bonitadentalcare.com

Posted November 18, 2009 at 9:50 a.m.
Just wanted to let everyone know that our first annual Halloween candy buyback was a great success! The event was held on Nov. 1, 2009 and had a tremendous response from the community.

Bonita Dental Care, Marco Dental Care and Ft. Myers Dental Care all participated in the event. Even though we were paying $1 per pound for candy, we had a overwhelming number of people that just wanted to donate their candy for the cause.

Just in case you didn’t hear about it, see it in the paper or watch it on TV, the event was to benefit our troops serving in hostile areas like the Middle East, Iraq and Afghanistan. Each serviceman or woman get their own box containing a little slice of home. Aside from candy, the troops will receive other donated items from their wish list which was obtained from opgratitiude.com.

Some of the items shipped were toothbrushes, toothpaste and dental floss (of course), deodorant, playing cards and puzzle books, hats and gloves, nuts and trail mix and small stuffed toys.

The children came in their Halloween costumes, colored pictures and wrote messages and letters of thanks to the troops. Each of the offices had people coming to donate all week long. We are very proud to announce that the final tally was over 500 pounds of candy and donated items!

The candy along with other donated items from the troop’s wish list was shipped out to Operation Gratitude in California Nov. 10.

We couldn’t have done it without help from our generous sponsors, our local news media, and an outpouring of support from our local community. Thank you for making this event a success and doing something truly great for all of those servicemen and women fighting for our freedom.

Stephanie Sullivan, RDH

On behalf of Dr. Fred Eck. D.D.S.

Marco Dental

Hi everyone!!!

Just wanted to let everyone know that our first annual Halloween candy buyback was a great success!!!!!! The event was held on November 1st, 2009 and had a tremendous response from the community. Bonita Dental Care, Marco Dental Care and Ft Myers Dental Care all participated in the event. Even though we were paying $1.00 per pound for candy, we had a tremendous number of people that just wanted to dontate their candy for the cause. We had people coming to donate all week long. We are very proud to announce that the final tally was over 500Lbs. of candy!!!!! The candy along with other donated items from the troops wish list were shipped out to Operation Gratitude on Tuesday, November 10th. We couldn't have done it without help from out sponsors. Metro scales, the UPS Store in Springs Plaza, Sweet Bay Supermarket in Springs Plaza, Publix on Beach Road and 41, Publix in Crossraods Plaza, Jersey Mikes in Springs Plaza, McDonalds, Wendy's, Papa John's, Terri's Summer Breeze Cafe, Lee County Sheriff's office, Perkins Family Restaurant in Bonita, Bonita Springs Elementary School and The Dollar Store and More in Fort Myers. Thanks to all for a very successful event. The troops will be able to enjoy a little taste of home.

Q: Doc, I lost one of my teeth in a car accident, what are my options for replacing it?

A: In the second part of this article, I’ll offer some of the options available to replace a tooth as well as some of the benefits and drawbacks of each. In a previous article I discussed some of the factors that are important in choosing the correct replacement.

This is not a “one size fits all” solution. By this I mean that we must consider the remaining bone, the area where the tooth is missing, the financial situation of the patient as well as esthetic and functional concerns.

One option available would be to place a bridge. This is an option if there are healthy teeth adjacent to the tooth that is missing. The reason the teeth must be healthy is that they will serve as the support for the missing tooth. If there is inadequate bone, either where the tooth is missing, or surrounding the adjacent teeth this would not be a good option. The lack of bone lowers the prognosis for longevity and severely compromises any esthetic concerns the patient may have.

Another option would be a removable partial denture. This would only be an option if there are multiple teeth missing. A partial denture has a metal framework with metal clasps that hook onto the adjacent teeth and help to hold it in place. One drawback is that the clasps are visible and show when you talk or smile. Another is that with a partial over time the teeth and bone are subjected to additional forces they were not designed to take. This causes the bone to erode and the teeth to shift making the partial loose and uncomfortable.

Another type of removable appliance is called a “flipper” and is a temporary solution. These are generally made when esthetics is a concern and the tooth is located in the front. This type of temporary can be used until a more permanent treatment option is chosen. The drawback is that this type of appliance is not very strong is easily broken and Crazy glue won’t fix it. The benefit is that in an emergency situation a ‘flipper” can be made quickly and easily without compromising the patient’s lifestyle. Most typically, it is used as a transitional appliance before and during implant treatment.

More and more dental implants are being chosen as replacements for missing teeth. This technology has been proven to be superior over the last thirty years of use. They are chosen for their superior strength and esthetics. An implant looks and functions the same as a natural tooth. The implant itself is placed in the area of the missing tooth where it integrates into the bone over about a six month period. During this time the patient may choose to leave the site alone or may decide to wear a temporary such as a “flipper” while healing takes place. After the implant has integrated it is uncovered and the tooth portion (called a crown) is fabricated out of porcelain and cemented in place.

As you can see there are almost as many factors to consider as there are options to choose from when selecting a replacement for a missing tooth.

Q: I’m interested in getting implants to replace my denture. I’ve seen a few dentists and a couple of specialists for quotes. I’m hesitant to go ahead because all of them have different prices and different plans and each of them insist theirs is the best. How can I decide what’s best for me?

A: The decision to get dental implants will likely have a great impact on your life. It can affect your eating, speech, and even your social life.

As people are living longer, dentures and partials are no longer considered useful long-term solutions for tooth loss. You have every right to be reluctant about such an important decision.

There are a few important considerations you must take into account. Similarly, there are important factors that your doctor must consider when planning your treatment. I’m speaking about goals and also finances.

Your goal and that of your doctor should be in sync as well as feasible in order to have a successful outcome. It is the planning stage of implant treatment that is the most vital. It must be thoroughly and meticulously planned.

Today, implant treatment is one of the most successful types of dentistry that we can perform. However, if corners are cut and planning hasn’t been done properly the success rate drops drastically. This planning stage should definitely involve a CAT scan. This is now the standard of care when planning implant treatment. It allows the doctor to see a three dimensional view of the bone. By utilizing this tool the doctor can assess the quality of the bone, its density as well as height and width. This is vitally important and an x-ray is not adequate for implant treatment. Anyone you see for implant treatment should require you have a CAT scan. If they don’t, ask them why. If they say it’s not necessary, run, don’t walk out of their office.

Another vital part of the plan is your financial capabilities. The cost as well as type of implant treatment can vary widely. It is your job as the patient to determine the financial framework with which you need to work. This is extremely important because again cutting corners will significantly lessen the success of your treatment.

Sharing your goals and financial capabilities with your doctor will enable them to provide you with a treatment plan that will work for both of you.

Have you ever had a difficult time getting an appointment to fit into your busy schedule? I'll bet the answer is YES!!! Well our Bonita Springs location has expanded hours that will make seeing us more convenient than ever. We are now open from 7:30 am until 6:00 pm on Tuesdays and Thursday. Call today to reserve your appointment time.

We have a new addition!!! We would like to welcome our Dr. Gene Steele and Fort Myers Dental Care into our practice. You now have the option of visiting us in Marco Island at 950 N. Collier Blvd. Ste 305 in Bonita Springs at 8951 Bonita Beach Rd. SE Ste 206 or in Fort Myers at 5781 Lee Blvd. Suite 103, Lehigh Acres. As with our original location all dental treatment can be performed in one location without the need to travel to multiple offices.

Hello again. This is a further continuation on the ins and outs of dental insurance. This week, I’m going to expand the topic further by talking about something that is not dental insurance, per se. Today I would like to talk about dental discount plans. I’m sure you’ve seen them out there. Some are advertised on the Internet, some by direct mail and some even through the warehouse outlets.

These plans are not insurance. There are no claims to submit or forms to file. The people that sign up for these plans pay a monthly or yearly membership fee. Dentists who choose to participate are contracted and agree to accept the fee schedule that the plan offers. Any procedures that are not on the fee schedule are performed at 20 percent off the offices usual and customary fees.

Some dentists, like myself, have decided to take this concept further and offer this type of plan in-house. We feel that we have improved upon it by offering our current patients, as well as prospective patients, a full range of services at reduced fees. We offer people who want to join for a year nominal fees for routine dental treatment, include cleanings and X-rays at no charge and also offer those extras that some of these discount plans are lacking. These fees offer greater savings and give people more options in their choice of care than traditional discount plans. We also find this to be helpful in that there are no surprises, like waiting periods or exclusions. Best of all, you get to keep your same great dentist: me! I hope this discussion have proven helpful. I would ask that you please continue to send me your questions.

As promised, I’m continuing to expand on one readers question about dental insurance. This week I’ve chosen to focus on traditional dental insurance which is the most common type available.

This kind of insurance can be purchased by individuals or families, offered as part of a benefits package by employers in which employees may choose to take part. There are so many different plans out there and they all provide varying amounts of coverage. This explanation should serve to provide an overview of dental insurance without delving into the minutiae of each individual plan.

Traditional insurance polices provide a maximum benefit amount per year. The insurance companies lump procedures into categories termed preventive, basic and major. Sounds easy so far, doesn’t it. Preventive procedures would be considered procedures performed in order to eliminate or reduce dental disease. This would be routine teeth cleaning, fluoride treatment and sealants for children as well as x-rays and routine exams. Basic procedures would be fillings and basic tooth extractions.

Major procedures include crowns, bridges, dentures and treatment that is of a more extensive nature. All of these procedures with the possible exception of preventive services are subject to co-payments of between 20 percent and 50 percent plus a deductible. Dental insurance maximums are low and generally range between $1,000 to $2,500 per year with $1,000 to $1,500 benefit maximums being the most common.

