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Porcelain Veneers and Porcelain Bridges Transform Birmingham, Michigan’s Smiles

Case Studies (Before-and-Afters)

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		All photos are actual patients of Dr. Milan's
LUMINEERS® Building out and lengthening teeth creates a more youthful appearance. (Read more about the procedure)
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Porcelain Veneers Building out and lengthening teeth creates a more youthful appearance. (Read more about the procedure)
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Instant Orthodontics Crowded uneven teeth appear straight in two appointments after placing porcelain veneers. (Read more about the procedure)
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Porcelain Veneers and Gum Recontouring The patient had unsightly gum contours and poorly made crowns. The gums were re-contoured and new crowns and veneers gave this patient a beautiful smile. (Read more about the procedure)
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Porcelain Veneers Worn, unsightly teeth were restored with porcelain veneers. (Read more about the procedure)
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Space Closure and Whitening Space closure and whitening achieved with all porcelain veneers (Read more about the procedure)
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Porcelain Bridges Missing teeth are replaced with natural-looking, all-porcelain veneers. (Read more about the procedure)
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Full-mouth Rehabilitation This patient had extremely worn and chipped teeth. The teeth were lengthened, whitened and restored with porcelain veneers. (Read more about the procedure)
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LUMINEERS®

LUMINEERS® Video

Dr. Milan has been using LUMINEERS® porcelain since 1985. He has perfected the LUMINEERS® technique and is proud to have had it featured on Channel 4 (WDIV), The Detroit News, Hour Detroit Magazine, and other national publications. He is one of the country’s foremost experts on this technique

LUMINEERS® are porcelain veneers that offer the painless way to a permanently whiter and perfectly aligned smile. Your LUMINEERS® dentist can apply these contact lens-thin "smile shapers" to teeth without any grinding or shaving, transforming teeth into a naturally beautiful smile that looks perfect for every individual. LUMINEERS® can even be placed over existing crown or bridgework without having to replace them.

LUMINEERS® are placed over existing teeth without having to remove tooth structure (unlike traditional veneers.) LUMINEERS® is the painless, permanent cosmetic solution for stained, chipped, discolored or misaligned teeth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is LUMINEERS®?
A: LUMINEERS®  is unique in that it is contact lens-thin (approximately .2 mm) and super translucent. Traditional veneers are fused or bonded to teeth, and generally your dentist will need to grind down the tooth for a good fit. Since LUMINEERS® is so thin, little-to-no tooth reduction is necessary. In addition, LUMINEERS® resists micro-leakage and micro-cracking.

Q: Is there any other LUMINEERS®?
A: No. LUMINEERS® can only be made from CERINATE™ porcelain. This revolutionary porcelain is crafted through a proprietary process unavailable anywhere other than Den-Mat™ Corporation, one of the nation's largest manufacturers of professional dental materials. Be sure to ask your dentist that he/she is using LUMINEERS® BY CERINATE™ with the certified placement method.

Q: I've heard that a veneer procedure hurts? Is that true with LUMINEERS®?
A: It's true that because most veneer procedures require a substantial amount of tooth structure removal, that there is pain and discomfort involved. LUMINEERS® is completely different because there is no need for grinding, cutting, or filing of teeth in almost all cases. Consequently, no anesthetic or numbing shots are needed. Plus, uncomfortable temporaries are not required while you wait for your LUMINEERS® to be created. Once the procedure is complete, there is no post-placement discomfort or sensitivity, which means they will look natural and feel comfortable from the start.

Q: I think I need braces, but I really don't want to go through the inconvenient, unsightly and time-intensive process. Can I get LUMINEERS® instead?
A: In most cases, yes. Your dentist will be able to evaluate your teeth and decide whether orthodontics is necessary. If you do not have a severe problem, LUMINEERS® will change the shape and alignment of teeth, making them look straighter and more uniform.

Q: How much does a LUMINEERS® smile cost?
A: LUMINEERS® BY CERINATE™ are porcelain veneers that the CERINATE™ Smile Design Studio provides to dentists. Fees are determined by your dentist as he/she evaluates your smile needs. Often LUMINEERS® procedures can vary considerably, sometimes only a few LUMINEERS® will dramatically improve your smile and other times more LUMINEERS® can be required. Check with your LUMINEERS® dentist regarding your personal requirements and payment programs that are available.

Q: How long will LUMINEERS® last?
A: LUMINEERS® has unparalleled longevity. Clinical testing has proven that a LUMINEERS® procedure lasts and looks great for up to 20 years. LUMINEERS® BY CERINATE™ also offers a five year warranty and are replaced at no charge. Ask your dentist for details as certain restrictions do apply.

Q: With LUMINEERS®, do I need to use a special toothpaste or floss a different way?
A: LUMINEERS® is similar in structure to real tooth enamel. Consequently, you should always try to choose a low-abrasion toothpaste that will remove plaque, stain and tartar gently but effectively.

Q: With LUMINEERS®, can I still chew gum and eat my favorite sticky foods like corn or candy?
A: There are no limitations to what you can eat or drink as LUMINEERS® are placed over original teeth in the most durable way possible. However you should continue to visit your dentist every six months for a check-up and cleaning to keep your LUMINEERS® in good condition and to qualify for the Warranty.

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Porcelain Veneers

Veneers are thin, customized covers that are laid onto the teeth and bonded to the surface. Although they can be made of different materials, porcelain is frequently used because of its durability and realistic appearance. We offer porcelain veneers at the Birmingham Center for Cosmetic Dentistry in Michigan as a conservative alternative to crowns since they require less removal of the tooth's original surface. With veneers in place, patients can expect straighter, whiter, and more even-looking teeth.

The Procedure

During your initial visit, you and Dr. Milan will discuss the process of placing porcelain veneers at our Birmingham, Michigan office. Dr. Milan will also discuss the options available to you (e.g., types and shades of veneers). On your next visit, we remove a very small layer of each tooth's outer enamel. A local anesthesia may be used. Dr. Milan makes a mold of the teeth from which our very talented lab technician creates customized veneers for the teeth. The lab prepares the veneers in roughly seven to ten days. During this time, temporary veneers are crafted by Dr. Milan and worn by the patient. The temporaries allow us to preview what the final veneers will look like while changes could still be made if necessary. Once the porcelain veneers have returned from the lab in Birmingham, Michigan, the patient makes their final dental visit in which we apply the veneers to the teeth using a bonding material. When exposed to light, this bonding material dries and hardens. The finished result is extremely strong.

Following the Procedure

Patients may experience some sensitivity in the teeth, especially to hot or cold substances. This sensitivity should lessen within two weeks. If you grind or clench your teeth while you sleep, your dentist can fit you with a mouth guard to protect the teeth. Veneers are quite strong and can withstand considerable force when a patient bites down, but they may fracture or break if abused. Patients should therefore avoid hard or sharp foods such as ice or pistachio shells that may cause undue stress. Veneers should be cared for in much the same way as normal teeth; this includes daily brushing, flossing, and periodic check-ups with a dentist. Given the proper care, veneers can keep you smiling for decades to come. If you want to find out more about porcelain veneers at the Birmingham Center for Cosmetic Dentistry, contact us today.

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Porcelain Bridges

A bridge is a device used to fill the space where a tooth has fallen out or been removed. We offer a number of different porcelain bridges at our office in Michigan. A typical bridge consists of a pontic (filler tooth) that is attached to two surrounding crowns (abutments). Once complete, this bridge structure is bonded into the mouth. Without the use of a bridge, gaps in the mouth where natural teeth are missing can cause multiple teeth to shift, lead to occlusion (biting) and / or jaw problems, and spur periodontal disease. Bridges safeguard the integrity of existing teeth and help maintain a healthy, vibrant smile.

