Tooth pain is one of the most obvious signs that something is wrong. If you’re experiencing discomfort when chewing or sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods, it could indicate a cavity, tooth decay, or other dental problems. Don’t ignore these symptoms—addressing them early can help prevent more severe damage.

If your gums bleed when brushing or flossing, or appear swollen and tender, it may be a sign of gum disease. Gum disease can progress quickly and lead to tooth loss, so it’s important to see a dentist right away to avoid complications.

Persistent bad breath, or halitosis, that doesn’t go away with brushing could point to an underlying dental issue, like gum disease or cavities. If bad breath is a constant problem, it’s worth having it checked to address the root cause.

Loose or shifting teeth should never be ignored. If your teeth feel loose or your bite feels different, it could be due to gum disease or other serious conditions. Seeking treatment immediately can prevent further damage and help preserve your smile.

Mouth sores that last longer than two weeks or are unusually painful should be evaluated by a dentist. These can sometimes signal an infection or more serious conditions like oral cancer, so it’s important to get them looked at.

Chronic dry mouth or difficulty swallowing can also be signs of underlying dental issues. Dry mouth can increase your risk for cavities and gum disease, so if you’re experiencing this regularly, it’s a good idea to talk to your dentist.

Finally, if you’ve cracked, chipped, or broken a tooth, don’t wait to seek treatment. A broken tooth can lead to infection or more extensive damage, so it’s essential to get it checked out as soon as possible.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms or it’s simply time for a routine checkup, Aesthetic Family Dentistry in Denville is here to help. We serve patients across Northern NJ, including Morristown, Randolph, Rockaway, Dover, Mountain Lakes, and Morris Plains, and are committed to helping you maintain your healthiest, happiest smile. Reach out today to schedule your appointment!

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The sheer joy implants bring to patients when they first see their restored smile and perfect teeth makes all the hard work worthwhile.

Dental implants aren’t just for replacing a whole tooth or multiple teeth. They have other uses too, such as keeping dentures in place.

Mini implants and dentures

Any denture user will tell you that keeping them in place can be something of a challenge. We put our teeth through quite a lot with eating, drinking and talking. Even the best denture products can have a hard time holding dentures in position during all that, which is where mini implants come in.

Just like dental implants, mini implants for dentures use titanium screws, which work the same way the roots of a tooth do. They are inserted into the jawbone just like a natural tooth. Once healed and fused, they can safely and comfortably support dentures. They can hold the denture in place regardless of how much you eat or talk.

Benefits of mini implants for dentures include:

• Secure, comfortable placement of dentures
• Helps reduce bone and gum shrinkage
• Allows the use of smaller, less bulky dentures
• Increases ease of chewing and talking
• Fewer pressure points as dentures are secured
• Improved confidence from the wearer

Natural benefits of mini implanted dentures

We like mini implants as a procedure because it is minimally invasive yet can have far reaching benefits. Not only do they help keep a denture in place, they also help reduce bone and gum tissue loss. Bone and gum tissue loss is a common condition in those who have teeth removed as the jaw and gum around the missing tooth is no longer stimulated to regrow that bone.

Having an implant replace a tooth root has the same effect as if the tooth was still present. The jaw fuses with the implant as it would a real tooth keeping the implant in place and maintaining bone density as normal. Gum tissue is also encouraged to grow around the site of the implant too. Both help to maintain a natural appearance and a healthy mouth.

Aside from the physiological benefits of mini implanted dentures, there are also comfort benefits. Wearers have increased confidence, as they know dentures won’t slip at the wrong moment. They can eat what they like as the dentures are secure and the dentures themselves can be smaller and more comfortable. All contribute to a much happier denture wearer!

The procedure may be more involved than wearing a set of traditional dentures but we think the effort is well worth it. Given all these benefits, we think anyone able to use mini implants to secure dentures in place should try it.

If you would like to know more about mini implants or dentures, visit Aesthetic Family Dentistry. Call us at 973 627 3617 to arrange your consultation.

