When is Sedation Dentistry Appropriate?

Posted on October 20, 2016January 24, 2017 by firmmedia

Does the idea of going to the dentist frighten you? Do you have anxiety or fears about sitting in the dentist chair? Dental phobia is something that is extremely common among Americans. According to Colgate, there are approximately 9-15% of Americans who completely avoid the dentist due to their anxiety and fear, which is about 30-40 million people. So if you dread visiting the dentist, you are not alone.

However, there is a way to still keep your dentist appointments without being frozen with fear. At San Antonio, KRK Implant Center offers sedation dentistry, which is a form of anesthesia specifically used to calm the nerves of patients. This method is especially useful for San Antonio patients who have a fear of the dentist.

HOW DOES SEDATION DENTISTRY WORK?

The medication provided is meant to help the patient relax during procedures so that their fear and anxiety aren’t an issue. Sedation dentistry, depending on the level of anesthesia, can put you to sleep or simply calm and relax you during procedures. Oral sedation is a form of light sedation that provides a more relaxing experience. Intravenous sedation allows you to sleep while you are receiving treatment, which is helpful for San Antonio patients who suffer from extreme anxiety. This is a way for them to seek treatment and avoid postponing their dental appointments out of fear.

WHO ELSE CAN BENEFIT FROM SEDATION DENTISTRY?

Although sedation dentistry is typically used as a solution for people with fear or anxiety, it can also be useful for other patients. Sedation dentistry is also a great solution for people who:

Need multiple procedures done at once
Have sensitive teeth or gums
Have high dental anxiety
Have difficulty sitting still, or
Other medical conditions that do not allow you to sit still for long periods of time

IS SEDATION DENTISTRY SAFE?

This medication is extremely safe and will allow patients to fully relax and sleep during their procedure. To be applied, sedation dentistry has to fall under standards that are safe for patients. Dentists, such as our periodontists in San Antonio, have received the proper training and guidelines in sedation and general anesthesia. Although our dentists are always very careful, there is always a risk with using sedation dentistry. However, if your periodontist has the right training and is qualified, you can rest easy knowing that your procedure will run smoothly. For instance, Dr. Krueger is a specialized professional who has worked with various sedation dentistry techniques before. He will be able to analyze your medical history and provide the best method of sedation for you that is both effective and safe.

Depending on your individual needs, sedation dentistry can be very helpful. Although it may seem like a lot of information to take in, the process of using this medication for procedures is very simple. However, San Antonio periodontists such as Dr. Krueger can also help further explain sedation dentistry and expectations with the medication.

If you have any questions regarding this type of dentistry, please reach out to KRK Implant Center at 210.826.3946. At KRK Implant Center, Dr. Krueger prioritizes comfort, safety, and patient confidence when it comes to sedation dentistry. The most important thing is that you feel relaxed and assured when you are receiving dental treatments. To talk more in depth about this option, call our offices and Dr. Krueger will be happy to assist you.

Who is a Good Candidate for Sedation Dentistry?

Posted on October 10, 2016January 24, 2017 by firmmedia

Do you dread your routine visits to the dentist office? Do you have a deep-seeded fear of dental procedures? Do you feel anxiety when you’re in a dentist chair? Well, you’re not alone.

There are lots of people who feel extremely uneasy when it comes to scheduling dentist appointments. This causes people to neglect their dental needs and put off going to the dentist, which is detrimental to your health. In the end, this can cause you long-term pain and negatively effects your overall dental health. Fear is one of the biggest reasons that people avoid the dentist, but with KRK Implant Center’s sedation dentistry this issue can be solved.

At the San Antonio location, the implant center offers sedation dentistry as a procedure option for patients. Highly trained specialist Dr. Krueger prioritizes safety, comfort, and patient confidence when it comes to this particular type of dental care. Although used mostly for patients with anxiety, sedation dentistry is also a great solution for other reasons. Whether you are afraid of the dentist, aren’t able to put aside time for an appointment, or simply hate getting procedures done; Dr. Krueger can work with you to find the right method for you.

