Periodontics & Dental Implant Center

BATTLE OF THE SEXES?

2012-03-07T12:31:00.003-08:00

According to the Journal of Periodontology, research is showing that WOMEN are winning the Periodontal Health Battle of the Sexes! Women are twice as likely to have received a normal dental cleaning as well as schedule recommended treatment following a routine cleaning. Women had better indicators of periodontal health including lower plaque, calculus and bleeding...Read more from this article at

http://www.perio.org/consumer/gender-differences.htm

Maintaining Oral Health During Cancer Therapy

2012-02-23T12:37:00.003-08:00

Oral complications that compromise periodontal health, are sometimes a result of cancer therapy. It is extremely important to keep your teeth & gums healthy during this difficult time by seeing a periodontist, Dr. Sutor.

The American Academy of Periodontology gives some possible side effects of cancer treatments:

Inflamed gums and mouth ulcers
Dry mouth
Difficulty speaking, chewing, and swallowing
Erosion of tooth enamel
Loss of taste
Jaw stiffness
Delayed healing

The AAP also suggests before beginning your cancer treatment, an oral evaluation is very important. It will give you the ability to correct potential problems in your mouth and keep them from getting worse or interfering with your cancer treatment.

Chemotherapy and radiation can cause excessive dryness of your mouth. Some helpful tips during treatment are to keep your mouth moist by sipping cool water, ice chips, chew sugarless gum, apply lip balm and use a humidifier at night.

Your periodontist may also prescribe a fluoride treatment for you, or suggest a dry mouth toothpaste or rinse such as Biotene (www.biotene.com)

As your cancer therapy comes to an end, this relationship with your periodontist is still very important to maintain your healthy mouth for a lifetime.

LOVE HEARING FROM OUR PATIENTS!

2012-02-09T11:37:00.001-08:00

WHAT WE'VE HEARD FROM OUR PATIENT'S THIS WEEK! THANK YOU ALL! IT IS SUCH A PLEASURE TO BE A PART OF YOUR CARE!

"Hard to get Too Rhapsodic about getting my Teeth cleaned,BUT,as always,Dr.Sutor and Holly were Perfect and It was an important step in my continued Dental Health...Thanks"...Jan B.

"Everyone at the Sutor office seems to take seriously the mission of the office - to provide the absolute best dental care. After my procedure, they met and exceeded that goal. Thank you."...Alicia H.

"Up to date and state of the art technology makes this the Mercedes Benz of Periodontics. Dr. Mark Sutor presents a confident can-do attitude, which suggests competence and high quality care. Staff also projects a caring, professional and personable demeanour, underscoring every nuance of the visit.. There is a payment program for those who can indenture themselves, ..hehe..pun..with differing terms and levels of interest. I would absolutely entrust Dr. Sutor with my care. Two thumbs up to him and his staff!"...Janas W.

"When I first stared coming to Dr. Sutor I was in pretty bad shape. I feel as if we are a team in the effort to help me keep my teeth and prevent further damage."...Lila J.

Do You Have Exposed Roots?

2012-02-08T08:24:00.000-08:00

Gum recession is the gradual loss or retraction of the soft tissue of the gums, eventually exposing the roots of the teeth.

The visible part of your tooth, is buffered by a hard coating of enamel, but the roots are much more vulnerable. One of the first signs of gum recession is teeth that are highly sensitive to cold and heat at the gumline. Even though gum recession is a common problem, if it is left untreated over time it can leave teeth more susceptible to cavities and infection.
Gum recession tends to progress slowly over time and gets worse with age. One cause is gum disease, or an inflammation of the gums. Other factors in gum recession are poor oral hygiene, the use of tobacco, and/or a genetic predisposition to thin bones and gums. Terrence Griffin, chair of the department of periodontology at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, says that “for most people the problem is an anatomical defect.’’ Teeth that are not set properly in the bone of the jaw and stick out are at higher risk of gum recession. For that reason, he says, recession is sometimes seen later in life in people who have had braces, because teeth have been moved outward to reduce crowding. Sometimes brushing too vigorously can wear down the gums, but Griffin says that with today’s softer brushes it’s rare to see gum recession caused by abrasion. Clenching and grinding the teeth at night can exacerbate the problem, and wearing a bite guard at night may help in those cases.

For the most part, however, gum recession “is very difficult to prevent,’’ Griffin says. Orthodontics to fix prominent or crooked teeth may help ward off recession at those sites. Good oral hygiene and regular cleanings of tarter buildup by a dentist can help keep teeth free of gum recession caused by gum disease.

Early treatment is the best way to avoid tooth decay, tooth loss, and infection. Dr. Sutor performs a Gum Grafting procedure here in our practice that is a very common treatment and often involves taking tissue from the roof of the mouth and attaching it to remaining gum tissue. In some cases, Dr. Sutor chooses a synthetic grafting material as it can serve a better solution in some scenarios. After a grafting procedure, the patient generally can expect to resume their normal routine within a couple days and in many cases the next day.

Our awesome team would love to speak with you anytime! Call at 333-4550 or visit our website at www.sutordds.com for more information on the gum grafting procedure. We'd love to have the opportunity to meet with you to answer any questions you may have and be able to be a part of improving your oral health for a lifetime!

What Does My Tooth Socket Have To Do With An Ice Cream Cone?

2012-01-19T12:09:00.000-08:00

When you are having a tooth removed, your surgeon MUST be careful to be as atraumatic as possible. Why? "Think of your tooth socket as an empty ice cream cone". The walls can easily collapse, especially where the bone is thinnest such as the surfaces facing the cheeks and lips where gum recession will show. Modern tooth removal techniques and bone grafting products, make it very easy to maintain or replace bone in extraction sockets. Small amount of bone grafting material is placed in the empty socket, then the body begins to build its own bone upon that material and eventually replaces it with good solid bone. This process prepares an excellent scenario for a permanent solution: a dental implant to be placed for an ideal long term result replacing only that missing tooth and not bothering the healthy teeth on either side, that could be compromised by a bridge or partial. Call us today for your complimentary consultation or check out our website for more information regarding this service we provide as well as many others!

