DR. NICHOLAS WITHEM
NW
FAMILY DENTISTRY
Advanced Dentistry
We leverage the latest technology and techniques of the day to restore your beautiful smile and to maintain your youthful glow. Need to replace your missing teeth or just time for a standard dental cleaning? Read more about the types of procedures that we offer here, below:
DENTAL IMPLANTS
Dental implants are becoming an increasingly popular method for replacing missing teeth. In this procedure, titanium supports are surgically fused with your jawbone, and act as an anchor for naturally looking false teeth. Dental implants are not only used for individual tooth replacement, but can also be used when replacing multiple teeth as an alternative to dentures.
Advantages of dental implants
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Implants are extremely natural looking
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Fusion of the implants into your jaw make them very stable and comfortable compared to traditional dentures
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They last a lifetime
Disadvantages of dental implants
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Implants are expensive and a major financial investment
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The process of getting implants can be time consuming and requires multiple visits to the dentist
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There is a chance the surgery fails (roughly 5% of the time)
Types of implants
Your dentist will be able to tell you which of the three types of implants is right for you:
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Root form implant: This is the most common type of implant where the screw is shaped like the root of a tooth.
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Plate Form Implant:A plate form implant has a flat and long shape and is better suited for a narrow jawbone.
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Subperiosteal Implants: In some cases where there is not enough bone width or height for the root form or plate form implant, a subperiosteal implant may be prescribed. This type of implant is designed to sit on top of the bone, but under the gums.
SLEEP MEDICINE
Sleep is one of the most important things we need to be healthy and happy. For some, sleep is hard, and problems plague their nights that make them groggy and tired all the time. And, in extreme cases, can result in worsening conditions. Dr. Valente practices sleep medicine and is dedicated to helping people with apnea and snoring troubles get a good night’s rest, safely.
Oral Appliance Therapy and CPAP Machines
In most cases, people with any type of sleep apnea are given a CPAP machine that helps them breathe regularly throughout their sleeping times. These machines require the use of a mask that fits over your mouth and nose and is hooked up to a machine through a hose that eliminates apnea, or other breathing problems. CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. People have often complained about the use of the machines because they are uncomfortable, hard to use, and are a nightmare to clean.
Oral Appliance Therapy is a service that Dr. Nicholas Withem offers to people who want another way to combat their mild to moderate sleep apnea. According to the AASM (American Academy of Sleep Medicine), Oral Appliance Therapy is just as effective as CPAP.
If you are one of the millions who are currently using a CPAP machine or have even stopped using a CPAP because of the discomfort and common problems associated with the CPAP machines, you have options that Dr. Nicholas Withem is happy to talk with you about.
To learn more about how you can gain freedom from CPAP, give us a call at (508) 987 – 8125 to speak with Dr. Nicholas Withem and schedule an appointment.
ORAL SEDATION
At Dr. Nicholas Withem, we understand that many patients feel anxious or uneasy about visiting the dentist. For those who experience dental anxiety, we offer oral sedation as a safe and effective way to help you relax during your dental appointments. Our Oxford MA general dentist, Dr. Nicholas Withem is dedicated to ensuring your comfort while providing high-quality dental care.
What is Oral Sedation?
Oral sedation involves the use of prescribed medication that helps patients feel calm and at ease during dental procedures. This type of sedation is particularly beneficial for individuals who have a fear of dental work, have had traumatic dental experiences in the past, or have difficulty sitting still for long periods. Dr. Nicholas Withem will evaluate your specific needs and prescribe a pill for you to take before your appointment.
Once you take the medication, you’ll begin to feel more relaxed, making it easier for you to undergo your dental procedure without fear or discomfort. While oral sedation won’t put you to sleep, it will make you feel more at ease, so you can comfortably receive the dental care you need.
Why Choose Oral Sedation?
There are many reasons why oral sedation may be the right choice for you:
• Ease of Use: Oral sedation is as simple as taking a pill, making it a convenient option for those who prefer to avoid more invasive forms of sedation like IV or general anesthesia.
• Customizable Dosage: Our dentist will work with you to determine the appropriate dosage based on your level of anxiety and the complexity of the procedure. This ensures that you receive just the right amount of sedation to feel comfortable without being overly sedated.