Most of these traditional plans allow you to choose your own dentist. Some plans increase the level of benefits if you choose a dentist from their “list.” That list is comprised of dentists who have chosen to accept the fees that the particular insurance company feels is fair for that particular grouping of services.

It is important to consider the list of services provided very carefully because the insurance company can exclude certain services (ie. Dental implant treatment). Also, there may be waiting periods for certain procedures (generally six months to a year) and omissions for pre-existing conditions (ie. Missing teeth that need to be replaced).

Dental insurance is just like any other type of insurance in that it fulfills a need. The most important thing to determine is what your immediate needs are and which type of plan will benefit you and your family the most.

As always, I appreciate the questions. I will delve more into this subject in the following weeks. You can reach me by e-mail at marcodentalcare@aol.com or by phone at (239)389-9400.

Hey Doc, I have a question. I’m looking at different plans for dental coverage and I’m confused. Can you give me some information about different dental plans and which ones are best?

Wow, that’s a tall order, but I will try to help. There are so many different options and so much information is out there that it’s going to take more than one column to answer. Before I can answer your question, there are some things you need to think about, such as how much you want to spend, whether you go to the dentist regularly, your dental needs, whether you want to make co-payments or receive discounted dental treatment, if you are concerned about cosmetics, if you need extensive treatment and whether are you considering treatment for just yourself or your whole family. Like I said, it’s a lot of information to weigh before making your decision.

First, let’s start with the basics. Traditional dental insurance is not in any way, shape or form like medical insurance. It is designed to keep healthy people, who go to the dentist regularly, healthy. Even the best policies, which can be very costly, provide only a certain amount of coverage per year. That is why you must carefully consider the benefit levels you choose. In addition, when looking for a plan, consider the questions I have posed above. They can assist you in making the right choices for you and your family. Next week, I’ll go into more detail about the different types of plans out there, so you can decide what is best for you and your family. I appreciate all of your questions and would like to thank you for your support. I can be reached at 389-9400 and by e-mail at www.marcodentalcare@aol.com.

Do you need a check up but don't have dental insurance? Don't worry our Marco Island, Bonita Springs and Fort Myers offices are offering a check up special until the end of November. For $89.00 you will get a complete dental exam and oral cancer screening, a healthy mouth cleaning and bitewing (check-up) images.

SAVE 20% to 60% ON DENTAL SERVICES!!!
Join our dental premiere plan at one of our convenient locations in Marco Island, Bonita Springs or Fort Myers. For a low yearly membership fee of $199.00 you get two healthy mouth cleanings, necessary x-rays, oral cancer screening and an annual check-up exam. Your membership also entitles you to recieve up to 60% off any necessary dental treatment. This plan is available at any of our three locations: The Marco Island office located inside the Suntrust Bank Building, The Bonita Springs office located inside Springs Plaza, next to Iguana Mia and Fort Myers located in the Crossroads Plaza.

By FRED ECK
Posted January 27, 2009 at 1:14 p.m.

A: Great question! This question gets asked in probably every dental office, every day, many times a day. No one likes x-rays but they are an invaluable diagnostic aid. They enable us to see much more than what is visible at the surface level.

I always wonder when people question having x-rays taken. Why would anyone want to wait until they are in pain before having x-rays taken? Why should pain be the motivation? Haven’t we gotten past that in terms of becoming healthier and living longer? Shouldn’t the prevention of pain be more important than waiting for its onset in order to act?

Perhaps cost is the issue. Well, dental problems only get bigger. In all the time I have been a dentist I have never seen one get smaller or go away. The cost for x-rays is minimal when compared with the cost of fixing a small problem rather than one that has been allowed to get bigger due to the lack of this very important diagnostic tool. We as dentists are focused on keeping our patients healthy and preventing disease.

X-rays don’t just show cavities, they can show anomalies within the jawbone, congenitally missing teeth, abscesses, fractures of the teeth or bone, developing and impacted teeth and much, much more. They can also show us if everything is healthy. Most offices today offer digital x-rays which have very, very little radiation at all. It is approximately 90 percent less than that of traditional x-rays. The exposure to radiation is minimal, about the same as being out in the Florida sunshine for about 10 minutes. Being Floridians means we spend a lot of time outdoors in the sunshine all year round.

Having to outlay a little money and a little extra time in the sun to prevent a problem or catch one early is much less expensive than the alternative of letting it become larger more complicated and costly to fix.

Questions can be sent to Fred Eck, D.D.S. at Marco Dental Care, 950 N. Collier Blvd., Suite 305, Marco Island; call 389-9400 or visit marcodentalcare.com. He received his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Detroit Mercy and is licensed by the Florida State Board of Dentistry

Q: My denture keeps slipping and I think my face is sagging, what is going on and can it be fixed?

A: With all the advances in dentistry today, fewer of us need full dentures. We’re simply keeping more teeth longer. But life with dentures is now much improved. Materials are sleeker and fit more comfortably.

Now dentures can be custom-made to blend with your skin, hair and eye color, and look as natural as you want. If you attend to your dentures over time — meaning see the dentist to adjust them as changes in your mouth occur — you’ll enjoy strong, secure function for years.

Even the best denture, though, won’t last forever. As you age, and particularly if you wear dentures, your jawbone begins to shrink and the muscles that help your jaws close can shorten. This is called “overclosure” or collapsed bite — a condition where the lower jaw closes too far before the teeth make contact.

Overclosure can make you look older and give your face that sagging appearance. It can also cause you to chew your food differently. An ill-fitting denture and overclosed bite results in a squashed, flabby and older-looking face.

Don’t worry there is help to be had. Replacing dentures every five to 10 years is a good idea. After all, we’re living full well into our ‘80s and ‘90s. You wouldn’t wear the same glasses without having them checked periodically. Dentures are no different.

Relines and adjustments can help make you more comfortable. We adjust what we call “vertical height” — essentially a face-lift without the surgery.

Consider what your denture has gone through, and call us with your questions. You can reach Dr. Eck at (239)389-9400.

Designed for rapid in office whitening Boost™ requires no light for activation and eliminates sensitivity altogether with it's incorporated desensitizing trays.  The whole process is quick, about an hour from start to finish.  The results are amazing.  We are currently offering a internet only special for Boost™ at $250.00 (normally $599.00).  Cal us or e-mail us today for an appointment.

If you are interested in implants, dentures, braces or cosmetics we would love to meet with you and discuss your needs.  We can provide you with a COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION.  If you or someone you know has been given a treatment plan but aren't sure how to proceed give us a call, we would be happy to offer you a COMPLIMENTARY SECOND OPINION.  You can rest assured our doctors have extensive experience and will make you feel comfortable and at ease.  All aspects of your dental treatment can be performed here in our brand new state of the art office.  Plus, we have one of the top, most respected implantologists in the country here in our office.  So give us a call, we would love to hear from you!!!!

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Right now we are offering ZOOM whitening as seen on TV'S Extreme Makeovers for $299.00.  This is a quick and easy process that takes years off of your smile.  It is extremely popular among men and women alike.  The results are amazing and we're sure you won't be disappointed.

Hello,  I just wanted to ask eveyone to check out my dental column at www.marconews.com.  Many of my columns have been posted on this blogsite.  I would also like to encourage anyone to respond to this post with any dental questions they may want answered.  Any posts made always get a response and maybe even a feature in the Marco Island Eagle.

Dr. Fred J. Eck

Are you afraid of having dental implant treatment?  Do you think it may be too expensive for you?  Do you want to learn more?  Send us your name and e-mail address and we will give you the dates and times of our upcoming seminars.

Q: I’m interested in getting implants to replace my denture. I’ve seen a few dentists and a couple of specialists for quotes. I’m hesitant to go ahead because all of them have different prices and different plans and each of them insist theirs is the best. How can I decide what’s best for me?

A: The decision to get dental implants will likely have a great impact on your life. It can affect your eating, speech, and even your social life.

As people are living longer, dentures and partials are no longer considered useful long-term solutions for tooth loss. You have every right to be reluctant about such an important decision.

There are a few important considerations you must take into account. Similarly, there are important factors that your doctor must consider when planning your treatment. I’m speaking about goals and also finances.

Your goal and that of your doctor should be in sync as well as feasible in order to have a successful outcome. It is the planning stage of implant treatment that is the most vital. It must be thoroughly and meticulously planned.

Today, implant treatment is one of the most successful types of dentistry that we can perform. However, if corners are cut and planning hasn’t been done properly the success rate drops drastically. This planning stage should definitely involve a CAT scan. This is now the standard of care when planning implant treatment. It allows the doctor to see a three dimensional view of the bone. By utilizing this tool the doctor can assess the quality of the bone, its density as well as height and width. This is vitally important and an x-ray is not adequate for implant treatment. Anyone you see for implant treatment should require you have a CAT scan. If they don’t, ask them why. If they say it’s not necessary, run, don’t walk out of their office.

Another vital part of the plan is your financial capabilities. The cost as well as type of implant treatment can vary widely. It is your job as the patient to determine the financial framework with which you need to work. This is extremely important because again cutting corners will significantly lessen the success of your treatment.

Sharing your goals and financial capabilities with your doctor will enable them to provide you with a treatment plan that will work for both of you.

---

Questions can be sent to Fred Eck, D.D.S. at Marco Dental Care, 950 N. Collier Blvd., Suite 305, Marco Island, or call 389-9400. Web site: marcodentalcare.com. He received his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Detroit Mercy and is licensed by the Florida State Board of Dentistry.