(Dear Doctor article referenced)

AWESOME PATIENT TESTIMONIAL!

2012-01-12T07:29:00.001-08:00

Had one of our patients Don H. write us such a kind note this morning and we just had to share! We loves these reminders of why we do what we do every day! Thanks Don!

"Nine years ago, I received 2 implants for my front teeth. Dr. Sutor and his staff did such a remarkable job that today I even forget they are implants. For 20 years I was ashamed to show my teeth and now I have a movie star smile, not to mention being able to eat properly. It's a great feeling! I absolutely cannot say enough good things about my experience. Dr. Sutor is an amazingly skilled surgeon who is also extremely gentle and caring. If you are afraid to get in the dentist chair, then your best bet is to visit him. He'll take care of you."

2012-01-11T06:34:00.000-08:00

Menopause and Your Teeth

Research shows that as you approach menopause, your gums and teeth need extra care!

Typical signs of menopause that you might experience include your periods becoming irregular, your sleep isn't great and the calendar is inching toward 50. Ask your dentist at your next cleaning appointment whether he/she detects any signs of menopause involving your oral health. Dentists say they often notice that as women approach menopause, their gum tissues becomes more swollen or there's unusual bleeding.

Its been noted that menopausal women may have a higher risk of gum disease caused by plaque, which is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. You already know that you need to remove plaque by daily brushing and flossing and regular visits to the dentist to get rid of plaque build-up. This is especially important as you approach menopause.

The hormonal fluctuations preceding menopause can make gums even more sensitive to plaque. Left untreated, plaque irritates and inflames gums. As the disease progresses, your gums separate from your teeth and form little pockets where more bacteria grows. Dental x-rays can also show something about the health of your bones. Loose teeth could also be a sign of thinning bones.

There are some cases of gum disease that your dentist can monitor for you, but if the gum disease progresses, it is very important to seek the help of a specialist (periodontist) such as Dr. Sutor who manages a variety of gum disease conditions every day. An easy way to decide whether you have a type of condition that needs to be managed by a periodontist is to ask your dentist about your "gum score" which is determined by your dentist using a periodontal probe or ruler to measure the pockets around your teeth. This should be done annually! If you have other questions about periodontal disease and how and why it is important to see a periodontist, call us at 812-333-4550 and talk to one of our experienced team members, visit our website at www.sutordds.com or check out our facebook page which always has lots of valuable information.

Make sure you have your dental appointment every 6 months on your list of New Year's resolutions this year! It's an easy one to keep!

* Some information in this article obtained from health.lifegoesstrong.com *

Can My Dental Health Be Connected to My Physical Health?

2012-01-04T11:13:00.000-08:00

A recent article in the Huffington Post states...“During the winter months we’re all susceptible to colds, coughs and chesty viruses due to the drop in temperature.

"What people must remember, particularly those highlighted as vulnerable, is that prevention can be very basic. Systemic links between gum disease and overall health have been well documented, and at this time of year keeping up good oral health can really help stave off illness."

He added: "Simply brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste, cleaning in between teeth daily with interdental brushes or floss, cutting down on how often you have sugary foods and drinks and visiting the dentist regularly, as often as they recommend will be a great starting point.

"If you have swollen gums that bleed regularly when brushing, bad breath, loose teeth or regular mouth infections appear, it is likely you have gum disease.

Visit our website at www.sutordds.com, get in touch with us at 812-333-4550 or check out our office facebook to learn more about how Dr. Sutor can help you discover the state of your oral health.

STRESSING OUT THIS HOLIDAY SEASON?

2011-12-21T11:50:00.000-08:00

Money worries, family in town for the holidays, Christmas shopping, believe it or not, the season’s stresses may show up in your mouth.

Watch out for signs of stress-related oral disorders!

Research has shown that emotional factors played a significant role in the development of adult gum (periodontal) disease. Researchers also discovered that the severity of gum disease increased with amount of stress (from spouse, children, lack of companionship, finances or work) experienced in a patient’s previous 12 months.

Fight those Holiday Stressers with the following helpful hints...

Remove the source of stress. If that’s not possible, these other activities may help reduce your tension:

Counseling
Exercise such as yoga or jogging
Relaxation or meditation
Massage
Physical therapy

It’s also important to continue to practice good oral hygiene. People who are going through stressful events tend to compromise their oral care. To prevent stress from affecting your oral health, you should continue to brush twice a day, floss every day and have your gums and teeth regularly evaluated by your dentist.

Dr. Sutor & his team here at the Periodontal & Dental Implant Center of Southern Indiana wish all of our family and friends the happiest of holidays and a Merry Christmas!

Don't Let Bad Breath Ruin Your Christmas Kiss!

2011-12-14T11:55:00.000-08:00

Tis the season for mistletoe...don't let bad breath ruin your Christmas kiss!

Men's Health - October 2011 had a great article on making sure to have your dentist/periodontist check out your bad breath dilemma. Check it out online!

Christmas hint from the elf: Pick yourself up a pack of eucalyptus gum!

Merry Christmas from our office to you all!

Dental Health Throughout the Stages of Your Life

2011-10-27T07:59:00.000-07:00

Stages of your Life - 20's & 30's

Things to keep an eye on:

Sensitivity - the aging process causes gums to recede naturally which exposes the rooth of our teeth; enamel begins to soften as well. These 2 occurences can cause shock or zing when eating something cold. Proper brushing techniques are key to avoiding receding gums as well as using a soft bristled brush and hold it at a 45 to 60 degree angle toward your gums - gently brush up and down, not side to side; as that side to side motion can be hard on our gums. Choosing a toothpaste or mouth rinse with fluoride can also be helpful. Dr. Sutor does a minor surgical procedure here in our office that can repair the tissue around a root where gum tissue has receded. Call our office and speak to one of our experienced team members about how Dr. Sutor can help with this very common gum condition.

