Dental Implants vs. Bridges

If you are an adult that lost a tooth, you can replace it with a dental implant or a bridge. Bridges require sound teeth on either side of the missing tooth or teeth for placement; this isn’t necessary in the case of dental implants. Depending on the severity of your individual case, here at Cadena Dentistry we can provide you with both options and restore your smile to its fullest potential.

The first thing you notice about a dental implant is how closely it resembles your natural tooth. It replaces the entire missing tooth, including the root, without having to grind the adjacent teeth. Dental implants may be less noticeable and provide a more natural appearance, and provide more efficient chewing than bridges, which may slip. A bridge is a frame on which two crowns and a false tooth are attached. The bridge covers the prepared teeth that are left after grinding. The false tooth then sits in the missing tooth’s space above the gum. Since it does not replace the root of the missing tooth, it’s possible that bone loss can occur. Bridges can be less expensive than dental implants in the long run, however the life span of a bridge is less than that of an implant.

If you need to replace a missing tooth, give us a call today to discuss your options. To learn more about dental implants, bridges and other services we offer here at Cadena Dentistry visit www.cadenadentistry.com for more information. To schedule a consultation at Cadena Dentistry in Del Rio, TX, call 830-775-3322.

Bridges

Broken or missing teeth can occur for a variety of reasons. For example, trauma to the mouth can fracture a tooth or knock it out completely. In addition, gum disease can cause tooth decay and possibly lead to tooth loss. The good news is at Cadena Dentistry we offer restorative services including dental bridges.

 

A bridge fills in the gap where the missing tooth was. It may be supported by dental implants or natural teeth. A conventional bridge includes two crowns on both sides of the gap. The bridge is attached to the crowns, which act as an anchor and hold the bridge in place.

 

Usually two appointments are needed in order to have a traditional dental bridge placed. The process of getting a bridge will involve preparing the adjacent teeth for the crowns. Preparation involves removing any decay and shaping and filing the teeth. An impression of the teeth is taken so the bridge can be made. While you wait for your permanent bridge to be made, a temporary one will be placed.

Bridges are made from durable materials, such as porcelain, gold or alloy. In some cases, a combination of materials will be used. Proper maintenance of a bridge is essential in order to prevent cavities from developing underneath. Regular brushing, flossing and professional cleanings are needed.

 

For more information on bridges or in order to schedule an appointment, please call Cadena Dentistry at 830-775-3322.

Sedation Dentistry

The idea of going to the dentist for a procedure brings on feelings of fear or anxiety in some people, but there are options to ease the anxiety. Between 5% and 8% of Americans avoid going to the dentist due to dental phobia.  We offer an extremely practical solution to dental phobia through sedation. Our practice offers a safe environment of skilled staff members who are able to comfort you through various sedation methods.

 

Dr. Cadena sedates patients through oral Nitrous Oxide, intravenous sedation and oral conscious sedation. None of these methods will not “knock you out”, but you will be in a deep state of relaxation during your treatment.

 

The most common sedation method utilized throughout the dental industry is Nitrous Oxide (N2O). N2O works very rapidly, reaching the brain within 20 seconds. Dr. Cadena will place a small mask over your nose. He will then ask you to breathe normally; within a few short minutes patients will begin to feel the effects. N2O wears off quickly and there is no “hangover” effect. IV administration is becoming a popular tool for dentists as well. IV sedation is administered through the veins, this allows for quicker effects and less recovery time.

 

Some patients also have trouble with needles and gas, so Dr. Cadena will provide you with an oral sedative such as valium. This is utilized for patients with mild to moderate anxiety as it is not as powerful as other sedation methods.

Call today to schedule your appointment! 

Mini Implants

Mini Implants

Patients with missing teeth often visit us here at Cadena Dentistry looking for a permanent solution. Dental implants are the only permanent option for replacing missing teeth, where a metal (titanium) post is implanted into the jawbone, which then grows and heals around the post.

 

Our dental practice also offers mini implants, which are a smaller and less expensive version of traditional implants. They are just as effective, but the treatment goes much more quickly.

The procedure for mini implants in our Del Rio, TX dental office is as follows:

 

1. The patient first visits us for x-rays and to get an impression made of a nearby natural tooth. This is done to have an abutment made for the top of the implant.

2. On the patient’s return appointment, our dentist, Dr. Louis Cadena, installs the metal post through their gums and into the jawbone.

3. The abutment is bonded to the top of the post during the same appointment.

4. Patients can start eating normal food the same day if they wish.

 

With mini implants, the process goes more quickly and patients appreciate that they can resume normal eating right away. If you want to replace a tooth with a mini implant, call dentist Dr. Louis Cadena at 830-775-3322.