FAQ

While dental implants have a high success rate, they can fail due to factors such as gum disease, poor oral hygiene, or excessive biting forces. Smoking can also increase the risk of implant failure. However, with proper care and maintenance, the risk of failure is significantly reduced.

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Caring for dental implants is similar to caring for natural teeth, including brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups. Implants require the same diligent oral hygiene practices and regular dental visits to ensure they last a lifetime.

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The dental implant process involves several steps:

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• Initial consultation: Assessment of your oral health and planning of your treatment.
• Implant placement: The implant is surgically placed into the jawbone.
• Healing period: The implant integrates with the bone, a process that can take several months.
• Abutment placement: Once healing is complete, an abutment is placed on the implant to hold the new tooth.
• Artificial tooth placement: A custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is attached to the abutment.

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The cost of dental implants can vary widely, depending on several factors including the number of teeth being replaced and the need for any additional procedures such as bone grafting. While implants are typically more expensive than other methods of tooth replacement, their durability and overall benefits can make them a more cost-effective option over the long term. Many dental insurance policies now provide coverage for implant procedures, and financing options are available to make the treatment more affordable.

The success rate of dental implants varies, depending on where in the jaw the implants are placed but, in general, dental implants have a success rate of up to 98%. With proper care (similar to the care for natural teeth), implants can last a lifetime.

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Dental implants offer several benefits over other tooth replacement options:

• Improved appearance: They look and feel like your own teeth.
• Enhanced speech: Poor-fitting dentures can slip, causing you to mumble. Implants eliminate this issue.
• Increased comfort: Implants eliminate the discomfort of removable dentures.
• Easier eating: Implants function like your own teeth, allowing you to eat your favorite foods with confidence.
• Durability: With proper care, implants are very durable and can last many years, often a lifetime.
• Improved oral health: Unlike a tooth-supported bridge, implants don't require reducing other teeth, preserving more of your own teeth.

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Dental implants are suitable for individuals with one or more missing teeth who are in good general health. Adequate bone in your jaw is required to support the implant, and the best candidates have healthy gum tissues that are free of periodontal disease. A consultation with a dental implant specialist is the best way to determine if implants are right for you.

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Implants are integrated into your jaw with a post that mimics the tooth root, providing a strong foundation for artificial teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. Over time, the implant fuses with the jawbone, a process known as osseointegration, which provides stable support for replacement teeth, ensuring they won't slip or shift in your mouth.

Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone beneath your gum line, allowing your dentist to mount replacement teeth or a bridge into that area. They are a long-term solution for replacing missing teeth, offering stability because they fuse to your bone, acting as a sturdy base for artificial teeth.

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While aesthetic gum procedures primarily focus on reducing excess gum tissue and reshaping the gum line for a more appealing smile, treatments like gum grafting can address gum recession by adding tissue to areas where the gums have receded.

With proper oral hygiene and regular dental care, the results of aesthetic gum procedures can be long-lasting. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and avoiding tobacco products can also help preserve the appearance of your gums.

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Post-procedure care is crucial for a successful recovery. This includes following a soft diet, avoiding vigorous brushing or flossing in the treated area, and adhering to any specific instructions provided by your periodontist. Regular check-ups will ensure proper healing and maintenance of your gum health.

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Coverage depends on your specific dental insurance plan and whether the procedure is considered cosmetic or necessary for oral health. We recommend consulting with your insurance provider and our office to understand your coverage options.

Recovery times can vary depending on the specific procedure and individual healing rates. Generally, patients can expect the initial healing phase to last a few days to a week, with complete gum healing occurring within a few weeks to a few months.

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Modern aesthetic gum procedures are performed with minimal discomfort, thanks to advanced techniques and local anesthesia. Patients typically report feeling pressure rather than pain, and discomfort post-procedure can often be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

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You might consider an aesthetic gum procedure if you're self-conscious about showing too much gum when you smile, have uneven gum lines, or if excess gum tissue is making your teeth appear shorter. These treatments can dramatically enhance your smile's appearance and boost your confidence.

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Aesthetic gum procedures are dental treatments aimed at improving the appearance of your gums, making your smile more symmetrical and visually appealing. These can include esthetic crown lengthening, gum lifts, and tissue sculpting, tailored to correct issues like a "gummy" smile or uneven gum lines.

Preventing gum disease involves:

• Regular brushing and flossing to remove plaque
• Using an antimicrobial mouthwash
• Eating a balanced diet and avoiding tobacco
• Scheduling regular dental checkups and cleanings
• Adopting these practices can significantly reduce your risk of developing gum disease.

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Yes, periodontal disease has been linked to several systemic health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and stroke, among others. The bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting other parts of the body. Maintaining healthy gums is crucial for overall health.