The Process

Bridges usually require two trips to the dentist's office. During the initial visit, the surrounding teeth are numbed with a local anesthetic. The dentist prepares the surrounding teeth by cleaning any plaque or decay that remains and reducing them so that the crowns can be fitted. The dentist makes a mold of the teeth and sends it off to a dental lab where the customized impression is prepared. The customized mold takes one to two weeks to return to the office. In the interim, patients are fitted with a temporary bridge constructed of acrylic resin. When the patient returns to the dental office, the dentist removes the temporary bridge and replaces it with the permanent one. The dentist then adjusts the bridge for the proper bite and fit, and the porcelain bridge is permanently bonded into the mouth.

Types of Bridges

We offer several different types of porcelain bridges to our patients in Michigan. The first is a fixed bridge, which consists of a filler tooth (referred to as a pontic) that is attached to two crowns. The crowns fit over the existing teeth to hold the bridge in place. The fixed bridge is the most popular type of bridge we offer.

Another bridge design is a composite bond, known as a "Maryland" bridge. This type of bridge is commonly used to replace the front teeth. The pontic is attached to metal bands that are bonded to the abutment teeth, and the metal bands are hidden with a white-colored composite resin.

A cantilever bridge is often used when there are teeth on only one side of the span. A typical three-unit cantilever bridge consists of two abutment crowns that are positioned side by side on the same side of the missing tooth space. The pontic is then connected to the two crowns, which extend into the missing tooth space.

If the missing tooth space has no surrounding teeth, the dentist may decide an implant is the most appropriate method of treatment. Please refer to the dental implants section of the Patient Education Library for more information. When a series of teeth are missing, the dentist may suggest a partial denture as the most effective way to maintain the structure of the jawbone and teeth.

Proper Maintenance

Because the pontic and crowns are constructed as a single piece, special care must be given to ensure that the gum line and area surrounding the new structure are kept clean. Special floss is often necessary to clean underneath the teeth and maintain strong, healthy gums. With proper dental care, bridges can last up to ten years.

Interested in finding out more about porcelain bridges at our office in Michigan? Contact us today!

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Full-mouth Rehabilitation

Due to a multitude of factors, which may include missing teeth, extremely worn teeth, and a history of decay, it may be necessary to place multiple restorations on certain patients. In doing so, Dr. Milan is able to provide not only beautiful results, but also improved function and dental health. Full-mouth Rehabilitation at our practice in Michigan involves the treatment of multiple teeth in the front and the back of the mouth. As many of our patients have discovered, Full-mouth Rehabilitation at the Birmingham Center for Cosmetic Dentistry in Michigan can transform your damaged mouth into an attractive smile!

Would you like to know if Full-mouth Rehabilitation in Michigan can help you to regain your youthful smile? Contact us today!

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Restorative Dentistry

As an individual's mature teeth wear, old fillings or crowns may start to fail. Teeth often shift and the bite isn’t what it used to be. The support of the teeth, our gums and bone, may not be in the best of health. Dr. Milan takes his time and thoroughly analyzes his patients’ overall dental health and function. When a bite needs to be restored with new dental restorations, this is called restorative dentistry. It often combines with cosmetic dentistry to achieve both a healthy and great looking smile. It may include crowns, bridges and / or dental implants. Gum treatment, including painless laser treatment, is sometimes necessary.

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Gum Disease

For Americans in their 30s and beyond, the threat of gum disease (periodontal disease) is a very real and potentially dangerous condition. By the age of 40, over 70 percent of the nation's population is affected by the disease to some degree. Although genetics may play a small role in its development, doctors agree that gum disease is most often directly related to how well people care for their teeth and gums. Gum disease is particularly dangerous because the progression of the disease is often painless, going and undetected until it creates serious problems.

