments.

The Implant Procedure

1. Implant Placement

The surgical site is carefully prepared using local anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure, with sedation options available for anxious patients. The titanium implant is precisely positioned in your jawbone according to the pre-surgical plan, and the site is closed to begin the healing process, with temporary restorations available to maintain aesthetics during healing.

2. Osseointegration

During this critical healing period, the implant fuses with your jawbone to create a strong foundation for your new tooth, typically taking 3-6 months depending on individual healing factors. Your dentist will monitor the healing process through regular checkups to ensure proper integration and address any concerns that may arise during this phase.

3. Abutment Placement

Once healing is complete, a small connector called an abutment is attached to the implant to support your new tooth, requiring a minor surgical procedure to access the implant. The surrounding gum tissue will be shaped to ensure a natural appearance and proper fit, with healing taking approximately two weeks before the final crown can be placed.

4. Crown Placement

Your custom-made crown is carefully crafted to match your natural teeth and attached to the abutment, using advanced materials that provide both strength and natural aesthetics. The fit and bite are checked and adjusted to ensure optimal function and comfort, with follow-up appointments scheduled to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments.

Recovery and Aftercare

Immediate Post-Procedure Care

Most patients can return to work the day after surgery, though some swelling and discomfort is normal during the first few days. Patients should apply ice packs to reduce swelling and follow prescribed pain management protocols, while maintaining good oral hygiene according to their dentist’s specific instructions.

Long-Term Maintenance

Proper care is essential for implant longevity and includes daily brushing with a soft-bristled brush and implant-specific cleaning tools. Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings are crucial for maintaining implant health, along with avoiding harmful habits like smoking or chewing hard objects that could damage the restoration.

Cost Considerations and Insurance

Investment in Your Health

The cost of dental implants typically ranges from $3,000 to $4,500 per tooth, with factors such as location, practitioner experience, and necessary preparatory procedures affecting the final price. While the initial investment may seem significant, the long-term benefits of implants often outweigh the costs when compared to repeated replacements of traditional restorations.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Ideal Candidates Have:

Candidates should have healthy gums free of periodontal disease and sufficient bone density to support the implant, which can be evaluated through comprehensive examination and imaging. Good overall health and commitment to oral hygiene are essential for successful implant treatment, along with realistic expectations about the procedure and outcomes.

Factors That May Affect Candidacy

Certain medical conditions and lifestyle factors, such as uncontrolled diabetes or smoking, may impact implant success rates and require additional consideration. Patients who have undergone radiation therapy to the jaw area or take certain medications may need special evaluation and treatment modifications to ensure successful outcomes.

Common Myths About Dental Implants

Myth 1: Implants Are Obvious and Unnatural

Modern dental implants are designed to perfectly match your natural teeth in color, shape, and function, making them virtually indistinguishable from real teeth. The advanced materials and techniques used in implant dentistry ensure that your smile looks completely natural, boosting your confidence in social and professional situations.

Myth 2: Implant Surgery Is Extremely Painful

While any surgical procedure involves some discomfort, modern implant techniques and anesthesia options make the process surprisingly comfortable for most patients. Recovery is typically manageable with over-the-counter pain medications, and most patients report less discomfort than they anticipated.

Myth 3: Implants Require Special Care

Dental implants can be maintained with the same basic oral hygiene practices you use for natural teeth, including regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings. While special cleaning tools may be recommended, the daily care routine is straightforward and similar to caring for natural teeth.

Latest Advances in Implant Technology

Digital Planning and Guided Surgery

Advanced 3D imaging and computer-guided surgical planning allow for more precise implant placement and improved outcomes, reducing surgery time and potential complications. These technologies enable dentists to create detailed surgical guides and preview results before treatment, ensuring optimal implant positioning and aesthetics.

Surface Technology

New implant surface treatments promote faster and more reliable bone integration, improving overall success rates and reducing healing time. These advanced surface modifications enhance the implant’s ability to bond with surrounding bone tissue, leading to better long-term stability and success.

Conclusion

Dental implants represent the most advanced solution for tooth replacement available today. While the process requires a commitment of time and resources, the long-term benefits for your oral health, appearance, and quality of life make them an excellent investment for most patients.