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However, as with any surgical procedure there is a small chance of failure. While less than 5 percent, it is still higher than we would like. So why do dental implants fail and is there anything we can do to prevent it?

Generally speaking, dental implants will fail because of:

• Failed osseointegration
• Infection
• Tissue or nerve damage

Other rare situations such as allergies, or sinus issues can affect dental implants but these are very unusual.

Failed Osseointegration

Osseointegration is the process of where the bone of the jaw connects with the implant to hold it into place. This is the process that takes the time and is essential to get right. We need the bone to fuse with the base of the implant so it is held firmly in place and can function as a normal tooth.

If for some reason the bone doesn’t fuse correctly the procedure could be compromised. That is why we are so careful to check bone density and your physiology before we undertake a dental implant procedure. All so we can minimize this risk.

Osseointegration can also fail due to overloading. This is where pressure is put onto the dental implant before the implant has fused. This can compromise healing and cause complications. Sometimes we can perform immediate loading which can avoid this issue but not every case is suitable. It is something we would discuss at a consultation.

Infection

Infection is a constant health challenge to the medical profession. Even in the cleanest of environments, infection can be introduced in many ways. Here at Aesthetic Family Dentistry, we take every precaution imaginable to avoid infection but it is nevertheless a constant risk.

For dental implants, if infection is introduced into the mouth before, during or after the procedure, it can cause inflammation of the gum, called periodontal disease. If infection occurs, the implant may have to be removed while the infection is treated. That’s why we talk so much about oral health and looking after your implants while they heal. All so you can avoid infection as much as possible.

Tissue or nerve damage

Tissue or nerve damage is exceptionally rare in dental implant procedures but it does happen. We mitigate against it as much as possible, but it is a risk nonetheless. When a nerve or surrounding tissue suffers damage it can cause discomfort. In even rarer circumstances, we may need a further procedure to address the issue.

Dental implants are successful over 95 percent of the time and are a very safe and viable procedure. However, it’s only right that you are aware of the potential risks. If you are considering dental implants, we would be happy to discuss everything in great depth at a consultation. Call us at 973 627 3617 to schedule and appointment.

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Dental implants are designed to be permanent replacements for natural teeth. They are structured as much as possible to look, feel and act like real teeth. They need healthy gums and good bone structure to work well. Both of which can be compromised by periodontal disease.

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease or periodontitis are actually a collection of conditions that can affect the mouth. ‘perio’ means around and ‘dontal’ means teeth, so periodontal diseases are conditions that affect the area around the teeth in one way or another. The same is true for dental implants or natural teeth as infection can occur around either.

For example, gingivitis is an early stage type of periodontal disease. Left untreated, gingivitis can escalate into periodontitis.

Research into periodontal disease is still ongoing and we still don’t know everything about it. What we do know is that the condition is caused by bacteria in the mouth. Some of this bacteria resides in dental plaque which is why your dentist is so enthusiastic about avoiding plaque buildup wherever possible.

Periodontal disease doesn’t just affect the mouth. It has also been linked to heart disease, Atherosclerosis, stroke, diabetes and respiratory disease. Doctors know that bacteria in the mouth can influence these conditions but we still don’t know why, not completely anyway.

Periodontal treatment

Periodontal treatment comes in two forms, surgical and non-surgical. Caught in time, treatment can be as simple as a better oral health regimen or medication. More serious cases may require more serious treatments. Doing nothing is unfortunately not an option.

Periodontal treatments can include:

Scaling and root planning – A deep clean of the teeth that removes dental plaque and bacteria. This is the default treatment for periodontal disease.

Medication – Sometimes medication follows scaling and root planning to ensure all remnants of periodontal disease and the bacteria that causes it are eliminated. This could be a special mouth rinse, gel, microspheres or tablets.

Flap surgery – This is a surgical procedure that treats the inflammation within deep pockets in the gum. It is a straightforward procedure that removes plaque and bacteria from under the gums.

