Setting you up for success and a lifetime of healthy function, beautiful smiles with dental implants
Dr. Vickii R. Bingham-Lester is pleased to offer advanced dental services that cannot be found at other general dentists’ practices “near me” in Crofton, Maryland, and beyond. These services include the placement of dental implants. Other offices may only restore the implant; they do not have the capabilities to surgically place these artificial tooth roots in the jawbone. Dr. Bingham-Lester is a dentist who does both and is equipped to partner with you at every step in the process of replacing your teeth with these modern prosthetic alternatives.
As a true partnership, we also work closely with patients to ensure their transition to implant-supported crowns, bridges, and dentures is smooth and supports the utmost health and safety. In fact, our approach involves addressing after-care for implants early – at the consultation stage. We need to discuss and address any habits, behaviors, and factors that could negatively affect how the implant heals or joins to the bone in the jaw.
Certain habits or behaviors can also give rise to “late-stage” implant failures, notably, a condition called “peri-implantitis.” This condition is similar to gum disease, characterized by inflammation of the tissues surrounding the implant. When the implant is threatened, the structure and integrity of the prosthetic tooth attached to it are also vulnerable.
Here are just a few of the potential threats to your new teeth and how we may need to address them:
- Smoking and use of products that contain tobacco and nicotine – The substances in cigarettes and other products interfere with proper blood flow, which is needed for healing after the implant is placed. It is generally advised to work on snuffing out the habit, both for the health of your smile and for the “rest of you”
- Chronic teeth grinding or bruxism – This condition places undue stress on the implant-restored tooth — far exceeding the force the tooth is designed to withstand. The implant may be no match to the excessive mechanical load placed on it by the patients with untreated bruxism. So, we can discuss exercises, techniques, and oral appliances to protect any remaining natural teeth (as needed) as well as your new dental work
- Inconsistent oral care – It is essential for all patients, regardless of risk factors for disease, to get into a healthy routine of visiting us at least two times per year for check-ups (professional cleanings and exams). We can also advise on the best ways and products to brush, floss, and otherwise clean your teeth and other areas that harbor harmful bacteria. While restorations are not susceptible to decay like natural teeth, they can still be lost due to inconsistent oral hygiene, which promotes the development of peri-implantitis around the implant
With good care, your new implant teeth can last a lifetime! Call the Crofton, Maryland, area team of Bingham-Lester Dentistry at 410-885-6522 today.
