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Replacing Single Tooth vs Multiple Teeth | Schnecksville Dentist

When you are missing a tooth, or multiple teeth, it is important that you get it repaired as soon as possible. It isn’t for the vanity of it, having a gap in your teeth will begin to cause issue doing things like eating or speaking, and your other teeth could begin to move. But what would that entail?

There are a few options for replacing one or two teeth, which is offered depends on your particular case. The primary options for replacing individual missing teeth include dental implants and dental bridges. Replacing a single tooth with a dental implant provides the most natural feeling option for restoring missing teeth. Dental implants mimic the tooth’s natural root, making it feel just like your natural teeth.

In order to undergo dental implant treatment for single tooth replacement, patients must be healthy enough to undergo surgery. They should also have sufficient jawbone to support the dental implant. If the jawbone is insufficient, a bone graft may be performed to rebuild the jaw for dental implant treatment.

Dental bridges are a non-invasive option for replacement of a single tooth, making them a good option for those who wish to avoid surgery or are unable to undergo surgery due to underlying health issues. They are made of two crowns joined by an artificial tooth.

With implant-supported dentures, a set of dentures is attached within the mouth using as little as four or six dental implants. This makes it possible for denture wearers to enjoy a secure fit and improved dental function as their dentures stay firmly in place when eating and speaking.

Lastly, traditional dentures are still an option for replacing multiple teeth, though they don’t provide the secure fit and improved function as implant-supported dentures.

For more information about dental replacements, call Dr. Ladani in Schnecksville, PA at 610-799-0600 or visit www.extraordinarysmiles.net.

Dr. Sandip Ladani proudly serve patients from Schnecksville and all surrounding areas.

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When Dental Implants Fail | Schnecksville Dentist

The good news is that dental implants boast an initial success rate of more than 95%, and most patients continue to enjoy their restored teeth for many decades. But then there are the other 5% that fail. The most common cause of dental implant failure is an infection called peri-implantitis, when harmful bacteria invade the tissue around an implant, destroying the implant’s base of support. Poor oral hygiene is usually the reason for peri-implantitis, but genetics and other factors can also play a role.

Other possible causes of dental implant failure include:

  • Failed osseointegration (the implant never properly bonds with the surrounding bone)
  • Medical conditions that interfere with the body’s ability to heal
  • Physical trauma
  • The use of tobacco or other substances that are detrimental to oral health
  • Peri-implantitis, a common cause of dental implant failure

Dental implant failure can happen at two different points – after the implant is placed and after the surgery, even decades after. The symptoms are similar and include:

  • Some discomfort is to be expected after your initial surgery, but unusual pain or pain that suddenly occurs after you have had your implants for a while are big red flags.
  • Swelling, bleeding, and other signs of infection. Even if these symptoms are relatively mild, it would be wise to seek professional help.
  • An implant feels loose. In some cases, this just means that your restoration needs to be repaired. In other cases, it indicates that the implant itself or the surrounding tissue is damaged.

When you visit us, we will examine your mouth and take some X-Rays to gain an understanding of what is happening, then discuss a treatment plan.

For more information about dental implants failure, call Dr. Ladani in Schnecksville, PA at 610-799-0600 or visit www.extraordinarysmiles.net.

Dr. Sandip Ladani proudly serve patients from Schnecksville and all surrounding areas.

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The ABCs of Implant Dentures | Schnecksville Dentist

When it’s time to replace missing teeth, there are a few options to consider. The tried-and-true denture option is the first thought that crosses our mind, the second being how terrible daily life is going to become when it comes to things like eating and speaking. The good thing is, there is an option that will relieve all your fears of slippage and embarrassing discomfort – implant dentures.

Implant supported dentures are a type of overdenture that is supported by implants inserted into your gums. Not only will this look extremely natural, but the support given will prevent slippage while you wear them. How does this happen? It has attachments that connect the denture to the implants. At night, remove and clean with ease.

In general, implant supported dentures are made for the lower jaw. Dentures for the upper jaw usually have enough suction to stay in place without needing implants. But if you are a patient that needs both sets, you may want to consider getting these dentures in both the upper and the lower jaws.