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The frequency of visits to a periodontist depends on your individual oral health needs. Patients with active periodontal disease may require more frequent visits for monitoring and treatment, typically every 3-4 months. Those with healthy gums or in maintenance phases might visit less often. Your periodontist will recommend a personalized care plan based on your condition.

Treatment options vary based on the severity of the disease and can include:

• Professional cleaning and scaling to remove plaque and tartar
• Root planing to smooth root surfaces and discourage further buildup
• Antibiotics to control infection
• Surgical treatments, such as pocket reduction surgery or gum grafts, for advanced cases
• Laser therapy for minimally invasive treatment of gum disease

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While early stages of gum disease (gingivitis) can be reversed with proper care, more advanced stages (periodontitis) can be managed effectively but not entirely cured. Regular professional cleanings, combined with diligent home care, can halt the progression of the disease and maintain your oral health.

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Signs that you might need periodontal care include:

• Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing
• Swollen, red, or tender gums
• Persistent bad breath or bad taste in the mouth
• Receding gums or teeth appearing longer
• Loose teeth or changes in your bite

If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to consult a periodontist for a comprehensive evaluation.

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Periodontal care focuses on the health of your gums and the structures supporting your teeth. It involves preventing, diagnosing, and treating gum disease to protect your oral health and overall well-being. Effective periodontal care combines professional treatments with good oral hygiene practices at home.

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Coverage for LANAP can vary by insurance provider and plan. It's important to consult with your insurance company and our office staff to understand your benefits and any out-of-pocket costs.

LANAP has been clinically proven to be highly effective in treating gum disease, reducing pocket depth, and encouraging the regeneration of healthy gum tissue. Many patients see significant improvements in their gum health following the procedure, with proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups helping to maintain results.

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Recovery from LANAP is typically quick and with less post-operative pain than traditional gum surgery. Patients can often return to their normal activities within 24 hours. Some may experience minor sensitivity or swelling, but these symptoms are usually mild and short-lived.

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The duration of a LANAP procedure can vary depending on the extent of the gum disease and the areas being treated. However, most treatments are completed in one to two visits, with each session lasting approximately two hours.

LANAP offers several advantages over traditional gum surgery, including:

• Less pain: The procedure is less invasive, resulting in minimal discomfort.
• Faster healing: LANAP promotes quicker recovery times, allowing patients to return to their daily activities sooner.
• Less bleeding: The laser causes less bleeding compared to traditional surgery.
• Preservation of healthy tissue: The precision of the laser means that more healthy tissue is preserved.
• Reduced gum recession: Traditional surgery often leads to gum recession, whereas LANAP minimizes this risk.

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One of the key benefits of LANAP is the minimal discomfort associated with the procedure. Most patients report little to no pain during and after treatment, thanks in part to the laser's precision and the non-invasive nature of the technique. Local anesthesia can also be used to ensure comfort throughout the process.

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LANAP works by using a specialized dental laser that emits a specific wavelength of light to selectively remove diseased tissue and bacteria from the gums. The laser energy also stimulates the surrounding area to encourage the growth of new, healthy tissue, helping to reattach gums to the teeth and reduce pocket depth.

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LANAP is a minimally invasive laser treatment for gum disease that uses precise laser energy to target and remove infected gum tissue while preserving healthy tissue. This advanced procedure promotes natural healing and tissue regeneration, offering an effective alternative to traditional gum surgery.

Coverage for oral surgery varies by insurance plan. We recommend contacting your insurance provider to understand your coverage details. Our office can also assist with insurance queries and provide information on financing options to ensure your treatment is as affordable as possible.

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Recovery varies by type of surgery and individual patient but generally involves rest and limited activity for a few days. You may need to follow a soft diet, avoid certain activities, and perform specific oral hygiene practices to promote healing. Your oral surgeon will provide detailed post-operative care instructions tailored to your procedure.

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Preparation for oral surgery may include:

• Avoiding eating or drinking for a specific period before surgery if using sedation or anesthesia.
• Arranging for someone to drive you home post-procedure.
• Following any specific pre-operative instructions provided by your oral surgeon, such as taking or avoiding certain medications.

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Our practice offers various sedation options to ensure your comfort during oral surgery, including:

• Local anesthesia to numb the surgical area.
• Laughing gas for relaxation.
• Oral sedatives to reduce anxiety.
• IV sedation for deeper relaxation.
• General anesthesia for complete unconsciousness during more complex procedures.

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With modern sedation and anesthesia options, oral surgery is typically associated with minimal discomfort during the procedure. Post-operative discomfort varies depending on the specific surgery but can usually be managed effectively with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication. Our team prioritizes your comfort and will discuss pain management strategies before your procedure.