Next Steps

If you’re considering dental implants, schedule a consultation with our office to discuss your specific case and treatment options. During this consultation, you can review your medical history, discuss any concerns, and develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your needs and goals.

Remember, every smile is unique, and your treatment plan should be tailored to your specific needs. A thorough evaluation by a dental professional will help determine if implants are the right choice for restoring your smile and confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Do Dental Implants Really Last?

With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime, though the crown portion may need replacement every 15-20 years due to normal wear and tear. The success rate of dental implants is approximately 98% when placed by a qualified professional and maintained with good oral hygiene practices.

Will My Insurance Cover Dental Implants?

Insurance coverage for Implants will vary depending on your insurance provider/plan. Please check your benefits to see if you qualify for implant coverage.

What Happens If I Don’t Replace a Missing Tooth with an Implant?

When a tooth is missing, the surrounding bone begins to deteriorate due to lack of stimulation, potentially leading to facial structure changes and shifting of adjacent teeth. This bone loss can progress at a rate of 25% within the first year and continue over time, making it more difficult to place an implant later and potentially affecting neighboring teeth’s stability.

Can I Get an Implant Years After Extraction?

Yes, you can get an implant even years after tooth extraction, though additional procedures like bone grafting may be necessary to ensure adequate bone density. The success rate for delayed implant placement remains high when proper pretreatment procedures are performed to prepare the site and restore optimal bone volume.

The post Dental Implants Cost, Procedure & Recovery: The Ultimate Patient Guide first appeared on Pacifica Dental.

Fortunately, regular oral examinations can help detect these issues in their early stages, making them easier to treat and manage. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through why oral examinations are so crucial for your dental health.

Detecting Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is a severe condition that can quickly become life-threatening if not detected early. During a dental exam, the hygienist checks for any signs of irregularities in the mouth and throat that could indicate oral cancer.

With early detection, treatment can begin sooner rather than later, increasing the patient’s chances of recovery.

Read more from the Canadian Dental Association: https://www.cda-adc.ca/en/oral_health/complications/diseases/oral_cancer.asp

Checking for Cavities

Cavities are one of the most common dental problems that people face. During an oral examination, the hygienist looks for any signs of decay, such as dark spots or soft areas in the teeth.

Catching cavities early can prevent them from becoming more severe and require more extensive treatments, such as root canals or extractions.

Gum Disease Prevention

Gum disease is a common problem that is often overlooked until it becomes severe. The early stages of gum disease are painless and may go unnoticed, but a dental hygienist can detect it during an oral examination.

If left untreated, gum disease could progress to severe health complications such as tooth loss or bone damage.

Learn more about how to combat gum disease by clicking the link here: https://www.cda-adc.ca/en/oral_health/faqs/gum_diseases_faqs.asp

Early Intervention for Dental Issues

Early detection of dental problems is crucial to their effective treatment. An oral examination may reveal minor problems that can be easily treated, preventing them from becoming severe and necessitating more invasive treatments.

Establishing a Baseline for Future Oral Health

Having regular oral exams provides a baseline for future oral health. If any changes occur, dentists can easily detect and address them.

This helps prevent the progression of any dental health issues and ensures that patients receive the proper treatment as soon as possible.

To Wrap Things up …

In conclusion, oral examinations are essential for maintaining good oral health. They help detect dental issues early on, prevent complications, and establish a baseline for future dental checkups.

Regular dental exams, along with brushing and flossing, can help prevent many dental issues and ensure that your teeth and gums stay healthy for years to come. Don’t neglect your oral health, visit a dental professional regularly and keep your mouth healthy.

For more information about this topic, or to schedule an appointment at

Pacifica Dental – click here! https://pacificadental.ca/contact/

Thank you for taking the time to read our blog.

The Team at Pacifica Dental.

The post Why Oral Examinations Are Essential for Your Oral Health first appeared on Pacifica Dental.

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are designed to cover the front of your teeth. They are made of either porcelain or composite material and can help improve the appearance of your teeth by making them look straighter, whiter, and more symmetrical. Let’s take a closer look at what veneers are and how they can help you smile more. Click the link to view our page on Dental Veneers: https://pacificadental.ca/services/dental-veneers/

What Are the Benefits of Dental Veneers?

