What To Do When A Root Canal Fails

Posted on May 13, 2017 by Pinnacle Center - Dental Implants Periodontics

If a tooth becomes infected and painful, a root canal is a common treatment. Root canals do not fail often, but when they do fail, it is important to get the right treatment. Root canals involve the use of specialized tools to remove the root of a tooth and clean it so it is free of bacteria. Bacteria left inside the tooth will continue to grow and infect the tooth. If bacteria does continue to cause issues, extracting the tooth might be the only option to stop the pain. However, extraction leads to another problem, a missing tooth.

What Causes a Root Canal to Fail?

Root canals will fail if there are undetected canal branches, cracks in the root, or an obstruction that makes it difficult to properly clean the root of a tooth. A failed root canal will begin to hurt and could cause pain through a noticeable abscess tooth. Regular dental cleanings and examinations can uncover a failed root canal. X-rays taken at the time of an appointment also can allow Dr. Silberg to examine the root of the tooth to see if there are concerns that need to be addressed, and if the root canal has failed.

What Can I Do If a Root Canal Fails?

If you are feeling any of the symptoms mentioned above, please contact Dr. Silberg if you suspect your root canal has failed. Root canals normally fail if the tooth has been treated several times. Caps or crowns on the tooth often need to be replaced every 7-10 years. Dental implants are one of the best options to replace a missing tooth. We of course will consider every possible option for our patients to help you save money and ensure you receive the right treatment for your condition. Call our office to schedule a consultation to discuss your failed root canal options.

Choosing Dental Implants

Dental implants are preferable as they are a long-term solution for a missing tooth. Dental implants will help the jaw bone to stay strong as the implant bonds to the bone, encouraging the body to continue nourishing the jaw bone instead of letting it deteriorate. Dental implants have a 97 percent success rate and are one of the best treatments for patients in need of a tooth replacement. If the tooth needs to be extracted and you believe that a dental implant is the best option to restore your smile, contact Dr. Silberg to schedule a consultation. He and our staff will work with you to build a beautiful smile that includes a dental implant and crown that will match the color and look of your existing teeth.

Are you caring for your dental implants?

Posted on April 11, 2017 by Pinnacle Center - Dental Implants Periodontics

If you recently enhanced your smile with beautiful dental implants from Dr. Silberg, it is important to properly care for them. Caring for your implants will ensure that they will be able to serve their function as replacements for your natural teeth for many years to come. Dental implants are an investment and can take up 12 months to fully complete, and while they are quite tough, implants care not invincible. They can bend, break, or become infected if they are not cared for properly. Luckily caring for your dental implants is quite similar to caring for your actual teeth. Here are some tips and tricks from the Silberg Center for Dental Science to keep a strict regiment of good oral hygiene.

What can you do to care for your implants?

Brush your teeth twice a day, and after meals if necessary.
Remember to floss your teeth twice a day as well, and if you get any food particles stuck in your teeth. Use implant specific floss or unwaxed tape to protect your implants and surrounding gums.
Only use floss to remove food particles from your teeth, not your fingernails, string, etc.
Visit the dentist regularly to check on your oral health as well as the health of your implants. Right after you your implants, it is important to go to every follow up appointment your surgeon and continue to see your dentist about twice a year.
Avoid abrasive toothpaste ingredients (such as baking soda), and hard-bristled toothbrushes.
Rinse your mouth with mouthwash twice a day.

What can happen if you don’t care for your implants?

If you don’t take care of your implants, it is possible from them to develop problems such as bleeding (otherwise known as mucositis), infections, implant looseness, etc. Improper care of your implants can eventually lead to gum or even bone loss. Bone loss is irreversible, and it may be necessary to remove the implant if the problem progresses too far.

Remember that you can achieve optimal oral health with proper care. If you have any more questions about taking care of your dental implants or any other dental questions, call us today at (412) 888-0097 and you can set up an appointment with Dr. Silberg to help keep your implants and mouth happy and healthy

Why a Single Tooth Implant is Better Than a Bridge

Posted on March 31, 2017 by Pinnacle Center - Dental Implants Periodontics

Losing a tooth can be embarrassing and debilitating, especially if the tooth loss occurred in a visible area. Although many people are tempted to opt for a less expensive dental bridge to fill the void, a modern single tooth implant offers a better range of benefits.

