How Long Does It Take For Wisdom Teeth To Come In?

Wisdom teeth were once necessary for our ancestors, due to their diet of tough to chew raw plants and meat. But today, our diet has evolved as we have ourselves, making wisdom teeth no longer necessary, and for many patients, necessary to remove.

Removing Wisdom Teeth

Along with no longer being necessary for our ability to eat,  wisdom teeth often don’t fit well in our mouths and jaws. This is due to the fact that today human jaws are significantly smaller in size than that of our ancestors. And so, without enough room to easily fit,  wisdom teeth often push up and crowd other teeth once they erupt, or they are unable to properly erupt, staying stuck in the gum and causing impaction, and possibly an infection. To prevent complications, regularly seeing your dental team is key.

Extracting Impacted Wisdom Teeth

The solution to impacted wisdom teeth is extraction. This will put an end to swollen gums, pain and discomfort, and the possibility of infection. Extracting wisdom teeth that have fully erupted but are crowding your mouth is also a good idea to prevent crooked teeth, and the gum disease and tooth decay that can be caused when you can’t properly reach your other molars for brushing and flossing due to the crowding in your mouth. 

Extraction, or removing wisdom teeth is most often done in your dentist or oral surgeon’s office, using either local sedation, IV sedation, or general anesthesia to prevent the experience of pain during the extraction. The gum tissue surrounding the tooth is opened if the tooth is impacted, the tooth removed, and sutures placed to close the wound. It usually takes only around 2 to 4 days to recover from a typical extraction; however, if the wisdom teeth are badly impacted, it can take longer, possibly up to a week. 

So How Long Does It Take for Wisdom Teeth to Come In?

Sometimes, patients will wait for wisdom teeth to come in, hoping that an impacted tooth will break through the gum surface and either grow straight without crowding the mouth, or be easier to remove than an impacted tooth. In this case, the question is often asked as to just how long it takes for wisdom teeth to emerge in the mouth.

Wisdom teeth typically will begin to erupt between ages 17 and 25. But the eruption timeline is different for everyone. For some, it might take years for the wisdom teeth to fully and completely emerge from the gums, and in other cases, they may never erupt! 

With this in mind, it’s important that you have regular dental checkups which can detect any complications such as impacted wisdom teeth before it becomes a bigger problem. Regardless of whether your wisdom teeth are free of symptoms, issues can occur, from having an inadequate amount of space in the mouth, to complicating your regular dental cleaning and care at home. Pain can also occur suddenly. 

And, another good reason to schedule a regular consultation about your wisdom teeth is to avoid complications that become more prevalent as you grow older.

Ready to Learn More About Wisdom Teeth?

If you’d like to learn more about wisdom teeth or schedule a consultation, we’re here to help. Just reach out to us today at Oakland Dental Care.

How Long Do Mini Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are the best solution to replace missing teeth because they mimic a natural tooth in functionality, appearance, and durability. But there are some cases where a full dental implant is not an option. In that case, your dentist may talk with you about mini dental implants. Mini dental implants can last as long as full-size dental implants, in patients who practice excellent oral hygiene and see the dentist regularly.  Read on to learn more about mini dental implants (MDIs).

What are mini dental implants?

Mini dental implants are smaller-sized dental implants, often used to replace a small tooth. Mini dental implants use a surgically implanted post, rather than a larger, surgically implanted screw. Mini dental implants do not require the placement of an abutment on top of the implant. Instead, the post has a ball on it that fits into the artificial tooth that is used to replace the missing tooth.  

Mini dental implants may be recommended if there is inadequate jaw bone to support a full-size dental implant screw.  

Benefits of Mini Dental Implants

Mini dental implants offer similar benefits to full-size dental implants. These include:

 

Additionally, mini dental implants offer the benefit of being a less invasive surgical procedure. This means that the procedure can often be completed in a single visit, with local anesthesia only. This leads to a quicker recovery than with full-size implants. 

Mini dental implants are also less expensive than full-size implants. In many cases, mini dental implants do not require the patient to have bone grafting before receiving implants. Finally, mini dental implants can replace small teeth, such as incisors. 

Mini Dental Implant Procedure

If your dentist has decided that you are a candidate for mini dental implants, here is what to expect during the procedure.

  1. Your gums and jaw will be completely numbed
  2. A tiny hole will be drilled into the jaw bone
  3. The post will be placed in the jaw bone
  4. The post will be tightened/secured
  5. The artificial tooth will be attached to the end of the post. 

