Sunday, March 13, 2011

how successful are dental implants with demineralization occurring?

4yr post gastric-bypass surgery.. with resulting severe hypoglycemia.. dental changes started 2yr ago.. very much like diabetic complications.. receding gums, increased sensitivity.. researching options to preserve what i have as well as plan for eventual loss or replacement of all teeth.. implants vs full dentures.. i am 53yr.. currently no insurance.. that is why i am just researching options at this time..
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Not very. The main problem with periodontitis (the reason teeth are lost) is loss of bone in your jaws. This happens because the tissue reacts to plaque and bacteria that builds up on the teeth and under the gumline. Taking the teeth out will stop this process, but putting implants in will just mean going through the same thing all over again. Implants are also a lot harder to take care of than dentures, which you just have to pop out and clean whereas implants have to be taken care of just like real teeth. What you should do now is focus on keeping the teeth you have, and your condition should improve. Make sure your diet doesn't include a lot of sugary or sticky foods (which sit on the teeth and under the gums and create hives of acid-producing bacteria.) It would also be a good idea to see a doctor or dietician to get your hypoglycemia under control. Studies show that periodontal conditions improve in well-controlled diabetics vs. poorly controlled diabetics, although how this works isn't known. Brushing 2-3 times per day is CRUCIAL, as is flossing. If you don't do this, you might as well have your teeth out now while you still have enough bone to hold a denture. You should also go for regular cleanings every 3-6 months to have a deeper root cleaning. If you can find a dental hygiene or dental school close to you, this is very inexpensive. With all of those factors in check, there is no reason for your teeth to be lost. It's much more functional and cheaper for you in the long run to preserve them, although it may take a bit of work.
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