When you hear the term “Implant Dentistry” most people initially think of reconstructive surgery.   Implants are often used to solve very severe conditions that result from automobile accidents or sporting accidents.  Nowadays, implant dentistry is also used to handle a larger set of dental problems, including tooth loss due to extraction or severe tooth decay.  In addition to these, it’s also sometimes an alternative to dentures.

In normal teeth, the root of the tooth holds the tooth in place.  In dental implants, a special metal screw is threaded into the jawbone and this allows for the attachment of a variety of prosthetic dental replacements.  There are different materials used in implants, including medical grade titanium or a titanium alloy.  Tens of thousands of dental implant procedures are done every year.

Dental implants may be used to replace a single tooth, or they can be used to support replacement teeth for mouths which are entirely toothless. In addition dental implants can also be used as anchors to provide support for a fixed bridge or even support for a complete denture set.

There are other reasons why implants may be a valid solution to your dental problem.  Give us a call here at Oak Road Dentistry or stop by and visit to discuss your specific situation and see if implants are the best solution.  We are your local Snellville dental implants dentist in addition to providing a wide range of routine dental care, including dental cleanings, teeth whitening, filling cavities, crowns and much more.

We appreciate how difficult it can be when looking for a new dentist.   Please take a few minutes to review the content we have on our website.  We regularly add content to better assist our existing clients as well as folks like yourself, who are trying to find a good dentist.

Our friendly staff would love to answer any questions you have, whether they be about our services, insurance, payment plans or even to give you some background on our professional staff.

Hope to see you in person soon,

Dr. French & Dr. Pace

It was once thought that oral health only impacted the mouth.  More recent studies have shown that gum disease and periodontitis is also associated with heart problems and even strokes.  New research has even linked oral issues with cancers, pneumonia and low birth weight.  These findings are not without disenters, and further research is needed.

One of the new associations with periodontal disease is that of bacterial endocarditis. Bacterial endocarditis is an infection that affects the the lining of the heart and can also damage the heart valves.  It is generally agreed that bacteria can enter the bloodstream from infected gums or certain dental procedures.  Once the bacteria enters the bloodstream it may activate an infection that affects the valves.

According to the American Heart Association, abnormal heart values are more likely to capture the bacteria from bacterial endocarditis.  For patients with certain pre-existing heart conditions, the American Heart Association recommends that they take medication prior to certain dental procedures, including routine dental cleanings.  This pre medication is in the form of an antibiotic drug, such as Amoxicillin and should be taken an hour before the dental visit.

About Gum Disease:

There are two major types of gum disease: Gingivitis and Periodontitis. Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease and can be treated and reversed if detected early. Periodontitis is a much more serious form of gum disease that is irrevesible and can lead to bone loss.  The good news is, periodontitis can be prevented with good oral hygiene habits.  Now you know why your dentist is always encouraging you to brush and floss daily.

Common symptoms of gum disease include:

Gums that bleed easily
Bad breath
Gums separating from the teeth
Loose teeth
Change in your bite

In addition to daily brushing and flossing, bi-annual visits to your dentist for routine cleanings are important for early detection and prevention of gum disease.

I may not have dental insurance for much longer, what should I do?

Unfortunately, in today’s tough economic times we hear this concern a lot.

I know this sounds like an old worn out cliche, but it’s true….first and
foremost you need to work real hard to keep an upbeat positive attitude and
remind yourself that these tough times will not last forever.  Be proactive
and take massive action to adapt and prosper in these tough times.

Now to the dental insurance question…

If you still have dental insurance consider the following :

1. A lot of dental plans will include free cleanings.  Jump on this quickly
and schedule a cleaning visit.  The benefits of cleanings are many, including
the obvious, nice looking teeth (which can not hurt if you find yourself
in the job hunting mode again), but more importantly the cleaning visit will
give you the opportunity to detect more critical problems early.

A dental problem detected early is usually less expensive to handle.  This
is definently not a situation where “ignorance is bliss”.

2. If cavities or other dental problems are identified during your cleaning visit
and you still have dental benefits available, go ahead and schedule a
followup visit to handle the problem early.  Most dental insurance plans
cover routine procedures at 50% to 80%.

3. If a more elaborate treatment plan is needed, we also may be able to help
you with a payment plan, through a third party provider.

If you have the benefits, take advantage of them.  All dental plans are different,
so please consult with your plan documents to confirm your actual benefits.

Let us know what you think of this post.  We are interested in your thoughts.

Welcome to the new Oak Road Dentistry website and blog.

We’re committed to providing you with exceptional care and attention. You will be happy with the treatment you receive. We want to be your choice for everything from regular dental cleanings to complex dental treatment plans. Come check us out, you will be glad you did.

Also, check out our website often. We will be adding a lot of content over the coming months, including general dental resources. Let us know what you think by sending us a comment.