Veneers can be used to address a wide range of cosmetic issues with your teeth. From gaps between teeth to discolouration, chips or cracks, dental veneers may be able to give you the perfect smile you have always wanted. In addition, they can also help protect your teeth from further damage due to wear and tear.

One of the major benefits of veneers is that we can lighten the shade in order to make teeth look brighter and more uniform. This can be particularly helpful for people who have teeth that are naturally yellow or discoloured from years of consuming coffee, tea, wine, or other foods and drinks known to stain the teeth. Not only do veneers provide a quick and relatively minor solution to lightening stained teeth, but they also give us greater control over colour choice when compared with other methods such as conventional bleaching procedures. Therefore, using this method of treatment can help patients achieve the bright smile of their dreams.

How Long Will My Dental Veneers Last?

The lifespan of your veneers will depend on the type of material that is used as well as how well you take care of them. Porcelain veneers typically last longer than composite ones but both types should last for several years with proper care and maintenance.

It is important to remember that regular flossing, brushing twice a day, avoiding hard foods, following proper oral hygiene habits, and visiting the dentist every six months for checkups will all help ensure that your dental veneers last as long as possible.

Are Dental Veneers Right for Me?

If you are looking for a way to improve the appearance of your smile, then dental veneers may be right for you. However, it is important to note that not everyone is an ideal candidate for this procedure, so it is best to consult with your dentist before having any work done on your teeth.

During this consultation, the dentist will be able to determine if this procedure is right for you based on factors such as the health of your teeth and gums as well as any underlying medical conditions that may affect the outcome of the procedure.  Click the link to see what the Canadian Dental Association say about Dental Veneers: https://www.cda-adc.ca/en/oral_health/procedures/bonding_veneers/

To Wrap Things Up…

Veneers can be a great way to improve the appearance of your smile if other methods have failed or if they just don’t fit into your lifestyle or budget. Not only do they provide an immediate transformation, but they also require very little maintenance which makes them an attractive option for those who want a quick fix without too much effort involved in keeping them looking bright white! So why not give yourself a boost in confidence with some new pearly whites today! Speak with one our dentists here at Pacifica Dental about whether dental veneers are right for you!

We would be happy to answer any questions you may have.

For more information, contact Pacifica Dental today!

Visit https://pacificadental.ca/contact/

We would be happy to answer any questions you may have about taking care of your pearly whites!

Sincerely

The Pacifica Dental Team

• (250) 900-3042 – New Patients
• (250) 384-7141 – Existing Patients

The post What Are Dental Veneers and How Can They Improve Your Smile? first appeared on Pacifica Dental.

Flossing your teeth is an essential part of oral hygiene, but did you know that flossing isn’t just important for a healthy mouth? Flossing has many benefits for your overall health as well. Let’s take a closer look at why you should make flossing a priority if you want to maintain good health.

Flossing Your Teeth Helps Prevent Disease

When you don’t floss, plaque builds up between your teeth and near the gum line. Over time, this plaque can harden and turn into tartar, which can cause gingivitis—an inflammation of the gums—and eventually lead to periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is an infection that affects the tissues surrounding your teeth and can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. In addition to causing tooth loss, periodontal disease has been linked to other serious health conditions such as heart disease and stroke.

Flossing Your Teeth Reduces Bad Breath

Bad breath (halitosis) is caused by bacteria in the mouth that break down food particles trapped between teeth and on the tongue. When these bacteria form plaque and tartar on your teeth, they produce sulfur compounds which cause bad breath. By regularly flossing your teeth, you can reduce the number of bacteria in your mouth and prevent bad breath from occurring.

Flossing Your Teeth Keeps Your Teeth Cleaner

When you brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, it helps remove surface stains from food and drinks like coffee or tea; however, brushing alone cannot reach all surfaces of your teeth. Flossing helps remove plaque from between teeth and around the gum line where a toothbrush cannot reach; this will leave your smile sparkling clean! Click the link and see how the Canadian Dental Association shows how to floss properly: https://www.cda-adc.ca/en/oral_health/cfyt/dental_care/flossing_brushing.asp#:~:text=Flossing%20removes%20plaque%20and%20bacteria,on%20your%20teeth%20every%20day

To Wrap Things Up…

Overall, regular flossing contributes greatly to keeping both your mouth and body healthy. Not only does it help prevent periodontal disease, but it also reduces bad breath and keeps your teeth cleaner than brushing alone could ever do! So grab some dental floss today and make sure you are taking care of yourself inside and out!