• Reduced Anxiety: Oral sedation helps reduce the stress and anxiety that many patients feel during dental visits. It allows you to relax, making your experience more pleasant and less stressful.
• Amnesia Effect: Many patients who undergo oral sedation report having little to no memory of the procedure, which can be especially helpful for those with dental phobia.
• Safe and Effective: The medications used for oral sedation are safe and have been widely used in dentistry for many years. You can feel confident that your sedation will be administered safely.
What to Expect with Oral Sedation
Before your appointment, you will take the prescribed pill as directed by Dr. Nicholas Withem. By the time you arrive at our office, you will already feel more relaxed and at ease. The effects of oral sedation can last for several hours, so it’s important to arrange for someone to drive you to and from your appointment.
During your procedure, you will remain awake but feel extremely calm. In some cases, patients become so relaxed that they may even doze off, but you’ll still be conscious enough to respond to any questions or instructions from Dr. Nicholas Withem or our staff. After your treatment is complete, the effects of the sedation will gradually wear off, and you’ll be able to return home and rest.
3D SCANNING
What is the 3Shape TRIOS?
Imagine a small, handheld wand that Dr. Withem gently guides over your teeth. This is the 3Shape TRIOS scanner, a state-of-the-art device that uses advanced optical technology to create highly accurate, three-dimensional (3D) digital impressions of your mouth.
See Your Smile in Stunning Detail:
One of the most exciting benefits of the 3Shape TRIOS is its ability to generate full-color 3D images of your teeth and gums right on the screen. This allows you to:
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Visually understand your oral health: Dr. Withem can show you the exact condition of your teeth, highlighting areas of concern in vivid color.
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Gain clarity on treatment needs: Seeing the 3D model makes it much easier to understand why certain treatments are recommended and what the expected outcome will be.
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Feel more informed and confident: By seeing your own mouth in detail, you become an active participant in your treatment decisions.
Accuracy You Can Trust:
The 3Shape TRIOS scanner offers significantly greater accuracy compared to traditional impression materials. This precision leads to:
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Better-fitting restorations: Whether you need a crown, bridge, aligner, or other dental appliance, the digital impression ensures a more precise fit and comfortable result.
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Reduced need for adjustments: The accuracy of the digital impression minimizes the chances of needing multiple adjustments to your final restoration.
Faster Turnaround Time:
Thanks to the speed and efficiency of the 3Shape TRIOS, the digital impressions can be sent to the dental laboratory almost instantly. This means:
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Quicker delivery of your restorations: You can expect to receive your new crown, bridge, or other appliance in approximately one week, a significant improvement over the traditional three-week turnaround time.
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Less waiting and more smiling!
Experience the Difference:
Dr. Withem's commitment to using the latest technology like the 3Shape TRIOS reflects our dedication to providing you with the highest quality care, enhanced comfort, and predictable results. Experience the future of dental impressions – accurate, fast, and insightful!
If you have any questions about the 3Shape TRIOS scanner or your upcoming treatment, please don't hesitate to ask us!
DENTURES
At Dr. Nicholas Withem, our Oxford MA dentist is dedicated to helping patients restore their smiles and oral function with high-quality dentures. Whether you're missing some or all of your teeth, dentures offer a durable, comfortable, and natural-looking solution. Thanks to advancements in dental materials and technology, modern dentures are more comfortable and effective than ever before.
Denture Options
There are several types of dentures available, depending on your needs and the number of missing teeth:
1. Complete Dentures: These replace all teeth in the upper or lower jaw and rest on the gum tissue. They can be further stabilized with dental implants or by attaching to tooth roots (overdentures). Implant overdentures provide additional support and can be either removable by the patient or fixed in place by a dental professional.
2. Partial Dentures: Partial dentures are ideal for those missing some teeth. These attach to remaining natural teeth with clasps or mechanical components called attachments. Precision and semi-precision partial dentures, also known as attachment partial dentures, offer more secure options compared to conventional clasps.
Our Oxford MA dentist, Dr. Nicholas Withem will assess your oral health and recommend the best type of denture for your individual needs, whether it's a complete denture, a partial, or an implant-supported option.