Bone and tissue graft – This is a surgical procedure where a periodontist will graft bone or tissue into places within the mouth to encourage new growth.

Dental implants are designed to mimic real teeth so are subject to the same oral health requirements as normal teeth. Keep them clean, visit your dentist regularly and they should last a lifetime!

If you are concerned or think you may have periodontal disease, contact Aesthetic Family Dentistry today at 973 627 3617. We can help.

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Materials are carefully considered weighing THE PATIENT’S individual physiology and concerns against studies and long term results coupled with your specific health needs and requirements.

Occlusion guided placement

At AFDPA we are occlusion experts. All implants are placed with the neuromuscular physiology and specific needs of your body placed first. Placing implants in a guided manner using State of the Art equipment will make certain that the final restoration you have chosen will meet your neuromuscular and aesthetic needs and expectations.

Comfortability

Using state of the art computer guided anesthesia, (The Wand) and buffered anesthetic techniques. We insure the most comfortable and pain free surgery possible.

Infection control

All implants are placed in our sterile surgical operatory, specifically designed for surgical excellence.

Implant reconstructions

Implants are not for everyone, however, for those patients who are candidates for this service, it can be life changing. We have incorporated this service on site to enable you to have totally coordinated surgery and restorative services under one roof and perfectly matched.

Experience

Dr. Steiner assisted in his first implant surgery 45 years ago. Having studied over seven state of the art implant systems, he continually updates and chooses to use the right system for you. His experience tell him which type of implant will offer you the longest success with the healthiest and most compatible materials available today. His practice is mostly limited to the surgical and restorative phases of implant dentistry. His treatment ranges from implant basics to advanced surgical and restorative protocols. At AFDPA we use an occlusal-based implant placement technique. This technique integrates the latest technologies to guarantee implant case control.

What makes us Different

Dental Continuing education is a key factor in choosing a dentist for care. Every dentist studies similar programs in Dental School. Since graduation those doctors that pursue continuing education aggressively are the doctors that become exceptional.

Most dentists are required to take 20 hours of education a year. Here at AFDPA we take easily five to ten times that amount. We take integrated educational programs where we not only take lecture courses, but actually participate in hands on formats as well. Not only do the Doctors participate in these educational experiences, but our caring team takes these course as well.

If you have any questions about implants and to see if you are a candidate please call us.

Alan B. Steiner DMD

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So rather than taking months to heal before adding the restoration, we can prepare, install the implant, design the restorations and fit them all in the same day. It’s going to change the way we do dental implants forever!

What are teeth in a day?

Teeth in a day are an advanced form of dental implants that include much the same as the more established procedure but has been improved where necessary. It allows us to provide a full bridge of teeth using only four titanium implants. It also allows us to perform the entire procedure in one day.

What does the procedure involve?

Initially, you will need to attend Aesthetic Family Dentistry for an initial consultation. We will perform a dental examination, 3-D scan and x-rays. We will then discuss your options. If you elect for this procedure we will schedule you in for a time that suits you.

On the day, we will perform extractions if necessary and prepare your mouth for the implants. We will fit the four implants, prepare the restorations and install those after a couple of hours. By the end of the day, you will leave our office with a brand new set of teeth all ready to go.

You will then need to return regularly for checkups and then once fully healed, we will take new impressions of your teeth. We will then build a stronger, permanent restoration. These will fit perfectly and seamlessly into the implant.

What are the main advantages of teeth in a day?

The most obvious advantage of this new method of dental implants is time. A traditional implant can take months from the initial procedure, healing time, bone grafts if necessary, restoration fitting and adjustment. It can mean waiting over a year with an intermediate solution before getting the full implant. Teeth in a day removes all that delay. We do everything within the day, so you can leave here with that lovely smile before the day is out.

If you would like to know more about teeth in a day or would like to schedule a consultation, contact Aesthetic Family Dentistry today!