We would be happy to answer any questions you may have about taking care of your pearly whites!

For more information about proper dental hygiene habits, contact Pacifica Dental today!

Visit https://pacificadental.ca/contact/

Sincerely

The Pacifica Dental Team

• (250) 900-3042 – New Patients
• (250) 384-7141 – Existing Patients

The post The Benefits of Flossing Your Teeth first appeared on Pacifica Dental.

When it comes to dental hygiene, there are a few simple steps you can take that will go a long way toward keeping your teeth healthy and free from cavities. One of the most important is replacing your toothbrush regularly. But how often should you be doing this? Let’s find out.

How Often Should You Replace Your Toothbrush?

The Canadian Dental Association (CDA) recommends that you should replace your toothbrush (or swap your electric toothbrush head) every three to four months as long as you use it at least twice daily.

If you have an illness such as a cold or flu, it is especially important to replace your toothbrush as soon as you start feeling better to avoid re-infecting yourself with the same virus.

It’s also a good idea to replace your toothbrush after any oral surgery, such as dental implants or wisdom teeth removal, since the bristles may have come into contact with germs from inside the mouth.

Brushing Tips for Better Oral Hygiene

In addition to replacing your brush on a regular basis, proper brushing technique is essential for maintaining good oral hygiene. Here are some tips from our team at Pacifica Dental for getting maximum benefit from brushing: 

• Use gentle circular motions when brushing—too much pressure can cause gum damage and irritation over time. 
• Brush for two minutes at least twice a day.           
• Make sure you brush all surfaces of each tooth—especially hard-to-reach areas like molars. 
• Don’t forget about flossing! Flossing removes plaque and food particles that cannot be removed by brushing alone; and                 
• Ask our hygienists about using fluoride mouthwash to help reduce cavities and protect against bacteria growth in hard-to-reach areas like between teeth or below the gum line.                         

To Wrap Things Up

Taking care of your teeth is vital for promoting overall health and wellness throughout life. By following these simple steps – replacing your toothbrush regularly and using proper brushing techniques – you can keep your smile looking great for years to come!

For more information about proper dental hygiene habits, contact Pacifica Dental today!

Visit https://pacificadental.ca/contact/

We would be happy to answer any questions you may have about taking care of your pearly whites!

Sincerely

The Pacifica Dental Team

• (250) 900-3042 – New Patients
• (250) 384-7141 – Existing Patients

The post How Often Should You Replace Your Toothbrush? first appeared on Pacifica Dental.

The post Dental care at every age first appeared on Pacifica Dental.

Here are some of the warnings you should pay attention to:

1. Bad breath

Bad breath (halitosis) can affect your relationships and social life. In addition to the fact that it is unpleasant for those around you, it can be a sign that you suffer from gingivitis or gum disease. If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontitis. The chronic inflammation that causes halitosis may lead to total tooth loss. If bad breath persists, make an appointment with your dentist to detect the cause of the problem.

2. Difficulty chewing or swallowing

Tell your doctor if you have difficulty chewing or swallowing. The dentist will help you determine why. This is not a healthy situation, so the sooner you treat the condition, the more likely it can be cured.

3. Dental pain

Dental pain can indicate a serious underlying condition. Despite the fact that it is uncomfortable, we often wait a few days to see if the pain passes. Our advice is to go to the dentist, even if the pain subsides. The cause of the discomfort needs to be diagnosed and properly treated.

4. Swollen or bleeding gums

If your gums are swollen or bleeding during brushing, it may be another sign that you have gingivitis. Inflammation of the gums occurs due to bacterial plaque that builds up at the base of the gums. If left untreated, as in the case of bad breath, it can lead to periodontitis.

