Boca Raton Dentist

Mark W. Ericsson D.M.D.

(Full Mouth Reconstructive Dentist)

• Recipient of The Edward R. Hart Award for “The Highest Performance in Restorative Dentistry”, Washington University
• Recipient of The Richard Bengal Acknowledgement Award “for Excellence in Crown and Bridge”, Washington University
• Recipient of The American Association of Endodontists Award, Washington University

My wife Rosanna and myself have been passionately practicing Dentistry in Boca Raton for over 30 years. During this time we have had the distinct pleasure and honor of helping innumerable patients to improve their lives. After treating in excess of 30,000 patients, I am able say, “Dentistry was and still remains my first best career choice”. From the age of 6, I was telling everybody I wanted to be a Dentist. As the years have passed by, I have become increasing more passionate about my career. At Ericsson Dental, we practice a very unique form of “Empathetic Dentistry”. Simply stated, “we treat our patients the way we would like to be treated” It is our goal to help the “entire” Patient through compassionate care. We achieve this by striving to deliver the finest Dentistry available at fair prices. At Ericsson Dental, we stand behind every service we perform. Our patients are literally treated like family.

Ericsson Dental Services

• Full Mouth Reconstructive Services (Smile Makeover)
• Dental Implant Surgical Services
• Dental Implant Prosthodontics
• Full Mouth Crown And Bridge Services
• Complete Endodontic Services (Root Canals)
• Periodontal Surgery (Gum Surgery)
• Oral Surgery (Teeth Extractions)
• Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction Diagnosis and Treatment (TMJ / TMD)
• Composites ( Indistinguishable White Fillings)
• Removable Prosthodontics (Full and Partial Dentures)
• On Site Lab Emergency Denture Repairs
• Complete Prophylaxis Services ( Periodic Cleanings and Exams)
• Sleep Apnea / Snoring Treatment (The Highly Regarded “EMA Appliance”)
• On Site Lab Night Guard Fabrication (Unique “Hard / Soft Composition”)
• Highly “Empathetic” Emergency Care

Full Mouth Reconstruction Dentist Boca Raton

Full Mouth Reconstruction has been a Focus in my career since my early days in Washington University School Of Dental Medicine. It involves the Preparation, Fabrication, and Cementing of Dental Crowns in the entire mouth. In addition, all associated Implants, Periodontal surgery (Gum and Bone Surgery), and Root Canals are performed. Full Mouth Reconstruction (Smile Makeover) at Ericsson Dental, is such a positive lifetime event, it often becomes a Life Changing Catalyst. A mouth with Esthetic and Restorative deficiencies can exert enormous negative effects on a patient’s health, social life, and overall happiness. In as few as 4 appointments, Ericsson Dental can change a life. There are very few Medical / Dental Cosmetic patient options that we have encountered that bring as predictable and positively profound effects as our “Smile Makeovers”.  Please see our "BEFORE AND AFTERS" page for examples of our Full Mouth Reconstruction work. Before choosing your BOCA RATON DENTIST for Full Mouth Reconstruction, a Patient should ask to see BEFORE AND AFTER examples of their work. All pictures presented on our website is the work of Ericsson Dental and are embossed with our Ericsson Dental LOGO. The steps in our Full Mouth Reconstruction Cases are enumerated and outlined in our “Dentist Boca Raton” Section under “Services” section on our menu. There are many indications for the Full Mouth Reconstruction treatment modality.

Indications For Full Mouth Reconstruction

• Chronic Use Of Prescription Pain Medications (Opioid)
• Substance Abuse (drugs and or alcohol abuse)
• Periodontal (Gum) Disease
• Extensive Tooth Wear (Bruxism)
• Age Related Tooth Loss
• Acid Reflux
• Acidic Diet (Phosphoric Acid in Sodas, Excessive Citrus)
• Bulimia
• Dental Trauma
• Amelogenesis Imperfecta (improper / inadequate formation of enamel)
• Dentinogensis Imperfecta (improper / inadequate formation of dentin)
• Tetracycline Staining (Tetracycline consumption during Teeth formation)
• Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJ /TMD) caused by “Deep Bite”, “Bite Plane Disruptions” (improper “Curve Of Wilson” and “Curve Of Spee”), and improper “Bite Height” ( “Vertical Dimension Of Occlusion”)
• Cosmetic Dentistry Considerations
• Cancer Prosthetics Remediation