The Stages of Gum Disease

Periodontal disease is a gradual infection of the gums and, eventually, the underlying bones of the mouth. It is caused when the build up of plaque on and around the teeth calcifies into tartar. This tartar releases bacteria, which contains toxins and a sulfur compound that slowly decay the teeth and gums. In the first stage of gum disease (known as gingivitis), the bacteria begin to weaken the fibers that hold the gums to the teeth. Gingivitis is characterized by swelling, inflammation, and bleeding of the gums. In the advanced stage of gum disease (referred to as periodontitis), the gum tissues have decayed significantly and pulled away from teeth. The bones below the teeth have usually become infected and begun to dissolve.

The Surgery

Treatments to alleviate the effects of gum disease depend on the severity of the tooth and gum erosion. The periodontist begins by removing the diseased tissue, tartar, and plaque from the tooth's surface and below the gum line. The root of the tooth may need to be planed and smoothed in order to allow gum tissue to heal properly. If periodontal pockets (deep spaces between the teeth and gums) have formed, the doctor places antibiotic fibers to fill in these spaces. The surgeon may prescribe antibiotics to stem the growth of the toxin-producing bacteria while the gums heal. Once the periodontal pockets are adequately treated, the surgeon sutures the gums. In the case of bone decay, the surgeon may need to rebuild and shape the bone below the teeth.

Prevention

The ravages of gum disease are best prevented by early detection and proper dental hygiene. Brushing your teeth twice a day helps to remove the thin layer of bacteria that release dangerous toxins into your mouth. Flossing or other interdental cleansing is also important to keep your mouth free from residual food and bacteria. Finally, maintaining a balanced diet and scheduling regular dental appointments help s stem the advance of gum disease and keep s you healthy and smiling.

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Instant Orthodontics

We are proud to offer instant orthodontics at our office in Michigan. Instant orthodontics is a cosmetic dental procedure in which we place porcelain veneers or bonding to artfully create the illusion of straight teeth. The advantage of this procedure is that we obtain immediate results and there is no need to wear retainers after treatment. Best of all, it is not necessary for patients to have to wear braces. Instant orthodontics at the Birmingham Center for Cosmetic Dentistry in Michigan is permanent and looks totally natural. If you are interested in instant orthodontics in Michigan, contact us today!

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Teeth Whitening

Professional teeth whitening offers tremendous advantages compared to commercially available home treatments. Custom tray design and quality materials are the cornerstones of professional teeth whitening. Prior to whitening, the dentist determines if a patient is a good candidate. A good cosmetic dentist has many forms of whitening treatment and will determine which is optimal for a specific patient based on many variables. Teeth whitening is not like hair coloring; while your hair will grow out or fade if you're not satisfied with results, you only have one set of teeth!

Regardless of how well you care for your teeth, it is inevitable that over time some yellowing or discoloration will occur. This gradual change can be caused by aging, substances that stain your teeth (such as coffee and tobacco), excessive fluoride, or the deterioration of a tooth's nerve. Teeth whitening treatments can be performed either as an at-home, dentist-supervised process or in the dentist's chair. While neither of these methods can stop future discoloration, these treatments bring about whiter teeth and help create a more vibrant smile.

At-home Whitening

The most popular method of teeth whitening is the at-home, dentist-supervised option. During your visit to the dentist, he takes a mold of your teeth and creates a comfortable, customized mouth tray. The mouth tray holds a mild solution whose main ingredient is carbamide peroxide, a substance that reacts with water to release a non-toxic bleaching element (hydrogen peroxide). The mouth tray is placed inside the mouth , and sits only against the teeth, thereby avoiding contact with the gums. Patients can choose either to wear the mouth tray throughout the night or for stretches that last from two to four hours. When the mouth tray is worn throughout the night, the treatment lasts one to two weeks. Patients with more sensitive teeth may opt for day treatments where the trays are worn for one-half-to-two hours per day for two weeks.

Zoom!® Chairside Tooth Whitening System

Our patients couldn't be happier with Zoom!® teeth whitening. This advanced whitening technique takes a little over an hour and produces amazing, instantaneous results, right in our office. Zoom!® patients often see at least eight shades improvement, and a significant number see up to 12 shades improvement after undergoing the Zoom!® procedure.