5. White spots on the teeth

White spots on the teeth are often the first indication of cavities. Acid produced by bacteria in the oral cavity dissolves tooth enamel, which can lead to decay. Regular visits to the dentist will identify and treat cavities in the early stages, before the onset of any complications.

6. Teeth sensitivity

If left untreated, decay can advance to the center of the tooth, reaching the nerve. Once this happens, the tooth will be sensitive to air and hot or cold drinks. This sensitivity is a sign that you may have an advanced cavity. The faster you get treatment, the easier it will be to avoid other problems.

7. Dry mouth

Dry mouth can occur for simple reasons such as aging or the administration of certain drugs. However, dry mouth can also be a sign of the presence of bacteria or disease in the oral cavity. It’s best not to ignore it. Schedule a visit to the dentist to find out why.

8. Headache

Have you ever thought that oral problems can cause headaches? In fact, they are closely linked. If you often wake up with a headache in the morning, you may suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding during sleep). A dentist can detect the problem, and may recommend a night guard to protect your teeth, at the same time relieving the morning headaches.

In summary, early intervention will reduce the chance of diseases and further complications. It will also save you from other potentially expensive treatments in the future. At Pacifica Dental, we have experienced specialists and a modern clinic waiting for you. Don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment to discuss your oral health.

The post What are clear signs indicating it’s time for a visit to the dentist? first appeared on Pacifica Dental.

Some people think that, in order to have healthy teeth, going to the dentist once a year will suffice. In our opinion, this is not usually enough for most people. As you well know, every person is unique, with specific body types, habits, and health conditions. These factors influence our oral health, which in turn impacts our general health.

For example, permanent teeth are very vulnerable to cavities as soon as they come in, so in children aged six to eight, dental check-ups are recommended at shorter intervals. In adolescence, the teeth are less vulnerable until the wisdom teeth appear, on average around twenty years old. As people age, the rate of dental decay, tooth loss, mouth infections, and gum disease increases. It is also common to find that our teeth will start to move. Our oral health, and hence our general health, varies at different stages of life.

We are aware that smoking is a habit that can lead to various health problems. Not only does it increase the likelihood of bad breath, canker sores and even cancer, but it also strengthens the bacteria in the mouth, making them more resistant. The mouth is already one of the dirtiest parts of the body, and cigarette smoke will encourage the growth of bacteria, which in turn can lead to cavities and gum disease. Smokers are recommended to visit the dentist more often than non-smokers.

Stomach conditions, such as acid reflux, can often have a negative impact on our oral health. If the acidity reaches our mouth, it results in not only bad breath but can also cause cavities at the base of the gums. These cavities can be easily treated if they are found at an early stage. If not discovered right away, they can reach the tooth root or even expand to neighboring teeth, possibly becoming painful and making the treatment process a bit more complicated.

Other factors, such as frequently drinking coffee, red wine or eating sweets, will influence how often your dentist recommends you schedule a visit. To maintain excellent oral hygiene, it is often suggested that patients have professional cleanings 3-4 times a year and follow a personalized hygiene plan.

In conclusion, exactly how long you wait between visits with your dentist depends on the assessment you and your doctor will make. Schedule an appointment with Pacifica Dental and start taking better care of your oral health!

The post Custom timing for dental check-ups at Pacifica Dental first appeared on Pacifica Dental.

Maintaining good oral health should be one of your constant new year resolutions and a commitment for a lifetime. If you conscientiously apply good oral hygiene practices (such as proper brushing of the mouth, flossing and limiting sugar), you will avoid costly dental procedures and long-term health problems.

What you need to know about oral health

Cavities and gum disease are very common. According to the World Health Organization:

• between 60 and 90% of schoolchildren have at least one cavity;
• almost 100% of adults have at least one cavity;
• between 15 and 20% of adults aged between 35 and 44 years suffer from severe gum disease;
• about 30% of people around the world, between the ages of 65 and 74, no longer have natural teeth;
• in most countries, out of every 100,000 people, there are between 1 and 10 cases of oral cancer.

Fortunately, there are many ways you can maintain your oral health. For example, oral conditions can be prevented by:

• brushing the oral cavity at least twice a day, using a fluoride paste;
• flossing at least once a day;
• limiting sugar;
• eating fruits and vegetables;
• avoiding tobacco;
• fluoridated water consumption;
• regular visits to the dentist.