Dental Implants In Full Mouth Reconstruction

A pivotal development in the field of Full Mouth Reconstruction has been the advent of Dental Implants. One way humans can “roll back the clock” is through Dental Implants. At Ericsson Dental, we integrate the miracle of Dental Implants into our suite of Full Mouth Reconstructive Services. We also utilize implants for individual and limited tooth replacements. Dental Implants are a predictable and highly successful form of tooth replacement. A Dental Implant typically takes the form of a “Titanium Screw”. This “Screw” is “screwed” into the selected implant site of suitable bone. After a period of “Integration”, the implant can be “loaded”. A post (Abutment) is then screwed into the implant body. A porcelain crown is then either cemented or screw retained over the Abutment. This “three piece” approach forms the approach of modern day implantology. Typically, the whole procedure takes 4-7 months to complete (depending on bone type and condition).

Indications For Dental Implants

• Support for Full Mouth Reconstruction In cases of total tooth loss.
• Support for individual tooth loss
• Support for Overdenture attachments to support removable dentures (Locator Attachments)
• Support for Hybrid Denture (“screwed in Denture”)
• Permanent Opioid Prescription Regimen for Chronic Pain necessitating Full Mouth Extractions and Full Mouth Reconstruction.

Chronic Prescription Opioid Drug Use and Dentistry

(Indication For Full Mouth Reconstruction)

The Opioid Drug Crisis is upon us. The United States healthcare system is scrambling to rein in “excessive“ Opioid Drug prescriptions in America.

We at Ericsson Dental recognize the utility and risk that Opioid Pain Medications Present In Dentistry. We try to take a balanced approach which alleviates pain in time of need while keeping the use of Opioid Prescriptions to a minimum. We encounter many patients that are regularly prescribed Opioid Medications to control chronic pain. Many health conditions such as chronic skeletal pain necessitate the prescription of stronger pain relievers than over-the-counter NSAID’s ( Advil, Aleve).

Unfortunately, long term use of these drugs have profound negative effects on

the human dentition and overall health. As Boca Raton Dentists,  we have encountered multitudes of patients affected by Opioid use. Over the years, we are seeing dramatic increases in the numbers patients negatively affected by the Opioid Epidemic. Common oral observations most notably include pervasive, circumferential tooth decay throughout the mouth. Opioid affected Tooth Surfaces are often so decayed, the only treatment alternative is Full Mouth Crown And Bridge (full Mouth Reconstruction).

Dry Mouth Caused By Prescription Drugs

Many Drugs cause a significant decline in human saliva production. This condition known as “Dry Mouth” or “Xerostomia” significantly heightens the propensity of Tooth Decay. In the Human Population, Saliva acts as our first line of defense against Dental Caries (Tooth Decay). In general, Saliva protects tooth structure by reducing the population of bacteria in the mouth. In addition, Saliva neutralizes acids in the mouth which are cariogenic (tooth decay causing). These acids cause the literal dissolution of tooth structure. Saliva also contains substances which aid in the protective process of re-mineralization (repair of tooth enamel) of damaged enamel adversely affected by acids. It is important to re-establish normal Saliva to the mouth if the natural dentition is to be preserved. Fluoride containing mouthwashes and toothpastes can help but Dry Mouth Syndrome is extremely destructive to the human dentition. In some cases, full mouth Extractions become necessary. Dental Implants and/or Denture Fabrication then become the primary remaining treatment options. As Boca Raton Dentists, we offer a complete array of treatment options to treat the devastating oral effects of legal and illegal Substance Abuse.