Types of Dentures
• Defined Conventional Dentures: Replace all teeth in the upper or lower jaw and rest on the gums.
• Conventional Overdentures: Replace all teeth but are also attached to existing tooth roots or implants for added stability.
• Implant Overdentures: Securely attach to dental implants placed in the jawbone for a stronger and more stable fit.
• Conventional Partial Dentures: Replace some missing teeth and are secured with clasps that attach to adjacent natural teeth.
• Attachment Partial Dentures: Use precision attachments for a more discreet, comfortable fit.
Denture Fitting Process
Before receiving dentures, some patients may need additional treatments, which could include:
• Impressions or Molds: Used to create a custom-fitted denture that aligns perfectly with the contours of your mouth.
• Extractions: Removal of any unhealthy teeth before denture placement.
• Implant Surgery: For those choosing implant overdentures, this surgery will need to be performed before dentures can be attached. For patients requiring extractions or implant surgery, the healing process typically takes several weeks. However, in some cases, a temporary or "immediate" denture can be placed on the same day as the extraction, providing a functional and aesthetic solution until the permanent dentures are ready.
Getting Used to Your Dentures
It's normal to experience a brief adjustment period after receiving your dentures. Here’s what to expect:
• Fullness in the Mouth: You may initially feel like your mouth, cheeks, or lips are fuller. This sensation will fade as you adjust.
• Speech Adjustments: Some minor changes in speech may occur, but these will be more noticeable to you than to others. Speaking slowly and clearly will help your mouth adapt more quickly.
• Changes in Chewing: Chewing may feel different as you adjust to using dentures. Start with soft foods, and gradually introduce firmer items. It’s best to chew using your back teeth and on both sides of your mouth simultaneously.
A small amount of denture adhesive can help stabilize your dentures, particularly in the beginning stages.
DENTURE RETAINED IMPLANTS
Implant-supported dentures are an ideal choice for those seeking a more secure and long-lasting way to restore their smiles. Unlike traditional dentures, which rest on top of the gums, implant-supported dentures are anchored by dental implants, offering greater stability and comfort. This solution is particularly beneficial for patients who do not have any remaining teeth in the jaw, as the implants provide a solid foundation. At our practice, we take pride in helping patients achieve a confident, beautiful smile, making us the best dentist in Webster, MA for your implant-supported denture needs.
What Sets Implant-Supported Dentures Apart?
Traditional or complete dentures are custom-made to fit a patient’s mouth and are typically held in place by suction or oral adhesive. While this solution can be effective, it may also cause discomfort due to friction against the gums, leading to sores. Implant-supported dentures offer a more secure option because they are anchored directly to the jawbone through dental implants. This makes them a more comfortable choice for many patients, and the improved stability allows for better speech and chewing functions. While the initial investment is higher, implant-supported dentures can enhance quality of life and offer a more permanent solution.
Dr. Nicholas Withem, our best dentist in Webster, MA specializes in providing personalized care to help you choose the right type of dentures. Our goal is to ensure that your smile is both beautiful and functional, so you can enjoy your favorite foods and live life with confidence.
Types of Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures come in two main types: bar-retained and ball-retained.
• Bar-Retained Dentures: This option involves placing a thin bar that follows the shape of your jaw, which clips onto two to five dental implants. The denture then fits securely over the bar, offering stability. This solution ensures that the denture remains firmly in place throughout the day.
• Ball-Retained Dentures: With this option, the dental implants feature metal attachments, usually in the shape of a ball, while the denture itself has matching sockets. This ball-and-socket design allows the denture to snap securely into place, providing even more stability during daily activities.
Both types of implant-supported dentures offer unique advantages, and our best dentist in Webster, Dr. Nicholas Withem can help determine which option is ideal for your needs during a consultation. We take the time to discuss your preferences, lifestyle, and oral health to ensure the best possible outcome.
Why Choose Dr. Nicholas Withem?
At Dr. Nicholas Withem, we are committed to delivering high-quality care for all our patients. Our expertise and personalized care ensure that each patient receives a solution tailored to their unique situation. If you're ready to restore your smile with the best dentist, contact our office to schedule a consultation and explore how implant-supported dentures can enhance your quality of life.