SEDATION DENTISTRY PROCEDURES

At KRK Implant Center, there are three main methods of sedation that the San Antonio facility provides. These are the available options:

Local Anesthesia: This is a type of anesthesia that uses gentle injections to create a numbness in your mouth before any procedure. All San Antonio dentistry patients at the implant center receive this type of sedation.
Oral Sedation: This acts as additional sedation along with the local anesthesia. Patients are prescribed an oral medication that can be taken before any treatment. This will allow the patient to relax and fall into a light sleep during the procedure.
Conscious Intravenous (IV) Sedation Dentistry: This type of sedation is heavier than both local and oral anesthesia. This is used for more extensive procedures or for patients who have severe anxiety at the dentist.

Depending on your needs when it comes to dental visits, these methods of sedation can be very helpful. Solely using local anesthesia is best for those who need to return to work, school or have other obligations the day of treatment. Oral sedation is recommended for those who are interested in a light sedation in addition to local anesthesia. Because this method allows you to relax while being treated, oral anesthesia is perfect for San Antonio patients who are apprehensive about dental procedures. Lastly, conscious intravenous sedation is a great solution for people who are intensely fearful of the dentist. The medication is extremely safe and used to allow patients to relax fully. This type of sedation dentistry is also used for patients who need to have multiple procedures at once.

WHICH TYPE OF SEDATION IS BEST FOR ME?

To figure out which method is the best solution for you, it’s important to understand your needs. If you have a general anxiety of dentists, you may opt for local or oral anesthesia. However, if your anxiety when having dental procedures is more severe, you may want to consider conscious intravenous sedation. Additionally, your schedule can also play a huge role in deciding what type of sedation will work best for you. If you are still unsure about which method may be best for you, feel free to contact Dr. Krueger to learn more about KRK Implant Center’s approach to sedation dentistry in San Antonio.

Call the center at 210.826.3946.

I Was Recently Diagnosed with Periodontal Disease. Do I Need to See a Periodontist?

Posted on September 30, 2016January 24, 2017 by firmmedia

So you missed a couple of teeth cleanings, slacked on brushing and flossing, and now you have periodontal disease. What this means is that you have an infection of the structures around your teeth. If you’re lucky, you might have caught the disease in its early stages. However, if you’re feeling a lot of discomfort and pain, you could be further along in your periodontal disease. Regardless of your stage, if you are diagnosed with periodontal disease, you need to see a periodontist as soon as possible.

EARLY SIGNS OF PERIODONTAL DISEASE

If you have periodontal disease, this means your gums are infected with bacteria. There are a couple of symptoms that should alert you concerning periodontal disease:

Swollen and bleeding gums
Bad breath
Slight redness of your gums

These are all warning signs that you may be in the early stages of periodontal disease. If you have been diagnosed with the disease, then you may already be experiencing some of these issues. If you are, you should take action and schedule an appointment with your local periodontist.

WHY SHOULD I SEE A PERIODONTIST INSTEAD OF A GENERAL DENTIST?

Periodontists differ from dentists in that their specialty is a focus on infections of the gum, structures of the teeth, and tissues. At San Antonio’s KRK Implant Center, expertly trained periodontists like Dr. Krueger have received years of education regarding periodontal disease. Not only can these trained professionals treat your disease, but they can help advise you in the future on how to keep your gums healthy. These are some of the main reasons you should see a specialist if you have gum disease:

Advanced training and education: Periodontists have specialized education and are well trained in periodontal disease. San Antonio patients can feel assured that Dr. Krueger has years of experience and is an expert in handling your specific needs at KRK Implant Center.
Deeper analysis: Although dentists can help with the basics, a periodontist can let you know affirmatively whether or not you have gum disease and the best course of action for you.
More experience handling periodontal disease: San Antonio periodontist Dr. Krueger has hundreds of patients every year. Because he is a specialist, he deals with frequent cases of periodontal disease, which gives him an impressive amount of experience with treatment.

General dentists can help in very early stages of the disease, but if it’s progressing or further along, it’s best to see a periodontist who has the extra skills it takes to provide the best treatment. So if you know you have periodontal disease, don’t waste any more time. If left untreated, the disease can ultimately lead to receding jawbones, unstable teeth, and ultimately tooth loss.

To make an appointment today, call our San Antonio office at 210.826.3946. Dr. Krueger will work with you personally to find the best treatment for your disease as soon as possible.