Stress - Stress can cause grinding and gnashing of your teeth. Often this occurs while you're sleeping so you are unaware of it. This type of trauma to your teeth causes your teeth to wear down and increases your risk for cavities. You should check with your dentist if you often wake up with headaches or a sore jaw. He/she can fit make you a protective mouth guard for you to wear at night.

Soda - Soda pop is very acidic, and the acid content in those soda can erode enamel of our teeth. Using a straw can decrease the liquid's contact with your teeth, and make sure to rinse out your mouth with water after you drink. It seems odd, but don't brush your teeth immediately after you have acidic foods or drinks as it can actually worsen the erosion.

Cosmetic Considerations - It is not too late for braces at any age to fix a uneven or crooked smile. Invisalign is a nice alternative to the traditional braces and can work equally as well. Check with your dentist or an orthodontist to find out your options.

Stages of your Life - 40's

Older Fillings - Whether you have a white or tooth colored filling or a silver filling, over time fillings begin to loosen, crack, and wear down causing decay in our teeth. See your dentist regularly for them to evaluate the condition of your fillings.

Gums - Research has shown that there is a link between periodontitis (gum disease) and an increased risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory conditions, and many other health issues. If your gums are sore or red, or if they bleed when you floss, talk to your dentist, who should refer you to a peridontist (Dr. Mark Sutor :)) so that they can properly evaluate the stage of your gum condition. There are so many up to date ways to treat gum disease at this time that you can have this condition treated many times with minimal discomfort and time involved. Dr. Sutor has successfully treated thousands of Hoosiers with a variety of stages of gum disease over the last 20 years. In recent years, he has begun using a unique laser that provides patients the same quality of treatment with minimal discomfort. Call our office to find out more!

Exercise Level - Whether you believe it or not, how active you are, may determine the health of your smile. Studies have shown that people who had the lowest BMI were at the lowest risk for periodontal disease. Results did not determine for sure why people who take care of their bodies seem to take better care of their teeth, but that did seem to be the case.

Cosmetic Considerations - While we love to enjoy our coffee, tea and wine, over time they may tend to cause staining of your teeth. Talk with your dentist about the different whitening options available to you whether in office or over the counter.

Stages of your Life - 50's & 60's

Dry Mouth - Medications can often cause your to experience a "dry mouth". Saliva is very important to flushing away unwanted bacteria so it is important to keep your mouth moist by drinking lots of water, chewing sugarless gum, and sucking on sugarless candies. Dr. Sutor's hygienist will often provide our patients with Biotene, a fantastic line of dental toothpaste, mouth rinse, gum cleanser, etc...that assists with relieving oral dryness and the symptoms of a dry mouth.

Your Bones - As you age, your risk of weakening of the bones or osteoporosis, increases significantly. Older women with osteoporosis have been shown to be more likely to lose teeth. Dental x-rays taken by your dentist or specialist can help identify osteoporosis symptoms such as loose teeth. Check with your medical doctor about calcium and vitamin D that could be added to help decrease your chance of osteoporosis. Dr. Sutor's office has a CT scan xray machine on site as well as digital x-rays that can assist with diagnosing possible oral symptoms of osteoporosis.

Suspicious Sores - Sores that don't go away within 2 weeks can sometimes be a sign of a more serious condition. Check with your dentist or periodontist (Dr. Mark Sutor :)) if you have questions about suspicious sores you may have in your mouth. Dr. Sutor has been able to help diagnose numerous different oral conditions over the years and would be happy to evaluate your concerns at anytime.

We hope that this information has been helpful. We would love to have the opportunity to chat with you about your dental concerns! Call our office at 812-333-4550 or visit our website at www.sutordds.com. You can also check us out on facebook, twitter, and you tube. Periodontics & Dental Implant Center of Southern Indiana - Dr. Mark Sutor, the place people come to have a healthy smile!

Dealing With Cracked Corners

2011-09-21T08:04:00.001-07:00

Cracked Corners of the Mouth
Understanding angular cheilitis or perleche

Cracking of the corners of the mouth is a common condition that is frequently seen in both the offices of dermatologists and dentists. It is known as perleche or angular cheilitis (“angular” – angles; “cheil” – lip; “itis” – inflammation). Perleche is derived from the French word, “lecher,” meaning to lick, and is characterized by excessive licking of the affected areas — either as a result of irritation or because of it. This condition is further characterized by redness and cracking of the skin at the corners of the lips.

There can be a variety of causes with the majority of them being “local,” meaning they arise from inside or around the mouth. Although uncommon, systemic (bodily) diseases may predispose to perleche as well. Once the corners of the mouth are fissured or cracked, saliva accumulation and contamination can lead to infection. The most common infection is from yeast called, “candida albicans.”

Outside The Mouth Going In

Perleche is found most often in children and younger adults who drool during their sleep and/or have orthodontic braces. In older adults, part of the aging process causes skin wrinkling with superficial or deep lines extending from the mouth and down the chin called, “marionette lines.” Wrinkling is the result of skin thinning from sun damage and constant exposure to the environment over the years, and with fat and connective tissue loss, the lips thin as well. Perleche may be more evident in the winter with colder weather and drier air. Cracking of the corners of the mouth, and subsequent licking to keep them moist, sets the stage for infection.

