Early Dental Implants...

When we think of dental implants, most people consider the process to be fairly new, however, Maya Civilization has shown the earliest known evidence of dental implants to be from around 600 A.D.

During an excavation in Honduras in 1931, a lower jaw bone (mandible) was discovered.  It is believed to be that of a female in her twenties.  This bone showed evidence of the first known dental implants.  Three tooth-shaped pieces of shell had been placed into the sockets of three missing lower teeth.

Over the years of development we have seen a wide range of materials used to replace missing teeth including shells, carved stones such as jade, silver, gold and even real teeth from donor patients.  It has become evident that the most consistently integrated material with the highest success rate is Titanium.  Titanium implants have become the standard of care when implants are used.  They became very popular in the 80's and have steadily increased in use and success.

A modern dental implant is a Titanium post that is inserted into the bone of the upper or lower jaw to replace the root of a missing tooth.  The implant integrates with the bone of the jaw and provides a solid foundation for a crown, allowing for a natural looking smile.  Implants are also used to help anchor dentures more solidly in place for better chewing and function.

If you have a missing tooth or several teeth or an ill-fitting denture call our office to see if you would be a candidate for dental implants.

Smiles,
Holly

TMD? Signs and Symptoms

If you have any of the following signs or symptoms you could be suffering from TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) also known as  TMD  (Temporomandibular Disorders).

*Headaches                                        *Clenching or grinding
*Jaw joint pain                                    *Facial pain
*Jaw joint noise or clicking                  *Sensitive teeth
*Limited mouth opening                       *Chewing difficulties
*Ear congestion                                   *Neck pain
*Dizziness                                           *Postural problems
*Ringing in ears                                   *Tingling of the fingers
*Difficulty swallowing                          *Hot and cold sensitivity of teeth
*Loose teeth                                       *Nervousness or insomnia


Dr. Berard is a Dentist in Traverse City, MI who is trained in Neuromuscular Dentistry. He is able to treat the causes of TMD and relieve or eliminate the symptoms above.  It is important to locate a dentist who is familiar with the latest techniques in treating TMD to properly diagnose and treat the issues specific to you.  Dr. Berard and the team at ENVISION Dental has received special training through the LasVegas Institute of Cosmetic Dentistry in LasVegas, Nevada.

Because there is a relationship between the teeth, jaw joints, head and neck muscles, and head posture, a problem in any one of these areas may affect others...we don't want you to continue suffering from the above symptoms and would love to help you improve your quality of life.  Please call today to get started on your way to an improved you!

Tooth Emergency!

          As the Mother of two children and because I work in the dental office, I have often thought about what to do in case of a dental emergency.  How many times do our kids fall and bump their teeth while playing at school, participating in a sporting event or messing around at home?  It happens all the time and usually there is no cause for concern, however, at some point in the life of your child or grandchild you may find the need for the following information.

If a tooth becomes completely knocked out there are a few things to remember:

*  Rinse the tooth off in gently running water if dirty.
    Do NOT scrub tooth or remove any attached tissue fragments.

*  Gently insert and hold tooth in it's socket, OR place in a cup of milk or cool water.  This temporarily keeps the cells of the tooth from dying.

*  Go immediately to your dentist.  Often the tooth can be "saved" and put back in it's rightful place if done within 30 minutes of the accident.

I pray that you never have to face this kind of dental emergency but if you do I hope these tips come to mind!

Smiles, Holly