The Zoom!® Chairside Whitening System is the result of three years of intensive research and development by Discus Dental™ and represents the most advanced technology available in tooth whitening. This treatment involves coating the teeth with a paste-like form of hydrogen peroxide. When this paste is exposed to a special Zoom!® lamp, the tooth's enamel takes on a whiter appearance. This procedure lasts approximately one hour and involves no further at-home treatment. While more convenient than take-home treatments, it is more expensive and follow-up procedures or occasional home whitening are usually necessary.

Patient Concerns

When using the at-home treatment, patient's teeth may feel a heightened, but temporary, sensitivity. The gums may also feel more sensitive or burn slightly. Not all people experience the quality of whiteness they had hoped for on their first treatment and they may require a "touch-up" treatment. Whitening treatments begin to fade in one to four years. It should be noted that tooth whitening treatments have no effect on the artificial materials used for bonds, veneers, or capped teeth.

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Composite Bonding

Composite bonding is a technique used to improve the appearance of your teeth. The term composite bonding refers to any composite material, either a plastic or resin, which is bonded to an existing tooth. Bonding is ideal for fixing chipped or cracked teeth, hiding discoloration on the tooth's surface, or reducing the gaps in between teeth. Whatever the specific intent, composite bonding creates more aesthetically-pleasing teeth and a more vibrant smile. Unlike porcelain veneers or crowns, composite bonding removes little if any of the original tooth.

The Advantages of Bonding

Composite bonding is a quick process, typically lasting less than an hour. Bonding has become as popular an option as porcelain veneers and crowns at our Michigan office because it does not reduce the tooth's original structure. It is also a relatively inexpensive procedure. And finally, composite resins are available in many different shades. The shade can be customized to match the natural color of the original tooth.

The Process

The dentist begins by examining and cleaning the tooth to be bonded. Once the tooth is properly prepped, the dentist rubs the tooth with a mild solution that facilitates the bonding of the composite resin to the tooth. The composite resin is then applied in several coats. Each coat is hardened (or set) using a specially designed dentist's light. Once the dentist has placed an adequate amount of resin on the tooth, the bond is sculpted to achieve the desired shape and texture. Bonding is performed in the dentist's chair and usually does not require any anesthesia.

After your Bonds are Placed

Proper care of the bonded tooth ensures the durability of the bonding. As with natural teeth, bonded teeth should be brushed and flossed daily. This is especially important if you drink coffee or tea or smoke tobacco; all of these substances stain composite bonds. Bonds typically do not last as long as veneers or crowns, and may need to be retouched or replaced every five to ten years.

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White (Composite) Fillings

Until recently, dentists filled and sealed cavities exclusively using a silver and mercury amalgam. Unfortunately, these fillings (or restorations) weaken teeth due to the large amount of the original tooth that has to be removed. Modern dentistry has increasingly turned to composite fillings as a strong, safe and more natural looking alternative. Composite fillings utilize a soft white plastic substance that includes a hardening agent.

Pros and Cons of Composite Fillings

The major advantage of these fillings is that they come in a range of shades that closely match the color of an individual's tooth. Due to the increased strength of modern composite material, they can now also be used in the back teeth. Unfortunately, composite fillings are twice as expensive as traditional restorations. Dental insurance typically covers the cost of composite fillings up to the price of the silver / mercury fillings.

The Filling Procedures

During your initial visit to the dentist, he or she begins by anesthetizing the tooth and removing any remaining filling and / or decay. Once the tooth has been prepared, the dentist places the composite into the tooth, where it binds to the original surface. The process is typically performed in several layers, each layer being cured or hardened through exposure to a hardening light. When properly placed by a skilled cosmetic dentist, composite fillings should give you many years of use while keeping a natural appearance.