Inside The Mouth Going Out

Conditions inside the mouth leading to perleche include anything that affects normal and healthy saliva flow or causes mouth dryness that in turn leads to infection.
Other causes include:
Denture stomatitis (“stoma” – mouth; “itis” – inflammation) is an inflammation of the tissues under a denture. If dentures are not removed and cleaned regularly, dryness and subsequent chronic yeast infections can develop.
A lack of teeth, especially the back teeth that support the face, cheeks and lips, can lead to bite collapse with subsequent cracking or fissuring at the corners of the mouth, also giving rise to a prematurely aged look.
Systemic (general body) conditions like iron-deficiency anemia, B vitamin deficiency, diabetes and cancer can also lead to changes in the health and integrity of the oral mucous (mouth) membranes.
These conditions can predispose people to yeast infections, and perleche at the angles of the mouth.

Fixing The Cracks At The Corners

Chronic yeast infections may cause only minor discomfort while acute infections can affect the whole mouth and throat. In either case, they can be treated with a course of oral or topical antifungal (yeast) medication. Nystatin may be used as a troche (a small medicated lozenge designed to dissolve) that is rinsed with and then swallowed so that it works in the mouth and throughout the body. Antifungal ointments can also be applied liberally to the corners of the mouth several times a day to clear infection. They may be used in combination with a steroid ointment to control redness and inflammation, as well as zinc oxide paste or ointment, which is a barrier (skin) repair agent that has antifungal properties.
If infection arises from inside the mouth, it is likely to recur if only the corners of the mouth are treated. Chlorhexidine rinses can also be used to treat minor oral yeast infections. It is also effective for cleaning and scrubbing dentures; however, it is important to leave them out at night.
Optimal oral health and proper lip support from within the mouth can lessen or remove the cracking and wrinkles at the lip corners.
Although not as common, any systemic conditions that cause perleche will also need to be treated. Your dentist should also replace any missing teeth and ensure that dentures are properly fitting. Optimal oral health and proper lip support from within the mouth can lessen or remove the cracking and wrinkles at the lip corners. He/she should verify that oral hygiene is good, gum tissues are healthy and teeth decay free.
Modern dermatology can provide a variety of ways to treat lip wrinkles and marionette lines associated with perleche, and improve skin quality in general. This ranges from proper skin care to laser resurfacing. Facial fillers and fat may be used to replace the loss of connective tissue in the lips and provide support due to aging. Laser, fillers and other techniques can be used to remove both superficial and deep wrinkles and result in a healthier, rejuvenated appearance. This subject will be covered more fully in an upcoming issue of Dear Doctor magazine.

A Patient Shares Her Story

2011-09-15T08:02:00.000-07:00

Wisdom Teeth Removal = A Pleasant Experience?

2011-09-07T07:41:00.001-07:00

Another one of the many services Dr. Sutor provides is wisdom teeth extraction.
Not all general dentists are eager to remove wisdom teeth, either because they feel they are too difficult, or just not a service they are comfortable offering their patients. That's when they will usually refer a patient out to a surgeon. Specialists do these types of extractions routinely, therefore are much better equipped the majority of the time to offer this type of procedure.

Having a periodontist remove these wisdom teeth is also easier on the patient as it is typically a much quicker process and less traumatic. A patient can use oral sedation or nitrous with Dr. Sutor and can have a pleasant dental experience. Another benefit to having a periodontist remove your wisdom teeth is the delicacy with which they deal with removing the teeth and managing the surrounding gum tissue which can affect your overall dental health for years to come.

We would love the opportunity to consult with you if you have concerns about wisdom teeth removal or if your general dentist has suggested you have this type of procedure done.

Feel free to call us today at 812-333-4550 or visit our website and request an appointment on www.sutordds.com. You can also check us out on Facebook/Twitter/You Tube.

Why Choose Dr. Sutor?

2011-08-30T06:49:00.001-07:00

We here at Periodontics & Dental Implant Center are proud to have a wide range of occupations, nationalities, and personalities that describe the patients in our practice. Coaches, teachers, moms, professors, students, retired, celebrities, dads, etc...all choose to have their dental health care needs taken care of by our experienced doctor and team. We thought we'd share some of the reasons they've told us that they've come and stayed!

"Everyone is always extremely warm and welcoming as well as professional at all times. Dr. Sutor is awesome and his staff is the best in the business!" David G.

"I'm very comfortable and always treated with the utmost courtesy and professionalism. I really like the e-mail contact option of communicating. Most assuredly, I would refer anyone to Dr. Sutor's with the highest recommendation." Pasty H.

"I feel like the benefit that was greatest to me was that I have better overall dental health. I can't tell the difference between my implant and my natural tooth. I plan to repeat my procedure again next year for the other side of my mouth."
Simon L.

"The dental implants Dr. Sutor did for me have given me my smile back. I feel more confident and comfortable then I have felt in years!" Linda L.

"The greatest benefit to having these implants is that they feel like normal teeth. I can't say enough good things about it and I will continue to tell others to come here and have this treatment done if needed because it really does change your life for the better." Drew W.

"I feel better about myself. As far as I'm concerned, Dr. Sutor is the best. I wouldn't go to anyone else." Sandy I.

Professionalism, Compassion, Experience, Life Changing Investment...visit us on the web at www.sutordds.com, or call us at 333-4550 to begin your story with us.

Raising the Bar with Technology

2011-08-09T12:43:00.001-07:00

Periodontics & Dental Implant Center of Southern Indiana - Dr. Mark Sutor continues to stay at the forefront in dentistry always delivering the highest quality of service and results to our patients. We do that by keeping informed on the most up-to-date advanced techniques and equipment available. A few years ago, we raised the bar once again, with the addition of our cutting edge Pro Max 3D CT scan. It is a type of x-ray which produces high quality 3-D images of a patients upper and lower jaw, bone density, and associated structures and anatomy. This scan enables an implant surgeon to see these images quickly and use the information in preparing an implant treatment plan for a patient.

