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FAQ:  Gums

Gum Mouth Sore Pain Relief
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Gingival Tissue Grafting
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Periodontitis: Diagnosis - Treatment
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Tunnel Grafts - Growing New Gums
Cure Gum Disease?
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Anatomy of Recession
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Gum Recession Surgery


Gums Ask The Dentist Richard Winter

Question:
Fix Itchy Gums with Implants? My two upper front teeth were knocked out in an accident 30 years ago. I currently have a 6 unit bridge.

I have constant irritation - itching in my upper gums (due to sinus inflammation). My dentist is recommending implants, saying that there is little bone left between my upper jaw and my sinus cavity. But this will involve substantial bone grafting.

I am okay with my appearance and eat normally now.

Will the implants stop the itching and bone loss or end up causing more problems than I currently experience? Will changing the bridge for one that fits better stop the itching? My current bridge is almost 8 years old. .... Visitor from PA

Answer:
There is simply no way of knowing why you have an itch.

Could it be a yeast infection, fungus, nerve damage from your accident? Poor hygiene or periodontal problems could be an issue. Do you floss regularly under your bridge?

I would acknowlege that grafting and implants may improve long term bone retention, cosmetics and prevent further bone loss but I can't promise you will do any better with these procedures than you are currently without an accurate diagnosis.

Perhaps you should see a dermatologist and check for allergies to your current bridge materials or be seen by a neurologist to test the nerves in the area for proper function so you can find the cause to your itch before you "scratch", CUT, OR GRAFT IT.

Why would you think it is a sinus infection that leads to your itch? There is nothing in the diagnostic information you provided that would hint at such a relationship.

A new bridge or implants will both introduce other potential complications without providing an answer to what is causing the problem.

Wisconsin Reconstructive Implant Dentistry
Richard Winter, DDS MAGD
Winter Dental Associates
5323 W. Hampton Avenue
Milwaukee Wisconsin WI 53218
(414) 464-9021

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