– See more at: https://aestheticfamilydentistry.com/blog/teeth-in-a-day-faq/#sthash.LjBC0Lgc.dpuf

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In order to build on that, we have come up with some not so common questions about dental implants. These do come up during consultations, so we think are worthy of their own post. We hope they help.

How long do dental implants last?

Dental implants are a permanent, safe, well-established treatment for a range of issues. They are designed to be stronger than natural teeth and if maintained and fitted properly can easily last a lifetime.

As with natural teeth, dental implants will last longer if cared for properly. As with natural teeth, they can suffer from gum disease, plaque and infection. So brushing, with a good toothpaste, water picking, regular flossing and regular checkups at your dentist are all vital.

What happens after my dental implants are fitted?

Once the procedure has been completed, we will discuss recovery and set up a series of regular checkups to ensure you are recovering well. We will discuss proper care, cleaning and answer any questions you have about looking after your implants. We want you to benefit from these dental implants for a lifetime and will support you every step of the way.

Can I get gum disease with dental implants?

In a word, yes. As mentioned above, proper care and a good oral health regimen is vital for the long term health of your teeth. It’s only the teeth that have been replaced, the jaw and gum are all yours. That means they are susceptible to infection just like the rest of your mouth.

Follow our instructions, brush regularly and floss daily and you shouldn’t have any problems.

Will anybody notice I have dental implants?

The dental implants themselves are designed to look exactly like normal teeth. We mold them to your existing teeth, match color as closely as possible and insert them so they look seamless next to your existing teeth. All so the implants won’t be noticed.

However, if you have had broken or missing teeth, have had poor self-confidence because of your smile or haven’t been smiling much because you haven’t felt like it, people might notice. After all, once the procedure is complete you’re going to have a bright happy smile and that most certainly will be noticeable!

If you live in Denville, Dover, Morristown, Morris Plains, Mountain Lakes, Randolph, Rockaway and have any questions or concerns about dental implants, or would like to schedule a consultation, contact Aesthetic Family Dentistry today. We’re here to help!

The post Not so common questions about dental implants appeared first on Aesthetic Family Dentistry.

Considering the exceptionally high success rate of this treatment, it is one we recommend in as many situations as possible. Of course, everyone is different, so if you’re considering dental implants as a treatment, it’s best to come and see us to discuss.

The psychological benefits of dental implants

The psychological benefits of dental implants are immediate. There is a significant link between self-confidence, happiness and our mouth. Having a full set of healthy teeth changes the way you smile, increases confidence and gives you the mental boost to go on with your day.

During adolescent years, having a set of straight, clean teeth has a massive impact on a child’s development. An attractive smile can significantly affect how confident a child becomes and how included within their social structures they feel. Both confidence and peer acceptance can have a long-lasting impact.

In adulthood, having a lovely smile is important in all aspects of our lives. A smile is the primary external mechanism for showing approval or happiness. Both of which are important in our personal and professional lives.

The physical benefits of dental implants

Dental implants are more than just esthetics, they are beneficial to your oral health too. From a hygiene perspective, straight teeth are much easier to clean. They offer a predictable surface for the brush, fewer gaps for food to get stuck and fewer hiding places for bacteria to build up.

Straight teeth are also easier to floss, which is incredibly important for your long term oral health!

The other main physical benefit of dental implants is that they can replace broken or missing teeth. This has an obvious esthetic benefit but also reduced bone loss within the jaw. It aids digestion and can have a positive effect on bringing oxygen to the brain.

If a broken tooth has to be removed, the jaw bone around the gap will begin to recede, which can reduce the overall strength of the bone in the surrounding area. Having a dental implant causes the bone to regrow around the root, just as it would with a real tooth, thus reducing bone loss.

So it should now be clear why we at Aesthetic Family Dentistry recommend dental implants wherever suitable. They are a permanent solution to a range of dental issues and can help both psychologically and physically. As holistic dentists, it’s too good a treatment to pass up! 