Drugs That Adversely Affect Oral Health

• Alcohol consumption can cause dry mouth and tooth erosion
• Marijuana (Cannabis) can cause dry mouth and can lead to an increased risk of oral cancer.
• Cocaine mixed with saliva creates an extremely acidic solution that erodes tooth enamel and exposes the underlying “dentin” to decay-causing bacteria. Cocaine and crack cocaine cause dry mouth, which can increase the incidence of tooth decay. Cocaine can also cause teeth  grinding (bruxism).
• Heroin users tend to crave sweet foods, which can increase the risk of tooth decay if dental hygiene is neglected. Heroin also causes dry mouth and Bruxism (tooth grinding).
• Smoking is associated with an increased rate of Periodontal (gum) problems as well as an increased risk of general cancers and oral cancer.
  Smoking introduces a myriad of Cancer causing (Carcinogenic) substances into the human body. Any drug dependence or drug use that causes the person to neglect their personal hygiene, diet and/or dental care can significantly increase the risk of dental disease and overall health.
• Methamphetamine can cause severe tooth decay in a very short period of time. Methamphetamine is highly acidic and is known to attack tooth enamel. In addition, dry mouth, teeth grinding, and jaw clenching are commonly observed. This is among the most prominent and destructive drugs for teeth destruction.
• Ecstacy can cause teeth grinding (Bruxism), jaw clenching and dry mouth.

Periodontal Disease / Periodontal  Surgery

(Indication For Full Mouth Reconstruction)

Periodontal Disease is a process in which the supporting bone of the human dentition is compromised (Bone which the teeth are imbedded is lost). Ultimately, if left untreated, Periodontal Disease can lead to tooth loss. As Boca Raton Dentists, we perform Periodontal Surgery as part of our Suite Of Full Mouth Reconstructive Services. When Confronted with a case of Periodontal Disease, it is important to understand the etiology of the disease so corrective design features can be implemented in the Full Mouth Reconstructive Process and avoid periodontal relapse. Many cases of Periodontal Disease are secondary to a Traumatic Occlusion (Bite) and/or Disruptive Occlusal Plane Configurations. Conditions such as “Deep Bite”, Inverted “Curve Of Wilson”, Disrupted “Curve Of Spee”, and Unbalanced Occlusion can cause Periodontal Disease. Advanced cases of Periodontal Disease often end in tooth loss. Dental Implants and full Mouth Reconstruction Prosthetics become a viable treatment option in this circumstance.

Excessive Tooth Wear From Bruxism

(Indication For Full Mouth Reconstruction)

Bruxism (Teeth Grinding) is an extremely powerful destructive force in the human dentition. Left untreated, Bruxism can cause multiple problems with the teeth, gums, supporting bone, and TMJ. In addition, tertiary effects of Bruxism can adversely affect the overall physical and psychological health of these patients. Contributory Causes Of Bruxism include Stress, Occlusal Discrepancies, Planar  Discrepancies, Prescription Medications, Previous Dental Trauma, and Previous Tooth Loss. Full Mouth Reconstruction is not just a viable treatment option for restoring the destructive effects of Bruxism, It is a method of correcting and eliminating occlusal plane disruptions that caused the Bruxism initially. At Ericsson Dental, a protective “Night Guard” is fabricated as part of our “Full Mouth Reconstructive Process”. This very simple appliance is a hard / soft composition that creates a flat plane in which loading is greatly reduced to the teeth, supporting bone, and TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) during sleep. Any patient with signs of Bruxism should at least be adopting this very economical treatment option. As Boca Raton Dentists, we have witnessed enormous treatment benefits to multitudes of patients over our 30 year career.

Causes of Bruxism:

• Stress
• Inverted “Curve Of Wilson” (Plane Of patient's bite
• Deep Bite and/or Steep Guidance Planes  (steep bite planes)
• Disrupted “Curve Of Spee”
• Missing teeth causing Occlusal Planar Disruption and/or Imbalanced Occlusion (Bite)
• Trauma to the Mandible (Lower Jaw) causing injury to the TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint).
• Acid Erosion causing occlusal discrepancies and “Broad Surface Contacts”.
• Antidepressants (Example: Lexapro)

Bruxism Treatment Options

• Night Guard (simplest, fastest, and easiest solution for many cases)
• Composite Filling Restoration
• Selected Crown Restoration where needed
• Full Mouth Reconstruction (Crown Smile Makeover). Idealize Occlusion (Bite) , Vertical Dimension Of Occlusion (Bite Height), Occlusal Planes, and Esthetics.
• Occlusal Equilibration (Bite Adjustment)