There are two types of implant dentures to consider – bar-retained dentures and ball-retained dentures. Bar-retained dentures includes placing a thin metal bar on an implant abutment. There are also other attachments that fit on the bar or the denture, while being held in place by clips.

On the other hand, ball-retained dentures have a ball and socket that hold the denture in place. Every implant in the patient’s jaw has a socket attached to it to align each of the balls on the denture.

Once placed, you are all set to go about your normal life. Eat and speak without worry – your new smile will not slip about, rub on the gums, or cause sore spots.

For more information about dental implants, call Dr. Ladani in Schnecksville, PA at 610-799-0600 or visit www.extraordinarysmiles.net.

Dr. Sandip Ladani proudly serve patients from Schnecksville and all surrounding areas.

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Dental Implants vs. All-on-Four Implants | Schnecksville Dentist

When it’s time to improve your smile, there are plenty of ways to go about doing so. But which is best for you? When it comes to getting implants, it is all on a case-by-case basis; but let’s break down implant dentistry:

Esthetically, dental implants look and feel like your own teeth. Since dental implants integrate into the structure of your bone, they prevent the bone loss and gum recession that often happen with bridgework and dentures that don’t integrate back to the bone.

Neighboring teeth are not changed to support the implant as with something like a bridge. More of your own teeth are left untouched, a significant long-term benefit to your oral health. And because dental implants are secure, you don’t have to worry when speaking or eating. However, you need to be in good oral health and have adequate bone in your jaw to support the implant and healthy gum tissue.

An All-on-Four smile is made from high-tech dental resins that allows it to cover either the entire lower or upper arch of your mouth, immediately disguising common aesthetic dental problems such as stains, chips, crowding, missing teeth, etc. Still not convinced? Here are some more advantages:

  • Virtually painless and fast process that requires only two short visits and as little as two to three weeks.
  • A more affordable solution compared to other cosmetic dentistry treatments
  • Almost everyone is a suitable candidate
  • A good alternative for those who can’t be fitted with implants or bridges
  • A more comfortable and attractive alternative for those who don’t like partial dentures
  • The process is reversible as nothing is changed and the appliance can be removed at any time.

For more information about dental implant options, call Dr. Ladani in Schnecksville, PA at 610-799-0600 or visit www.extraordinarysmiles.net.

Dr. Sandip Ladani proudly serve patients from Schnecksville and all surrounding areas.

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Should I Use a Mouthwash? | Schnecksville Dentist

When we think of dental hygiene, we think of a few key pieces of equipment for a healthy clean mouth – a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss and mouthwash. Each of these things plays a certain role in doing the job, but are they all necessary?

For the most part, all of these dental tools are necessary, but mouthwash is the exception. We are told that it is helping with bacteria that causes bad breath, leaving us with a minty-fresh mouth. Unfortunately, that isn’t the case.

Firstly, bad breath is caused by bacteria in our mouths. If you don’t brush and floss regularly, it is easy for plaque and harmful bacteria to collect and multiply inside of our mouths. We naturally produce saliva to help our mouth maintain a healthy pH balance, making it a natural defense against bad breath.

Now let’s look at mouthwash. We know that mouthwash is full of alcohol, some as much as 25 percent. We also know that alcohol dehydrates us. If mouthwash dehydrates us, we are not producing enough saliva. Not enough saliva, our pH balance is thrown off and bacteria is allowed to collect, doing the exact opposite of its goal.

The claims made by mouthwash ads to kill bacteria and bad breath chemically is true, but it cannot distinguish between the harmful bacteria and the bacteria it needs to leave alone because it is actually helping our mouth.

So, what do we do when we get a case of bad breath? Forget about mouthwash and use water. Brush and floss, and tongue scrape at least once daily. If you don’t have a dental kit around, an apple or a stick of gum will help produce saliva.

For more information about mouthwash, call Dr. Ladani in Schnecksville, PA at 610-799-0600 or visit www.extraordinarysmiles.net.

Dr. Sandip Ladani proudly serve patients from Schnecksville and all surrounding areas.

