Dr. Sandeep Hegde

Multiple tooth replacement:

Individuals missing several teeth can undergo multiple tooth replacements with implant supported bridges. All lost natural teeth can be replaced with dental implants. Individual crowns or implant supported of fixed bridges can restore full functionality of the teeth with just the appropriate fit. There are several treatment options available for multiple tooth implants such as removable partial dentures, implant supported bridges and multiple tooth supported fixed bridge.

The procedure

Like most dental implants, screws and cylinders are affixed into the jaw surgically. The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia. Over a period of time, the implants are allowed to bond together with the bone forming anchors. Temporary teeth replacements are provided during the interim integration period. The areas are then uncovered to allow the gums to heal. Most modern implant systems do not require the second step and one-stage implants can be executed. In such a case, an implant already has a piece of extension attached.

Multiple tooth replacements 

Treatment options available for multiple tooth replacements are performed with implant supported bridges. One of the most superior forms of treatments for multiple tooth replacements, this implant stops bone deterioration and are much more comfortable than any other methodology. The additional advantages of the implant supported bridges are maintenance of facial integrity and gum line is intact. Natural adjacent teeth are preserved and the implants feel and act just like original teeth. Biting, chewing and eating all substances are possible with implants. Dental implants are a permanent solution that is durable and does not require cleaning solutions or adhesives.

Remember the sensation similar to that of a warm liquid flooding your tongue when you smell a deliciously baked chocolate cake? Or a freshly baked brown bread early in the morning? That is your saliva. The salivary glands present in the inner linings of the lips, cheeks and the mouth produce saliva. Saliva protects one from tooth decay, keeps the mouth moist and helps in the digestive process. Any disease that affects the saliva gland comes under the domain of ‘salivary gland disorders’.

Causes

There are three salivary glands in humans known as the Submandibular, Parotid and the Sublingual gland. The most common disorder that affects salivary glands is that of ‘blocked salivary glands’. Sialothiasis is a disorder wherein, calcium stones are formed in the salivary glands, which obstruct these glands. Obstruction of the salivary glands leads to an infection called sialadenitis, caused by strep or staph bacteria.

Sjogren’s syndrome is another condition which affects the salivary glands. In this condition, the antibodies in the body target the cells that produce saliva. This occurs mostly in women who suffer from autoimmune disorders. Viral infections are also common; flu virus and mumps are a few examples.

Symptoms

The symptoms of salivary gland disorders are problem specific; for Sialolithiasis, you will feel a painful lump below the tongue, which tends to aggravate when you eat. In case of Sialadenitis, there will be an odorous pus-filled discharge along with a lump beneath the chin. For viral infections, the symptoms will include muscle pain, swelling and fever. Symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome are dry eyes and mouth, joint pain, fatigue and tooth decay.

Treatment

Like the symptoms, the treatments for salivary gland disorders are also problem specific. For salivary gland tumors, surgery is required. If it is a malignant tumor, then radiation therapy will be prescribed which may cause dry mouth syndrome (Xerostomia). For bacterial and viral infections, anti-bacterial and anti-viral medications are required for treatment, respectively. It is also important that you take good care of your oral health for an even more effective treatment. Brushing and flossing your teeth on a regular basis will help keep salivary gland disorders at bay.