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Advanced cosmetic and general dentistry

Archives for September 2016

How can I fix a loose dental implant?

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I have 3 teeth implants. I got them in April ’15. One of them is loose. Is there a way for me to get in back in so it will stay at least temporarily? I have a tight deadline to finish some work out of town and I don’t have time to get to a dentist. Is there something over-the-counter that I can get to at least keep it in place? How long would it hold until I can get it cared for properly? Jamisen

Jamisen,

Unfortunately, you will not be able to secure your loose dental implant. It was surgically placed, and it will be to be surgically placed again. This is something that cannot be done in a single day, but it should be a priority.

Your implant surgeon will need to examine the implants and the area in your mouth was placed. The reason for the implant failure will need to be determined before it can be placed again. Implants can loosen because of improper placement, improper healing, or substandard implant fixtures. Smoking can also prevent implants from healing properly.

The implant will be removed, and the implant site will need to heal before the implant is replaced. Bone grafting may be needed, and you may need a new implant. Unfortunately, it will be a few months before your implant is functional again.

See your implant surgeon as soon as possible. Remember that you do have the option to seek a second opinion on the failed dental implant. Even though you have to travel, make your implant a priority. If treatment is delayed, an infection can result. If that happens, the treatment and healing process will be prolonged. So if at all possible, seek help right away.

This post is sponsored by Lowell dentist Dr. Michael Szarek.

Do teeth whitening swabs work better than whitening strips?

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I always look for new ways to whiten my teeth on my own. Sometimes I hit on something that works and sometimes I have bought products what were really a waste of my money. I have received some good results with whitening strips. One of my friends told me about whitening swabs. Will these get stubborn stains out of my teeth? Davine

Davine – Before you whiten your teeth, you need the professional opinion of a dentist to anticipate the results of whitening them. In some cases, bleaching gel can make stains in your teeth more noticeable.

After you know that you are a candidate for teeth whitening, the most effective way to remove stains that are embedded in your teeth is carbamide peroxide bleaching gel that has a high concentration and that is allowed time to penetrate your teeth. Whitening trays are the best way to hold bleaching gel against your teeth so that it penetrates them.

The effectiveness of whitening swabs depends, in part, in the type and the concentration of bleaching gel used. Although you may be instructed not to eat or drink while the gel is in your teeth, you won’t get the same penetration the swabs as with customized trays, which lock out saliva and prevent your tongue, cheeks, and inner lips from rubbing off some of the gel.

We checked reviews for a few brands of whitening swabs—outside of the manufacturers’ websites. Some people say they get good results, while the majority of people are disappointed.

Consult with a cosmetic dentist for help with identifying the cause of the stains in your teeth, and finding out which whitening treatment will work best for your case.

 

This post is sponsored by Lowell cosmetic dentist Dr. Michael Szarek.