No longer do patients have to go to a radiology center for CT scan of the jaw, we can do it right here in our office. It delivers 3D images for the most accurate in office measuring capabilities of x-ray to date. This enables Dr. Sutor to precisely measure the height and width of bone prior to surgery. It allows us to locate bone structure and anatomy such as nerves, sinuses, etc... inside jaw bones with greater precision than ever before. Many times patients can have this scan taken right here in our facility on the same day as their initial consultation with results in minutes. One concern we had about referring patients out for scans is that some technicians are not trained specifically for dental scans, so the information may not be quite as accurate as we would like.

This Pro Max 3D CT scan significantly reduces the effective patient radiation dose and has less radiation then that of multiple dental x-rays. This additional imaging can allow us to develop the best implant and maxillofacial solution and treatment plan for you. This type of scan allows Dr. Sutor to evaluate your bone and gum tissue for a more definitive diagnosis and thus a better surgical outcome.

Before undergoing a CT scan, you will be asked to remove items such as eyeglasses, hearing aids, jewelry, hairpins or any other objects around your head and neck that might contain metal. This would include dentures and removable bridges. This is because metal objects can cause streaks to appear on the image and undermine its readability and accuracy. Anyone having any kind of radiographs is carefully shielded with the use of lead aprons covering all non-targeted areas.

Our cost falls right in line with the average for our area. Insurance codes for a CT scan are available. My qualified financial team will be happy to work with you to submit all pertinent information on your behalf in order to do everything we can to get coverage for you.

Many patients wonder if a CT scan is an uncomfortable or painful experience at all like being placed in a tube or a chamber and it is not! Unlike a conventional CT scanner that sometimes requires a patient to lie on their back and be pulled through a “tunnel like” machine, you stand or sit comfortably with the machine surrounding just your head and mouth area in an open air environment.

Use of this dental CT scan is just one more way Dr. Sutor continues to raise the bar in dentistry here in Southern Indiana.

We are always accepting new patients and look forward to helping you improve your life today! 812-333-4550 or check us out on the web through our website www.sutordds.com, or on facebook, twitter and You Tube.

Dental Implants Like Legos?

2011-08-02T07:26:00.000-07:00

Recently I read an article in Dear Doctor, a patient education magazine, written by dental professionals.

The article talked about how crowns attached to implants and they used the phrase dental implants - dental legos due to the fact that there are a few different parts and pieces that go into having a dental implant procedure and the fact that implant components are designed to disassemble if necessary for easy maintenance or repair. We have patient's come into our practice all the time that are unsure of just what a dental implant is, or if it is one piece with the crown or how does it all fit together, so we will clarify today!

Think of a dental implant as a replacement tooth root or the foundation. An implant is surgically placed in the bone of the jaw to which the bone will over a very short time period fuse to the surface of and it then becomes essentially a part of the jaw. All of this happens below the gumline. After the implant has healed a sufficient amount of time, an abutment or short post which has a screw going through it is then inserted into the implant itself since it is hollow. The abutment is then tightened down to a certain predefined force so that it should not come loose unless a special tool is used by your surgeon or general dentist to loosen it. Your crown then, the esthetic part of the tooth, that can be seen above the gumline, is cemented or screwed into place depending on what your dentist decides is best for your oral situation.

Dentistry has come so far and the process of having a dental implant placed should be a safe, predictable procedure now a days if done with an experienced dental team including the dental surgeon, general dentist and lab technician. Dr. Sutor has done over 5,000 implants over the course of his career, so rest assured you are in the most experienced hands in Southern Indiana.

Dr. Sutor believes so strongly in the ability for dental implants to improve your life and health that he has generously offered his implant consultations at no charge to you the patient. Just log onto our website at www.sutordds.com and request an appointment or call us at 812-333-4550. We look forward to being a part of improving your life today!

BACK TO SCHOOL!

2011-07-26T12:27:00.000-07:00

It's almost that time! Back to school! As you are hurrying to the the doctor, the optometrist, etc...to get those last minute appointments out of the way before another school year, you may also want to check with your dentist to make sure that your child is eating and speaking properly and that they are not bothered by a minor mouth muscle called a frenum. A frenum is the muscle that attaches either to your upper lip and gum between the two front teeth, or the bottom lip and gum between the two bottom front teeth. Sometimes this frenum can be attached to close to the teeth causing either recession of the gums or spaces between teeth. Sometimes this is referred to as being "tongue-tied".

Dr. Sutor performs a simple in office procedure called a frenectomy. A frenectomy is often performed with a laser, where with part or all of the frenum in question is removed in order to return a healthy balance to the mouth. Your child should plan on spending about 30 minutes in our office the day of the procedure. The treatment itself only takes about 10-15 minutes, but we allow plenty of time to get your child comfortable and then review post-operative instructions with you following the procedure. Your child can expect mild soreness in the area later that day, most of the time an over the counter pain reliever such as Tylenol or Motrin works well to handle any discomfort. You will also want to have them rest and avoid sports or other strenuous activities the day/evening of your procedure. They should be able to resume activities the day after the procedure. It is so exciting to immediately see the successful results such as listening to your child's speech improve and watch them lick an ice cream cone.

Call us today for an appointment! We are always accepting new patients!

2011-07-14T11:29:00.000-07:00

Top Ten Tips for Denture Care Maintenance

1) Daily removal of bacterial biofilm in the mouth and on complete denture surfaces is critically important to minimizing denture stomatitis and contributing to good oral and general health.

2) In an effort to reduce or minimize denture stomatitis, dentures should not be worn continuously (24 hours per day) – leave them out at night. Removing your dentures at night will slow down the bone loss that occurs from the pressure caused by wearing dentures. Soft tissues should be massaged twice daily with a moistened washcloth to clean the gums and minimize infection.

