FAQ

Dental Implants & Dentures

Are there any dietary restrictions with dental implants or dentures?

Initially, you may need to eat soft foods, but once healed, dental implants function like natural teeth, allowing a normal diet. With dentures, certain hard or sticky foods may need to be avoided.

How long do dental implants last?

With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. They are a durable and long-term solution for tooth replacement.

Is the dental implant procedure painful?

Most patients report minimal discomfort, often less than a tooth extraction. We use local anesthesia and offer sedation options to ensure your comfort.

What does the dental implant procedure involve?

The procedure typically involves implant placement in the jawbone, a healing period for osseointegration, followed by the attachment of an abutment and a custom-made crown.

How much do dental implants and dentures cost?

The cost varies based on individual treatment plans, the type of implant or denture, and any additional procedures needed. We provide detailed cost estimates after your initial consultation.

Will my insurance cover the cost of dental implants or dentures?

Coverage varies depending on your insurance plan. We accept many insurance plans and our staff will assist you in understanding your benefits and maximizing your coverage.

Do you offer financing options for dental implants and dentures?

Yes, at Grace Dental Care, we offer various financing options to make dental care accessible. We provide personalized plans to fit your budget and financial situation.

What are the advantages of dental implants over traditional dentures?

Dental implants offer several benefits over dentures, including improved oral health, bone preservation, enhanced comfort, better chewing function, and a more natural appearance.

How do dentures differ from dental implants?

Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth and surrounding tissues. Unlike dental implants that are anchored in the jawbone, dentures can be full or partial and are not permanently fixed.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to replace missing teeth roots. They provide a stable foundation for artificial teeth, like crowns, bridges, or dentures.

Oral Surgery

What is a sinus lift, and why might I need one?

A sinus lift is a procedure to add bone to the upper jaw, typically when the sinuses are too close to the jaw for safe implant placement. It's often necessary for successful dental implant procedures in the upper jaw.

Can wisdom teeth removal prevent future dental issues?

Yes, removing wisdom teeth, especially if they are impacted, can prevent potential problems like infection, cysts, and crowding of other teeth.

What are bone grafting and ridge augmentation?

Bone grafting involves adding bone tissue to strengthen the jawbone, usually in preparation for dental implants. Ridge augmentation is a procedure to rebuild the natural contour of the gums and jaw after tooth loss.

How long does the healing process take after dental implants?

The healing process for dental implants, known as osseointegration, typically takes several months. However, this can vary depending on individual health factors and the specifics of the implant procedure.

What can I expect during recovery from oral surgery?

Recovery varies depending on the procedure but generally includes rest, a soft food diet, and avoiding strenuous activity for a few days. We provide detailed aftercare instructions to promote quick and smooth healing.

Is oral surgery painful?

At Grace Dental Care, we utilize advanced pain management techniques, including IV sedation, to ensure minimal discomfort during procedures. Post-surgery, pain can usually be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers.

How do I prepare for oral surgery?

Preparation for oral surgery involves a consultation with our oral surgeons to discuss your health history and any medications you're taking. We provide specific instructions based on the procedure, including fasting and arranging for transportation post-surgery.

What is oral surgery and when is it needed?

Oral surgery includes a range of procedures aimed at treating various dental conditions. It's typically recommended for tooth extractions, dental implant placement, bone grafting, ridge augmentation, wisdom tooth removal, and other complex dental issues.

Tooth Extraction

Can I eat normally after a tooth extraction or wisdom tooth removal?

Directly after the procedure, stick to soft foods and avoid hot liquids. Gradually reintroduce solid foods as your extraction site heals.

How long does it take to recover from a tooth extraction or wisdom tooth removal?

Recovery typically takes a few days. Most patients can resume normal activities within a day, but it's important to avoid strenuous activity for a short period to aid healing.

What can I expect during recovery from a tooth extraction or wisdom tooth removal?

Post-procedure, you can expect some swelling and mild discomfort, which can be managed with pain relief medication. It's important to follow aftercare instructions, including dietary adjustments and oral hygiene practices, to ensure a smooth healing process.

Is the tooth extraction or wisdom tooth removal process painful?

At Grace Dental Care, we use local anesthesia and offer IV sedation to ensure a comfortable, pain-free experience. You might feel pressure during the procedure, but not pain.

How do I prepare for a tooth extraction or wisdom tooth removal?

Preparation involves a dental examination, possibly including X-rays. It's important to discuss your medical history and any medications with your dentist. You should also arrange for someone to drive you home if you'll be receiving sedation.

What are wisdom teeth and why might they need to be removed?

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop. They may need removal if they are impacted, misaligned, causing overcrowding, or leading to dental problems like pain or infection.

What is a tooth extraction and when is it necessary?

A tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the bone. It's necessary in cases of severe tooth decay, infection, dental trauma, or overcrowding, and as part of orthodontic treatment.

Sedation Dentistry

How should I prepare for a procedure with sedation dentistry?