How Common is Gum Disease?

Posted on September 20, 2016April 18, 2017 by firmmedia

If you have been diagnosed with gum disease, you are not alone. Many Americans are diagnosed with gum disease, so you don’t have to feel as if it’s something to be ashamed about. Gum disease (which ranges from periodontitis, gingivitis and more) is very common in the U.S. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show over half of American adults suffer from gum disease. Roughly, the study showed that approximately 64.7 million adults have moderate or severe periodontitis. From the study, it’s pretty safe to say that over half of Americans have an issue with dental health.

WHAT CAUSES GUM DISEASE?

Because of how common the disease is, you should focus your efforts on taking care of your oral health. Gum disease can be caused by a myriad of things including neglecting your dental health, bad brushing habits, and can even be hereditary. These are some of the main causes of gum disease:

Neglecting to brush and floss regularly: Having good oral hygiene is one way you can prevent against putting yourself at risk for gum disease. Gum disease is essentially caused by bad dental hygiene, so by sticking to a daily routine, you are already fighting against bacteria.
Forgetting to schedule regular appointments: Although brushing and flossing helps, only a periodontist can help with regular teeth cleanings. Our specialists in San Antonio will remove any tartar that has built up on your teeth, which is something that cannot be done with simple brushing and flossing.
Smoking: Smoking or chewing tobacco is not good for your teeth or your gums. The habit of smoking increases your chances of getting gum disease because it doesn’t allow for your gum tissues to heal naturally.

There are also ways to help prevent gum disease. Because so many Americans suffer from it, it’s never a bad idea to take preventative action against the disease. For instance, visiting your periodontist regularly to make sure that your teeth and gums are healthy is a great way to check that your dental health is good. At KRK Implant Center in San Antonio, specialists such as Dr. Krueger can help analyze your teeth to make sure that you are not showing any signs of gum disease.

Although common in adults; periodontitis, gingivitis or any form of gum disease is something that is very serious condition and should be treated as soon as detected. If you suspect that you are showing any signs or symptoms of gum disease, be proactive and look into it further. At our office in San Antonio, you can call today for a consultation to help plan the best treatment options that are available for your individual situation. Gum disease is best dealt with when it is caught early, so if you are showing any symptoms, it’s better to be safe and schedule an appointment than to neglect your dental health.

Schedule your consultation today at our San Antonio office by calling 210.826.3946!

Early Stages of Gum Disease

Posted on September 9, 2016January 24, 2017 by firmmedia

Over half of American adults suffer from gum disease. Research from the American Academy of Periodontology shows that a large number of adults have moderate or severe periodontitis, which is a form of gum disease. Without proper treatment, gum disease can lead to loss of bone structure, tooth loss, and unstable teeth. Essentially, having gum disease can ruin your smile, which is not good news. However, there are ways to protect yourself from the disease.

WHAT IS GUM DISEASE?

Firstly, it’s important to know what the disease is and how it can affect you. Gum disease is commonly defined as an infection of bacteria involving your gums, tissues around your teeth, and the structures of your teeth. It is the chronic inflammation of your gums and teeth and can spread the longer you have it. It can affect you by causing bad breath, bleeding or swollen gums, bone structure loss, and make your teeth loose or fall out. The disease is sometimes called gingivitis or periodontal disease, which are various forms of gum disease.

HOW CAN SAN ANTONIO PATIENTS PREVENT IT?

When it comes to this type of infection, the best way to help prevent it is to identify it early. Certain symptoms appear in the early stages of the disease. At San Antonio, KRK Implant Center has come up with a list of signs to look out for:

Bad breath or taste
Swollen or bleeding gums (red in color)
Painful to chew or eat food
Sensitivity in your teeth
Teeth that feel loose

These are all red flags that you may have a form of gum disease. Although some of these can seem mild or less severe, they are warning signs that you may have an infection. Some people might not pay attention to have bad breath or slight bleeding in their gums, but it is a very serious problem. The reason that this is important is because catching the disease in its earliest stages is a lot easier to treat than trying to fix the problem later on. In San Antonio, periodontist Dr. Krueger can examine your teeth and identify if any symptoms you may be showing are putting you at risk for gum disease. Some people may feel that they can diagnose themselves, but the only way to know for sure is to see a periodontist and get confirmation.