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Choosing a Toothbrush: What You Need to Know | Schnecksville Dentist

When trying to maintain a bright and healthy smile, it is important to have the best equipment for your particular situation. So, we purchase fluoride mouthwash and ADA approved toothpaste in our favorite flavor. But what about a toothbrush? After all, there seems to be endless options to choose from. Fortunately, there are a handful of things to consider when you purchase your next toothbrush. Because having the ideal toothbrush will definitely make a difference at your next dental appointment.

Brush head. Firstly, the head of your toothbrush is going to need to fit inside your mouth in such a way that you will be able to maneuver around your mouth in order to be able to clean all of your teeth thoroughly. Additionally, find a model that has a grip you like as well. The easier it is for you to hit hard-to-reach teeth, the healthier your mouth will be.

Bristles. Toothbrushes typically have three bristle types – soft, medium and hard. You may think that using hard bristles will clean better, but they can cause damage to your gums if you aren’t careful. Best bet is to choose soft, rounded bristles.

ADA approved. The American Dental Association is the leading authority when it comes to the best products for today’s patients. Make sure that the toothbrush you choose is ADA approved to ensure that you’re using the best equipment.

Manual or electric. When it comes to choosing a manual or electric, it really depends on the patient. For many older patients that may have arthritic issues, an electric option may be best. But this is purely a personal choice.

If you still have trouble deciding which toothbrush to choose, ask your dental professional.

For more information about toothbrushes, call Dr. Ladani in Schnecksville, PA at 610-799-0600 or visit www.extraordinarysmiles.net.

Dr. Sandip Ladani proudly serve patients from Schnecksville and all surrounding areas.

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Giving Your Child a Good Night’s Sleep | Schnecksville Dentist

We all want to get a good night’s sleep. It’s imperative to have a functional tomorrow. But what happens when your little one has this issue? How do we fix it? Some need a bedtime story; others enjoy a bit of warm milk or a snuggle. But if your child’s sleep continues to be disrupted, it may be something more serious.

We may think that sleep issues like sleep apnea are issues for adults, but that isn’t the case. Sleep apnea can begin to affect children as young as 3. The most common cause is enlarged tonsils and adenoids, but other causes could be obesity, a tumor in the airway or certain birth defects.

So, what should you look out for as parents? Here are some common symptoms. If you find that your little one demonstrates any of these signs on a regular basis, it may be time to get a sleep study done to diagnose any sleep issues:

  • Loud snoring or noisy breathing (gasping or snorting) during sleep
  • Prolonged pauses in breathing
  • Mouth breathing
  • A nasal voice
  • Restlessness during sleep
  • Too much daytime sleepiness or irritability
  • Hyperactivity during the day
  • Behavioral problems
  • Sleep walking or night terrors
  • Bed wetting
  • Need for a nap past the age of napping
  • Learning problems
  • Morning headaches

If your child is diagnosed with sleep apnea, there are a few ways it can be treated, depending on your child’s condition.

  • Removing their tonsils.
  • Weight loss.
  • A CPAP machine may be needed while your little one sleeps to control the airway.
  • A rapid maxillary expansion device.
  • Inhaled steroids.
  • Keeping your home rid of second hand smoke, allergens and other conditions that may cause the issue to flare up.

For more information about sleep apnea, call Dr. Ladani in Schnecksville, PA at 610-799-0600 or visit www.extraordinarysmiles.net.

Dr. Sandip Ladani proudly serve patients from Schnecksville and all surrounding areas.

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Why Do I Wake Up Tired? | Schnecksville Dentist

In order to celebrate World Sleep Day (March 18th), let’s take a look at reasons we may not be getting the best sleep each night. The National Sleep Foundation recommends adults get an average of 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Of course, we all know that this number increases the younger you are. But here’s the glitch – 80% of us don’t get this minimal amount and wait for weekends to catch up on that lost sleep.