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You may need oral surgery for several reasons, such as:

• Impacted wisdom teeth causing pain or potential damage to adjacent teeth.
• Severe tooth decay or damage requiring extraction.
• Loss of bone density in the jaw needing a bone graft.
• Advanced periodontal disease necessitating surgical intervention.
• The desire or need for dental implants to replace missing teeth.

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Oral surgery encompasses a range of surgical procedures performed in the mouth and jaw area, including dental implant placement, wisdom teeth removal, bone grafting, periodontal surgery, and corrective jaw surgeries. These procedures aim to address various oral health issues, from tooth loss and gum disease to jaw misalignment and more, enhancing both oral function and aesthetics.

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While not all dental emergencies can be prevented, maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups can significantly reduce the risk. Wearing a mouthguard during sports, avoiding hard foods that can crack or break teeth, and not using your teeth as tools can also help prevent common dental injuries.

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During an emergency dental visit, our first priority is to alleviate any severe pain or discomfort. We'll then conduct a thorough examination, which may include digital X-rays, to accurately diagnose the issue. Based on the diagnosis, we'll provide immediate treatment to address the emergency and discuss any further procedures that may be necessary to fully restore your dental health.

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Coverage for emergency dental care varies depending on your insurance policy. We recommend contacting your insurance provider to understand your coverage. Our office staff is also available to assist with insurance questions and can help you explore financing options to ensure you receive the necessary care.

While waiting for your emergency appointment, you can manage pain with over-the-counter pain relievers, as recommended by a healthcare professional. Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek can also help reduce swelling and discomfort. However, these measures are temporary, and seeing a dentist promptly is crucial.

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We understand the urgency of dental emergencies and prioritize these cases with same-day appointments whenever possible. Our goal is to see you as quickly as we can to alleviate pain and address the issue to prevent further complications.

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Yes, our center in Hoboken, NJ, is equipped to handle a wide range of dental emergencies. Our team of specialists has the expertise and technology to provide immediate care for various urgent dental issues, from infections and trauma to sudden pain and lost restorations.

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If you have a knocked-out tooth, time is of the essence. Try to handle the tooth by the crown (the part that's visible in the mouth) and gently rinse it without scrubbing. If possible, reinsert the tooth into its socket, or keep it moist by placing it in milk or your mouth next to your cheek. Contact our office immediately for further instructions and to schedule an emergency visit.

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A dental emergency includes any situation that requires immediate attention to alleviate severe pain, stop ongoing tissue bleeding, or save a tooth. Common emergencies include knocked-out teeth, severe toothaches, abscesses, broken or cracked teeth, lost fillings or crowns, and injuries to the gums or cheeks.

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The best way to determine if sedation dentistry is suitable for you is by consulting with a dental professional. They can assess your dental needs, medical history, and anxiety levels to recommend the most appropriate sedation method.

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For lighter sedation methods like laughing gas, you may be able to drive yourself home. However, for oral sedation, IV sedation, and general anesthesia, you will need someone to drive you due to the lingering effects of the sedatives.

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The duration of the sedation effect depends on the type used:

• Laughing Gas wears off quickly, often within minutes after the mask is removed.
• Oral Sedation and IV Sedation may have lingering effects for a few hours, so you'll need someone to drive you home.
• General Anesthesia also requires recovery time and assistance post-procedure.

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Sedation dentistry greatly reduces discomfort and, in many cases, patients feel no pain at all. Depending on the type of sedation, you may have little to no memory of the procedure, including any sensations of pain.

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Yes, when administered by experienced dental professionals, sedation dentistry is safe. Patients are carefully monitored throughout the procedure to ensure their safety and comfort. Discussing your medical history and any current medications with your dentist can further enhance safety.

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There are several types of dental sedation, including:

• Laughing Gas: A mild sedative that you inhale, offering relaxation without putting you to sleep.
• Oral Sedation: Comes in the form of a pill taken before the procedure, providing a moderate level of sedation.
• IV Sedation: Administered through a vein, this sedation works quickly and its level can be adjusted during the procedure.
• General Anesthesia: Makes you completely unconscious and is typically reserved for extensive dental work.

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Good candidates include those with dental anxiety, individuals undergoing lengthy or complex dental procedures, patients with a low pain threshold, and those who have difficulty sitting still. Children and adults with special healthcare needs that make traditional dental care challenging can also benefit significantly from sedation dentistry.

Sedation dentistry refers to the use of medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. It's an ideal solution for individuals who experience anxiety or fear about dental visits, allowing them to undergo treatments comfortably and stress-free.

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