Denture cream users be aware of the toxicity of adhesives and the benefits of dental implants

March 19, 2010 by ·

Just recently the makers of Polygrip removed their zinc containing denture adhesive cream from the shelves. In a statement, Glaxo said excessive use of the product over several years “may lead to the development of neurological symptoms and blood problems such as anemia. Neurological symptoms may include numbness, tingling or weakness in the arms and legs, and difficulties with walking and balance.”

About 49 million Americans use dentures, or 22 percent of the adult population, and 29 percent of them use adhesives, according to GalaxoSmithKline, the manufacturer of Polygrip.

Because of the problems associated with long term use of these adhesives it has become more apparent that implants are the ideal method to fasten dentures to the jaw. Dental implants and mini implants are small titanium cylinders placed into the jaw bone that allow dentures to literally snap over and securely attach to the jaw. Since they can be remove with some pressure from the fingers the dentures and gums can be properly maintained and cleaned.

Dental implants prevent the messy goop that is so common with denture adhesives and this newly discovered side effect. The titanium which the dental implants are made of has been shown to be completely biocompatible meaning there is a 100% acceptance rate with no allergenic or toxicity shown.

If you have quesitons about dental implants or loose fitting dentures you can call Dr. Antolak The Gentle Dentist at (586)247-3500 or visit the web site at www.TheGentleDentist.com

About The Author

Dr. Robert Antolak, DDS graduated from the University of Michigan in 1987 with his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. He is dedicated to providing the highest quality and appropriate cosmetic, sedation and general dentistry in the most comfortable and gentle way possible. Because being a dentist has been a lifelong dream, Dr. Antolak has a passion for the profession. He enjoys helping people feel better about their smiles and therefore their self-image with dental implant and cosmetic dentistry. His Dental Practice is located in Shelby Township, Michigan.  For more information visit The Gentle Dentist.

Filed Under: General Dentistry Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Periodontal gingival grafting procedure to cover recession

August 19, 2009 by ·

The gum tissues around teeth play an important role in the health of the mouth and teeth.  The teeth are supported into the jaw bone and are connected by very small elastic fibers that connect the teeth to the bone.  This gives the teeth ability to move slightly when loaded and also gives the nerves the ability to sense position and pressure.  The gum tissues that wrap around the bone and forms a sleeve that surrounds the neck of the tooth.  This sleeve creates an impermeable seal to keep bacteria out.  When the sleeve shrinks from recession it leaves the tooth at risk for an

  • infection
  • food impaction
  • periodontal disease
  • sensitivity to cold and hot

In this video Dr. Antolak performs a gingival graft on his mother to cover the root surface of a lower tooth that is at risk for potential problems. Similar to this photo the tissue is harvested from the hard palate and sutured to cover up the root surface and giving her a more predictable safety net for many years of service.

If you have recession, sensitivity and root exposure then this gingival surgery may be for you.  This procedure is actually safe because the graft comes directly from the patient.  There is a little discomfort on the palate, but we fabricate a very thin cover that protects the roof of the mouth where the graft is taken.  People say is feels like burning your mouth on hot cheese from pizza.  The graft usually takes around 6 weeks to heal so it is necessary to be very careful during the healing phase especially on the gum area where the graft is sutured in place.  If you have questions then give Dr. Antolak a call at (586)247-3500 or visit the web site at www.TheGentleDentist.com.

Dr. Antolak serves patients in the Shelby Twp, Macomb Twp, Rochester Hills and Sterling Heights area in a very relaxing high-tech dental office.

Filed Under: Dental Hygiene, Dental Surgery, Dental Videos, Periodontal Disease Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Dental Implant surgery-a painless procedure to gain teeth

September 21, 2008 by ·

This patient of The Gentle Dentist had lost some teeth because of a failed root canal and a fractured tooth.  Rather than adding more teeth to a failed system she and her husband studied the options and decided to give us a call.  They searched on the internet for options and decided to give Dr. Robert Antolak, The Gentle Dentist,  the opportunity to surgically place dental implants to eventually replace the missing teeth.  She wants to eat normal food without pain or something removable.  The most natural way to replace these missing teeth are with dental implants.  They are small titanium screws that are inserted into the jaw bone.  The bone then grows into the implant and when healed teeth can be screwed into place.  The crowns that are placed can be treated like natural teeth because of the direct attachment to the bone.  The problem with both fixed bridges and partial dentures is that food can accumulate under them.  Dental implant crowns act like natural teeth so food doesn’t build up and you can use the same biting force as if the teeth were natural.

After 1 week there was great healing and in a couple of months she will have crowns to eat on.  This is important so that adjacent teeth don’t move into improper relationships.

The surgical cost of an implant, abutment and porcelain crowns are about $3,000 for the entire procedure.  This may seem like a lot, but the value to be able to have teeth to chew on again is beyond mention.

There are some dental insurances that do cover the placement and restoration of these procedures.

Dr. Antolak treats his dental patients in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere where you are treated like a guest in the home.  His motto is to “relax while we take care of your smile”. He specializes in cosmetic dentistry, implant dentistry and general dentistry using sedation dentistry if necessary for his high fear patients. He has been treating patients for the past 21 years and is located in Shelby Township, Macomb County, Michigan.

Give us a call at (586)247-3500 or email DrAntolak@TheGentleDentist.com for more information.

Filed Under: Dental Implants, Dental Insurance, Dental Surgery, Dental Videos, Sedation Dentistry, Tooth replacement Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
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