Age Related Tooth Loss

(Indication For Full Mouth Reconstruction)

Generally, humans lose bone around their teeth as they age. Human teeth become worn, stained, and cracked with age. As the baby boom generation approaches retirement, many people are trying to “roll back the clock” in their physical appearance.  As Boca Raton Dentists, we are helping people to renew their smile painlessly, economically, and efficiently. Full Mouth Reconstruction aids the patient by creating a Functional and Esthetic Ideal. Occlusal Planes are Corrected, Teeth are Straightened, and Teeth are Restored to a youthful appearance. In addition, in the case of Full Mouth Reconstruction, the patient is free to pick the color of their new smile without constraints. Most cases are completed in 4 appointments over a 5-6 week period. The results are truly life changing.

Acid Reflux

(Indication For Full Mouth Reconstruction)

Acid Reflux (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease “GERD”) can have devastating effects on tooth enamel. Stomach acid is highly acidic and quickly demineralizes tooth enamel leaving the human dentition highly susceptible to tooth decay. When the enamel has been degraded throughout the mouth, only full coverage (Full Mouth Reconstruction) can restore the damage. Acid Reflux (GERD) affects a surprisingly large percentage of the U.S. population (20%). As Boca Raton Dentists, my wife and I have witnessed the many devastating effects of GERD. Because of our focus and expertise in Full Mouth Reconstruction, We are particularly well suited for helping patients with this very destructive condition.

Highly Acidic Diet

(Indication For Full Mouth Reconstruction)

As occurs in Acid Reflux, an Acidic Diet can have severe effects on the human dentition. The only difference is the origin of the acid. Acidic Diets which include such beverages as Coca Cola, Pepsi Cola, and Lemonade can cause severe damage to Teeth. Over the past 30 years, as Boca Raton Dentists, we have seen multitudes of patients that unknowingly have destroyed their teeth with chronic use of Acidic Beverages. The damage is particularly acute when the patient consumes it before bed and neglects to brush their teeth afterwards. Since Saliva flow decreases during sleep, it is extremely important to brush your teeth (preferably with a Sonicare Toothbrush), Waterpik, and Floss (preferably Unwaxed Floss) before bedtime. Leaving acid on your teeth overnight in the absence of Saliva is very detrimental to your dental health. Extensive broad surface Enamel Erosion caused by Acidic Beverages can only be restored by Full Mouth Reconstructive Dentistry. Concentrated Fluoride can be administered by our office to strengthen compromised tooth structure adversely affected by acidic diets if performed in the early stages of demineralization.

Bulimia

(Indication For Full Mouth Reconstruction)

Bulimia is a serious and potentially deadly eating disorder. It is a cycle of “Binge Eating” followed by “Purging” (self induced vomiting). During the Purge Cycle, the Teeth get exposed to Stomach Acid. Tooth Enamel can be completely eroded in a very short period of time in this disorder. As Boca Raton Dentists, Ericsson Dental has successfully treated many victims of this disorder. In General, the destruction is so pervasive that Full mouth Reconstruction is needed. Over the years, we have receive multiple referrals through Bulimia Help Group Organizations. We continue to treat these very special people with all of our heart and ability. We consider it an Honor to help these patients reverse the devastating oral effects of this affliction.

Dental Trauma Emergency Situations

(Indication For Full Mouth Reconstruction)

 