Most frequent symptoms of dental problems

We recommend not to postpone the visit to the dentist until the onset of symptoms. Two consultations a year are enough to detect a problem in the oral cavity, before symptoms appear.

If you experience one or more of the following signs that may indicate oral health problems, make an appointment with your dentist in Victoria, as soon as possible:

• ulcers or wounds of the oral cavity that do not heal in a week or two;
• bleeding or swelling of the gums after brushing or flossing;
• bad breath;
• sudden sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures;
• toothache;
• moving teeth;
• retracted gums;
• pain in chewing;
• swelling of the face;
• noise when opening/closing the mouth (during the chewing process);
• cracked or broken teeth;
• dryness of the oral cavity.

If the symptoms you experience are accompanied by fever and swelling in the face or throat, we recommend that you immediately call a dentist.

Causes of the most common diseases of the oral cavity

The oral cavity collects all kinds of bacteria, viruses and fungi. Some of them are part of the flora of the oral cavity. In small quantities, they are generally harmless. But a high-sugar diet creates conditions in which acid-producing bacteria can multiply uncontrollably. This acid dissolves tooth enamel and causes cavities.

Bacteria near the gums grow into a sticky mass called plaque. If it is not removed by brushing and flossing, plaque builds up, hardens and migrates along the length of the teeth. This can lead to inflammation of the gums and can cause a condition known as gingivitis.

The inflammation causes the gums to begin to retract, gradually moving away from the teeth. This process creates pockets that can collect pus. Here we are talking about an advanced stage of gum disease, which is called periodontitis or periodontal disease.

There are a number of factors that contribute to gingivitis and periodontitis, such as:

• smoking;
• insufficient and/or incorrect tooth brushing;
• a high-sugar diet;
• diabetes;
• use of drugs that reduce the amount of saliva in the oral cavity;
• family history or genetic background;
• certain infections, such as HIV or AIDS;
• hormonal changes that take place in women’s bodies;
• gastroesophageal reflux and heartburn;
• frequent vomiting due to acid.

Most common dental conditions

Even if you take proper care of your oral cavity, you will experience, at least once in your life, an oral health problem.

Cavities

They are areas of the tooth that have been permanently damaged. These occur when bacteria, food and acid cover the teeth and form plaque. The acid on the surface of the teeth will begin to degrade the enamel and dentin and may even reach the connective tissue.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums and usually occurs as a result of a large amount of plaque on the surface of the teeth. This is due to poor oral hygiene. Most often, people with gingivitis notice that their gums become inflamed and bleed during brushing and flossing. Untreated gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, a more serious infection.

Periodontitis

As periodontitis progresses, the infection can spread to the jaw and bones. The condition can also cause an inflammatory response throughout the body.

Teeth with cracks or fractures

A tooth can crack or break as a result of an accident, during chewing or when we grit our teeth. Cracked or broken teeth can be very painful and dangerous, so it is recommended to consult a dentist as soon as you notice such a problem.

Dental sensitivity

If you suffer from tooth sensitivity, you will feel pain or discomfort when eating hot and cold food or drinks. This condition can be temporary, caused by a canal filling or the application of a filling, or caused by factors such as gum disease, cracked or broken teeth, withdrawn gums etc. Dental sensitivity can also be permanent, especially in people with thin enamel.

Oral cancer

The dentist is usually the first specialist to recognize oral cancer. The use of tobacco products poses the greatest risk of developing this type of cancer.

The link between oral health and general health

It seems that good oral health can help maintain optimal overall health. Inflammation and bacteria in the oral cavity can be associated with:

• heart disease;
• endocarditis or inflammation of the heart lining;
• premature birth;
• low birth weight.

Treatment of dental diseases

Impeccable oral hygiene includes two annual visits to the dentist, during which the doctor will perform a professional cleaning and, if there are dental problems, will recommend the right procedure. Therefore, the most common dental treatments include:

• professional brushing;
• professional descaling;
• fluoridation;
• canal treatment;
• dental filling;
• dental veneering;
• dental crowns;
• dental implant;
• bone addition;
• periodontal surgical therapy;
• non-surgical periodontal therapy;
• orthodontic treatment.