Missing a Tooth? Problems With Bridges

Tooth loss does more than give your smile a gapped look. When you talk and chew with your natural teeth, they stimulate the area within the socket, which helps the jawbone to stay strong and healthy. Unfortunately, when a tooth goes missing, the jaw doesn’t receive this stimulation, and the bone can start to resorb, or melt away. Over time, this bone loss can weaken the rest of the periodontal arch, putting your other teeth at risk. However, Pittsburgh dental implants recreate this natural stimulation, keeping your jaw healthy and strong, which protects your arch and your face shape.

Another problem with dental bridges is that they can put extra strain on the neighboring teeth. Because they are typically supported with a retainer or permanent metal brackets, bridges put pressure on the supporting teeth when you chew or clench your teeth. But, dental implants are independently supported, allowing the neighboring teeth to stay strong and healthy.

For these reasons, a single dental implant is better than a bridge.

Single Tooth Implant: Other Benefits

Protecting your teeth isn’t the only benefit of dental implants. Here are just a few other reasons that dentists prefer dental implants for their patients.

- Confidence
  
  Because removable bridges can slip or fall out, they can make some people worried about eating certain foods during the day—especially in social settings. On the other hand, dental implants are strongly anchored into your jawbone, improving your confidence.
- Improved Appearance
  
  Specialists designed dental implants to mimic the contours, color, and opacity of your natural teeth. That way, nobody will know that you’ve had dental repairs.
- Simpler, More Effective Dental Hygiene
  
  Dental implants don’t need any special care other than routine brushing and flossing. This means that you can keep the rest of your teeth clean and healthy—without adding chores to your daily hygiene routine.

Talk With Your Dentist About Dental Implants Today

If you need to have a tooth replaced, make an appointment with Dr. Silberg today to talk about dental implants. Besides enjoying a beautiful, stable smile, we might surprise you with how natural dental implants feel. Schedule your complimentary consultation today.

Why a Periodontist is Best For Dental Implants

Posted on March 10, 2017 by Pinnacle Center - Dental Implants Periodontics

Did you know that there aren’t any laws prohibiting dentists from practicing outside of their specialty in the United States? This means that the general dentist down the street might also offer complex endodontic procedures or dental implants—even if they aren’t qualified to do so. Unfortunately, when it comes to receiving dental implants, working with the right dental professional is crucial for your long term success. Here are just a few of the reasons you should only work with a periodontist to receive dental implants.

Extra Training

General dentists receive four years of dental school training that covers a broad range of dental techniques, including dental implants. However, this training isn’t comprehensive and may not include all of the latest information about the procedure, which is why periodontists go to school for an additional three years outside of normal dental school to hone their skills.

During their periodontal residency, periodontists work alongside certified professionals to master the art of placing implants in the safest, most aesthetically pleasing way. To become a licensed periodontist, applicants have to pass rigorous physical and written exams to demonstrate their knowledge and skills. For patients, working with a periodontist means receiving the best level of dental care and giving your implants the best chance of success.

More Implant Placements

Since Pittsburgh implant dentists specialize in the treatment planning, placement, and maintenance of dental implants, they are simply more familiar with the procedure than dentists who only handle the procedure once in awhile. Additionally, periodontists who specialize in dental implants may have a broader range of implants, abutments, and temporary crowns in stock, helping you to maintain your comfort and appearance throughout the process.

Familiarity With Treatment Planning and Complications

When general dentists fail to place implants successfully, they typically refer patients to periodontists, which means that dental implant professionals see and treat a wide variety of complications. In addition to helping these experts to understand dental implant risks and how to prevent them, familiarity with dental implants also allows professionals to plan treatments more effectively with new patients.

Prevention of Gum Disease

During their formal training, periodontists also study gum disease control, treatment, and prevention very carefully, helping these experts to protect the rest of your natural teeth. If you have lost teeth due to prior decay or problems with gum disease, working with a periodontist might help you to prevent ongoing problems or spot issues early.

If you are interested in meeting with a periodontist to learn more about dental implants, contact the Silberg Center for Dental Science. Dr. Silberg is currently accepting new patients, and would love the chance to help you to make over your smile.