In the unfortunate event of an “Accident” involving the mouth, Ericsson Dental is available to help. Initially an injured patient should dial 911 and seek immediate medical attention at your local hospital. All local hospitals regularly refer patients to Ericsson Dental in Emergency Dental events. Once “Cleared” by the hospital Emergency Room, the Dental Emergency can be addressed by one of our Emergency Dentists In Boca Raton. It is advisable that you call as soon as being “Cleared” so we can discuss the best course of action regarding your Dental Emergency In Boca Raton. We are conveniently located for all Dental Emergency Situations between Spanish River and Yamato on Federal Highway. We are also are also very accessible for all Highland Beach Dental Emergency situations as well. If your Dental Emergency involves an Avulsed (knocked out) tooth or teeth, keep the tooth moist between your cheek and gum and see us as soon as possible. We have replanted multitudes of Teeth in this condition. In Dental Emergency Situations involving  a large portion of the mouth, Ericsson Dental is available for Full Mouth Reconstruction if it becomes necessary. We fully appreciate the traumatic physical and psychological effects these types of accidents cause.  We always try to restore the patient’s mouth with the patient’s appearance in mind. My Wife and I have been available as Boca Raton Dentists to aid patients in these very stressful situations for over 30 years. We have worked with multitudes of Physicians in aiding the patient’s total recovery. When looking for a Boca Raton Dentist in these types of Dental Emergencies, time and availability of the Dentist is of the prime importance. It is of critical importance that many of these Dental Emergencies be addressed promptly.

Amelogenesis Imperfecta

( Indication For Full Mouth Reconstruction)

Amelogenesis Imperfecta is a condition in which the enamel of the tooth improperly forms during tooth development. This “Tooth Development Disorder” causes the tooth to be prone to breakage and to appear “pitted” and “discolored”. Because of the “Broad Surface” effects of this disorder, Full Mouth Reconstruction is the only restorative option. A complete Crown and bridge restoration is a life changing event for these patients. As Boca Raton Dentists, we turn a major negative in their life into a MAJOR positive. The “hugs” we get when we finish these cases are Epic! These types of cases sustain my enjoyment in Dentistry.

Dentinogenesis Imperfecta

(Indication For Full Mouth Reconstruction)

Dentinogenesis Imperfecta is a Genetic Condition in which the Dentin (inner part of the tooth) is improperly formed. This condition causes the teeth to be discolored and weakened. Patients with this condition often demonstrate abnormal tooth wear. In order to address these issues, Full Mouth Reconstruction is often the recommended treatment of choice.

Tetracycline Staining

(Indication For Full Mouth Reconstruction)

When a child is administered Tetracycline (antibiotic) during permanent tooth development, intense permanent staining can occur in the permanent dentition. This condition can have severe mental, social, and professional consequences throughout the child’s life. Fortunately, Full Mouth Reconstruction from Ericsson Dental can completely remedy this situation. Tetracycline staining is so intense that few other Restorative options can adequately mask the stains. Porcelain Laminate Veneers are suitable is some limited clinical situations, but as a general rule, only Full Mouth Crown and Bridge coverage delivers suitable clinical results. As A Boca Raton Dentist, I have successfully treated numerous Tetracycline Staining Cases in the past 30 years. The results are truly transformative.

Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction TMJ / TMD

(Indication For Full Mouth Reconstruction)

The primary cause of Temporomandibular Dysfunction ( TMD / TMJ ) is Malocclusion (Traumatic Bite). Malocclusion can take the form of a “Deep Bite”, Disrupted Occlusal Planes (Inverted “Curve Of Wilson”), or simple Occlusal Prematurities (“High Spots “ in the bite). Ever since my tenure at Washington University School Of Dental Medicine, “Occlusion” has been a major focus of my career in Dentistry. If Full mouth Reconstruction is to be successfully performed, the Operating Dentist must have a firm understanding of the field of Occlusion. In addition, the Dentist must have knowledge in TMJ / TMD function and treatment. In severe cases of Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction caused by Planar Disruption or improper Vertical Dimension of Occlusion (improper bite height), Full Mouth Reconstruction is a viable treatment option and solution. By redesigning the entire mouth, oral function can be redesigned to reduce stress on the periodontium (gums and supporting bone around the teeth) and Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ). Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction, is most often caused by occlusal discrepancies which transfer stress (forces) to the TMJ. Reduction of the stress to normal levels can improve and sometimes fully reverse TMD. Even in chronic cases of TMD, it is very important to eliminate the origins of TMD to begin symptomatic recovery. As a Full Mouth Reconstructive Dentist In Boca Raton, we have been treating extensive and highly Dysfunctional TMJ cases for over 30 years.

Cosmetic Dentistry and Full Mouth Reconstruction