Am I a Candidate for Mini Dental Implants?

Many people will be excellent candidates for mini dental implants. They are a great option for people missing small teeth. They are also a great option for those who may not have enough jaw bone to support a full implant. 

Children are not good candidates for mini dental implants because their mouths and jaw bones are still growing. Individuals who grind their teeth are also not ideal candidates for mini dental implants as the artificial tooth will experience undue wear and tear.  

Individuals with certain underlying health conditions may not be good candidates for mini or full-size dental implants. Health conditions and lifestyle factors that may prevent you from being eligible for dental implants include:

Patients being treated for cancer are not eligible for implants. Likewise, those who take anticoagulant medications should speak with their dentist about alternatives to implants

Learn More About Mini Dental Implants in Oakland, NJ

If you’re ready to learn more about options for replacing missing teeth, such as mini dental implants, schedule a consultation at Oakland Dental Care.  We are located minutes from Wyckoff, Franklin Lakes, Ringwood, Bloomingdale, and surrounding communities in Bergen County. Call 201-337-7733 or request an appointment online.

What Is A Dental Bridge?

If you’re missing teeth, one option to fill the gap may be a dental bridge. A dental bridge is an artificial tooth or teeth that is held in place by attaching to the teeth (or crowns) next to the gap. Indeed, a dental bridge literally bridges the gap you have from a missing tooth. Candidates for dental bridges will need to have relatively healthy gums, good jaw bone density (if opting for an implant supported bridge), strong teeth that are not in a state of decay, and relatively good health overall. However, only your dentist can confirm if a dental bridge is the best restorative dentistry procedure for your needs.

Types of Dental Bridges

There are four main types of dental bridges. Oakland Dental Care will help you to determine the type best suited for you. 

 

Traditional Bridge

As its name implies, a traditional bridge is the most common type of bridge. A traditional bridge will affix to crowns on either side of the gap. 

 

Cantilever Bridge

A cantilever bridge is only supported on one side of the gap. This type of bridge is not for everyone, as it is not as secure as a traditional bridge.

 

Maryland Bridge

A Maryland bridge is similar to a traditional bridge. However instead of attaching to crowns on either side of the gap, it is attached to the natural teeth.

 

Implant Supported Bridge

This type of bridge is particularly useful if multiple, consecutive teeth are missing. In this case, a dental implant can be used to support one end of the bridge. Implant supported bridges tend to be very secure.

 

What To Expect During The Procedure

The full procedure for a dental bridge may take several appointments, depending upon the type of bridge you are getting. During the first appointment, expect your dentist to numb the area around the teeth or crowns (known as abutment teeth) that will be used to secure the bridge. Then these teeth will be filed into the proper shape to be able to support your bridge. An impression or digital scan of your teeth will be taken to be sent to the lab to have your bridge made. You will be given a temporary bridge in the meantime, to protect the teeth that have been filed.

 

Once your bridge has come in, you’ll return to have the permanent bridge affixed. After the removal of your temporary bridge, your teeth may need to be cleaned. Then your bridge will be cemented in and adjusted for proper fit. You will then be scheduled for a follow-up appointment to make sure that the bridge is comfortable.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

In addition to improving the appearance of your smile, a dental bridge can provide many other benefits.

 

Best Dental Treatment for Missing Teeth in Oakland, NJ

At Oakland Dental, we are here to help you achieve a gorgeous smile. Our dental practice provides complete cosmetic and restorative dentistry in addition to general dentistry for all ages. If you’re missing one or more teeth, schedule a consultation today to learn more about dental bridges and dental implants. We are here to help you create the smile you’ve always wanted. Call 201-337-7733 or request an appointment online.

How Much Do Dental Implants Cost in Bergen County?

Many of our patients wonder if they should consider replacing their dentures with dental implants, or opt for an implant instead of a bridge when a tooth needs to be extracted. While they know the benefits of dental implants, there’s one thing that holds them back: the cost. Before you assume dental implants are out of reach for you, it’s a good idea to schedule a consultation with us so you know exactly what to expect. Below, we answer some of the most common questions patients have about the cost of dental implants in Bergen County.

What do dental implants cost in Bergen County?

Although many people use the term “dental implants” to describe a full restoration for a missing tooth, there are actually three components involved—the dental implant, which is the post that is implanted into the jaw to replace the root, the restoration that replaces the visible portion of your tooth, and an abutment piece that connects the two.