Porcelain Inlays / Onlays

Replacing large fillings in back teeth often requires stronger, more precisely contoured restorations. These are called inlays or onlays depending on whether they are being placed inside the tooth or on its outer surface. These restorations need to be custom-made at an off-site dental lab; therefore, two visits may be required. Once the dental office receives the custom inlay or onlay, the patient returns to the dentist's office, where the restorations are bonded into place.

Onlays protect teeth similarly to crowns, but conserve more natural tooth structure. Onlays should provide decades of service. Dr. Milan has restored beauty and function to the teeth of thousands of patients through the placement of custom-crafted inlays and onlays.

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All-porcelain Crowns

If you ever had the notion that dental crowns are conspicuous and unattractive, then you've never noticed a beautifully crafted all-porcelain crown.

Compared to older porcelain fused to metal crowns, all-porcelain crowns have a natural appearance in terms of color and contour. When done properly, crowns should be extremely difficult to distinguish from natural teeth. With all-porcelain crowns, no dark lines are apparent at the gum line.

Our office commonly replaces unsightly crowns with beautiful new porcelain crowns.

Crowns

When a tooth is cracked, decayed, or damaged, a crown may need to be fitted onto the tooth. A crown is a permanent covering that fits over the original tooth. Crowns can be made of porcelain, gold and other metals, acrylic resin, or an amalgam (mix) of these materials. Porcelain crowns typically have the most realistic appearance, although they tend to be less durable than other materials. Crowns can whiten, reshape, and realign existing teeth, adding to a healthy and vibrant smile.

Preparing the Tooth and Crown

During your first visit, the dentist will numb the tooth to be crowned and remove the decay in or around it. The tooth is then re-sculpted to provide an easy fit for the crown. This is a painless process that is performed in the dentist's chair.

An impression of your teeth is then taken and sent to the dental lab where permanent, custom-made crowns are created (this usually takes one to two weeks). During this interim period, temporary crowns made of an acrylic resin are fitted onto the teeth.

Applying the Crown

On your next visit, the dentist removes the temporary crown and fits the permanent crown onto the teeth. He or she makes sure the crown has the proper look and fit, and then cements the crown into place.

Maintaining Your New Crown

It is necessary to care for your crown just as you would natural teeth. Daily brushing and flossing will help to keep the teeth, gums, and new crown free from the bacteria that can cause gum disease. Avoid chewing on hard foods such as ice or pistachios, which can cause crowns to crack or break over time. Given proper care, crowns can last several decades, and may last a lifetime.

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Bad Breath

At the Birmingham Center for Cosmetic Dentistry, we comprehensively treat patients with bad breath. Ask us how we may be able to help you.

For the millions of Americans who suffer from it, bad breath is an extremely embarrassing problem that detracts from a person's confidence. This condition can be temporary or chronic. Regardless of how severe it is, there are treatments available that can eliminate bad breath.

How Bad Breath Occurs

Bad breath occurs when sulfur compounds are produced in the body and released into the air. The most common source of this sulfur is anaerobic (without oxygen) bacteria that live in the grooves or fibers at the back of the tongue. These bacteria produce the sulfur that gives off an unpleasant smell. This frequently occurs when the mouth is dry, creating an ideal environment for anaerobic bacteria to thrive. Sulfur compounds are also produced when certain types of food are consumed. The compounds make their way into the bloodstream and then to the lungs, where they are excreted into the air we exhale.

Causes of Bad Breath

Bad breath is caused by many factors. Normally, saliva helps wash away the natural buildup of bacteria in the mouth and on the tongue. Yet, when saliva sits on the back of the tongue and is digested by bacteria, it shows up as a white film on the tongue. This is a major source of bad breath. Bad breath is also caused by postnasal drip, a condition where the back of the tongue and throat accumulate high amounts of protein, which bacteria thrive on. Foods that are high in protein or acidity, such as fish, milk, cheese or coffee, also cause bad breath. Dieting or fasting, both of which involve a low intake of calories, causes bad breath by reducing the saliva in the mouth. Contrary to popular belief, stomach problems do not cause bad breath.