HOW A PERIODONTIST CAN HELP?

Periodontists are specially trained when it comes to gum disease. The primary difference between a general dentist and a periodontist is that specialists like Dr. Krueger have received advanced training and education in preventing and treating gum disease. Because of his experience with San Antonio patients, Dr. Krueger can easily identify whether or not you have the disease, are at risk for the disease, or help you stay on track to avoid getting gum disease. Remember, it’s important not to ignore warning signs and to keep your dental health in check. It’s always better to catch something early than to wait for the condition to get worse.

If you want to get a check up for gum disease, contact KRK Implant Center at 210.826.3946. Dr. Krueger will help assist you with any questions you may have and can help schedule an appointment today.

Don’t Put Off Dental Implants Any Longer Due to High Costs

Posted on August 29, 2016January 24, 2017 by firmmedia

There are some things in life that are worth looking for the best bargain when you are shopping. For example, when it comes to retail, sales are incredibly popular for any shopper. Why would you pay the full price for something when you can get it for half-price? Seems like a good idea, right?

Discount prices may seem like a great bargain at first, but when it comes to other things in life (such as your dental needs), it’s better not to become so fixated on the cost. Especially when it comes to your teeth or anything that may require surgical procedures–it’s more important to find the best option for yourself. For instance, researching dental implants is something that should be taken very seriously. Instead of getting caught up on penny pinching, it’s a lot more important to focus on searching for a safe and skilled dentist with years of successful experience doing dental implants. Also, there are many affordable dental implants options out there if you are factoring in the quality and longevity of the implants.

REASONS WHY YOU SHOULDN’T AVOID GETTING DENTAL IMPLANTS

Although costs can be intimidating, it’s essential not to post-pone your needs. If you require dental implants, you should schedule a procedure as soon as possible. The longer you put off the problem, the worse your condition can get. These are some of the most important reasons why you shouldn’t put off dental implants:

Affordable Options: Contrary to what you may think, there are affordable dental implants out there. Beware of discounted, bargain basement ads. However, there are realistic, practical options such as the ones provided at San Antonio KRK Implant Center, which will assure you long-lasting, durable results.
Impressive Success Rate: Typically, replacing missing teeth with dental implants has a pretty great success rate, which averages rate around 95%.
Prone to Bone Loss: Unfortunately, the longer you wait to get affordable dental implants, you are only giving yourself more problems. When you are missing a tooth, the bone of your jaw naturally begins to decay. Without a replacement, bone loss can occur rapidly and spread in your mouth. San Antonio’s dental implants can help prevent this by filling the space of the missing teeth.

BENEFITS OF DENTAL IMPLANTS

If you feel that you are considering implants, be confident that there are many benefits to this decision. San Antonio patients that received implants at the KRK Implant Center chose this option due to the many benefits the procedure can have. These are some of the reasons that affordable dental implants are popular:

Establish a stronger foundation for your mouth including biting and chewing
Improve your smile with an overall a more natural and complete look
Stop bone loss damage and other issues that can result from tooth loss

Overall, dental implants will help improve your life by making you look and feel more comfortable, natural, and confident.

If you are missing teeth or are considering receiving dental implants, please call San Antonio periodontist Dr. Krueger at 210.826.3946 for a consultation today. He will work with you for a solution that will help your individual needs. Whether it’s enhancing your smile or improving your overall dental health, Dr. Krueger can help with any goals you may have.

Dental Implants: More Affordable Than You Think

Posted on August 19, 2016January 24, 2017 by firmmedia

Smiling is truly one of the most attractive qualities a person can have. When people are genuinely happy or laughing, it shows a soft, authentic side of who they are. Having a great smile is something that is important for not just physical aesthetics, but also for your mental health. That’s why if you have missing teeth, smiling may make you feel a bit insecure or uneasy instead of relaxed and confident. Luckily, there are ways to fix that.

We know what you’re thinking: “If I have missing teeth, I may need dental procedures which might be quite costly.” However, there are a lot of affordable dental implants out there. At KRK Implant Center, there are several implant options that the facility offers for its patients. San Antonio periodontist Dr. Krueger can work with you to get you lasting, affordable dental implants.

ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS TOO EXPENSIVE?

The procedure of placing dental implants is a very delicate, meticulous process. That’s why only specialists like Dr. Krueger in San Antonio are trained to do such procedures. Patients are typically wary of seeking out this process due to the notorious idea that dental implants are very costly. However, when it comes to your dental health and fixing your smile, there is really no other option than to pick a viable, lasting solution.

When choosing an affordable dental implant facility, you should make sure that its dentists are implant specialists and have a lot of experience. In San Antonio, Dr. Krueger is highly trained with placing dental implants for patients. He places hundreds of dental implants each year and in total has over 30 years of experience in dentistry. It’s important to factor in experience, education, and training when choosing the best option.

AFFORDABLE DENTAL IMPLANT PLACES TO AVOID

There are also tons of discounts and bargain dental implants that are seemingly cheaper. However, they can end up costing you more. These are the two main types of places to avoid:

Bargain basement dental implants: Some places appear to be cheaper up front, but end up tacking on additional costs resulting in a higher total price. In the end, these places could end up costing you as much or more than a qualified facility.
Cheap prices for cheap quality: Places that offer inexpensive options may be cheaper in cost but will also cost you in the long run due to quality. As the old saying goes, “You get what you pay for.” It may seem cheaper up front, but over time, you are putting yourself at risk for implant failure, which will cost you much more later on.

The important thing to remember here is that you are paying for lasting, durable results. If you search for the cheapest option, you may pay less in cash, but you will pay more in your long-term dental health. It’s essential to keep these things in mind when choosing a facility. In San Antonio, Dr. Krueger can do an initial consultation and help explain more in-depth about KRK’s affordable implants. This way, you can rest assured knowing that you have made an informed decision.

To call or contact KRK Implant Center in San Antonio, call this number to speak with a dental implant expert: 210.826.3946.

3 Tips for Preventing Gum Disease

Posted on August 8, 2016January 24, 2017 by firmmedia

If on occasion, while brushing or flossing your teeth you notice a little blood, you may not think twice. Some people believe that this is normal and nothing to worry about. While it may not pose a serious immediate problem, bleeding and reddening of the gums is one of the earliest signs of gum disease. What most people don’t know is that if gum disease is left untreated, it can lead to unstable teeth, receding jawbones, and ultimately tooth loss. Yet, people still ignore the early warning signs of this disease. However, there is a way to protect yourself. By staying educated and taking care of your dental hygiene, you can help prevent against gum disease and keep those pearly whites beautiful forever!

HOW TO PREVENT GUM DISEASE

The best way to prevent gum disease is to know what causes it and what you can do about it. The disease is caused by a build-up of plaque and bacteria on your teeth. Overtime, this situation becomes worse and can lead to bone loss. At San Antonio KRK’s Implant Center, we have come up with various solutions that can help prevent this problem:

Brush your teeth routinely: Most people brush their teeth at least twice a day. However, it’s important to brush after meals routinely, because it helps fight against plaque and debris that can get stuck in your teeth.
Remember to floss your teeth at least once a day: This is a common hygiene step that most people skip. However, flossing helps to get rid of food particles that you can’t typically reach just from brushing.
See your periodontist regularly: Even if you just make an annual appointment, frequently seeing a periodontist can help reduce your chances of getting gum disease. Our specialists at San Antonio can analyze your teeth, plaque level, and gums to make sure that everything is in order.

The best way to protect your gums against gum disease is to prevent it before it becomes a problem. By identifying warning signs and keeping up healthy dental habits, you can help fight against gum disease. Seeing a periodontist at San Antonio can also help you identify potential risk factors for your teeth specifically, so you know what to work on and how to prevent gum disease. By detecting any potential problems now, you can help save yourself a lot of discomfort and financial expense in the future.

If you suspect that you have some symptoms of the disease already, you should schedule an appointment. Although it could be something as seemingly harmless as bad breath, or some bleeding after you brush, these are all key symptoms of gum disease. Over half of American adults have gum disease. Considering how common it is, it’s a good idea to see your local periodontist at least for a check up.

If you have any questions about gum disease, call our offices in San Antonio at 210.826.3946. A trained professional can talk with you and go over more tips and ways to prevent the disease and help you get the answers you seek.

When Should I See An Emergency Dentist?

Posted on April 20, 2016January 24, 2017 by firmmedia

emergency-dentist Has this scenario ever happened to you? You’re out with friends, having a great time, when disaster strikes. An unexpected collision or fall leaves you in pain and, worse, with a missing or broken tooth. Or perhaps you’ve just been putting off dental work for too long and, now, you’re in unbearable pain and just want relief. Whatever your situation, San Antonio emergency dentist Dr. Kenneth Krueger can help.

Common Dental Emergencies

Nobody ever wants to visit the emergency room. You tell yourself it’s not really that bad and you can wait, but if you ask any nurse, they’ll tell you it’s better to be safe than sorry. The same can be said for dental emergencies. You may want to tough it out and not inconvenience anyone, but in some cases, the longer you wait, the worse your condition will get.

Some common reasons to see an emergency dentist are:

Missing Teeth: often, missing teeth can be more of an aesthetic concern than a medical one in the immediate, but nonetheless, if you have an important meeting or a family picture coming up, missing teeth can be very problematic. KRK Implant Center offers same-day temporary implants to replace missing teeth, so you don’t have to go without while awaiting your permanent crowns.
Broken Teeth: broken, chipped, or cracked teeth can happen when you least expect them. Some breaks are merely visual in nature while others can be quite painful. In either case, Dr. Krueger will quickly assess your situation and either repair or replace the damaged teeth.
Severe Tooth Pain: perhaps your teeth have been bothering you off and on for some time. Your gums have been swelling or bleeding, but now they’re also causing you incredible pain. This is often a sign of a larger dental issue that should be treated right away. Dr. Krueger will examine your teeth and work to stop the discomfort while addressing the underlying problems.

Quality Dental Care When You Need It Most

When you’re having a dental emergency, every minute spent waiting can feel like an eternity. While many dental offices are inflexible in their scheduling, at KRK Implant Center, we can often see you within 24 hours. What’s even better is that we offer same-day treatment for a variety of dental concerns. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency – or even just think you might be – don’t delay. Call us to schedule your appointment right away.

Need immediate dental attention? Not to worry – San Antonio emergency dentist Dr. Kenneth Krueger is here to help. Call KRK Implant Center at 210.826.3946 right away.

Teeth Implants Provide More Than A Great Smile

Posted on April 6, 2016January 24, 2017 by firmmedia

teeth-implants

If you have missing teeth, chances are you aren’t too happy about it. Aside from the physical reminder every time you eat, you have the added frustration of second-guessing yourself every time you want to smile. For patients in San Antonio, teeth implants can provide an attractive solution to these issues, but did you know they can also help promote your long-term dental health?

Benefits of Teeth Implants

Of course, dental implants provide natural looking and feeling replacements for missing teeth, but they have a number of other benefits as well:

Prevents bone resorption: without teeth rooted in your jawbone, it can actually b absorbed back into your gums. Over time, this can lead to a change in the structure of your jaw that can even alter the appearance of your face. Dental implants form a strong bond with your jaw, preventing bone resorption, and helping maintain your overall oral health.
Immediate replacement: even though your permanent crowns may not be ready right away, you’ll never leave our office without teeth you can use and feel comfortable about. Dental implants can be placed very quickly, and we provide you with temporary crowns while you wait.
Protects neighboring teeth: alternative replacement methods, such as partial dentures and bridges, require support from neighboring teeth to stay in place. Over time, this can actually weaken those supporting teeth and even cause them to fall out. Dental implants draw support from the bond they form with your jaw, so they will never damage adjacent teeth.

A Solution That Lasts

One of the biggest benefits of dental implants over other methods of treatment is that they’re made to last a lifetime. Whereas partial dentures and bridges deteriorate over time and typically require replacement, dental implants provide a great looking solution that also stands the test of time.

If you’re looking for replacement teeth that not only look and feel like natural teeth but also help preserve your long-term dental health, call KRK Implant Center today to schedule your consultation. Rest assured, you’ll leave with a smile on your face.

Want tooth replacement that also ensures your long-term dental health? The San Antonio teeth implants experts at KRK Implant Center can help. Call us today at 210.826.3946 for your consultation.