The Latest in Dental Implant Technology

Posted on February 13, 2017 by Pinnacle Center - Dental Implants Periodontics

Dental implants are the modern answer to missing teeth, capable of restoring form and function to even the most damaged smile. Invented in the mid 1950’s by a Swedish orthopedic surgeon, dental implants rely on a titanium post that fuses to the natural jaw tissue of the implant recipient. The implants are typically installed in a staged procedure, giving the patient ample amounts of time for their jaw tissue to heal and for them to perfect oral hygiene routines. Although many dentists offer dental implants, periodontists such as Dr. Mark Silberg, receive an additional three years of personalized training to place implants, allowing them to place implants effectively and monitor the healing carefully.

Dental implant technologies have continued to evolve, which is one of the reasons that modern implants have close to a 100% success rate. Here are just a few of the new technologies that have helped patients enjoy better results.

Modern Dental Implant Technologies

Better ImagingImaging techniques have come a long way over the past twenty years or so, with modern periodontists having access to CAT scans, detailed MRI images, and even 3D scanning. These imaging tools help dentists to plan treatment more carefully, account for minor anatomical differences, and customize treatment accordingly.
Powerful SoftwareModern 3D imaging software also helps doctors and patients during the treatment planning process, since software can help doctors to show patients how their new implants will look when the treatment is complete. 3D scans can also be sent electronically directly to labs, speeding prosthetic fabrication.
Microscopically Roughened PostsTo allow the titanium implant posts to fuse with bone tissue, modern versions are microscopically roughened to increase the surface area. These new posts allow the bone to heal faster and bond stronger, improving implant outcomes.

The Silberg Center for Dental Science: Your Dental Implant Authority

Dr. Mark Silberg has been a Pittsburgh dental implant surgeon for over 30 years and is constantly researching all of the best techniques and materials for the complex surgery. If you are wondering whether or not dental implants are right for you, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with the Silberg Center for Dental Science. With years of experience and a complete dedication to his patients, Dr. Silberg can help you to enjoy the smile of your dreams.

Dental Implants and Gum Disease

Posted on February 6, 2017 by Pinnacle Center - Dental Implants Periodontics

Although dental implants themselves aren’t prone to tooth decay, the tissues surrounding the implant can become inflamed and distressed due to poor dental hygiene. This condition is called peri-implantitis, and the signs include swelling, bleeding, redness, and pus formation in the gum tissue surrounding the implant. As a natural response to this stimulation, the bone tissue underneath the implant starts to resorb, which can eventually cause implant failure.

Peri-Implantitis: Gum Disease Surrounding An Implant

Peri-implantitis has multiple phases, just like traditional gum disease. In its initial phase, the gum tissue around the implant becomes infected or inflamed. This stage is called peri-musositis, and it is caused by excess biofilm in the mouth or too much dental cement between the implant and the post. Unfortunately, if peri-musositis is left untreated, it can progress into a deeper infection that extends clear into the jaw tissue. Over time, this infection can loosen the implant from the newly formed bone around the post, creating a loose or missing tooth.

Although this condition is rare and over 95% of dental implant surgeries are successful long term, it is crucial for patients to focus on following doctor’s orders following implant surgery. Another great way to improve your chances of long term success is by only working with a periodontist, a dental professional with an additional three years of specialized training in gum disease management and the placement of dental implants.

Improve Your Chances of Implant Success

As a periodontist who has years of experience placing dental implants in Pittsburgh, Dr. Mark Silberg understands how to protect your newly placed teeth. One of the most essential things for patients to do when they receive implants is to maintain great oral hygiene and to attend their follow-up appointments. During these appointments, Dr. Silberg will check your teeth and gums carefully for the signs of inflammation and peri-implantitis.

Since research has shown that people who have dealt with periodontal disease in the past may be at a higher risk for peri-implantitis, Dr. Silberg will make sure that your teeth and gums are healthy enough for surgery before placing the implants. Patients with prior issues will also be monitored carefully after placement to ward off problems. If there are signs of peri-implantitis, Dr. Silberg will treat the condition proactively by cleaning the area and cleansing the location with antibiotics. In rare instances, additional surgeries may be required to remove diseased tissue and improve implant adhesion. For more information about preventing peri-implantitis, make an appointment with Dr. Silberg today.

Drink Green Tea for Healthier Teeth and Gums

Posted on January 12, 2017 by Pinnacle Center - Dental Implants Periodontics

Periodontal disease is a worldwide epidemic, with reports showing that the sneaky disease affects more than half of all adults. In addition to allowing bacteria to leach into your bloodstream and cause a long list of systemic problems, periodontal disease can also cause bad breath, oral infections, and even tooth loss. Fortunately, a recent study has tied green tea to numerous oral health benefits.

Trying To Ward Off Gum Disease? Try Green Tea

Green tea contains the natural antioxidant catechin, which has been shown to interact with the body’s natural inflammatory response. When people have periodontal disease, their gums become inflamed due to the presence of bacteria. In addition to causing problems like swelling, redness, and tenderness, this inflammation can also cause other periodontal problems, such as gum recession. Fortunately, Green tea can help to ward off inflammation, soothing the gums.

To study the effect that green tea can have on the oral tissues, one team of researchers studied 940 Japanese men who consumed green tea daily. Their research showed that green tea helped to reduce gingival pocket depth, gum bleeding, and the loss of attachment between the teeth and the gums. Here are just a few of the other benefits green tea can have on your oral health.

Benefits of Green Tea

Lowers Acidity of Saliva

Green tea has also been shown to lower the acidity level of saliva, which can help to ward off dental decay. By neutralizing these acids, you might be able to enjoy fewer cavities, since these acids erode dental enamel.

Protects Cells

The natural antioxidants in green tea may also ward off cell damage by slowing the progression of oral cancers.

Prevents Tooth Loss

Another Japanese study conducted in 2010 found that men and women who consumed green tea daily were less likely to lose their natural teeth.

It makes sense that a substance that helps prevent cavities and gum disease will

Naturally Hydrating

Staying hydrated is essential for warding off oral decay, because water rinses away food particles that could cause plaque and tartar buildup later. Consuming green tea is a great way to keep your mouth clean.

Schedule Your Periodontal Checkup Today

Do you need gum disease treatment in Pittsburgh? Don’t procrastinate making your appointment. The earlier gum disease is treated, the more likely you are to protect your teeth and gums. Schedule your appointment with Dr. Silberg today.

Twice the Risk of Heart Disease If You Have Periodontal Disease

Posted on January 7, 2017 by Pinnacle Center - Dental Implants Periodontics

Most people understand that proper dental care is important to keep their teeth beautiful, but too many people overlook the fact that dental decay can actually compromise your overall health. The human mouth contains over 25 different species of oral bacteria, which create enamel-eroding acids and dangerous toxins as they thrive in the mouth. Over time, these bacteria can even leach into your bloodstream, creating inflammation throughout the body.

Periodontal Disease Has Been Directly Tied to Heart Disease

For many years, scientists have known that there was a link between periodontal disease and advanced cardiovascular disease, but the cause and effect relationship of gum disease and heart health has been up for debate, until now. Recently, researchers at the University of Amsterdam and VU University Amsterdam studied the medical records of over 60,000 different people to determine whether periodontal disease actually had any bearing on their heart health.

The results of the study were astounding. According to researchers, 95% of the patients who lived with periodontal disease also struggled with some kind of advanced cardiovascular illness. Other studies have also shown that people with periodontal disease are more than twice as likely to develop cardiovascular illnesses. Anatomical studies have even found evidence of oral bacteria in the actual plaques that line the arteries leading to the heart, contributing to inflammation and heart disease.

Treatments for Periodontal Disease Offered By Dr. Silberg

Fortunately, every stage of gum disease is treatable, whether you have early gingivitis or late periodontal disease. Gingivitis, which is characterized by bad breath, tender, swollen, bleeding gums, and mild gum recession can be reversed fairly quickly by focusing on better oral hygiene at home. Mild periodontitis can be treated with deep cleanings, also called pocket reduction surgery and scaling and planing, where the surfaces of the teeth are cleaned below the gumline.

If you have advanced periodontitis, which is characterized by bone loss and even tooth loss, Dr. Silberg can treat your condition using an advanced laser dental treatment called LANAP (Laser Assisted New Attachment Procedure). During LANAP, a very small periodontal laser probe is inserted into the gingival pockets, and then a beam of light sanitizes the area while simultaneously destroying diseased tissue.

Make An Appointment With Your Periodontist in Pittsburgh Today

If you suspect that you are suffering from gum disease, contact Dr. Silberg’s office today. With a complete focus on patient care and all of the latest gum disease treatments in Pittsburgh, Dr. Silberg and his team can help you to return to oral health.

Keep Smiling This Year!

Posted on December 27, 2016 by Pinnacle Center - Dental Implants Periodontics

Have you thought about your New Years resolutions yet? Although most people are quick to name dieting or hitting the gym, all too many people forget about their dental health—which can have a profound effect on other areas of the body.

The mouth is sometimes referred to as the window to a person’s health because so many conditions show symptoms there. Tooth decay and gingivitis can also cause oral bacteria to leach into the bloodstream and cause widespread inflammation, contributing to health problems like heart disease, diabetes, and even some types of cancer. Fortunately, you can help your body ward off these kinds of problems by focusing on proper dental care.

Resolve to Take Care of Your Teeth in 2017

This holiday season, focus on turning over a new leaf and resolving to take better care of your teeth in 2017. Here are just a few dental care tips that could help you to have a comfortable smile that you can be proud of.

Regular Dental Appointments

The American Dental Association recommends meeting with your dentist regularly in order to spot problems and address them quickly. In addition to saving you from the pain of advanced tooth decay, keeping regular dental appointments and getting complete periodontal evaluations can help your dentist and periodontist in Pittsburgh to address problems before they become more complex, saving you time and money.

A Focus on Dental Hygiene

Think about your daily dental hygiene routine and what you can do to perfect it. Focus on brushing and flossing carefully and consistently. If you have questions about the toothbrush and floss that you are using, don’t be shy about talking with Dr. Silberg. He can recommend great tools that are well suited for your dental concerns.

Avoid Dental Dangers

In addition to polishing up your daily hygiene routine, also focus on avoiding dental dangers. Don’t try to bite through foods that are hard, rinse after eating anything extremely chewy, and never open packages with your teeth. If you play sports, invest in a protective athletic mouth guard to protect your teeth from impact.

Be Proactive About Problems

Last but not least, pay attention to preventive care and be proactive about new problems. By making appointments regularly and addressing new dental issues, you can stay on top of your dental health.

At the Silberg Center for Dental Science, we want to make you smile in 2017. Contact our office to schedule your next checkup.

Periodontal Disease and Heart Disease

Posted on December 7, 2016 by Pinnacle Center - Dental Implants Periodontics

For two decades, researchers have studied the connection between periodontal disease and heart disease. Though a cause and effect relationship hasn’t yet been proven, the evidence suggests that periodontal disease increases the risk of heart disease.

What is periodontal disease?

Also known as gum disease, periodontal disease is an infection of the gums and other structures around the teeth including periodontal ligament and alveolar bone. Early symptoms include bleeding, tender, or swollen gums, and teeth that look longer because gums have receded. If left untreated, periodontal disease can ruin the supporting structures of the teeth, ultimately leading to tooth loss.

What is the connection between periodontal and heart disease?

Over the last few years, gum disease has been linked to various health problems including stroke, diabetes, and heart disease. Scientists suspect that the inflammation caused by gum disease is the reason for the association. Preexisting heart conditions can also be made worse by gum disease.

Additional studies have emphasized a connection between gum disease and stroke. In one study, researchers found that those diagnosed with a stroke were more likely to have an oral infection as opposed to those in the control group.

What is the best gum disease treatment?

Dr. Silberg’s practice in Pittsburgh offers effective gum disease treatment options for patients at all stages. The best option, though, is preventive care to keep gum disease from ever getting a foothold. Preventive care involves a dedicated oral hygiene routine of brushing and flossing on a daily basis. Good personal hygiene halts the growth of plaque, the main cause of gum disease. Regular visits to our office can also help keep your teeth clear of plaque and tartar, and give us the chance to watch for signs of gum disease.

What should I do if I think I have periodontal or heart disease?

For gum disease treatment in the Pittsburgh area, contact Dr. Silberg. At the Silberg Center for Dental Science, we understand the connection between your dental health and your total well being. We are here to answer your questions and address your concerns as we work toward enhancing your smile and ultimately improving your health. If you have questions or need an appointment, contact us today!