More Serious Causes

More persistent problems with unpleasant breath can indicate diseases such as diabetes, liver dysfunction, pulmonary disease, and respiratory disease. Periodontal pockets, the spaces that form between the teeth and gums, are another source of bad breath. These pockets, which occur in the latter stage of periodontal disease, create spaces for bacteria to grow, and give off a chronic unpleasant odor. Dental work may be required in order to remove these pockets of bacteria. Periodontal disease is detected by the presence of bleeding gums, loose teeth, receding gums, or pain when chewing. For more information on this condition, please refer to the periodontal disease section of our Patient Education Library.

Prevention

Proper oral hygiene eliminates many cases of bad breath. Daily brushing and flossing removes the plaque and bacteria that often cause bad breath. While brushing, take special care to thoroughly brush the back of the tongue where bacteria normally collect. Mints and mouthwashes can hide bad breath, but do not eliminate this condition. Avoid foods that have powerful odors and drink lots of water to insure that the mouth is cleansed and full of oxygen (an environment in which bacteria do not thrive). For information on current treatments, contact a dentist in your area regarding current products on the market that can eliminate bad breath.

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Dental Implants

In our office we proudly offer comprehensive restoration of missing teeth through dental implants. At Dr. Mitchell Milan's office in Michigan, all stages of the procedure can be performed in the same setting so we can monitor your progress form start to finish.

For individuals who wish to replace missing teeth, dental implants are often a highly effective long-term solution. Implants provide greater structural support and last longer than the porcelain bridges or dentures we offer in Michigan. Implants serve as artificial roots to which new teeth are bonded. Dental implants can be used in conjunction with porcelain veneers to perform Full-mouth Rehabilitation for our Michigan patients to create brilliant, long-lasting smiles. The implanted root is typically constructed of titanium, a strong and safe material that effectively attaches to bone. Inserting dental implants typically involves three steps: the implant insertion stage, osseointegration (the period of healing for the jawbone), and the attachment of the restoration or new tooth.

Types of Implants

The most popular form of implant is the Root Implant. This type of implant is very effective and mirrors the size and the shape of a patient's natural tooth root. Many times, this implant will be as strong structurally as the original tooth's root, as well. Once the dentist applies the local anesthesia, he or she makes an incision in the gum in order to gain access to the jawbone. The bone is then prepared and the implant inserted into the jawbone with care and precision. Finally, the dentist reseals the gums and, if necessary, prescribes an appropriate medication. During the osseointegration step, which lasts anywhere from three to eight months, the jawbone firmly attaches itself to the implant. Once osseointegration is completed, the patient returns to the dental office where the implant is fitted with the new tooth.

Another form of implant is the Plate Form Implant. This implant is ideal in situations where the jaw bone is not wide enough to properly support a Root Implant. The Plate Form Implant is long and thin, unlike the Root Implant, and anchors into thin jawbones. Once the dentist applies the local anesthesia, he or she makes an incision in the gum line in order to gain access to the jawbone. The bone is then prepared and the implant is inserted with care and precision. The dentist then sutures the gums and prescribes an appropriate medication. In certain cases, Plate Implants are immediately fitted with the restoration without waiting for the osseointegration period.

The last type of implant is the Subperiosteal Implant. These implants are utilized when the jawbone has receded to the point where it no longer supports a permanent implant. These implants are imbedded in the gums rather than in the jawbone as with the other types of implants. The dentist applies a local anesthesia and makes a mold of the mouth and jawbone. From this impression, a dental lab constructs implants to custom fit the patient's jaw. During the patient’s second office visit, the dentist exposes the jawbone and inserts the implant on top of it. Over the next month the gums grow up and around the implant. This same type of implant can sometimes be performed in a single procedure with the use of an initial CAT scan of the gum line and jawbone.