Q: Hey Doc, I’ve got a tooth that has been bothering me for a while. When it starts up I just take a couple of antibiotics and it goes away. Recently, I noticed a bad taste and bad breath. My insurance doesn’t kick in for another month. Can I wait until then?

A: My best advice to you would be no, you really shouldn’t wait that long. It sounds like you have an infected tooth. By taking just a small dose of antibiotics you eliminated enough of the infection to relieve your discomfort for a short period of time.

This is never a good idea for several reasons. The first is that the remaining bacteria can become resistant to antibiotic therapy making it more difficult to eliminate the infection totally. The second is that enough bacteria remain to cause the infection to persist and become larger. Antibiotics are not a cure all. They are meant to be used in conjunction with dental treatment.

Your dentist may prescribe them prior to, during or after needed treatment. They are never a substitute for dental treatment. In addition, when taking antibiotics that were not prescribed for the problem you are currently experiencing you can run into several problems.

As I mentioned before antibiotic resistance is one, taking the correct dosage is another and lastly taking the right antibiotic for the right problem. At this point, the infection is probably draining causing the bad taste and bad breath. That is very unhealthy because you are ingesting the pus every time you swallow. Also, as the infection persists it dissolves the bone surrounding the tooth that is bothering you. The longer you wait the more the condition will worsen. I would urge you to visit the dentist to at least determine what needs to be done to eliminate the infection. If you absolutely must wait for your insurance, discuss this with your dentist and they may be able to offer a solution that can help you temporarily.

Questions can be sent to Fred Eck, D.D.S. at Marco Dental Care, 950 N. Collier Blvd., Suite 305, Marco Island; call 389-9400 or visit marcodentalcare.com. He received his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Detroit Mercy and is licensed by the Florida State Board of Dentistry.

Q: I have a cavity under my cap and my dentist says he’ll need to make me a new cap. Why can’t he just use the old one?

A: Great question! Utilizing an existing crown or cap (same thing just different terms) when there is a cavity around it is possible in only the best of circumstances.

Your dentist cannot see the extent of the decay under the crown. Also, in most cases an x-ray is not diagnostic because the crown will obscure the tooth.

In order for decay to show up on an x-ray there has to be extensive destruction of the natural tooth. If the decay is below the crown area then a filling can usually be placed leaving the crown intact. If the decay extends underneath the crown then your dentist will most likely need to remove the crown by sectioning it in order to get access to the decay.

If the crown is loose it is sometimes possible to remove it without damaging it or the tooth underneath. However, once the decay has been removed and the decayed portion is replaced and built back up the shape of the tooth has been altered and the original crown won’t fit. At this point trying to retrofit it is not advisable as it will never be the same as before the tooth was altered. In addition, because the tooth has been altered you will always be susceptible to decay again.

It’s similar to a lock and a key. The key that was made for your car won’t open your house. The crown is precisely constructed to fit just that tooth and that tooth only. It is better to follow your dentists advice and begin the process anew. That way you can be sure that the new crown will be solid and long lasting and the tooth underneath it is strong and healthy.

Questions can be sent to Fred Eck, D.D.S. at Marco Dental Care, 950 N. Collier Blvd., Suite 305, Marco Island; call 389-9400 or visit marcodentalcare.com. He received his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Detroit Mercy and is licensed by the Florida State Board of Dentistry.

Q: I need some help! My daughter sucks her thumbs and also three of her fingers. I’m worried that this is causing a problem with her teeth. How do I get her to stop?

A: Please rest assured that thumb sucking is a normal behavior and is cause for little concern. In, fact many babies begin sucking their thumb or fingers even before they are born.

The behavior will continue until age three or four. At that time most children will stop of their own accord. If the thumb sucking continues beyond that age and the child shows no signs of stopping then it may be time to intervene.

Intervention is important because the thumb sucking habit can affect the eruption and position of the permanent front teeth. The permanent teeth will be flared out with large spacing making orthodontics a necessity. In rare cases, it can cause the bones of the fingers to bow.

Fortunately, dental appliances can be fabricated to break the thumb sucking habit. They work so well because while the child can still get the thumb or finger in their mouth they are unable to maintain suction.

These types of appliances are generally made by either pediatric dentists or orthodontists. Your dentist or pediatrician can evaluate your child and make any appropriate referrals.

Questions can be sent to Fred Eck, D.D.S. at Marco Dental Care, 950 N. Collier Blvd., Suite 305, Marco Island; call 389-9400 or visit marcodentalcare.com. He received his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Detroit Mercy and is licensed by the Florida State Board of Dentistry.

Thank you so much for the question. For a while there I was beginning to feel like an orphan because no one was sending in any questions. I really want to thank the Marco Eagle for their support and to also remind everyone that this column is dependent upon you. Please continue sending in questions. I do this because I feel its important for you to get your questions answered and to inform the public about dental health. Thanks again!

Well, now that I’ve gotten that off my chest I can address your question.

In today’s world just about everybody takes some type of prescription medication for one thing or another. Blood thinners are prescribed in order to prevent blood clots from forming. One adverse affect is that the clotting factor has been diminished, bruising can occur more readily and bleeding can be more difficult to control. However, most physicians feel that it is not in the patients’ best interest to remove them from this type of medication in order to have dental treatment. When a blood thinner is prescribed there is a therapeutic goal your doctor is trying to achieve. In other words, they are trying to control the thinness of the blood. This will be different for each person. Depending on how thin your blood is being kept will determine the need or lack thereof to alter the medications. We become concerned for dental treatment when a patient needs teeth extracted, dental implants placed, gum surgery or any procedure where there will be bleeding. Simple fillings and root canals are not a concern and neither is laser gum surgery because clotting is done with the laser. In the case where there is extensive dental treatment needed, it is best to consult with the patient’s primary care physician. Any contradictions can be discussed and a suitable treatment plan can be formulated that serves the best interest of the patient. I hope that this helps to put your mind at ease.

Questions can be sent to Fred Eck, D.D.S. at Marco Dental Care, 950 N. Collier Blvd., Suite 305, Marco Island; call 389-9400 or visit marcodentalcare.com. He received his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Detroit Mercy and is licensed by the Florida State Board of Dentistry.

Q: My denture keeps slipping and I think my face is sagging, what is going on and can it be fixed?

A: With all the advances in dentistry today, fewer of us need full dentures. We’re simply keeping more teeth longer. But life with dentures is now much improved. Materials are sleeker and fit more comfortably.

Now dentures can be custom-made to blend with your skin, hair and eye color, and look as natural as you want. If you attend to your dentures over time — meaning see the dentist to adjust them as changes in your mouth occur — you’ll enjoy strong, secure function for years.

Even the best denture, though, won’t last forever. As you age, and particularly if you wear dentures, your jawbone begins to shrink and the muscles that help your jaws close can shorten. This is called “overclosure” or collapsed bite — a condition where the lower jaw closes too far before the teeth make contact.

Overclosure can make you look older and give your face that sagging appearance. It can also cause you to chew your food differently. An ill-fitting denture and overclosed bite results in a squashed, flabby and older-looking face.

Don’t worry there is help to be had. Replacing dentures every five to 10 years is a good idea. After all, we’re living full well into our ‘80s and ‘90s. You wouldn’t wear the same glasses without having them checked periodically. Dentures are no different.

Relines and adjustments can help make you more comfortable. We adjust what we call “vertical height” — essentially a face-lift without the surgery.

Consider what your denture has gone through, and call us with your questions. You can reach Dr. Eck at (239)389-9400.

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Questions can be sent to Fred Eck, D.D.S. at Marco Dental Care, 950 N. Collier Blvd., Suite 305, Marco Island, or call 389-9400. Web site: marcodentalcare.com. Dr. Eck received his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Detroit Mercy and is licensed by the Florida State Board of Dentistry.

Q: Why can’t we just pull it Doc? It’s only a baby tooth.

A: Maintaining optimum dental health for your children is more important now than ever before.

How many of you remember being taken to the dentist as a child a having a filling or tooth pulled without any anesthesia? How many of recall your dentist as a barbarian held you down while he worked on you? Those early childhood remembrances make everyone who has ever experienced them shudder.

You want to spare your child those experiences, right? Well that is exactly why you should take them to see what modern dentistry can offer. When we were kids there were limited options available. The science of dentistry has improved greatly and we now understand far more than we ever did before about baby teeth and why they are so important to your child’s growth and development.

Way back while your baby was in the womb and you were picking out names and nursery colors Mother Nature was busy building your babies bone and tooth structure. As humans, we essentially have two sets of teeth, primary or baby teeth and permanent teeth. Baby teeth are so important because they develop first and occupy the space that will be later filled by an adult tooth.

If these teeth become severely decayed and need to be removed prematurely the space is lost and the permanent tooth, in many cases, cannot take its place because there isn’t enough room. Once this has happened, orthodontics or braces may be required to assist in what Mother Nature used to do on her own. This can create a myriad of problems for your child as they grow and develop.

Maintaining the health of your child’s primary teeth will give you peace of mind while setting them up for a lifetime of good oral health.

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Dr. Fred Eck can be contacted at Marco Island Dental Care, 950 N. Collier Blvd., Suite 305, Marco Island, or call 719-1044 or visit the Web site: Bonitadentalcare.com. He received his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Detroit Mercy and is licensed by the Florida State Board of Dentistry.

 Q: I want to get my lower front teeth straightened because I hate the way they are all overlapped. I was told that to straighten them I would need to wear braces on all my teeth. Why do I have to do all that just to straighten my lower front teeth?

