Wednesday, February 25, 2015

Bone Grafting

In some cases, our patients do not have the proper amount of bone mass in their jaw to allow for the placement of dental implants. However, thanks to recent developments in bone grafting, people who would not have qualified a few years ago can now receive dental implants. In Del Rio, TX office, Dr. Louis Cadena, Dr. Valerie Cadena Vargas and Dr. Jerome Gibson perform bone grafting to increase the amount of bone in his patients’ jaw to allow for future implants.
 
There are several bone grafting techniques, but they can all be grouped into two types. The first type of bone grafting is the most extensive type and is performed only by an oral surgeon. Always done as a surgery separate from dental implant placement, this first type of grafting makes large changes to the shape and size of the dental ridge for the sake of implants, which are usually not implanted until several months later.
 
The second type of bone grafting is usually performed if the jaw has enough bone for implant placement but not enough to completely cover the sides of the implant. These grafts are usually small and performed when dental implants are placed.
 
Whether you need bone grafting or not, if you’re looking to receive dental implants, we can make it happen. To schedule an appointment, call our office in Del Rio, TX at (830) 775-3322. For more information, visit www.cadenadentistry.com.

Thursday, February 19, 2015

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is a severe oral health problem that affects about 10% of the population.  Although the infection begins as a minor inflammation, it can quickly escalate into tooth loss, hard tissue damage, and have an effect on your overall systemic health. 
 
Fortunately, it is easy to prevent periodontal disease with diligent oral care.  At Cadena Dentistry, we always remind our patients to brush twice a day, floss and schedule appointments for bi-annual cleanings and exams.  In the event you do find yourself with periodontal disease, it’s important to catch it in its earliest stages.
 
If you notice any of the following signs of periodontal disease developing, schedule an appointment with us at Cadena Dentistry so you can be proactive about your oral health:
  • Bleeding gums during or after brushing and flossing your teeth
  • Swollen, tender or sore gums
  • Gums that appear to be receding from your teeth
  • Bad breath or a foul taste in your mouth, even after brushing
  • Loose teeth or teeth that can be physically moved in the gum bed
  • Changes in your bite alignment
  • Lack of stability in any restoratives or prosthetic dental work