3) To reduce levels of biofilm and harmful fungi, denture wearers using cleansers should:
• Clean dentures by daily soaking and brushing with an effective, nonabrasive denture cleanser
• Only use denture cleansers outside of the mouth
• Thoroughly rinse dentures after soaking and brushing with denture cleansers prior to placing dentures into the mouth
• Always follow denture cleanser instructions

4) Dentures should be cleaned annually by a dental professional using ultrasonic cleaners to minimize biofilm accumulation over time.

5) Dentures should never be placed in boiling water.

6) Sodium hypochlorite bleach is a superior denture cleanser; however dentures should not be soaked in sodium hypochlorite bleach, or in products containing sodium hypochlorite, for periods that exceed 10 minutes to avoid damage to them.

7) Denture adhesives can improve the retention and stability of dentures and help seal out the accumulation of food particles beneath them.

8) Denture wearers should be checked annually by a dental professional for maintenance of optimum denture fit and function, and for evaluation for oral disease, bone loss, and oral health status.

9) If increasing amounts of adhesives are required to achieve the same level of denture retention, you should see a dental professional to evaluate the fit and stability of the dentures.
(Dental Implant Consultations with Dr. Sutor’s office are ALWAYS complimentary)

10) Dentures should be stored immersed in water after cleaning, when not replaced in the mouth, to avoid warping. The water should be changed daily and the container cleaned.

Complete article can be found in the Dear Doctor Patient Education Magazine. www.deardoctor.com

Tragedy of an Infection

2011-07-12T10:39:00.000-07:00

We read a sad article this week. We at Dr. Sutor's office hope by using the lab testing technologies available to us now, specifically the Oral DNA lab testing, www.oraldna.com, we can redirect the way a patient thinks about and deals with their periodontal disease.

STORY: The tragedy at our local elementary school this spring happened to the husband of one of the third grade teachers, who cut his finger at work one day. He washed it and put a small bandage on it. In fact, he washed it every day. It did not seem to be getting much better, but because it did not hurt, he just kept cleaning it until his wife, the teacher, insisted he go and have it checked out. By the time the lab results came back showing him positive for a staph infection, it had spread throughout his entire body, and he ultimately passed away.

If only the wound had been checked out earlier and the lab test done, he could have been treated for the staph infection in a timely manner and his life would have been saved.

The way this man tried to treat his wound is similar to how many patients and, frankly, many dental practices, treat periodontal disease. “Just clean it.” Unfortunately, just trying keeping the “wound” clean won’t take care of the
ultimate problem.

How we think about periodontal disease and how it is treated have changed. It is no longer just a site-specific problem. It is a systemic problem. Grasping the concept and emotionally embracing it is as big of a problem for some practitioners as it is for patients.

Dr. Sutor approaches and treats periodontal disease in his practice using a company called Oral DNA to assist him with the following...

Totally understanding the true nature of periodontal disease and its systemic and total health consequences, having the right diagnostics in place, that will identify the type and severity of the systemic problem, new treatment modules that address the “whole” problem, not just the localized problem, presentation and verbal skills that help patients make the shift and embrace the problem and what it will take on their part to treat it.

(Story from OralDNA Labs)

A More Comfortable Procedure: Conscious Sedation

2011-06-27T07:14:00.000-07:00

Conscious Sedation - Halcion (Triazolam)

This type of sedation is an option we offer our patients. Halcion or Triazolam induces an altered state of consciousness to allow your body and mind to relax during a surgical procedure. Patients who receive conscious sedation usually are able to speak and respond to verbal cues throughout the procedure, communicating any discomfort they experience to the provider. A brief period of amnesia may erase any memory of the procedure. Conscious sedation is extremely safe when administered by a qualified provider such as Dr. Sutor.

Because patients can slip into a deep sleep, proper monitoring of conscious sedation is necessary. Dr. Sutor and his qualified assistants monitor patient heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, oxygen level and alertness throughout and after the procedure.

Written postoperative care instructions are given to our patients prior to your surgical appointment so that you may provide this information to your caretaker and/or driver as well. Patients should not drive a vehicle, operate dangerous equipment or make any important decisions for at least 24 hours after receiving conscious sedation. Patient's must have a caretaker be with them from the time they take the medication and throughout the day of the procedure to ensure that they are safe and have the medication and care that they need post-operatively. A follow-up phone call is made by Dr. Sutor the evening of the procedure to check on the patient's condition and answer any remaining questions.

One of the best benefits of conscious sedation is that it allows patients to recover quickly and resume normal daily activities in a shorter period of time than an IV sedation.

Our ultimate responsibility is to your comfort and safety while you are in our care. If instructions are followed properly, conscious sedation can be a great way for you to go through a procedure in our office.

Dental Implants - Description & The Consultation

2011-06-21T08:53:00.000-07:00

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots used to support a restoration for a missing tooth or teeth, helping to stop or prevent jaw bone loss.

People who have lost teeth might feel too self-conscious to smile or talk. Additionally, biting irregularities caused by tooth loss can have a negative effect on eating habits, leading to secondary health problems like malnutrition.

By replacing missing tooth roots, dental implants provide people with the strength and stability required to eat all the foods they love, without struggling to chew. Additionally, dental implants stimulate and maintain jaw bone, preventing bone loss and helping to maintain facial features.

Some reasons teeth are lost because of tooth decay, root canal failure, gum disease (periodontitis), trauma to the mouth, excessive wear and tear, or congential defects.

To determine if implants are right for you, a consultation with your dentist, and/or Dr. Sutor is needed. During this appointment, Dr. Sutor will thoroughly examine your teeth and gums and evaluate bone density and quantity. This may involve X-rays and computer tomography scans (CT scans) to ensure there is sufficient bone structure for placing the implant(s), and to determine exactly where the implant should be placed.

