Posted by: Dr. Steven Berkowitz
on Sep 15, 2010
You've probably heard advertisments discussing how amazing sedation dentistry is. And the truth is- it is amazing! Sedation dentistry, also known as sleep dentistry, involves using medications to help people relax while they get their dental work done. Obviously, this is a great benefit to patients who are fearful of going to the dentist (and many people are). It is also useful for patients with a strong gag refelx, and to allow more dentistry to be completed in less appointments. You would never be awake to have your appendix removed and why should dental surgery be different? So really, EVERY patient can have a more relaxing, comfortable experience with sedation dentistry.
There are many methods of providing sedation ranging from laughing gas, pills (such as Valium), or conscious sedation. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, but I would like to highlight the conscious sedation method. Sleep medications are given through an IV. This is the safest form of sedation, since the exact dose of medications can be given based on the needs of the individual patient. Also, advanced monitoring of pulse, blood pressure, pulse oximetry, EKG ensure patient safety at all times. You will not be totally asleep, just very relaxed and care free as your dental work or implants are completed. And most people do not remember afterwards that they were even at the dentist!
We are proud to be one of the few periodontists in Miami certified by the Florida Board of Dentistry to provide dental implants and gum treatment with Conscious Sedation. We also offer laughing gas and oral sedation. We can help you decide which method of sedation is b est for you. Dr. Steven Berkowitz is one of the few sedation Periodontists in Miami. Check our website at www.MiamiPerioImplant.com to read more about how sedation can help you have an amazing dental experience.
Posted by: admin
on Aug 24, 2010
Did you know that by age seventeen, more than
7% of Americans are missing at least one permanent tooth, according to studies done by the U.S. Surgeon General. Many patients are unhappy with their missing tooth. They complain that they are afraid to smile and show the missing tooth. There are also many dental consequences such as a change in your bite, shifting teeth, and long term damage to the remaining teeth.
There are several available options to replace a missing tooth. Popular choices include implants and bridges. Each has its own positives and negatives and it is important to consider these carefully when deciding on your best treatment option.
Advantages of bridges are that there is no additional surgery required, and that they can usually be fabricated in 3-4 weeks. However, there are serious negative consequences associated with bridges. The abutments (side teeth) can get cavities, the teeth may require root canals, or the bridge may break. The average life span of a bridge is approximately 8 years. Even insurance companies recognize that bridges will need replacement every 5-7 years.
Implants offer the distinct advantage that each tooth stands alone. This greatly simplifies oral hygiene such as brushing and flossing. Also, in case an adjacent tooth gets a cavity, the whole bridge does not need to be removed. Implants have success rates of 97-98%. This means that in all likelihood, the implant will be successful. Implants do require regular cleaning and maintenance to prevent bone loss and infection. Implants may cost more than a bridge and also usually take 3-4 months before your crown can be made. Although implants are a little more involved than bridges, patients are happy that they have something that will probably last them for life with minimal problems in the future.
In summary, both bridges and implants are great options to replace missing teeth. With the high success of today's implants, implants are usually considered the treatment option of choice. When making your decision, consider these factors and see your dentist to discuss your individual situation. More information can be found on our website at
www.MiamiPerioImplant.com.