Preparation for a sedation dentistry procedure typically involves fasting for a certain period before the appointment, depending on the type of sedation used. Detailed instructions will be provided during your consultation.

Can children receive sedation dentistry?

Yes, sedation dentistry can be used for children who experience high levels of anxiety or fear, or who are undergoing extensive dental procedures. Our team is experienced in administering sedation to pediatric patients with utmost care and safety.

Is sedation dentistry covered by insurance?

Coverage for sedation dentistry varies among insurance providers and plans. Our staff at Grace Dental Care can assist you in understanding your insurance benefits and provide information on financing options if necessary.

How long does the sedation effect last?

The duration of sedation effects varies depending on the type of sedation used. IV sedation typically wears off more quickly than oral sedation, but we advise patients to rest for the remainder of the day following their procedure.

Will I feel any pain during the procedure with sedation?

One of the primary benefits of sedation dentistry, particularly IV sedation, is the significant reduction in discomfort and pain. Most patients report feeling no pain during their procedures and have little to no memory of the experience.

What are the side effects of sedation dentistry?

Common side effects of sedation dentistry include drowsiness, mild amnesia regarding the procedure, and sometimes dry mouth or mild nausea. These effects typically wear off within a few hours post-treatment.

How do I know if sedation dentistry is right for me?

Sedation dentistry is generally recommended for patients with dental anxiety, a low pain threshold, sensitive teeth, a strong gag reflex, or those undergoing lengthy or multiple procedures in one visit. We recommend scheduling a consultation to discuss your specific needs and concerns.

What types of dental procedures can be performed under sedation?

Sedation dentistry is suitable for a wide range of dental procedures, from routine cleanings to more complex treatments like dental implants, tooth extractions, and cosmetic dentistry.

Can I drive myself home after receiving sedation?

No, patients cannot drive after receiving any form of sedation dentistry. It's important to arrange for someone to drive you home and stay with you for a few hours after the procedure.

What is oral conscious sedation?

Oral conscious sedation involves taking a prescribed sedative pill before the dental procedure. It induces a moderate level of sedation, where you remain awake but in a deeply relaxed state.

Is IV sedation safe?

Yes, IV sedation is safe when administered by trained professionals. At Grace Dental Care, our team is experienced in administering and monitoring IV sedation, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience.

What is IV sedation and how does it work?

IV sedation, or intravenous sedation, involves administering sedative medication directly into the bloodstream. This method provides a deeper level of sedation, with immediate effects, and allows the dentist to adjust the sedation level throughout the procedure.

What is sedation dentistry and who can benefit from it?

Sedation dentistry involves the use of medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. It's ideal for those with dental anxiety, fear of dental procedures, or for complex and lengthy dental treatments.

Emergency Dentistry

What are my payment options for emergency dental care?

We're flexible financially, accepting several in-network and out-of-network PPO plans, along with credit card and CareCredit options, ensuring you can focus on your dental health free from worry about pain, anxiety, or finances.

How does Grace Dental Care handle dental emergencies?

At Grace Dental Care, we provide immediate care to relieve dental pain, including performing root canals, placing crowns, extracting teeth (including wisdom teeth), and placing implants. We understand the anxiety associated with dental emergencies and offer IV sedation for a comfortable experience.

Can a severe infection or abscess wait until my regular dentist appointment?

No, severe infections or abscesses need immediate treatment to prevent the spread of infection, which can be life-threatening. Symptoms can include fever, swollen gums, a bad taste in your mouth, and pain.

Are lost fillings or crowns considered emergencies?

Yes, lost fillings or crowns should be treated as emergencies as they can lead to further damage or infection. Keep the crown safe if it falls out, as it might be possible to reattach it. If possible, slip the crown back over the tooth and use over-the-counter dental cement, toothpaste, or denture adhesive to keep it in place until you can see a dentist.

What should I do in case of a broken, chipped, or fractured tooth?

Rinse your mouth with warm water immediately. If there's swelling, apply a cold compress to the outside of the mouth or cheek. Collect any broken tooth fragments and bring them with you to the dentist.

How can I manage a toothache before getting to the dentist?

For a toothache, rinse your mouth with warm water to clean it out. Gently use dental floss to remove any food caught between your teeth. Avoid applying aspirin directly to the tooth or gums, as this may burn the gum tissue. Over-the-counter pain relievers can temporarily alleviate pain, but it's important to see a dentist as soon as possible.

What should I do if I have a knocked-out tooth?

Time is critical in saving a knocked-out tooth. Handle the tooth by the crown (the part that is visible in the mouth), rinse it gently without scrubbing, and try to reinsert it in the socket. If that's not possible, keep the tooth moist in milk or a tooth preservation product and seek immediate dental care.

What constitutes a dental emergency?

A dental emergency includes any situation that requires immediate attention to relieve severe pain, stop ongoing tissue bleeding, or save a tooth. This can include severe toothaches, chipped or broken teeth, knocked-out teeth, partially dislodged teeth, lost fillings or crowns, abscesses, and bleeding or swollen gums.

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