Based on the condition of your oral tissues, oral hygiene and personal habits, and commitment to follow aftercare instructions, your dentist will advise you of the most appropriate dental implant treatment plan. Some patients with insufficient bone or gum tissue require bone or soft tissue grafts and/or the use of small diameter implants (also called mini implants).

Depending on your situation, Dr. Sutor will advise you of how long the entire treatment process will take, how many appointments will be necessary and what you can expect after each procedure. During the consultation, options for local anesthesia (to numb the affected and surrounding areas) and sedation dentistry, if necessary, also will be discussed.

Dr. Sutor believes strongly in making sure everyone knows their treatment options regarding dental implants, so he provides all of our implant consultations complimentary.

NEWLY REDESIGNED WEBSITE ANNOUNCEMENT!

2011-06-08T10:11:00.001-07:00

It Is Here!

New Website Announcement!

We are proud to announce the release of our newly redesigned website for Periodontics & Dental Implant Center of Southern Indiana - Dr. Mark Sutor. By updating our main site, www.sutordds.com, we’ve been able to improve navigation, connect more visitors with our practice and provide more detailed information about the services that we provide.

HYGIENE STUDY CLUB

2011-06-02T11:36:00.000-07:00

Continuing Dr. Sutor's passion for continuing education, we have started up our Hygiene Study Club once again! This continuing education study club is a wonderful way for our local hygienists here in Bloomington and surrounding areas to connect with each other, learn what is new in clinical products and technology and earn many of their needed continuing education hours without even leaving their backyard! For convenience and comfort, all meetings are held at Dr. Sutor's office. Our year runs this year from March thru November with a total of 4 meetings with our hygienists discussing everything from legal documentation, to anatomy/pathology using 3-D technology, and treatment planning sessions. We had a great group join us in March for our first meeting! There are still spaces available for this study club year if you are a hygienist or know a hygienist that could benefit from this unique program! Call Cindy for more information at 812-333-4550!

Denver SSC Dental Meeting

2011-05-24T08:21:00.000-07:00

Continuing education has always been important to Dr. Sutor, so when the opportunities come for his team to also become involved with continuing ed, he encourages them as well!

Dr. Sutor is president of our local dental study club, Hoosiers for Dental Excellence, that has been going strong for over 10 years now. This unique group consists of some of the finest general dentists and specialists in the south central indiana area. In order to maintain the ongoing committment to excellence he has 2 coordinators that help him put together the programming, events, and all the important details which make this group one of a kind.

Cindy & Joanna from our office were given the opportunity to attend the Seattle Study Club annual Coordinator's Conference which was held in Denver, Colorado this year. They were able to collaborate with coordinators from around the nation on top speakers, programming ideas, and special events.

The meeting was amazing, and now Cindy & Joanna look forward to the opportunity to now impliment some of the fantastic ideas within our own practice and study club.

Do You Need A Nightguard?

2011-05-11T07:46:00.000-07:00

Important Info...Especially for dental implant patients! Ask our office or your general dentist if you are in need of a nightguard!
http://chealth.canoe.ca

Esthetic Crown Lengthening

2011-05-10T11:39:00.000-07:00

What is crown lengthening? Crown lengthening is a procedure that essentially makes a tooth appear longer and correct a "gummy smile". One of the major advantages of crown lengthing is that it can be completed in one visit with a simple local anestheic. The excessive gum tissue that is hiding your teeth is removed to expose the normal length of those teeth. Some of the benefits you will receive from this treatment is an immediate amazing result, a quick healing period with minimal discomfort, a much more attractive smile, improved self-image and more self-confidence! We would love to talk with you about how you can improve your smile & create a more beautiful smile today! Call us at 812-333-4550 or visit our website at www.sutordds.com.

Dr. Sutor To Participate In Indianapolis Hygiene Seminar

2011-05-05T03:14:00.000-07:00

Dr. Jack Overman, an experienced periodontist in Northern Indianapolis, is hosting his annual dental hygiene seminar at The Montage Banquet Center this evening. Dr. Overman & his team have grown this event to nearly 200 dental hygienists. The attending hygienists are wined and dined, offered the latest in tips, tools and techniques from a variety of dental vendors, and then offered a continuing education seminar. Speakers have ranged from dental consultants, to Dr. Overman himself, to other dental specialists. Continuing education has always been an important part of Dr. Sutor's practice, so he was honored a couple years ago to be asked to participate in this hygiene seminar, so when he got the call this year to be a part of this event again he immediately agreed. This year will feature a little different type of format, which will feature a roundtable type discussion including himself, Dr. David Alexander, and Dr. Jack Overman as the featured speakers. Dr. Mark Sutor is a periodontist in Southern Indiana with over 20 years of experience. To learn more about our office and the continuing education we provide our patients, hygienists, and general dentists, contact 333-4550 or connect with us via our website at www.sutordds.com, or on facebook or twitter.

Dr. Sutor Lunch & Learn with Great West Insurance

2011-05-02T07:41:00.000-07:00

Gearing up for an exciting Lunch & Learn with Great West Insurance Company tomorrow on the topic of inflammation/periodontal disease & the link to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, & other immune system conditions. We are always trying to find ways to educate our local businesses as well as the general public about up to date news in the dental world! Please contact us if you are interested in having Dr. Sutor speak at your business!

Dr. Sutor Chosen by Keystone Dental

2011-04-25T11:42:00.000-07:00

Our office was honored last week to have Dr. Sutor chosen by Keystone Dental as an experienced dental implant surgeon to be videotaped doing some live surgeries for the purpose of educating other clinicians interested in Keystone Dental's bone and regenerative products!

What's Your Gum Score?

2011-04-21T07:16:00.001-07:00

Being a former IU athlete under Lee Corso, I used to LOVE to keep score. Now, I can help my patient's keep score of their dental health by keeping track of their "gum score".