If you live in Denville, Dover, Morristown, Morris Plains, Mountain Lakes, Randolph, Rockaway and have questions about dental implants contact Aesthetic Family Dentistry, we can help!

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There will of course be situations where one procedure is more suitable than the other. But generally speaking, which is best, the old timer or the new treatment?

Appearance

A high quality set of dentures made and fit by experts look great. The same can be said for dental implants. The skill of the dentist involved makes a real difference as the form, fit and appearance of both solutions. Much depends on their ability to choose the right size, shape and color in the situation.

A well-designed set of dentures can look great, but if they move around or cause problems with speech then they aren’t ideal. No such problems with dental implants!

Comfort

Ask anyone who wears dentures and they will say that once you get the right fit, dentures are fine to wear. However, they do involve some discomfort when worn for long periods. They can also cause sore spots on gums, move around and reduce bite force.

No such discomfort with dental implants. One the initial procedure is complete, there is no discomfort at all. The added advantage of implants is that they encourage bone mass to remain, which further supports surrounding teeth. This can affect long-term comfort.

Convenience

Dentures are a convenient solution to a range of dental issues, but they do need special attention to maintain them. They need to be removed often, stored somewhere safe and cleaned using special cleaning solutions. You’re also limited with what you can eat as food can get trapped underneath dentures causing discomfort.

Once the procedure is complete, wearing dental implants is exactly like having natural teeth. They can be cleaned and maintained the same way as other teeth and there are no restrictions on what you can eat.

Longevity

Dental veneers are by far the most effective treatment in many situations and can offer a lifetime of service if looked after properly. One of the most significant advantages they have over dentures is that promotion of continued bone growth around the site of the tooth. Bone loss can cause long-term problems in some circumstances, which can be avoided with an implant.

As we mentioned at the beginning, when done right, dentures can offer a cost-effective solution to a range of dental issues. In some circumstances they are still the primary treatment we offer and done right can look great and solve a multitude of problems. However, in many cases, dental implants are a far superior procedure. It really is down to each specific case as to which procedure is best.

If you’re considering dentures or dental implants, contact Aesthetic Family Dentistry today for a consultation.

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If you have a question that isn’t answered here, or would like to schedule a consultation, contact us today!

What are dental veneers?

A dental veneer is cosmetic dentistry treatment that can help improve broken or damaged teeth or teeth that are out of position. They are made from a thin layer of porcelain that is placed over the natural tooth.

Are they effective?

If dental veneers weren’t an effective treatment, we wouldn’t use them! Yes, in the right circumstances and used in the right way, dental veneers are a very effective treatment for a range of situations. As they are straightforward to install and easy to maintain, they are an excellent option to create that beautiful smile.

How are dental veneers installed?

The procedure to fit dental veneers is actually quite straightforward. It involves cleaning the surface of the tooth in question and sometimes removing a thin layer of enamel. We then take a mold of your teeth so we can have the veneers made to fit exactly where we want them to go. We also color match them so they will be invisible once in place.

Once we have the veneers, it’s a matter of bonding them in place, arranging them so they fit naturally alongside your other teeth and then curing the bond once we’re completely happy.

How long does the procedure take?

The procedure to fit dental veneers is usually done over two visits to our office. The first visit we prepare the teeth and take the mold. The second, we fit the teeth and bond them in place.

Is the procedure painful?

In the vast majority of procedures we perform here at Aesthetic Family Dentistry, there is no discomfort at all. We don’t even need to use anesthetic, as tooth preparation is only on the surface.

However, as everyone is different, we tailor the procedure to your specific needs. In the unlikely event you do feel discomfort, we have the expertise on hand to address it immediately.

How long do dental veneers last?

The lifetime of a dental veneer differs depending on your lifestyle, your oral health and how well you look after them. Cared for properly, a veneer will typically last decades.

If you live in Denville, Dover, Morristown, Morris Plains, Mountain Lakes, Randolph, Rockaway and have questions about dental veneers contact Aesthetic Family Dentistry, we can help!

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