Dental Implants

Dr. Stewart has both skill and experience in the area of dental implants, which are a solution to problems created by tooth loss. Teeth can be lost as a result of aging, trauma to the mouth or poor oral hygiene. Dental implants are artificial tooth root replacements that have several uses and, in many cases, dental implants may be the only choice to restore all the necessary functions to your teeth. They can serve as an anchor for a bridge or for the missing back teeth that would be required for a bridge. Implants can also work with dentures to reduce the shakiness of the denture and the gum tissue irritation that can result.

Dental implants are considered one of the most successful types of procedures in dentistry. There is no guarantee that a dental implant procedure will be successful, but studies have shown a five-year success rate of 95% for lower jaw implants to 90% for upper jaw implants. Dental implants are not susceptible to the formation of cavities; however, like gum disease (periodontitis) that is associated with normal teeth, poor oral hygiene can lead to the development of gum problems around dental implants.

If you suffer from tooth loss, you may feel too self-conscious to smile or talk. Eating may cause bite-related irregularities. Regardless of the nature of problems related to your tooth loss. Dr. Stewart can offer you the option of dental implants, a successful remedy with proven results.

Dental Bridges

Dr. Stewart uses dental bridges, dental implants, and partial dentures to replace missing teeth. One or more missing tooth could cause the shifting of other teeth, a change in the bite, a speech impediment, an increased risk for periodontal disease or a greater chance of tooth decay. There are several types of fixed bridges (bridges that cannot be removed). These include conventional fixed bridges, cantilever bridges, and resin bonded bridges. A conventional and cantilever fixed bridge involves shaping the teeth around the missing tooth. Crowns (caps) are then placed on the shaped teeth and joined to a new tooth that is used to replace the missing tooth. A resin-bonded bridge, where less preparation of adjacent teeth is required, is often used for the front teeth, providing that the adjoining teeth do not have extensive dental fillings or unhealthy gums. If you exercise proper dental hygiene, your bridges can last for up to 15 years.

The Dental Bridge Procedure

First Dr. Stewart will examine the health of your gums and other teeth to evaluate whether or not you are a candidate for a dental bridge. You will then be given a local anesthetic, after which he will prepare the teeth required to support the bridge. If the support teeth are badly broken down or decayed, he may have to build them up before they can be used as support for the bridge.

Dr. Stewart will take an impression of the prepared teeth with a putty-like material that is used to create a model of your teeth. Your bridge will be fabricated on this model by a skilled lab technician so that it precisely fits the prepared teeth. While your bridge is being fabricated, you will be fitted with a temporary bridge so the teeth and gums can be protected from damage until the permanent bridge is made. To complete the dental bridge treatment, you will return to the dental office for a second visit to have the bridge fitted and cemented.