Maintaining optimal oral health

Oral health does not only affect the oral cavity. Poor oral hygiene can contribute to problems with self-esteem, pronunciation and nutrition. Comfort and quality of life will therefore be affected. It is good to know that many oral conditions develop without symptoms. Therefore, regular visits to the dentist are the best way to detect a problem before it gets worse.

The post Oral health – one of our New Year resolutions first appeared on Pacifica Dental.

But why do we extract teeth instead of saving them?

For children and young adults, a tooth extraction is most often done to make room for adult teeth, to prepare for orthodontics treatment, or to prevent crowding, tooth damage, or jaw issues. Because everyone is different, we also have different dental needs. Here is a quick primer on some of the reasons that a tooth extraction may be your best course of action. Of course, this is only a guideline. If you’re concerned you may need a tooth removed, give us a call for a consultation of your unique dental needs.

Early Orthodontics

When there isn’t enough room in your child’s jaw, we may recommend extracting a tooth or teeth to allow for orthodontics treatment to move the teeth into their desired positions. The result is a balanced, functional smile that may not be possible with a full mouth of teeth – one that allows your child to smile and speak with confidence. This missing tooth or teeth become unnoticeable after orthodontics care.

Wisdom Teeth

If they haven’t been removed already for early orthodontics, wisdom teeth are commonly extracted to prevent dental health issues. Often our jaws are too small to accommodate these teeth that erupt in young adulthood. If they become impacted (stuck below the gumline), come in on their side or some other unusual position, or threaten your child’s oral health in any other way, we will often recommend extracting these third molars. Interestingly, not all people have four wisdom teeth (one at the back of each quadrant of your mouth) – some have none at all, and others just one or two.

Dental Trauma

Rough play, sports, or accidents can damage a tooth beyond repair. We will always do everything we can to prevent this type of tooth loss – fabricating custom-made mouthguards, for example. Preventive techniques also include root canal treatment and a dental crown, which is often the preferred treatment, but sometimes a tooth extraction after dental trauma is unavoidable.

Extensive Decay

At Pacifica Dental our focus is on prevention and treating dental disease as soon as possible – when issues are smaller and easier to treat. But sometimes, dental decay is so extensive that it travels right through your tooth to the sensitive root below and causes a painful infection. If root canal therapy cannot clear the infection or the infection is too severe, a tooth extraction is your only option.

Damaged Restorations

Sometimes, if your bite is off or you clench or grind your teeth, your teeth can crack or break. If your bite is strong enough, and for many people it is, then old restorations could fail, while damaging your tooth so much that there is no way to bond a new restoration.

Periodontal (Gum) Disease

Your gums have an important job in protecting the ligaments and bones that keep your teeth firmly in their sockets. When gum disease progresses too far, your teeth loosen because your ligaments and bones are unable to hold them. A tooth extraction is sometimes the only solution when gum disease has progressed too far.

Tooth Extraction Aftercare

After your appointment, we’ll give you take-home instructions to help your extraction site heal. You can count on needing a few days to recover after having a tooth pulled. For the first 24 hours you’ll want to take it easy, avoid drinking through a straw, rinsing or spitting forcefully, and smoking. Take your painkillers as prescribed to help prevent pain and follow our aftercare instructions carefully. Enjoy a diet of soft foods such as soup, pudding, yogurt, and applesauce on the day of and after your extraction. Continue your oral homecare of brushing and flossing to prevent infection – but avoid the extraction site.

At Pacifica Dental, we have many services to help you prevent dental issues in Victoria, BC – and repair them if they do arise. Our kind and compassionate team is dedicated to creating an experience that puts you in control of your care and treatment options. If you’re in any kind of dental pain at all, let us help you get out of pain. And if you need a new dentist in Victoria, BC to help you stay healthy and prevent dental issues, or rejuvenate your smile with cosmetic options, we’re here to help you make your unique smile dreams come true. Call us today – and let us help you gain control of your oral health and love your smile.

The post A Tooth Extraction Primer – First In A 2-Part Series! first appeared on Pacifica Dental.