A Gum Score is the way that we can tell whether you have gum disease, which we know now, if untreated, can lead to other medical related problems like heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, and even cancer. Your gum score can easily be determined by your dentist, hygienist, or a periodontist like myself. Its an easy and painless way to determine your overall dental health.

What's YOUR gum score? Find out today...it may just save your life!

Periodontal Disease/Cardiovascular Disease Connection

2011-04-18T10:30:00.000-07:00

Cardiovascular disease is preventable in many patients. It is estimated that 70% of the adult population in the United States has periodontal disease. Chronic inflammation, of which periodontal disease is the most common, is a leading risk factor in developing heart disease. Genetic testing has determined that the plaque that builds up below the gum line is the same plaque that deposits in the arteries and causes atherosclerosis. Please call our office at 812-333-4550 for more information and to schedule a periodontal disease screening. Mention this blog for a complimentary evaluation. We are committed to helping you lead a healthy life!

6 & 12 Months NO INTEREST!

2011-04-15T06:58:00.000-07:00

You CAN afford your dental treatment! Dr. Mark Sutor offers Care Credit with 6 & 12 months NO INTEREST financing! Ask us how! www.carecredit.com

BEDFORD SENIOR FAIR 2011

2011-04-14T08:41:00.000-07:00

Our surgical dental assistants Chrissy and Chris had a great time yesterday at the Senior Fair in Bedford, Indiana. They had the chance to meet hundreds of people and were able to share all the benefits associated with dental implants. We look forward to the opportunity to become a part of a healthcare team for many of the kind people they met at the fair yesterday!

Value For You The Patient

2011-04-01T08:34:00.001-07:00

We are excited to remind all that our implant consultations here at Dr. Sutor's office are always complimentary! We are on your side in these sketchy economic times and we know you want to be certain about how you are utilizing your finances. Rest assured that at Dr. Sutor's office you are in the hands of the most experience dental implant surgeon in Southern Indiana. When you allow us the opportunity to become a part of your health care team we consider you a member of the family. Your comfort is very important to us while you are in our care. We take much pride not only in the clinical care that we will provide you but also in our amenities and environment that we are able to offer you while you are a patient here in the office. We are always accepting new patients and we look forward to being a part of your care. Call us today at 812-333-4550, check us out on facebook under Dr. Mark Sutor - Peridontics & Dental Implant Center of Southern Indiana, or visit our interactive website at www.sutordds.com.

BEWARE OF COOKIE CUTTER TREATMENT PLANS!

2011-03-02T07:35:00.000-08:00

Beware of general dentists or specialists that try to fit you into a "cookie-cutter" treatment plan when it comes to your oral health! Dr. Sutor & the team at Periodontics & Dental Implant Center spend alot of time with each of their patients to ensure their treatment plan is customized to their specific needs based on a variety of factors! We are always accepting new patients!

http://www.perioeducation.com/whitepapers.aspx?b=81

Seattle Study Club Annual Symposium

2011-01-25T10:29:00.000-08:00

Just returned from an action packed week at the Annual Seattle Study Club Symposium in Key Biscayne, Florida! What a fantastic meeting! Heard from several of the "dental greats" and gained some extremely valuable information that I could bring back and apply to both my dental surgery practice and dental study club here in Bloomington, IN. The focus of this meeting was realizing that no matter our preparation and best efforts and intentions with a patient's case, treatment results still sometimes fall short of what we desired or expected they would be. Suggestions and solutions were given to help us recognize why the failure and how better to be successful the next time that situation arises! Great camraderie, and experience...already looking forward to 2012!

Hoosiers for Dental Excellence Dental Study Club Webinar

2010-10-22T06:29:00.000-07:00

Hoosiers for Dental Excellence Study Club met last night for a webinar discussing the diagnosis and treatment of patients who have worn teeth, deep bites, TMJ disorders, and missing teeth that cause patients bites to change.

We learned how to help patients create a comfortable, healthy and stable bite so a patient will look better and eat without pain.

This meeting had 7 other dental study club groups from around the country participating as well. It was a fantastic opportunity for all members to learn from a dentist in Seattle, WA without having to travel across the country.

We had 10 dentists and specialists from Bloomington, Nashville, Spencer, Mitchell and Greenwood, Indiana including an orthodontist, endodontist, periodontist and dental implant surgeon who participated in this 2 hour continuing education web based lecture.

Bloomington Dental Society Meeting tonight

2010-05-13T18:26:00.000-07:00

I attended and moderated a lecture for our local dental society meeting. We had a representative from the company named Keystone Dental, his name was Nick Lake and he taught us all about the bone grafting materials that his ompany manufactures and the ways we can use these these products to better treat our patients.. We learned how these products could help bone grow back so that people can save their teeth or how the bone can be regenerated so dental implants could be used to replace teeth that are missing or ones that have to be removed..I have been using these products on my pts. for many years, I was actually the first surgeon in Bloomingotn to use these advanced products on my patients so it was a good review for me tonight to reconfirm why I should continue to use these products to better serve my patients..I look forward to using these products in the future to help my pts. improve the health of their mouths..

2010-05-12T05:46:00.000-07:00

Last night I met with 10 local dentists for our last dental study club meeting 9 Hoosiers For Dentla Excellence), we have met 8 times this season(Sept 2009 thru May 2010), we met for 2 hrs to discuss current dental topics, research, dental materials, and to discuss complicated treatment plans for a couple of patients..This group is an advanced group of dental professionsals some of who have been members of this group for 10 years..We also discussed how to better use the internet to reach out to our patients so they would better understand the types of wonderful dental procedures that we all can provide these days..Another topic of discussion was how we can now be bale to detect pts. who are genetically predisposed to developing gum disease by a simple saliva test..This test will greatly help us better diagnose and treat our pts. for gum disease, it is a very exciting aspect to dentistry..