Q: Hey Doc, my wife went to the dentist the other day for a cleaning and was told she needed to take an antibiotic because she had a knee replacement. We never heard anything about this and she was too embarrassed to ask. Is this common? What should she do?

A: It is extremely common. Unfortunately, recent changes to the guidelines regarding the use of antibiotic prior to dental treatment have made it very confusing for patients and practitioners alike. Many people who in the past have always taken antibiotics prior to dental treatment are now being told it is no longer necessary. The same is true for other people who are unaware that their medical condition or their recent surgery now makes taking antibiotics prior to dental treatment a necessity.

The general rule of thumb is that anyone who has had a knee or hip replacement or aortic valve transplant needs antibiotic pre-medication prior to dental treatment. For hip and knee replacement, antibiotics are taken for two to three years and for aortic valves they are taken for a lifetime.

In certain instances, the length of time for pre-medication may be extended. I would advise anyone who has had any of these surgeries to consult with their physician and/or orthopedic surgeon. Each physician will have specific guidelines regarding the use of antibiotics for those patients in their care.

Okay, so now you know its necessary, but you may be wondering why? Most people are aware that the human mouth contains a huge amount of bacteria. When you have your teeth cleaned or have dental work performed, some of that bacteria are released into the bloodstream. People that have had these types of surgeries are at a higher risk of systemic infection because the bacteria can travel to the site of the transplant or replacement and attack the site.

Antibiotics play a very important role in that they prevent that from happening. I’ll go further into this topic in my next column.

For now, suffice it to say, that no one should ever be embarrassed to ask questions about something pertaining to their health. Ask away, we are here to help.

Dr. Eck would like to thank everyone for all of the e-mails and questions he receives.

Questions can be sent to Fred Eck, D.D.S. at Marco Dental Care, 950 N. Collier Blvd., Suite 305, Marco Island; call 389-9400 or visit marcodentalcare.com. He received his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Detroit Mercy and is licensed by the Florida State Board of Dentistry.

A: Believe it or not, this is a pretty common occurrence. Here in Southwest Florida many people spend their winters here and their summers back home in the northern states. Oftentimes this means that theses people see two doctors, two dentists, two eye doctors, two cardiologists and the list goes on.

Preparing for a season away from home requires a lot of planning and organization. Unfortunately, most of the time dental records and x-rays are not included and left at home. These are a vital part of your dental history and the lack of these records makes it somewhat difficult for the dentist seeing that particular patient.

In this particular instance it's possible that the dentist may have noted in the patients record a particular area or areas of concern that may need attention at some point. Another factor to consider is that every dentist practices differently. One dentist may prefer to "watch" a tooth or area while another dentist will want to treat a problem as soon as he/she sees it.

Yet another factor to consider is technology. Does the dentist have digital x-rays? Do they take x-rays once per year at check-ups? Do they have laser cavity detection or intraoral cameras?

Intraoral cameras can actually take pictures of these problem areas allowing you to see what your dentist has seen. All of these tools enable your dentist to see and treat small problems before they become bigger ones. This is of great benefit because it allows for more conservative treatment.

Modern, preventive dentistry embraces these tools which benefit the patients by enabling the dentist to perform treatment that is less costly, less time consuming and less invasive. People are living longer, more active lives today so there is no good reason to "watch" an area or tooth.

Watching and waiting only allow problems to grow and become bigger. There is never an instance in which cavities go away or broken teeth fix themselves. The dentist that you have seen here should be able to show you or explain to you where the cavities are and why you need to have them treated. You should also ask your dentist up north if they have any notes that the teeth in question will need treatment in the future.

If neither of these answers satisfies you it may be best to seek treatment elsewhere or at the very least seek a second opinion.

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, yes. And so is self-esteem. The darkened tooth that drives one individual crazy may matter little to another. You may have a space between your front teeth that, rather than distract from your appearance, is rather engaging.

A good cosmetic dental practice considers your self-image as you see it. Fine cosmetic dentistry is not so much about creating "perfection" but enhancing the attributes that contribute to your personal success. Dark teeth, gaps or spaces, chipped or broken teeth can all prevent a smile from coming naturally.

So dialogue between you and your dentist is the key. You should take the time to carefully explain what you see about your teeth and smile that make you unhappy. Your dentist should then be able to translate your needs into a realistic result.

That transformation can be breathtaking. New whitening techniques can brighten teeth in as little as an hour. Impossibly thin veneers can cover discolored teeth, repair chips and gaps or even give you that "Hollywood" smile you've always wanted. Invisalign can straighten teeth with no metal and no wires and are an excellent alternative to traditional metal braces.

With so many options available, many people are now choosing cosmetic dentistry as way to achieve a new look. Even men are catching on to this exciting new trend. Many who visit the dentist want a "brighter smile" without the commitment home whitening.

A little in office whitening brightens the smile and gives a more healthy, youthful appearance without drastic change. So whatever your interest cosmetic dentistry can give you more self esteem, improve your self-confidence and not compromise your busy Southwest Florida Lifestyle.

On the flip side, a stray wrinkle appears and inevitably, teeth grow darker and begin to yellow. It's disconcerting, but very natural.

Part of this process is strictly physical. Teeth, like bone, are complex - part living and changing, part fixed in time. The hard outer layer is enamel, rich with calcium, our first defense against injury and decay. Beneath is dentin, composing the main mass of a tooth.

Enamel is translucent - in fact, a blue tone. It's the dentin's yellow hue that tricks the eye into perceiving a tooth as bright.

As we age, chewing and normal function wear down and thin the enamel layer. As the enamel thins, the darker dentin color eventually takes over.

Add to this scenario a diet of coffee, tea, colas, red wine and smoking - tar and nicotine actually invade the enamel surface making your teeth look older than the hills. Still strong, mind you, but not so appealing.

Fortunately, a measure of brightness can be regained with cosmetic dental procedures. Tooth whitening is an alternative, porcelain veneers that cover the face of the tooth is another. More cosmetic options are available today than ever before. So, whatever option you choose, a brighter, whiter smile can take years off your appearance and make you feel more youthful and vibrant.

On the flip side, a stray wrinkle appears and inevitably, teeth grow darker and begin to yellow. It's disconcerting, but very natural.

Part of this process is strictly physical. Teeth, like bone, are complex - part living and changing, part fixed in time. The hard outer layer is enamel, rich with calcium, our first defense against injury and decay. Beneath is dentin, composing the main mass of a tooth.

Enamel is translucent - in fact, a blue tone. It's the dentin's yellow hue that tricks the eye into perceiving a tooth as bright.

As we age, chewing and normal function wear down and thin the enamel layer. As the enamel thins, the darker dentin color eventually takes over.

Add to this scenario a diet of coffee, tea, colas, red wine and smoking - tar and nicotine actually invade the enamel surface making your teeth look older than the hills. Still strong, mind you, but not so appealing.

Fortunately, a measure of brightness can be regained with cosmetic dental procedures. Tooth whitening is an alternative, porcelain veneers that cover the face of the tooth is another. More cosmetic options are available today than ever before. So, whatever option you choose, a brighter, whiter smile can take years off your appearance and make you feel more youthful and vibrant.

A: This is a great question and one that has a very simple answer. No, it is not necessary to see a "specialist".

The American Dental Association has not designated the field of implantology as a specialty. Therefore, there are no implant "specialists".

Dental implants can be placed by any doctor who has earned the title of DDS or DMD and currently practices dentistry.

This can be both good and bad. A patient may feel that they need to see some type of a specialist because they may have more experience with implants. Another patient may feel confident that their longtime general dentist with whom they have a great rapport can do the job as well as the specialist. While both of these situations can be true, it is the doctor's experience that should be the key factor.

The doctor you choose should be able to explain your treatment options clearly, adequately answer your questions as well as show some completed cases of his or her own.

There are various implant teaching facilities throughout the country. In selecting a doctor you should pick one who has completed extensive training in one or more of these programs.

Implant treatment can be complex so it is extremely important you have someone with extensive knowledge and expertise and that is familiar with the different aspects of treatment.

There are a couple different phases to implant treatment. The first portion is the surgical phase. This involves the placement of the dental implant into a precise location in the bone. This portion of the implant cannot be seen and will later serve as the support mechanism to the tooth portion of the implant in much the same way that a tooth root supports a tooth. Once the placement is complete the implant is left in place underneath the gum tissue where it integrates and becomes permanently attached to the bone.

After this takes place, the second phase of treatment can begin. This phase is the restorative phase and involves the fabrication and placement of the final restoration(s) on top of the integrated implant(s).

Both phases are equally important and crucial to the success of the entire case.

A dentist or specialist may only perform the first phase requiring another dentist for the second phase. This is where things can become confusing. Going from location to location for the various steps can cause problems if there is not adequate communication during the planning stage.

The best way to avoid this is to either find one doctor who can perform all aspects of treatment or to have a team approach utilizing doctors who practice at the same location. This ensures good communication and proper planning for each step.

Implant dentistry has greatly improved over the past 30 years. If done correctly it is an extremely strong, predictable and reliable replacement for one tooth or many teeth.

 A: Over the years "root canal" has come to typify the very worst scenario that life can deal out. Right up there with IRS audit, in-laws extended visit and crossing the Jolley Bridge in season.

The fact is that we now have ways to relieve the pain that drove you into the office in the first place. Ohhh, the pain! Believe it or not, over 90 percent of all dental pain has something to do with the nerves within the tooth. The severity of the pain and how you describe it indicate to us if the tooth is alive or dead.

It's possible to have a cracked filling or cracked tooth that may not need root canal therapy if evaluated and treated right away. It's necessary to x-ray and examine the tooth to determine the appropriate treatment. If root canal is necessary it can, in most cases, be treated in a single visit.