Health Concerns

As with any cosmetic surgery, complications are rare, but can include infection, slight damage to nerves, and mild discomfort. Although very unlikely, infection of the gums or jawbone is a possibility and is treated through medication and/or antibiotics. Surgery to the upper or lower jawbone can result in mild nerve damage. Nerve damage typically subsides in several weeks, but can persist for longer periods of time. As the jawbone heals, patients may experience some discomfort, which can be tempered through medication. Discomfort subsides within seven to ten days.

Proper Maintenance

Although patients should always practice proper dental hygiene, this is especially true once a dental implant has been put into place. When teeth and gums are not properly cleaned, bacteria can attack sensitive areas, causing the gums to swell and the jawbone to gradually recede. Recession of the jawbone can weaken dental implants and eventually necessitate their removal. Patients should visit their dentist's office at least twice a year in order to ensure the health of their teeth and implants. Following an implant operation, smoking should be avoided, as it impairs the gum and jawbone's ability to heal. Given proper care, dental implants should last 25 years or longer.

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Dentures

Over time, people's teeth tend to naturally deteriorate. When a tooth has deteriorated substantially, it often needs to be extracted. And when multiple teeth are extracted, dentures may be the most appropriate solution. Dentures can create a natural and healthy looking set of teeth. In addition, a properly fitting set of dentures can greatly enhance your smile and sense of self-esteem.

Complete and Partial Dentures

Many types of dentures exist, including complete and partial dentures. Complete dentures are used when few original teeth remain. The dentist begins by removing any remaining teeth so the dentures can be fitted. He or she then makes a mold of the gums and sends it to a dental lab where customized dentures are constructed. Patients are typically fitted with temporary dentures until the permanent set have returned from the laboratory. Partial dentures are prepared in much the same way as a complete set and are utilized when only a few teeth are missing.

Over Dentures

If the roots of a patient's remaining teeth (the tissue and gums) are strong, the dentist may suggest over-dentures. Over-dentures fit on top of the remaining natural teeth in the mouth. With over-dentures, the remaining teeth are re sculpted and covered with metal caps to stop future decay. The advantage of over-dentures is that they do not have to be relined as frequently as a complete set of dentures because they cause less recession of the jawbone and gums. In addition, over-dentures create less occlusion (bite) problems than complete dentures.

Once Your Dentures Have Been Placed

At first, your dentures will feel uncomfortable because the gums and tissue are not accustomed to being in contact with man-made relining material. Once placed, dentures should be worn continually for the first few days to reduce the amount of swelling that may occur in the mouth. This swelling typically subsides in two to three days. Until patients adjust to their new set of teeth, the dentures may feel loose and awkward while chewing food. Eating soft food may be necessary for the first few days. Reading aloud helps to overcome any speech impediments that may occur from the new dentures. Typically, lower dentures take longer to get used to than upper dentures. The underlying jawbone may take several months to completely heal and become accustomed to the dentures. Once this occurs, the dentist removes the dentures and creates a permanent lining for your teeth (a denture lining is the soft material that cushions the contact between the denture and the gum tissues).

The Life of your Dentures

Although dentures typically last about five years, they can last up to 25 years with proper care and cleaning. Dentures should be cleaned daily with a normal or specially-made denture toothpaste. Once the swelling has reduced, it is advisable to leave one or both dentures out at night to allow the gum tissues to breathe. In order to prevent dentures from warping, they should be left in water overnight. Over time, the lining of the dentures may change, owing to the wear and tear of daily use. In the case of tissue / bone shrinkage, worn down teeth, or breakage, dentures may come loose and need to be remade. If you are interested in a more permanent option for Full-mouth Rehabilitation in Michigan, we offer dental implants, which are surgically fixed to the jawbone.

For more information about beautifying your smile with porcelain bridges, porcelain veneers, instant orthodontics, or a Full-mouth Rehabilitation in Birmingham, Michigan, contact us today!

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