Tag Archives: dental anxiety

Sedation Dentistry

I Think My Dental Implants Are Failing

I think my dental implants are failing. My 2021 full-mouth reconstruction included implants, crowns, and veneers. I think several of the implant teeth are infected, and two crowns have fallen off. My gums are swollen, and it hurts to chew. Unfortunately, the dentist relocated, and I cannot find a current listing for him. I am concerned that another dentist must replace my implants and that I will need a repeat full-mouth reconstruction. I do not know where to begin, and my anxiety level is increasing because I am afraid that I will need implant surgery again and who knows what else. – Thank you. Vadim from IL

Vadim,

We are sorry to hear about your horrible experience. You certainly do not want the dentist doing additional dental work for you.

Infection Around Dental Implants

Infection around dental implants is peri-implantitis, a form of gum disease that can lead to dental implant failure. Signs and symptoms of infection include:

  • Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
  • Bleeding around the implants
  • Difficulty chewing
  • Loose implants
  • Pain, aches, or discomfort around the implant
  • Pus around the implants
  • Red or puffy gums
  • Visible implant threads

Treatment for Infection Around Dental Implants

Depending on the extent of the infection around your dental implants, treatment options may include:

  • Antibiotics
  • Antimicrobial therapy
  • Laser therapy for your gums
  • Surgery

Find a Skilled Implant Dentist

Yes, you need to find a new dentist. But look for a dentist with advanced implant training or who partners with an oral surgeon or periodontist to complete implant surgery. A highly trained implant dentist or surgeon will explain your options. You can also discuss your anxiety level and ask about sedation options to keep you relaxed throughout the procedure.

Man on beach portraying sedation dentistry, available form Plano, TX female dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy
Sedation can help you relax throughout dental procedures

It is essential for your new implant dentist or surgeon to perform a 3-D x-ray (CT) for a detailed view of your jawbone and oral anatomy and identify the cause of the problems with your dental implants. Please only trust providers who are willing to perform a CT scan.

Best wishes for a smooth recovery.

This post is sponsored by Plano, Texas, female dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy.

Affordable Dentistry

My gums are bleeding and I have dental anxiety

My gums bleed when I brush my teeth. I have dental anxiety and am afraid that I know I have gum disease because of canceling dental appointments for the past three years. Things are probably worse than they would usually be because I am diabetic. Now I will need sedation and deep cleanings. The thought of it is increasing my anxiety because I already have too many medical bills. How long can I expect treatment for gum disease to last? Ramón from TN

Ramón,

Thank you for your question. Dr. Lacy would need to examine your teeth and gums and take x-rays to determine the extent of your gum disease.

According to the American Academy of Periodontology, people with diabetes are more likely to have gum disease than people without diabetes for these reasons:

  • High glucose levels can contribute to tooth decay, gum disease, and gingivitis.
  •  Saliva flow in your mouth decreases when you have diabetes, causing bacteria-producing acid to linger in your mouth.
  • Germs in your mouth will travel into your bloodstream. And your body’s immune response can unleash molecules that can increase blood sugar levels.

How Gum Disease Progresses

Gingivitis, or the beginning stage of gum disease, can cause your gums to swell and bleed. It can lead to periodontitis, or advanced gum disease and cause your teeth to loosen. It can even spread to the jawbone.

  • Your dentist can check your teeth and gums more frequently.
  • Your hygienist can perform regular deep cleanings to remove plaque from your gum pockets.
  • Your dentist may prescribe fluoride rinse or prescription toothpaste that contains fluoride.
  • You may need advanced care from a periodontist (gum specialist).

How Long Will Gum Disease Treatment Take?

How long gum disease treatment takes depends on its severity and how your dentist or periodontist must treat it. You may need only a few weeks of treatment, or treatment can be spread out over a few months. After an examination, your dentist will develop a personalized treatment plan for you.

Getting Gum Disease Treatment If You Have Dental Anxiety

If you have dental anxiety, your dentist can use sedation to help you relax during gum disease treatment. Depending on your anxiety level and the care you need, your dentist will explain the options. You can ask our dentist about financing options to help you pay for dental care over time.

This post is sponsored by Plano, Texas, female dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy.