Mint Mini Dental Implants

Products And Services

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  Restorative Dentistry in Wilkes-Barre, PA

  Restorative Dentistry in Wilkes-Barre, PA Is there a gap in your smile that you'd like to fill? Are your teeth broken, damaged, or decayed? If so, you may benefit from restorative dentistry. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, nearly 90% of adults ages 20 to 64 years have had decay in their teeth. Restorative dentistry, which includes prosthodontic dentistry, aims to repair or replace your teeth to improve the function of your bite and overall oral health. The difference between restorative dentistry and cosmetic dentistry is the treatment focus. Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of your smile and includes treatments like whitening, veneers, and dental bonding. Restorative dentistry, on the other hand, is more concerned with the function of your teeth. However, many restorations provide not just enhanced function but also aesthetic appeal. Read on to learn about the importance of restorative dentistry and the different treatments we offer at Mint Mini Dental Implants. The Importance of Restorative Dentistry Tooth damage not only affects your smile but can also impair your speech and threaten your oral health. Promptly filling the spaces in your teeth—whether you have missing teeth, cavities, or other damage—can prevent further complications. Gaps in the teeth create areas where the bacteria that cause plaque can build up. Left untreated, plague will destroy the enamel on your teeth, leading to decay and even gum disease. You may think that a missing tooth isn't a cause for concern if it's not visible, but no matter where it is located, a missing tooth can compromise your oral health in several ways: There is added stress on your remaining teeth when chewing. Your teeth will naturally shift to fill in the gap, but this undermines the function of the arch and leads to bite imbalance. Your jawbone deteriorates over time when there is no tooth to stimulate it. As a result, your face may change in appearance, and your gums may begin to recede. You risk changes in the tooth above or below the missing tooth, creating a super-erupted tooth. This occurs when the opposing tooth grows out toward the gap because there is no longer a tooth to resist and stabilize it. Examples of Restorative Dentistry The goal of restorative dentistry is to preserve your natural teeth whenever possible. In some cases, your tooth can be repaired, while in others, you may need to have your tooth replaced. Fillings A cavity is a hole in the enamel of your tooth. Cavities are caused by acid created when bacteria in your mouth come into contact with sugary snacks and drinks. If a cavity is small enough, we can repair the hole with a dental filling. This is one of the most common types of restorations. At your appointment, we will remove the decayed tissue and fill the hole with a composite material to prevent further decay. Crowns When a cavity is too large for a filling or if a tooth is cracked or worn down, a crown might be used instead. A crown is a cap that goes over the visible part of your tooth to restore its function. At your first appointment, we will shape your tooth, removing enamel or adding material as needed. We'll take impressions of your teeth and fit you with a temporary crown. When you come back for your second appointment, we'll fit and bond your custom-made crown to your tooth. Bridges Dental bridges are used to replace a single tooth or a row of missing teeth. A traditional bridge is a set of teeth with crowns on each end and an artificial tooth (or teeth) in the middle. The artificial tooth fills the gap left by your missing tooth, and the crowns attach to the natural teeth surrounding the gap. At Mint Mini Dental Bridges, we can use mini dental implants to add support to your bridge and prevent bone loss from occurring.

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  Dental Crowns in Wilkes-Barre, PA

  Dental Crowns in Wilkes-Barre, PA Decaying or damaged teeth can cause sensitivity while eating and drinking and put your body at risk of developing more severe problems. Dental crowns, sometimes called caps, are durable prosthetics used to extend the life of your natural teeth when they are cracked, decayed, or weak. As the American population ages and tooth decay and its associated diseases become more prevalent, the need for dental crowns is expected to rise. At Mint Mini Dental Implants, our goal is to maintain the health of your natural teeth whenever possible. Because dental crowns fit over your existing teeth, this is an excellent treatment option for many of our patients. What Are Dental Crowns? A crown is used to restore damaged teeth, strengthen weak teeth that might otherwise fracture, and protect teeth from wear and tear. They are used to reinforce teeth with substantial fillings and to cap teeth after root canal treatment. Crowns can also cover mini dental implants, hold a bridge in place, or enhance the support teeth for those needing partial dentures. Dental crowns are a great option if you have about a quarter of your natural tooth (or approximately 2 mm) remaining. The crown fits over the visible portion of the tooth to improve the tooth's function. Although crowns are sometimes used to cover a severely discolored or stained tooth, their main purpose is restorative. Unlike veneers—which are used for cosmetic purposes—crowns are primarily used to maintain tooth health. However, for many people, the crown not only improves the functionality of the damaged tooth, it also improves the tooth's overall appearance. Crowns are designed to look like your natural teeth and can be made from a variety of materials, including composite resin, metal, ceramic, and porcelain. The material that is best for you will depend on the state of your natural tooth and its location in your mouth. While some materials may be chosen for their durability, others are best for blending in with the surrounding teeth. What to Expect from a Dental Crown Procedure At your initial consultation, Dr. Coolican will help you decide if dental crowns are suitable for your dental needs and goals. If you have healthy tooth remaining, dental crowns are an excellent solution. However, we may recommend different options if your tooth is beyond repair. For a severely damaged tooth, extracting the tooth and replacing it with a mini dental implant could be the best option. The mini implant acts like the root of the tooth and a natural-looking prosthetic tooth is attached on top. No matter the treatment, our goal is to restore full function to your teeth so you can eat and speak with ease. If we decide that dental crowns are right for you, you should expect the procedure to take two visits: Preparation: During your first visit, we shape the tooth to create the perfect fit for your crown. We might remove some of the enamel on your tooth or add material to build up the tooth. Then, Dr. Coolican will take an impression, or mold, of your teeth. A dental lab will design your custom crown, which typically takes two to three weeks. In the meantime, we'll fit you with a temporary crown. Placement: At your second visit, we'll first remove the temporary crown and replace it with your new crown. Dr. Coolican will check the shape and fit and then bond the crown to your tooth using durable dental cement. When Can I Return to Work or School? Very little downtime is needed for dental crowns. Immediately following the placement of the crown, you can return to work or school. Some tenderness is normal and will diminish in a few days, but you can use over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen to ease discomfort if needed. For the first couple of weeks, you might experience some sensitivity, especially to heat or cold. How Long Do Dental Crowns Last? On average, dental crowns last between five and 15 years. However, your crown can last 30 years with proper care. To prolong the life of your crown, you should avoid certain foods that can damage, loosen, or even pull off your crown such as ice cubes, hard or sticky foods and candies, and popcorn with kernels. If you notice wear or damage to your crown, contact us as soon as possible so that we can fix or replace your crown. Aftercare To properly care for your crown, you should follow dentist-recommended oral hygiene guidelines: Brush gently twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristle brush. Floss daily and use an antibacterial mouthwash to prevent plaque buildup. Schedule regular visits at Mint Mini Dental Implants so we can monitor and maintain your crown.

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  Dental Bridges in Wilkes-Barre, PA

  Dental Bridges in Wilkes-Barre, PA Missing teeth can be a significant stressor in your life that prevents you from eating, speaking, and smiling with confidence. Dental bridges provide an excellent solution for filling the gap in your smile. Our skilled team here at Mint Mini Dental Implants, led by the renowned Dr. John P. Coolican, DMD, FAGD, is committed to replacing your missing teeth quickly and affordably so you can continue to enjoy your favorite foods and activities for years to come. Dental Bridges: Bridging the Gap in Your Smile A dental bridge is a type of restorative dental treatment that uses artificial teeth to fill the gap left by one or more missing teeth. Bridges play a crucial role in oral health, including: Filling the empty space left by a missing tooth: With a dental bridge, you regain a complete, functional smile, enhancing your ability to chew and speak effectively. Preventing movement and shifting of teeth: When a tooth is missing, the remaining teeth can shift into the empty space, leading to a misalignment. A dental bridge keeps the rest of your teeth in place, maintaining the integrity of your bite. Providing a permanent alternative to a removable partial denture: Dental bridges are fixed into place, offering a reliable and more comfortable solution to missing teeth compared to removable dentures. Mini Dental Implants: Revolutionizing Dental Bridges At Mint Mini Dental Implants, we pride ourselves on our innovative approach to dentistry. We use mini dental implants to secure dental bridges, offering multiple advantages over conventional dental implants: Less invasive surgery: The procedure to place mini dental implants is less invasive, making it more comfortable for our patients. Shorter recovery times: Due to the smaller size and less invasive procedure, recovery times are significantly shorter with mini dental implants. Immediate results: Mini dental implants allow for immediate placement of crowns and dental bridges, meaning you can enjoy your new smile right away. Preserve bone and prevent decay: By acting as the root of the tooth, mini dental implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss. Cost-effective: Mini dental implants offer an affordable alternative to traditional implants, costing nearly half as much. Versatile: Mini dental implants can replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or all your teeth in just one office visit. At Mint Mini Dental Implants, we can provide you with additional support to anchor and stabilize your dental bridge. Types of Dental Bridges There are different types of dental bridges to help you achieve a seamless smile. The bridge that is best for you depends on your particular situation, but all bridges rely on healthy natural teeth for support. During your free consultation, we will assess your specific needs to determine if you are a good candidate for dental bridges. Traditional Dental Bridge When there are healthy teeth on either side of the gap, we can utilize a traditional dental bridge—the most common type of bridge. The bridge, or row of teeth, consists of two crowns on either side of a prosthetic tooth. The crowns attach to the natural teeth that surround the gap. Because the crown is supported by crowns on two healthy teeth, the traditional bridge provides the most strength. Cantilever Bridge The cantilever bridge is used when there is just one healthy tooth next to the gap. While similar to a traditional bridge in its construction, the cantilever bridge is supported by one tooth. As a result, this single natural tooth has to withstand the pressure exerted when you bite. However, a mini dental implant can help to strengthen a bridge: a 2010 study found a profound success rate for implant-supported bridges replacing one tooth.

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  Dental Implants in Wilkes-Barre, PA

  Dental Implants in Wilkes-Barre, PA Tooth loss in adults is a widespread concern, with adults ages 20 to 64 years averaging 25.5 remaining teeth. Missing teeth can seriously hinder your quality of life, but you don’t have to settle for a disappointing smile. Dental implants can revitalize your life by replacing your missing teeth. Dental implants anchor individual crowns for a single tooth, support multiple teeth with dental bridges, or replace an entire arch of teeth with dentures. If you have loose or uncomfortable dentures, dental implants can also stabilize them and provide the support you need. A tried and true restorative dentistry procedure, dental implants provide an effective solution for those looking to revamp their smile. Placing dental implants involves driving a screw into the jawbone and setting a prosthetic tooth on top. While traditional implants have been the conventional option for those looking to replace their missing teeth, mini implants provide the same result with fewer drawbacks. Traditional Dental Implants Traditional implants are comprised of three pieces: the screw, the abutment, and the crown. The screw is driven into the jawbone and simulates the tooth's root. On top of the screw is essentially a smaller screw called an abutment. The abutment is a support and connector for the artificial crown, which is the only visible component when you smile. A conventional implant screw measures approximately 5 mm in diameter. Though the size of the screw helps to stabilize the prosthetic, the large diameter also poses a problem as the jawbone loses density over time. The jaw can become too narrow to encompass the screw, requiring bone grafting. Bone Grafting for Traditional Implants Bone grafting is an oral surgery that combats bone loss. To add density and volume to the jawbone, bone tissue is transplanted from elsewhere in your body, requiring a procedure to harvest the bone. Alternatively, tissue can be acquired from a human or animal tissue bank. The graft improves the quality of the jawbone, making it viable for a traditional dental implant. However, bone grafting can be costly and time-consuming. Due to the recovery time, the process of replacing your missing teeth is prolonged. Before the implant can be placed, the graft needs to heal completely. This means traditional dental implants require at least two visits and sometimes more. Mini Implants Provide A Modern Alternative Mini implants serve the same purpose as traditional implants but with added benefits. The foundation of the revolutionary design is a small screw measuring less than 3 mm in diameter. Affixed to the end of the screw is a small ball. A rubber O-ring connects the artificial tooth to this fixture, transforming your smile with a less-invasive procedure than a traditional implant. Due to the narrow design of the mini implant, bone grafting is typically unnecessary. For those with medical-related anxiety, eliminating the need for additional oral surgery can reduce stress, making mini dental implants an ideal choice. For many patients, the mini implant can be placed immediately. This same-day procedure is convenient for those looking for an efficient, reliable, and long-lasting solution to tooth loss. While the length of appointments depends on each patient’s unique needs and medical history, mini dental implant recipients experience a shorter recovery time, allowing them to quickly return to speaking with confidence and enjoying the foods they love.

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  Mini Dental Implants in Wilkes-Barre, PA

  Mini Dental Implants in Wilkes-Barre, PA As we age, tooth loss can have a negative impact on our daily habits and sense of well-being. The American College of Prosthodontists estimates that 178 million Americans are missing at least one tooth, and about 40 million Americans are missing all of their teeth. Advancements in dentistry have paved the way for mini dental implants, a modern alternative to conventional dental implants. At Mint Mini Dental Implants, we specialize in quickly restoring your smile with radiant, natural-looking prosthetic teeth. Whether you are missing one tooth or many, we can help you regain your confidence in eating, speaking, and smiling so that you can get back to focusing on the activities you love. What Are Mini Dental Implants? Mini dental implants replace missing teeth to restore your bite and maintain your bone health. A mini implant is made of a small titanium post that has a ball on one end. The post is screwed to your jawbone for strength and stability with the ball end sitting above your gumline. We attach a natural-looking artificial crown to this part of the post using a rubber O-ring. The procedure allows you to replace your teeth in an efficient manner while keeping down costs and lessening the long recovery times associated with traditional implant surgery. Whether you need to replace individual teeth, anchor a dental bridge, or stabilize shifting dentures, mini dental implants can help you achieve a beautiful smile. Why We Use Mini Implants Traditional Implants Dental implant surgery has traditionally involved a substantial time commitment that can become an obstacle in your tooth replacement journey. Unlike the streamlined design of mini dental implants, the traditional option consists of three pieces. The procedure to place a traditional implant is therefore more complicated and costly. Traditional implants are also almost twice the size of mini dental implants, meaning that they require more space in your jawbone. Before the advent of mini dental implants, patients who required traditional implants would often need to undergo a bone grafting procedure to add density and volume to the jawbone. This extends the time it takes to restore your smile because the implants cannot be placed until they have healed fully. Complete integration with the jawbone, a process known as osseointegration, takes months with a conventional implant. Though traditional implants get the job done, when you are suffering from missing teeth, this waiting period is a major drawback. Mini Implants Mini dental implants are an effective solution for those who may not qualify for traditional implants. Or, they may be your preferred tooth-replacement method due to the many benefits that come with this option when compared to traditional implants: Smaller diameter: A mini dental implant is smaller than 3 mm, while traditional implants measure approximately 5 mm. The smaller size often eliminates the need for bone grafting, as most patients have enough jawbone volume and density to accommodate the smaller posts. Less-invasive procedure: You will be more comfortable during your procedure and as you heal due to the less-invasive nature of mini implants. Owing to their design, the process of placing mini implants is simpler and more efficient. Quicker results: Because complete osseointegration is not needed for mini implants, same-day implant placement is possible for most of our patients, enabling you to quickly regain your ability to eat, speak, and smile. Typically, traditional implants require at least two visits with longer periods of healing required for each. Shorter recovery period: You'll experience minimal discomfort during and after your surgery. One of the greatest benefits of mini dental implants is that you'll be able to return to your normal daily activities in 24-48 hours. Versatility: Mini dental implants can be used for a variety of purposes. Using mini dental implants, we can fill in gaps left by individual teeth, support multiple teeth with a dental bridge, replace a full arch of teeth, or stabilize loose dentures. Budget-friendly: Mini implants are more cost-effective due to the fewer pieces involved, simpler procedure, and lack of bone grafting. For those with financial limitations, mini implants provide a timely solution that can fit your budget.

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  Dentures in Wilkes-Barre, PA

  Dentures in Wilkes-Barre, PA While tooth loss is a normal part of aging, extensive tooth loss can wreak havoc on our self-esteem and cause additional health problems. According to the CDC, approximately 1 in 6 older adults (17.3%) have no remaining teeth, and this figure is expected to increase over the next several years. If you, like many others, are looking for a solution to your missing teeth, dentures may be right for you. At Mint Mini Dental Implants in Wilkes-Barre, PA, we offer a range of denture options so that you can get back to eating, speaking, and smiling with confidence. Specializing in implant dentures, Dr. Coolican has the experience and expertise to restore your smile permanently. Different Types of Dentures Address Specific Needs The number of teeth you have lost, and the health of your gums and jawbone will determine the dentures that are right for you. Full Dentures When you picture dentures, you likely imagine a full denture, which replaces an entire arch of teeth. Full dentures are supported by your gums in addition to your lower jawbone or the roof of your mouth. For additional stability, you may need to use a special adhesive which can get messy and make cleaning difficult. Partial Dentures Partial dentures can be used if you have natural teeth remaining to support the denture. These rest on your gums and jawbone in addition to your natural teeth, which provide extra security. Despite the widespread use of traditional dentures, there are many drawbacks. Both full and partial dentures may be uncomfortable or cause soreness. These traditional options can lead to excessive saliva production and even bad breath. As the device gets loose over time, you may also experience sliding which can make eating, chewing, and speaking difficult. Overdentures or Implant-Retained Dentures Overdentures, also known as implant-retained dentures, offer a revolutionary solution to tooth loss, eliminating the many problems associated with traditional dentures. Rather than resting on your gums, these dentures are secured using mini dental implants, effectively transforming the way your dentures fit and function. The mini dental implants act as durable anchors, securing your dentures in place. Because implant-retained dentures snap onto the implants, you can remove your dentures as needed. Implant-Supported Dentures Like implant-retained dentures, implant-supported dentures use the strength of the metal implant to sit securely in your mouth. Semi-removable fixed implant dentures can only be removed by Dr. Coolican during your regular six-month checkups, so you will not be able to take them out yourself. Non-removable implant-supported dentures are permanently cemented into place and cannot be detached. Dr. Coolican will discuss the different types of implant dentures at your free consultation to determine which option best suits your needs, preferences, and budget.

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  Emergency Dentistry in Wilkes-Barre, PA

  Emergency Dentistry in Wilkes-Barre, PA Dental emergencies come on suddenly and without warning, causing inconvenience, pain, and worry. Dr. Coolican is your trusted emergency dentist, providing fast relief to residents of Wilkes-Barre, PA. At Mint Mini Dental Implants, we provide emergency dentistry when you need it most. In these instances, immediate solutions are needed to alleviate pain and prevent further damage to your teeth and surrounding structures. If you or someone you love is experiencing a dental emergency, don't wait. Call us at the onset of symptoms. If you aren't sure if you need urgent dental care, you can trust us to provide expert guidance. Same-Day Emergency Dentistry At Mint Mini Dental Implants, we account for possible dental emergencies by reserving times in our schedule should emergencies arise. With a same-day emergency appointment, we'll prioritize you and your needs, providing timely care so you don't have to suffer while waiting for a regular appointment. When Emergency Dentistry Is Needed Any dental problem that requires immediate attention qualifies as a dental emergency. With sudden pain or dental trauma, immediate attention is needed to relieve pain, restore the function of your mouth, and prevent complications. Some common dental emergencies include: Severe toothache: sudden onset of severe tooth pain constitutes a dental emergency, especially if the pain inhibits your normal routines. Pain that medication doesn't resolve: you may need a different medication, such as an antibiotic, to resolve pain from an infection. We'd like to see you to diagnose and treat the cause of your unmanageable pain. Chipped or cracked tooth: Due to an injury, strain, or even grinding, your tooth may become badly chipped or broken. If you have cavities, you are at higher risk of fracturing your teeth. Large cracks or chips need timely care. A knocked out or partially dislodged tooth: impact trauma, often from sports injuries, can lead to a partially dislodged or knocked out tooth. According to the American Association of Endodontists, more than five million teeth are knocked out yearly in children and adults. If your tooth is knocked out or partially dislodged, you should wrap lost teeth or fragments in wet gauze or a towel and bring them with you. Keeping the tooth moist increases the chance that we can save it. We'll need to see you immediately to restore and reinsert the tooth. Damage to prosthetics or replacement teeth: if your replacement teeth or prosthetics are loose, have fallen out, or are broken, we'll need to fix your appliance promptly. Bleeding that won't stop: uncontrollable bleeding, such as gum bleeding, is a common reason to visit your emergency dentist. Dental abscess: an abscess, or pocket of pus, is caused by a bacterial infection and can trigger sudden pain that gradually worsens. Dental abscesses can form around a tooth or in the gums. You may feel shooting or throbbing pain that may radiate, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, or pain that worsens when you lie down. You may also see a red, swollen bump in your mouth. Because abscesses don't heal independently, you'll need to see Dr. Coolican immediately. If left untreated, the infection can spread and lead to serious complications. Severe soft tissue injury: injury to your lips, tongue, cheeks, or gums requires immediate attention. What Doesn't Qualify as a Dental Emergency? If you experience unexplainable pain, you should always call our office. However, some cases may not require emergency dental care. We'll help you determine if you need to come in immediately or if you can schedule a later appointment. Some non-urgent dental problems include: Dull or mild toothache or sensitivity A small chip or crack in the tooth Food stuck between your teeth Broken braces Minor injury to soft tissues, such as a small cut These issues are still concerning and can cause further complications if left untreated, but they don't require emergency care. Still, you should schedule an appointment with us as soon as possible. If you have questions about your oral health and want to learn more about the treatments and procedures we offer at Mint Mini Dental Implants, schedule your free consultation today.

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  Full-Mouth Reconstruction in Wilkes-Barre, PA

  Full-Mouth Reconstruction in Wilkes-Barre, PA Losing your teeth can wreak havoc on your quality of life and sense of well-being, changing your daily habits and self-perception. Tooth loss affects many Americans, and recent data shows that seniors 65 years or older average about 20 remaining teeth. When many of your teeth are missing or damaged, we might recommend full-mouth reconstruction, also known as full-mouth rehabilitation. This procedure aims to improve the function and look of your teeth by restoring an entire arch of teeth at once. You may benefit from full-mouth reconstruction if: You have lost all or most of your teeth due to aging. You were involved in an accident that led to serious dental trauma. Dental trauma often causes varying degrees of damage to different teeth and requires a complex solution. You have advanced gum disease. You grind your teeth, causing significant damage. Your oral hygiene or eating and drinking habits have led to severe decay. In these cases and others, we may need to extract, restore, or replace an entire row of teeth. Your Customized Treatment Plan Because full-mouth reconstruction is a solution to a complicated problem, it can include a variety of procedures, such as oral surgery, dental restorations, and cosmetic procedures. At your free consultation, we will discuss your customized treatment plan based on your unique needs, goals, and budget. Read on to learn more about some of the procedures we may use or combine to achieve the full function of your mouth. Mini Dental Implants At Mint Mini Dental Implants, we specialize in placing mini dental implants to provide a permanent solution to your missing teeth. The mini implant is a metal post that is screwed into your jawbone to support a prosthetic. These are long-lasting fixtures that cannot be removed. While similar to traditional implants, mini implants are often a better solution for many patients: they are significantly smaller than the traditional alternative, making them a good choice if you have less jawbone volume and density. Due to their streamlined design, mini implants are more cost effective than traditional options, and the procedure to place mini implants is quicker and less invasive. While mini implants can replace a single missing tooth, we also use them in full-mouth reconstruction as they can anchor other treatment options, such as fixed bridges and implant-retained dentures. Fixed Dental Bridges Fixed dental bridges secure upper or lower arches with mini dental implants. The crowns of the bridge connect to healthy teeth surrounding a gap caused by missing teeth. Implant-supported bridges cannot be removed, meaning they never slip or come loose. Fixed bridges provide a permanent and comfortable solution to missing teeth. Crowns A crown, or cap, is placed over a tooth that has a healthy root but significant damage to the structure above the gumline. Crowns protect and prolong the life of your natural teeth, improving the function of your bite and the appearance of your smile. Dentures Traditional dentures replace an entire upper or lower arch of teeth and can be removed. However, like a fixed bridge, dentures can also be supported by mini dental implants. Implant dentures, which can be placed in a single procedure, eliminate the slipping associated with traditional dentures because they snap onto the mini implants securely. With mini dental implants, your dentures will be stable, durable, and permanently fixed. Veneers Veneers offer a cosmetic solution to conceal imperfections on your visible teeth, such as stains, chips, cracks, or gaps. These thin shells fit over the front of your teeth to enhance the appearance of your smile, but they are not the best solution if you have significant damage to many teeth. The Importance of Full-Mouth Reconstruction Missing teeth can negatively affect your well-being and compromise your oral health. Without functional teeth and a balanced bite, you can experience the following: Shifting teeth, which can cause your teeth to flare out and lead to more severe dental issues Impaired chewing and bite ability Sensitivity Jawbone deterioration Neck and jaw soreness which can cause migraine headaches and temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ)

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  Implant Dentures in Wilkes-Barre, PA

  Implant Dentures in Wilkes-Barre, PA Are you tired of uncomfortable, loose dentures that make eating, speaking, and everyday activities a challenge? At Mint Mini Dental Implants, your trusted dental practice in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, we offer implant dentures, a life-changing solution for patients dealing with "floating" dentures. At our state-of-the-art facility, we specialize in implant-retained dentures that restore your confidence to eat what you want, speak naturally, and smile with joy. Say goodbye to unreliable adhesives and cumbersome nightly cleaning routines. What Are Implant Dentures? 90% of people with no natural teeth have dentures, but you don’t have to settle for wobbly conventional dentures. Implant dentures, particularly mini dental implant-supported dentures, have revolutionized the field of dentistry. This procedure anchors your dentures securely, allowing you to chew, speak, and smile with renewed confidence. The foundation of implant dentures is the mini dental implants, which are titanium posts that we affix to your jaw during a minimally invasive same-day procedure. The implant dentures “snap in” to ensure a secure and comfortable fit. Offering greater stability than their traditional counterparts, implant dentures lead to greater patient satisfaction. Different denture options use mini implants. Implant-retained dentures or overdentures are removable, so you can take them out to clean them as needed. Implant-supported dentures are semi-removable, meaning that Dr. Coolican can detach them for cleaning at your regular six-month checkups. If you prefer a non-removable option, these are available as well. In this case, the dentures are cemented into place. Dr. Coolican may recommend implant dentures as part of a comprehensive full-mouth reconstruction treatment. Traditional Dentures vs. Implant Dentures Imagine a life where you can confidently enjoy your favorite foods, speak clearly, and smile widely without fear of loose or uncomfortable dentures. For years, traditional dentures were the only option for those looking to replace their missing teeth, but they come with significant drawbacks. Implant dentures, anchored by mini dental implants, solve the many issues associated with conventional dentures. Upkeep Traditional dentures require messy adhesives to help secure the appliance, which makes the denture difficult to clean. Implant dentures are firmly rooted in your jawbone, requiring standard oral care to maintain them. Fit A conventional denture depends on suction or gravity to stay in place on your gum, but they are known to slip and slide. Slipping can happen when you chew, speak, smile, laugh, or cough. With traditional dentures, you need to learn how to use your muscles to hold your dentures in place. This not only makes eating and speaking difficult, but a shifting denture loosens over time. While denture adhesive is designed to secure the denture in place, it changes the force of your bite, weakening the denture’s fit. Unlike implant dentures, traditional dentures need to be relined, which is a process that reshapes the denture material to enhance the fit. Mini dental implants anchor the denture so that it doesn’t budge while you are enjoying a meal or chatting with friends. Your implant denture will last for many years without needing to be adjusted. Comfort Because traditional dentures rest on your gum, they can cause irritation that makes you vulnerable to infection, especially when the denture is ill-fitting. Denture stomatitis, a fungal infection common with traditional dentures, can cause redness, swelling, soreness, and additional problems if left untreated. Implant dentures are much more comfortable as they are less bulky and don’t move around. Unlike traditional dentures, implants help create a perfect fit, meaning that you’ll experience greater comfort as you eat and speak. Function Difficulty chewing is a common problem with traditional dentures. Because your traditional dentures can slip out of position, you may not be confident eating all of your favorite foods. When traditional dentures don’t fit properly, you can also have an uneven bite. Implant dentures, on the other hand, maintain your full bite force, allowing you to continue your normal eating habits.

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  Oral Surgery in Wilkes-Barre, PA

  Oral Surgery in Wilkes-Barre, PA Mint Mini Dental Implants in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, offers expert oral surgery under the trusted leadership of Dr. John P. Coolican, DMD, FAGD. As a second-generation dentist who has served residents in North Pennsylvania since 2004, Dr. Coolican is committed to providing you with high-quality dental care using leading technologies and innovative techniques. From simple cleanings to advanced oral surgeries, we offer an array of services to optimize your dental health and enhance your smile. When Oral Surgery is the Best Option Oral surgery encompasses a wide range of procedures. For some patients, oral surgery is essential to comprehensive dental care. Oral surgery is an effective solution if your severe tooth decay or infection cannot be treated with a simple root canal. While we prefer to repair your natural tooth whenever possible, your tooth may need to be removed. Tooth extraction is the most common oral surgery. When a tooth is damaged beyond repair, we remove the tooth to prevent further damage and to prepare for subsequent treatment options such as dental implants. Extraction could also be the best option for treating a fracture below the gum line, placing partial or full dentures, treating partially impacted wisdom teeth, achieving full-mouth reconstruction, or preparing you for orthodontic treatments. If dental trauma or gum disease (periodontitis) is compromising your oral health, tooth extraction may be recommended as part of your treatment plan. Two Types of Extractions Extractions are categorized as simple or surgical. Simple tooth extractions are performed on teeth that are visible in your mouth. This procedure relies on a local anesthetic to numb the surrounding area, but other anesthesia options are sometimes used for those with dental anxiety. When teeth are not easily accessible—like with impacted wisdom teeth—Dr. Coolican will perform a surgical extraction which involves making an incision to access the tooth. Because of the more complex nature of the procedure, additional anesthetics may be used. While oral surgeries are common, we understand that surgery can be stressful, especially if you experience dental anxiety. But your procedure doesn’t have to be a cause for concern. You can trust that Dr. Coolican will take the time to get to know you and explain what you can expect from your procedure in a way that will set you at ease. While tooth extractions can typically be performed using only local anesthesia, we can review other sedation options with you during your consultation. At Mint Mini Dental Implants, we perform a wide range of surgical treatments to enhance your oral health. Once your teeth are extracted, you can reclaim your smile with mini dental implants. In some cases, your implant can even be placed in the same visit.

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  Same Day Dental Implants in Wilkes-Barre, PA

  Same Day Dental Implants in Wilkes-Barre, PA Americans lose an average of 12 teeth by the time they turn 50, so reliable solutions to missing teeth are key. Struggling with missing teeth or loose dentures can significantly impact your quality of life, making simple tasks like eating, speaking, or even smiling an ordeal. Fortunately, advancements in prosthetic dentistry have paved the way for same day dental implants. This cutting-edge treatment option is the solution for those longing for a hassle-free and radiant smile in just one day. Tooth Loss Has a Significant Impact on Your Life If left untreated, gaps in your smile can lead to several problems, including: Impaired chewing and speaking Weight fluctuations due to changes in eating patterns and poor nutrition Lower self-esteem and social avoidance Shifting teeth that can encourage bacteria growth Changes in facial appearance because of progressive bone loss Same day implants can greatly improve your quality of life, allowing you to eat and speak confidently while maintaining your facial appearance and oral health. What Are Same Day Dental Implants? Same day dental implants, also known as immediate loading dental implants, are the key to revamping your smile in one appointment. Mini dental implants are used to replace missing teeth or anchor dentures. A mini dental implant is a small metal post with a ball on one end that we secure into your jawbone. Your prosthetic tooth sits on top of the ball with the support of a rubber O-ring. While a single missing tooth calls for just one implant, you may need additional implants depending on the number of teeth you need to replace. No matter how many implants you have sitting below your gumline, your same day procedure will give you a radiant, natural-looking smile. How Are Same Day Implants Placed So Quickly? Unlike traditional dental implants, which require multiple surgical steps, our same day mini dental implants allow single-stage implantation, meaning that we can transform your smile in just one visit. Traditional dental implants require prolonged healing periods to allow the implant to heal completely. The dental crown, bridge, or denture can be placed only when the conventional implant has fully integrated with the jawbone. An advantage of mini dental implants is that the prosthetic can be mounted before the bone grows around the implant. Owing to its small size, a mini dental implant takes up very little space in your jaw, making for a less invasive procedure than a traditional implant. It’s also a much simpler procedure due to the mini dental implant’s streamlined two-piece structure. These factors decrease the amount of time you’ll spend in Dr. Coolican’s chair. Because the surgery is minimally invasive and requires only local anesthesia, you can look forward to a rapid recovery as well.

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