But beyond the hectic vibe of our busy lives, there are some of us that can’t get a solid night’s sleep, even if they tried. This is due to a sleep issue they may have developed, which can be anything from dry mouth to something more serious, like sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea is a sleep condition that causes you to periodically stop breathing while you sleep, due to a blockage of your airways. There are types of sleep apnea: the most common being obstructive sleep apnea, central sleep apnea, and the combination of the two – complex sleep apnea syndrome.

Other signs and symptoms of sleep apnea include:

  • snoring
  • gasping for air during sleep
  • feeling tired after a full night’s sleep
  • trouble staying asleep
  • waking with dry mouth
  • morning headaches

There are times that the sleeper has no idea there is an issue, but those sharing the space may notice. It is important to take these symptoms seriously. Having a sleep study done about your sleep patterns is a great way to diagnose any issues you may be developing while you sleep. Depending on your specific condition, you may require a CPAP machine, a mouthguard or some other option to getting your sleep back on track.

For more information about sleep apnea, call Dr. Ladani in Schnecksville, PA at 610-799-0600 or visit www.extraordinarysmiles.net.

Dr. Sandip Ladani proudly serve patients from Schnecksville and all surrounding areas.

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A Healthy Smile Starts from Day One | Schnecksville Dentist

When we think about dental health, we don’t necessarily think it begins from the day we are born. But it’s true – our dental health begins from birth. And since February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, let’s take a look at the ways you can ensure your child has a healthy mouth from day one. After all, the earlier we instill good dental habits, the easier it will be to carry those habits on throughout their lives.

Infants may not have teeth, but that doesn’t mean that we should ignore their dental health. Wipe down their gums with a soft cloth after each feeding until their first teeth break through, then use a soft-bristled toothbrush with some water. One major issue infants face is baby bottle tooth decay – this can be avoided by limiting milk or sweetened liquids during sleeping hours and sticking to water instead.

If your child has a habit of sucking their thumb or a pacifier, there may be a chance of tooth misalignment. Because this is due to the act of sucking, it is important to try to wean them off bottles and these other habits around one year. As your child turns a year, it is time to start planning on their first dental visit. A great idea is to plan the appointment after naptime to ensure a calm, happy baby.

Once the baby teeth really begin to show, it’s time to start teaching good dental habits and the best way to do that is by example. Make this a family affair – turn on a little tune and brush for at least two minutes. Good dental hygiene leads to good dental health.

For more information about pediatric dental hygiene, call Dr. Ladani in Schnecksville, PA at 610-799-0600 or visit www.extraordinarysmiles.net.

Dr. Sandip Ladani proudly serve patients from Schnecksville and all surrounding areas.

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Start the New Year with a Smile | Schnecksville Dentist

Here we are – 2022. Are you keeping up with your resolutions? While it is still rather early, it is important to realize that our dental health is directly linked to our overall health so any improvements should start there. After all, we enjoyed our holiday season and likely overindulged in some of our favorite goodies a bit more than we should have. It’s time to get back on track with our goals for the new year.

We all know the basics to proper dental hygiene – brushing, flossing and rinsing with mouthwash, but are you doing these steps appropriately? If you are forgetting any of these steps, it’s time to rethink your habits and tweak some things. Here is a quick checklist:

Brush for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste, rinse and floss twice daily, change your toothbrush every few months or after being sick, and see your dentist regularly. 

Surprised by how simple it is? Many are, but it is just that easy. All it takes is a little bit of time and energy but will be a lifetime of great smiles as a result. But it’s even more than that. Rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash is your leading line of defense when gum disease presents itself in your mouth. Not only does it help cure gingivitis, but also prevents bleeding gums and inflammation by eliminating the bacteria in your mouth causing the irritation. Talk about a bonus! Now, the brand and flavor is up to you, but it needs to be accepted by the American Dental Association (ADA) for ultimate protection.

Having a healthy smile will not only improve your smile but will also benefit your health. And if your dental hygiene habits aren’t the best, no worries – you have a brand-new year to get it right.

For more information about dental hygiene, call Dr. Ladani in Schnecksville, PA at 610-799-0600 or visit www.extraordinarysmiles.net.

Dr. Sandip Ladani proudly serve patients from Schnecksville and all surrounding areas.