In Bergen County, a single implant fixture might cost anywhere from $1500 to $2500. The cost of the restoration attached to the implant can range from $2100 to $3500. The total cost of replacing teeth with implants depends on the number of teeth, the type of restoration required, and the material chosen for the restoration.

Another factor that can increase the cost involved in getting dental implants is whether you require any additional procedures in order to prepare for implant surgery. Tooth extractions may be required, or if you've been missing teeth for a long time, a sinus lift or bone grafts could be needed to reconstruct your jawbone and provide a firm base of support for your implants.

Why are dental implants so expensive?

When you compare the costs of dental implants to bridges and dentures, you may wonder what makes implants more expensive. It's simple: with dental implants, you pay for replacing the root and the crown of a tooth, whereas with bridges and dentures, you only pay to replace the crown.

Dental implants must be surgically implanted since they replace the tooth's root. This means that you’ll have to pay for the surgical procedure, along with the imaging, planning, and follow-up appointments needed for it. Then, there’s the cost of the biocompatible implant posts and restorations, along with any supplemental procedures like bone grafts.

That said, dental implants are made to last a lifetime and help you maintain better oral health by preventing and reversing bone loss in the jaw. These advantages outweigh the additional cost for the vast majority of patients, and in the long run, dental implants may help you avoid costly restorative and periodontal work needed to address future bone loss.

Does insurance pay for dental implants?

Insurance coverage for dental implants varies from one provider to the next. Insurers are increasingly providing coverage for dental implants, but there is a lot of inconsistency in how they’re covered. Some dental insurance policies, for example, may cover the implant restorations but not the implant posts. Others may only pay for dental implants if you've lost teeth since your insurance coverage began. Your medical insurance may also cover implants in some situations. Our staff can assist you in understanding your benefits.

Are dental implants worth it?

Our patients are thrilled with their dental implants. Implant-supported restorations look, feel, and function more like natural teeth than dentures or bridges. Dental implants are also the healthiest solution for missing teeth. They don't rely on other teeth for support, and they keep the jawbone from breaking down, giving you a stronger bite and a more youthful appearance.

Learn More About Dental Implants

Do you have questions about dental implants? Contact us today at 201-337-7733 to schedule an appointment for a consultation.

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Because dental implants are a significant investment in both time and money, most patients want to know how long their restorations will last before committing to the procedure. If you're wondering how long dental implants last, the answer is a bit complicated because each component of an implant-based restoration has its own expected lifespan.

Understanding Dental Implants

Although we often talk about “dental implants” as if they’re a single restoration, most implant-based restorations have three different parts: the dental implant itself, the restoration that attaches to it, and an abutment piece that connects the two. (Note that abutments are not required for certain types of dental implants, such as mini dental implants and same-day dental implants.)

The restoration replaces the visible portion of one or more missing teeth. This restoration could be a dental crown, a dental bridge, or a fixed or removable denture. A single dental implant is used to support a single crown, two dental implants are normally required for bridges, and several implants are necessary for dentures.

How Long Will Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are surgically placed into the jaw so they can fuse with the jawbone. This fusion of implant and bone is known as osseointegration. Osseointegration makes your dental implant as stable as a natural tooth, and this stability means that it will likely last a lifetime and never need to be replaced.

However, there are some exceptions to this. While the majority of dental implant fixtures will last a lifetime, no dental procedure has a 100% success rate, and this is true of dental implants as well. Implant failure is more common in patients who do not follow aftercare instructions, smoke, have poor oral hygiene habits, or do not see the dentist on a regular basis for preventive care and follow-up appointments. Outside of these situations, it is uncommon for a dental implant to fail.

How Long Do Implant-Supported Restorations Last?

The majority of implant-supported restorations will eventually need to be replaced, with most lasting five to 10 years on average. Your restorations will last longer if you maintain appropriate oral hygiene habits to keep your gums and remaining natural teeth healthy and visit your dentist every six months for a comprehensive oral evaluation and dental cleaning. Although restorations are not susceptible to cavities, they must be cleaned and flossed to remove the bacteria that causes gum disease, which is one of the leading causes of implant failure.

Grinding your teeth, clenching your jaw, chewing on ice, biting your nails, or opening packages with your teeth can all damage and shorten the life of your restorations. It's also crucial to choose the right material for your crown, bridge, or denture. A high-quality restoration will not only look and feel natural, but it will also have the ability to last for decades with proper care.

Learn More About Dental Implants

Are you considering dental implants to replace one or more missing teeth? Contact us today at 201-337-7733 to schedule a consultation to learn more about dental implants.