There are many new materials and techniques available that will make your visit short and comfortable. Typically, once the root canal has been completed a crown must be fitted over the top of the tooth in order to protect it and keep it from breaking. Once this process is completed the prognosis of the tooth becomes favorable and the tooth can last a long time.

A: There are many different options available to you for replacement of the tooth. These options can be simple or complex as well as temporary or permanent depending on various factors.

First, you will need an exam in order to gather a little more information. Which tooth is missing front or back, top or bottom?

Next, what are your needs? If you go out to dinner with friends are you willing to remove the tooth to eat or do you want it to remain in place, look beautiful and function like your original tooth.

What is the cost of the replacement? This is where the temporary and permanent solutions enter the picture.

Do you have to do something temporary in order to save for something more permanent? Or, are finances no concern at all? Are there other adjacent teeth that can complicate the treatment and add to the cost?

Whatever the case, these are all factors that a dentist should consider when taking your treatment needs into consideration. The most important thing that we need to evaluate when dealing with a missing tooth is how much bone remains once the tooth has been removed and healing has taken place.

The remaining bone serves as the foundation and is the best indicator as to replacement choice. If you smile and look like you are waiting for a new tooth for Christmas then a temporary solution can found to get you through. Or, if you are ready to proceed a treatment plan is fabricated that takes into account all of the factors that I have mentioned above.

A: This is a great question. If I had a nickel for every time I get asked this ...

Let me share with you the reason why a filling cannot be done in place of a crown. As I'm sure you know, fillings are generally needed when a tooth has become decayed. The decayed part of the tooth is removed and the tooth is "filled" with a composite or resin filling material.

Silver fillings are not used much anymore these days. In an instance where the tooth is severely decayed or broken, that tooth must be restored by means other than with a filling. When a tooth is severely decayed or broken there is a significant portion of it that is lost. This means there is insufficient tooth structure remaining to replace it with a filling.

You can think of this in terms of a house. Most houses have four walls and a roof. The same is true with a tooth; it has a front, a back, two sides and the top or biting surface. If a house loses a couple of walls and part of the roof it will no longer be able to support itself and collapse. The very same thing is true with a broken tooth.

Once the tooth has broken, a crown is necessary to protect, cover and conserve the remaining tooth structure.

There are many types of crowns available but the most common have a metal structure covered by porcelain. The porcelain covering is tooth-colored and the shade is custom matched to your adjacent teeth.

Generally, when a tooth is broken it is necessary to replace the part that is broken by building the tooth back up to its original height and contour. The crown's metal understructure is cast from an impression of the tooth once it has been built back up. Once the dental lab has fabricated the crown, it is permanently cemented in place. With proper care these restorations will last a long while.

I understand that cost is a concern. It is for just about everyone these days but a crown is the best possible option for keeping the tooth healthy for a lifetime.

Q: I have a broken tooth and my dentist says I need a crown. I don't want a crown. It's too expensive. I just want a filling but they won't do it. Why can't they just fill it?

A: This is a great question. If I had a nickel for every time I get asked this ...

Let me share with you the reason why a filling cannot be done in place of a crown. As I'm sure you know, fillings are generally needed when a tooth has become decayed. The decayed part of the tooth is removed and the tooth is "filled" with a composite or resin filling material.

Silver fillings are not used much anymore these days. In an instance where the tooth is severely decayed or broken, that tooth must be restored by means other than with a filling. When a tooth is severely decayed or broken there is a significant portion of it that is lost. This means there is insufficient tooth structure remaining to replace it with a filling.

You can think of this in terms of a house. Most houses have four walls and a roof. The same is true with a tooth; it has a front, a back, two sides and the top or biting surface. If a house loses a couple of walls and part of the roof it will no longer be able to support itself and collapse. The very same thing is true with a broken tooth.

Once the tooth has broken, a crown is necessary to protect, cover and conserve the remaining tooth structure.

There are many types of crowns available but the most common have a metal structure covered by porcelain. The porcelain covering is tooth-colored and the shade is custom matched to your adjacent teeth.

Generally, when a tooth is broken it is necessary to replace the part that is broken by building the tooth back up to its original height and contour. The crown's metal understructure is cast from an impression of the tooth once it has been built back up. Once the dental lab has fabricated the crown, it is permanently cemented in place. With proper care these restorations will last a long while.

I understand that cost is a concern. It is for just about everyone these days but a crown is the best possible option for keeping the tooth healthy for a lifetime.

A: In the second part of this article, I’ll offer some of the options available to replace a tooth as well as some of the benefits and drawbacks of each. In a previous article I discussed some of the factors that are important in choosing the correct replacement.

This is not a “one size fits all” solution. By this I mean that we must consider the remaining bone, the area where the tooth is missing, the financial situation of the patient as well as esthetic and functional concerns.

One option available would be to place a bridge. This is an option if there are healthy teeth adjacent to the tooth that is missing. The reason the teeth must be healthy is that they will serve as the support for the missing tooth. If there is inadequate bone, either where the tooth is missing, or surrounding the adjacent teeth this would not be a good option. The lack of bone lowers the prognosis for longevity and severely compromises any esthetic concerns the patient may have.

Another option would be a removable partial denture. This would only be an option if there are multiple teeth missing. A partial denture has a metal framework with metal clasps that hook onto the adjacent teeth and help to hold it in place. One drawback is that the clasps are visible and show when you talk or smile. Another is that with a partial over time the teeth and bone are subjected to additional forces they were not designed to take. This causes the bone to erode and the teeth to shift making the partial loose and uncomfortable.

Another type of removable appliance is called a “flipper” and is a temporary solution. These are generally made when esthetics is a concern and the tooth is located in the front. This type of temporary can be used until a more permanent treatment option is chosen. The drawback is that this type of appliance is not very strong is easily broken and Crazy glue won’t fix it. The benefit is that in an emergency situation a ‘flipper” can be made quickly and easily without compromising the patient’s lifestyle. Most typically, it is used as a transitional appliance before and during implant treatment.

More and more dental implants are being chosen as replacements for missing teeth. This technology has been proven to be superior over the last thirty years of use. They are chosen for their superior strength and esthetics. An implant looks and functions the same as a natural tooth. The implant itself is placed in the area of the missing tooth where it integrates into the bone over about a six month period. During this time the patient may choose to leave the site alone or may decide to wear a temporary such as a “flipper” while healing takes place. After the implant has integrated it is uncovered and the tooth portion (called a crown) is fabricated out of porcelain and cemented in place.

As you can see there are almost as many factors to consider as there are options to choose from when selecting a replacement for a missing tooth.

A: This is a very common question I get asked all the time. Most of the time it is middle-aged and older patients that express concern about x-rays.

Occasionally, it is the cost but mainly it is a concern about the radiation.

In recent years there has been a shift in the way most dentists practice. The focus has turned toward more preventive procedures as people are living longer, fuller lives.

In addition, the advances in dentistry have enabled us to provide patients with the most modern technology available. Many dentists are embracing this technology.

Gone are the old-fashioned sharp individual film packets that cut up your mouth and make you gag. Replacing these are digital x-rays that can take a picture of your entire mouth with one image or individual images taken quickly, easily and most of all comfortably. This technology puts out an extremely low level of radiation and is very safe.

In fact, the amount of radiation is so low that being in the sun for 10 minutes emits more radiation than this type of x-ray.

That is only one of the pluses in this new shift in dentistry.

Being in southwest Florida means that many people are seasonal and have a dentist in their home state. Digital x-rays improve the channels of communication as they are easily e-mailed back and forth eliminating the need for having them taken in both places.

The other bonus is that since they are digital there is no electricity wasted in processing then, no chemicals used in developing them and no chemicals used in recycling the developer and fixed. So, believe it or not digital x-rays actually help the environment!

Now, let me get to the heart of your question. x-rays are necessary because they enable us to see the big picture and peer behind the scenes. I cannot begin to tell you how many patients I see that have extensive dental problems that don’t understand why.

In more cases than not they haven’t had any x-rays taken, either because they’ve refused, or their dentist didn’t take them. Further, in today’s world it is much more beneficial to treat small problems rather than wait until they become larger and much more involved and much more costly.

So when your dentist or dental hygienist tells you that you need x-rays they are only looking out for your best interest. Plus, they’re good for the environment.

A: This question was e-mailed to me. I sincerely appreciate all the e-mails I get and I always respond. Some questions, like this one, deserve an expanded answer in print. So, here goes.

First and foremost lets try to remember that your dental hygienist be they male or female are educated, highly trained health care professionals. They must attend college for a minimum of two years, pass all of their exams in order to sit before the board of dentistry to be licensed. Once licensed they can begin to practice what they have been trained to do, dental hygiene. While they are not dentists they are fully capable of performing a variety of dental procedures.

They communicate directly with their supervising dentist keeping them apprised of the patients condition as well as their needs and wants. What they are not are salespeople. Dental hygienists genuinely care for their patients and make recommendations based upon the patients needs for optimum oral health.

Although, I cannot speak directly to your specific question I can say that most dental hygienists are not paid additional monies for “selling” products or services.

Some offices, mainly office chains or dental clinics offer compensation for sales. These types of situations are very unfortunate for the patient but rest assured they are the exception and not the rule.

My recommendations would be to ask your dentist or dental hygienist why you need what he/she is trying to “sell” you. In most cases, they will have shown or explained why before it is offered.

Another important question to ask yourself is why this is being recommended. Your hygienist isn’t with you at home in between cleanings. They can only ascertain your oral health at your visit and from that visit recommendations are made based upon your current situation.

There are many, many scenarios that can lead to suggestions made by your dental hygienist. Some of these include dry mouth, inadequate dental hygiene due to illness, neglect, unawareness, limited dexterity, orthodontic treatment, gum recession, sensitivity, periodontal disease and age. Really, there are too many to list.

If there is no answer to the question of why, then ask your dentist. If the answer or rationale is inadequate then you should probably evaluate other options. However, in most cases you can rest assured because even though your hygienist preaches from the high pulpit of flossing there’s always good intentions at heart and enough floss to catch those who have fallen.

A: Ask any child with less-than perfect teeth about teasing and nicknames, and you’ll no doubt hear a sad story. We hear them every day.

There is real substance to such a child’s social pain. Children with orthodontic problems are much more subject to bullying than their peers. We’ve all experienced the hostility of childhood epithets — its part of growing up.

Fortunately, there are many new types of orthodontic treatment available to correct “bad bites” and end the name calling.

Ask any kid today about braces and you’ll hear something completely different than you would expect. When told they will need some type of orthodontic treatment the response is “awesome” or “cool”.

Braces no longer carry the stigma of “metal mouth” that was common in years past. The advent of invisible braces, glow in the dark braces, white braces, and custom made retainers in a rainbow of colors and designs have all made the process of getting straight teeth an exciting rite of passage for most children.

With all of this new technology we are now able to begin orthodontic treatment earlier than ever before.

In most cases, this first phase of orthodontics can create space and plan so that there will be enough room for the permanent teeth. Often times it eliminates the need to remove permanent teeth. This makes the second and later phase of treatment much easier.

A: Well, I understand that no one likes to take the time to fill out forms every time they go to their doctor or dentist but I can assure you it is important, very important.

Many people are unaware of the recent connection between oral health and systemic health. In fact, researchers are finding links between the two regularly making the correlation between a healthy mouth and a healthy body particularly strong.

As you have heard me state before our population down here in Southwest Florida, while it may be getting younger, is primarily composed of older individuals. These individuals often have medical problems or conditions requiring medications as well as management by a physician or specialist.

What they don’t realize is that many of these conditions and/or medications can directly affect the mouth. They can actually cause new problems or exacerbate existing problems making them worse.

A request for an updated medical history and list of medications is one of the only ways your dentist and dental hygienist can identify your individual needs and treat you accordingly. Ailments such as diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis and joint replacements combined with the medications that are used to manage them can adversely affect the teeth, gums and oral cavity.

For instance, there are over 500 medications that cause xerostomia or dry mouth. The decrease in salivary production leads to an increased incidence of cavities.

If your dentist is made aware of this he or she will be able to help combat this problem. Patients with diabetes are also at high risk for tooth decay and they are also more susceptible to periodontal disease.

A periodontal infection in someone with diabetes makes their blood sugar very difficult to control. People with arthritis or those who have had a stroke often times have problems with dexterity and may need assistance in finding solutions to the challenge of keeping their teeth clean.

In today’s world, there are many people who have joint replacements both of the hip and knee, artificial heart valves, pacemakers and even transplants.

All of these people have very special needs requiring close attention by their dentist and dental hygienist in order to keep their teeth and gums healthy.

So, the next time you go to the dentist and they ask you to fill out a new form, please fill it out and realize that we are only trying to keep you healthy.

A: Well, you are not alone. Many people are putting off or delaying treatment because they are feeling uncertain about the current financial environment we are in now.

While I don’t know what treatment you need or the cost involved I do know you shouldn’t prolong the inevitable. Doing so will only increase the severity of the problem and the cost associated with fixing it.

The good news is that there are many ways for you to have your needed treatment completed in a way that works for you financially. One of the first and most important things to do is to determine a budget.

The process of figuring out what you can afford to pay and what you cannot is extremely helpful to you and your dentist when planning your treatment.

In most cases, once this is done your dentist can customize your treatment based upon your financial capabilities. This is generally possible in all but the most extreme cases where extensive reconstructive work is necessary.

Once your dental budget is determined you will often have several options available to you. Many offices now offer very affordable financing plans through outside companies where you can pay over time. It is a very simple process to apply and, in most cases, you can even apply online from home. The amount financed and the rate is based upon your credit. You are able to choose the term of re-payment which will alter your monthly payment up or down depending on what you choose. This is a very popular and extremely common option that many, many people use to their advantage. This option allows people to have their treatment completed without placing a large financial burden on them.

Another idea is to check with your credit card companies. Many of them will offer low to no interest on purchases for a given period of time.

If you have dental insurance try to use it. While I don’t recommend purchasing a policy if you don’t have one because the cost to benefit ratio is about even. If you already have insurance it should provide you some benefit while reducing your own financial outlay.

If none of these options are feasible there are still other ways to have your dental work done in a way you can afford. How? First, ask your dentist to prioritize your treatment. Which procedures should be done first, second, third... Once your dentist understands your situation he or she will usually work with you to make it affordable.

You can then set up a plan to treat one tooth or one area at a time and pay for that treatment as you have it performed.

Although, keep in mind that your treatment may take longer and may possibly cost more in the end. If none of these work for you, I have one final suggestion I can make and that is to ask your dentist for alternatives to the proposed treatment.

If your dentist has planned your treatment based upon your budget this may have already been taken into consideration. But it doesn’t hurt to ask. Keep in mind though as with the option before this will definitely prolong your treatment and will result in a higher cost at the end. Whatever your own financial situations may be don’t put off necessary treatment based upon cost. There are always many avenues open to enable you to keep a mouthful of strong healthy teeth for a lifetime.

A: Well, you are not alone. Many people are putting off or delaying treatment because they are feeling uncertain about the current financial environment we are in now.

While I don’t know what treatment you need or the cost involved I do know you shouldn’t prolong the inevitable. Doing so will only increase the severity of the problem and the cost associated with fixing it.

The good news is that there are many ways for you to have your needed treatment completed in a way that works for you financially. One of the first and most important things to do is to determine a budget.

The process of figuring out what you can afford to pay and what you cannot is extremely helpful to you and your dentist when planning your treatment.

In most cases, once this is done your dentist can customize your treatment based upon your financial capabilities. This is generally possible in all but the most extreme cases where extensive reconstructive work is necessary.

Once your dental budget is determined you will often have several options available to you. Many offices now offer very affordable financing plans through outside companies where you can pay over time. It is a very simple process to apply and, in most cases, you can even apply online from home. The amount financed and the rate is based upon your credit. You are able to choose the term of re-payment which will alter your monthly payment up or down depending on what you choose. This is a very popular and extremely common option that many, many people use to their advantage. This option allows people to have their treatment completed without placing a large financial burden on them.

Another idea is to check with your credit card companies. Many of them will offer low to no interest on purchases for a given period of time.

If you have dental insurance try to use it. While I don’t recommend purchasing a policy if you don’t have one because the cost to benefit ratio is about even. If you already have insurance it should provide you some benefit while reducing your own financial outlay.

If none of these options are feasible there are still other ways to have your dental work done in a way you can afford. How? First, ask your dentist to prioritize your treatment. Which procedures should be done first, second, third... Once your dentist understands your situation he or she will usually work with you to make it affordable.

You can then set up a plan to treat one tooth or one area at a time and pay for that treatment as you have it performed.

Although, keep in mind that your treatment may take longer and may possibly cost more in the end. If none of these work for you, I have one final suggestion I can make and that is to ask your dentist for alternatives to the proposed treatment.

If your dentist has planned your treatment based upon your budget this may have already been taken into consideration. But it doesn’t hurt to ask. Keep in mind though as with the option before this will definitely prolong your treatment and will result in a higher cost at the end. Whatever your own financial situations may be don’t put off necessary treatment based upon cost. There are always many avenues open to enable you to keep a mouthful of strong healthy teeth for a lifetime.

 A: If you are only in your 60s, you are young by today’s standards. Unless you have some sort of crystal ball or magical formula that can tell you how long you are going to be around you should have it replaced.

Not to go off on a rant here but I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard the same thing from my own patients. As we get older (60 is not old by the way) nutrition becomes extremely important.

Our “young” senior’s lives are very social. Golf, boating, cocktail hour and dining out are just a few of the benefits these retirees have earned. Little kids and babies like your grandchildren are supposed to be missing teeth not vibrant active adults in the prime of their lives.

Missing permanent teeth create an avalanche of problems that only worsen with time. They may begin slowly but eventually worsen and can compromise the lifestyle to which you have been accustomed.

The problem is when teeth are lost, other teeth move to close or fill the empty space. This can and will result in the loss of additional teeth, shifting of the bite and adverse changes to the joint that opens and closes the jaw. It also causes the bone where the tooth was located to be resorbed by the body because it no longer has any function. This, in turn, causes the face to become sunken and drawn allowing the facial muscles to sag making you look much older than your true age.

People will spend huge amounts of money on clothes, shoes and plastic surgery to make them appear more youthful but they ignore this very vital part of their appearance, their teeth.

Missing teeth carry with them a social stigma. If you are 62 years old you have 26 more years to live if you live to be near today’s average age. They’ll spend time with their financial planner for long term retirement. They’ll also spend time planning cruises and trips years in advance but won’t take the short amount of time needed to fix their teeth while they are still healthy and able.

If I were you I would run, not walk to my dentist and take his or her recommendations seriously.

This is an extremely important topic, so I’m going to extend it next week and talk about a personal experience I had with one of my patients who has gone through the same.

A: I’ve answered this question in last week’s column but I wanted to extend it by sharing a story about a personal experience I’ve had with one of my own patients.

“Betty” as I’ll call her, had been a patient of mine for a long time. For years we had discussions about replacing her missing teeth but she always put it off. She was a very vibrant woman busy with friends and many hobbies and social engagements.

As time passed her situation worsened but she still kept putting of the treatment she needed in order to help save her teeth. Eventually, she had a problem and there was no other alternative but to proceed with the treatment I had been trying to get her to do for years.

During our discussion about her treatment she said she knew she shouldn’t have waited. But she had that “at my age…” barrier up which she couldn’t get past in order to do what was best for her overall long-term health.

She was right, she shouldn’t have waited and if she hadn’t there would have been more options. As I stated before, missing teeth create bone loss, and a marked decrease in the quality of remaining bone, shifting of the teeth and a change in the bite.

As these things progress the choice of treatment options becomes narrower and narrower until finally there is only one or two viable options available.

“Betty’s” only option was to remove her remaining upper teeth, place grafts to augment and improve the quality of the bone and make her a full upper denture to wear while everything was healing.

Once healing was complete we would begin her permanent treatment. She hated the denture. It became difficult for her to eat and her social life suffered because she was embarrassed by the denture.

For some people dentures just aren’t a possibility. It may be a strong gag reflex, the inability to taste food, a lack of support for the bone or a variety of other problems that make dentures at best uncomfortable and at worst unwearable.

As I said before she wasn’t happy but she was getting by. Later that season she became ill and had to be hospitalized. Since she couldn’t wear her denture her nutrition suffered.

When I saw her again she had lost weight but was excited to proceed so she could resume her old life. Her treatment continued but her ability to cope with the denture was becoming increasingly difficult. At this point “Betty” had lost 75 percent of her chewing power because she was dependant on a denture until we could complete her treatment.

The ability to chew food and thereby digest it is highest amongst natural teeth and implant prosthetics. This makes an extreme difference when it comes to nutrition as you can see with “Betty’s” case.

In every case it is always better to treat a problem once it arises as opposed to waiting. This makes treatment less costly, more predicable and easier for all involved. People are living longer, fuller lives than ever before. Dining and socializing with friends are becoming increasingly important especially for today’s seniors. Your dentist is keenly aware of that as we see you out and hear your stories regularly. So, when you dentist makes a recommendation consider your lifestyle, think of “Betty” and listen but don’t wait.

A: Congratulations! This is a great question and a very important topic. Moms-to-be need to baby their teeth. Here are some tips on caring for your mouth as you care for baby-to-be.

To keep your smile glowing throughout pregnancy, regular check-ups should be part of your health program. You should avoid all elective dental treatment in the first trimester. During the last trimester dental treatment becomes very uncomfortable for the patient as it is very difficult to recline back.

Hormonal changes can shift your mood and change your diet. This increase in hormones during pregnancy can leave you more susceptible to swollen gums and the potential for periodontal disease.

Morning sickness acids can threaten tooth enamel. Months of frequent small meals and sugar cravings can expose your teeth to dental decay. Be hygiene conscious especially after sugary snacks. Brushing, flossing and prompt plaque removal will reduce the chances of cavities and gum disease.

Your baby and your teeth both need extra calcium make sure you are getting your share of dairy products and green, leafy vegetables.

An appointment with your dentist and dental hygienist at the outset of your pregnancy will get you on the right track. Your teeth will get a healthy head start, and you’ll be more aware of the changes that lead to dental problems.

A: The answer depends on whether your husband merely snores or has a condition called sleep apnea. Basically there’s snoring and then there’s snoring!

In serious cases, snoring indicates a condition called sleep apnea. This is a very serious condition if left untreated. It is characterized by episodes of explosive snoring followed by a cessation of breathing. The result is sleep deprivation.

This in turn causes fatigue during the day, irritability, and a risk of auto related accidents, stroke, heart attack and even death.

Sleep apnea is a serious medical condition that must be diagnosed by a medical doctor.

In cases of simple snoring without the diagnosis of sleep apnea, dentistry may be of assistance. Dentistry has come up with an oral appliance worn while sleeping. It has the potential to reduce, sometimes altogether eliminate, raucous snoring.

It’s a simple device, rather like a mouthguard. It enlarges the airway by positioning the jaw slightly forward. The appliance is easily fitted in a couple of appointments.

Over time slight adjustments may need to be made but overall it should last a good long while. Persons who have been diagnosed with sleep apnea may also be candidates for oral appliance therapy. Although, for sleep apnea patients is important that the appliance be titrated and sleep studies be done to ensure it is working.

For patients with true sleep apnea, it is not good enough to reduce the snoring.

Don’t lose sleep over this as your dentist may be able to help you.

A: Well this is probably the most common question I get and is the bane of every dentist and hygienist in this area and maybe all of Florida.

Every state has its own individual laws and rules that apply to dentistry. Although, if you have been coming down here for a while you know that Florida does some quirky things for sure. But I can assure you that this one really benefits everyone.

Let me explain. Dental hygienists, with the exception of a few states, practice under a licensed dentist and must follow the rules and regulations set forth by the governing body. I know this is boring but stick with me a minute. One of these laws state that dentists must obtain and maintain complete records on each and every patient. These records include examination and x-rays by the dentist.

In order to have a teeth cleaning the dentist must prescribe to the hygienist that he/she may proceed with a cleaning as well as the type of cleaning necessary. This is really a benefit to all patients they just don’t see it that way.

I see patients every day that have extensive problems because all they’ve had is a “cleaning.” I liken this to someone who wants their car serviced but won’t let the mechanic open the hood to run diagnostics to determine what needs to be done. In dentistry, the exam and x-rays are the diagnostics that tell us how to proceed. Refusing these things essentially keeps the hood down and leaves us in the dark.

We have many seasonal residents who have physicians and dentists both here and at home. Whenever possible we like to share records and we welcome patients who bring their current x-rays and records with them. This opens the avenues of communication allowing each doctor essential information and giving each patient enhanced care.

When you visit a dentist for the first time don’t scoff at having an exam and x-ray taken. After all you can always bring them with you or just do what us Floridians do and shrug your shoulders and say, “That’s Florida for you.” It’s the price of living here in paradise.

A: Absolutely. It sounds like your husband is suffering from a very common ailment we call “dental anxiety” or “dental phobia.” This ailment can manifest from a variety of different circumstances but is almost always rooted in some type of bad dental experience.

Many middle-aged people and baby boomers first experienced dentistry during its infancy when routine care was non-existent, anesthesia was lacking and treatment was usually emergency based. This set the foundation for dental phobia. These patients didn’t go back to the dentist for regular care and subsequently don’t realize how much things have changed.

The advances that have been made to bring dentistry into the 21st century in recent years are amazing. It’s now possible to take a patient who is completely terrified of the dentist and make them feel totally relaxed.

There are many different ways that this can be accomplished. One of the most common ways is with nitrous oxide gas. This gas is inhaled through a mask during the dental procedure. It takes effect within minutes and has the capability to relieve anxiety. The patient is alert and aware but is relaxed enough that their treatment can be performed easily. Once completed the patient is given oxygen and returns to their original state of consciousness within minutes. There are no after effects and the patient can resume their normal duties.

For some patients this is not adequate enough for treatment. In this case, sedation dentistry can be utilized to calm and relax the patient enough so their treatment can be performed. This procedure uses a series of medications to put patient into a sedated state. It may include oral, injectable and or IV medications depending on the patients health, level of anxiety as well as the amount of treatment that is needed. The patient is placed on a machine that constantly monitors their heart rate, pulse and breathing and kept warm with blankets and pillows. No treatment begins until the patient is in a calm, relaxed and sedated state. Once the treatment is complete, a caregiver takes the patient home and remains with them while they rest for the remainder of the day. This type of procedure is highly specialized requiring advanced coursework, special materials and equipment as well as a separate license by the Florida Board of Dentistry.

It’s not just a “little blue pill” or a “pill” taken the night before and the morning of the appointment. It’s both safe and effective but only when performed in the hands of someone who has been trained and is licensed by the state.

 As a dental consumer, you, have every right to ask questions. As well you should. So, in spite of the turnaround in our collective dental health since the introduction of fluoride to community water, some still doubt its safety. 

From the first day of pregnancy, natural fluorides play an important role in the development of teeth and bone strength. From birth on, the fluoride ions present in saliva guard tooth enamel from dissolving (demineralization), and in fact encourage reformation (remineralization).

As anyone can see from the plummeting cavity rate, fluoride is an amazing mineral when it comes to healthy teeth. The level of fluoride permitted in public waters is tightly monitored and rigidly controlled: 0.7 to 1.2 parts per million with 1.0 being the optimum amount. In order to achieve toxic levels a person would need to drink hundreds of eight-ounces of water.

With a 60-65 percent reduction in cavities directly due to fluoride, our practice is a believer. Our only reservation is overuse of fluoride toothpastes for children who tend to eat more toothpaste than they spit out. In rare geographic areas, mottling of the teeth-fluorosis-can occur. But we are fans of topical fluorides for people more prone to cavities, and for orally compromised older patients.

A: Yes, you are exactly right. It was not just implied, it was stated. Unfortunately, there is a misconception when it comes to this part of dentistry. To put it simply, dental care and treatment is like anything else in life, you get exactly what you pay for. Let's use cars as an example.  If you are in the market for a car you have many options from which to choose. You can purchase a Volkswagon, a Mercedes, a BMW or even a Bentley, depending on your finances. However, what you cannot do is purchase that BMW for the same price as the Volkswagon.

Most people understand there is a difference between the prices of cars but have difficulty understanding that these same differences exist in dentistry. It’s important to realize that these same things exist in dentistry. Most dentists set their fees in a similar manner. If you find a significant cost difference between one office and another there is usually a difference in the product or service and sometimes both.

There are many factors that can affect the quality of the treatment performed. This is because most services are customized solely for your mouth or tooth. This customization can affect the cost. This means that the choice of materials, laboratories and even the patients individual esthetic concerns enter into play when discussing quality vs. cost.

Unlike the past, today dozens of options exist for the type of crown we choose. Each option has a different fee. A more expensive lab technician may make a crown in multiple layers so it more closely resembles a natural tooth than a cap. This type of lab technician will finalize their work under a microscope to ensure the most precise fit possible. This type of work is labor intensive and time consuming. Though they may produce a smaller number of crowns per day the quality is infinitely higher. A less expensive lab will not be able to take this type of time and effort. Their focus is on mass production which results in a less esthetic, lower quality product that looks more like a cap. The compromise in quality adversely affects the longevity of the crown once it is placed in the mouth.

The average longevity of this type of crown is approximately five to seven years. A better lab that takes the time to make a high quality crown will have much longer longevity and can be expected to last 25 to 30 years. It’s interesting to note that dental insurance companies will pay to replace crowns after about five years because they know that is about how long they will last. The seemingly lower cost is only that way up front, it becomes much more costly in the long run. Some offices do only high end work, some only do only lower end work. Only a small percentage of offices offer the whole range. I hope this has been of help.

I understand that it can be confusing but just remember that it’s like anything else, you get what you pay for.

A: With all the advances in dentistry today, fewer of us need full dentures. We’re simply keeping more teeth longer. But life with dentures is now much improved. Materials are sleeker and fit more comfortably.

Now dentures can be custom-made to blend with your skin, hair and eye color, and look as natural as you want. If you attend to your dentures over time — meaning see the dentist to adjust them as changes in your mouth occur — you’ll enjoy strong, secure function for years.

Even the best denture, though, won’t last forever. As you age, and particularly if you wear dentures, your jawbone begins to shrink and the muscles that help your jaws close can shorten. This is called “overclosure” or collapsed bite — a condition where the lower jaw closes too far before the teeth make contact.

Overclosure can make you look older and give your face that sagging appearance. It can also cause you to chew your food differently. An ill-fitting denture and overclosed bite results in a squashed, flabby and older-looking face.

Don’t worry there is help to be had. Replacing dentures every five to 10 years is a good idea. After all, we’re living full well into our ‘80s and ‘90s. You wouldn’t wear the same glasses without having them checked periodically. Dentures are no different.

Relines and adjustments can help make you more comfortable. We adjust what we call “vertical height” — essentially a face-lift without the surgery.

Consider what your denture has gone through, and call us with your questions. You can reach Dr. Eck at (239)389-9400.

A: This is a great question. There can be many different reasons why there is such a difference in the fee charged for a crown. Most people are unaware of the numerous choices they have available to them when it comes to having their teeth fixed. It can be thought of in terms of cars. The options can range from anywhere from a Bentley to a Nova and anything in between.

So, let’s make sure the comparison is between apples and apples. The cost of a crown involves the preparation of the tooth by the dentist, the materials used in the preparation of the tooth, staff and other related costs as well as the charge billed by the laboratory that will fabricate the crown. More than ever patients are concerned about their health and their appearance. That is why it is so important to understand the variances between the different fees.

First of all your friend should ascertain that each dentist has treatment planned the exact same type of crown. There are many types of crowns available with some being only suited to a particular situation. In the past, the choice of materials was very limited which severely narrowed the options available to the doctor, the patient and the laboratory. The materials available today are much broader allowing for a wide range of choices.

The most common type of crown has a metal substructure with a porcelain covering that is shade matched to the adjacent teeth. The metal substructure can be made from a variety of different metals and or combinations of those metals. The metals can be precious or base and any combination in between. Crowns can also cover the whole tooth or part of the tooth. They can also be made entirely out of ceramic or entirely out of gold. However, selecting the type of material is really just the beginning of the process. Your friend and her dentist would need to consider a few things first. Are esthetics a concern? Is the crown visible when smiling? Is she interested in whitening her teeth? Does she have any allergies? Is this a new crown or a replacement? These are all factors that should be considered by both the patient and doctor.

The fee charged for the crown can be determined by analyzing these factors combined with the selection of an appropriate laboratory to fabricate the crown. The right lab is an integral part of the process. Finding the right lab goes back to the questions above. Is your friend a beauty queen? Well, then ask the doctor to use the same lab that the television show “Extreme Makeovers” uses. Of course, the fee will go up because of their expertise, precision and high quality materials they use. Suppose your friend is on a fixed income and just wants the cheapest crown available. Well, there are labs that mass produce crowns using low cost materials with less “quality assurance.” For these the fee will be less because it was mass produced, generally without regard to esthetics, and utilizing lower quality materials.

By now you should be beginning to understand there are vast differences and everything is not apples to apples. The old adage still rings true and that is “you get what you pay for.”

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Dr. Eck can be contacted at marcodentalcare@aol.com or at (239)389-9400.

A: Well, this question has a very simple answer. You can have your teeth cleaned just like you wanted but it will serve no purpose other than to waste your time, money and adversely affect your health.

Some patients who haven’t had their teeth cleaned in a while require more than just a regular cleaning. This absence of dental care allows an accumulation of bacteria, plaque and tartar to form around the gumline. This serves to irritate the gum tissue making it inflamed and red. This is called gingivitis which literally means inflammation of the gums.

At this stage it is common to have bleeding when brushing or flossing. If gingivitis is not treated it always progresses into periodontal disease which is essentially a bacterial infection. As the bacteria progress further into the tissue and below the gumline the bacteria become very pathogenic and destructive. As the infection progresses into the bone these bacteria begin to produce toxins as a waste product which acts like poison.

As the toxins increase the bodies defenses begin to act. The combination of the poisonous toxins and your bodies response is to dissolve the bone that support the teeth. This stage can be deceptive to patients because periodontal disease is never painful until it is too late to save the teeth. Some patients do not experience any symptoms or discomfort and therefore believe that everything is fine.

Some of the most common symptoms are redness, inflammation, bleeding gums when brushing or flossing, bad taste, bad breath, shifting or moving teeth or a change in your bite. A regular cleaning will not cure any of these problems as we are only working above the infection. In fact, a regular cleaning can worsen the infection by allowing the surface to heal trapping the infection underneath. This can result in a painful abscess.

There are a few different types of treatment for this disease depending on the stage. Gingivitis is the earliest stage and treatment involves the gentle removal of bacteria and tartar from just below the gumline. Unless a person has particularly sensitive teeth local anesthetic is not necessary. Once the disease has progressed and begun to alter the level of bone a more aggressive treatment is necessary. Typically, this involves keeping the patient comfortable with local anesthetic. Once numb the hygienist flushes out the bacteria and removes the accumulation of tartar from below the gumline. There is no cutting or sewing involved.

Generally, there is little to no discomfort and patients can resume their normal schedules the same day. Severe bone loss or infection may necessitate treatment with a laser to preserve and regenerate bone levels. Once treatment is completed it is essential that patients return for regular maintenance or else the infection will recur. This means that patients must be seen for cleaning three to four times per year.

If you have gingivitis or periodontal disease having it treated now will be of great benefit to your overall health later.

Dr. Eck welcomes your questions at www.marcodentalcare.com or (239) 389-9400.

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Questions can be sent to Fred Eck, D.D.S. at Marco Dental Care, 950 N. Collier Blvd., Suite 305, Marco Island, or call 389-9400. Web site: marcodentalcare.com. Dr. Eck received his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Detroit Mercy and is licensed by the Florida State Board of Dentistry.

A: Maintaining optimum dental health for your children is more important now than ever before.

How many of you remember being taken to the dentist as a child a having a filling or tooth pulled without any anesthesia? How many of recall your dentist as a barbarian held you down while he worked on you? Those early childhood remembrances make everyone who has ever experienced them shudder.

You want to spare your child those experiences, right? Well that is exactly why you should take them to see what modern dentistry can offer. When we were kids there were limited options available. The science of dentistry has improved greatly and we now understand far more than we ever did before about baby teeth and why they are so important to your child’s growth and development.

Way back while your baby was in the womb and you were picking out names and nursery colors Mother Nature was busy building your babies bone and tooth structure. As humans, we essentially have two sets of teeth, primary or baby teeth and permanent teeth. Baby teeth are so important because they develop first and occupy the space that will be later filled by an adult tooth.

If these teeth become severely decayed and need to be removed prematurely the space is lost and the permanent tooth, in many cases, cannot take its place because there isn’t enough room. Once this has happened, orthodontics or braces may be required to assist in what Mother Nature used to do on her own. This can create a myriad of problems for your child as they grow and develop.

Maintaining the health of your child’s primary teeth will give you peace of mind while setting them up for a lifetime of good oral health.

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Dr. Fred Eck can be contacted at Marco Island Dental Care, 950 N. Collier Blvd., Suite 305, Marco Island, or call 719-1044 or visit the Web site: Bonitadentalcare.com. He received his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Detroit Mercy and is licensed by the Florida State Board of Dentistry.

This is a seminar to help prospective implant patients understand their options.  Many patients are not aware of the various possibilities.  We will explain the truth about the growing trend for "teeth in an hour".  Who is and who is not a candidate.  There will be opportunity to get any questions you may have answered.  This will help clear up misconceptions about the dental implant procedures.