Dental Implants Are a Low-Maintenance Solution

Dental Implants Las Vegas look, feel, and function like natural teeth. They’re almost impossible to tell apart from other teeth in your smile. Unlike other tooth replacement options, dental implants don’t require that we remove healthy, nearby teeth to place them. This helps preserve your jaw bone and significantly reduces bone resorption.

When people have a gap where a tooth should be, they want their replacement teeth to look and feel like natural teeth. And that’s exactly what dental implants do. Dental implant restorations fuse into the jawbone and function like natural teeth, helping prevent bone deterioration and giving patients the confidence boost that comes from full-functioning, natural-looking smiles.

Many patients worry that their new teeth won’t look natural or will feel strange in their mouths. Fortunately, technological advances have made dental implants more natural looking and feeling than ever before. Getting dental implants begins with a thorough oral exam, including dental X-rays and 3D images. This is done so that the dentist can better assess your dental health and the condition of the bone that will support the implant.

Once the dental exam is complete, the surgeon will remove any damaged or decayed teeth that are present and prepare the area for the implant. Then, the abutment, which will be screwed on or cemented to the implant, is placed and the crown is attached. A special color-matching wheel of cards is used to ensure that the crown matches the rest of the patient’s mouth. When done right, it’s extremely difficult for people to tell that the person has dental implants.

The only thing that might be slightly off is the way that the implants feel in their mouths. This is due to the fact that the implant does not have any nerves, whereas a natural tooth has roots with nerves. However, this sensation should not last long. Once the implant heals and you get accustomed to the feeling, you should be able to speak and eat just as you did before the procedure.

Just as you would with any type of tooth replacement, it is important to practice good oral hygiene and brush, floss and visit the dental office regularly for professional cleanings. This helps to maintain the overall health of the implants and the adjacent restorations, and keep them looking as beautiful as possible for a lifetime.

When you lose a tooth, the bone in your jaw starts to weaken and deteriorate. This can lead to remaining teeth shifting out of place and sagging in the face. The titanium anchor of a dental implant replaces the missing tooth root, and it stimulates your bone to keep it strong.

Your dentist can surgically place a single dental implant or several to restore an entire row of missing teeth. A titanium implant is fused to the bone through a process called osseointegration. A connector post called an abutment connects the fusion site to the crown, which holds the new tooth.

Dental implants are more expensive than traditional bridges and dentures, but they last longer and prevent further bone loss in the jaw. They also look and feel more natural than other tooth replacement options. Your dental team will develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs and the condition of your jaw and remaining teeth.

If you have extensive bone loss in your jaw, your dentist may recommend a bone graft before placing the dental implant. The bone is removed from another part of the mouth or body and placed at the site where you need it (alveolar bone graft), or synthetic or natural bone is added to the area where you’ll receive an implant (onlay bone graft).

Once the implant has healed, your dentist will attach the crown to the abutment. Then, you’ll care for the implant just as you would your other teeth to ensure it stays healthy and strong.

If you want to replace multiple teeth, your dentist can also make a fixed bridge or full denture that connects to the dental implants. Your dentist may use a special type of dental implant known as a mini-implant, which is smaller than a regular implant but still provides a strong connection between the abutment and crown. Mini-implants are best for patients who have minimal bone loss in one or two adjacent teeth.

Unlike dentures or dental bridges that can lose their stability over time, dental implants are fused to the jaw bone, making them permanent. However, like natural teeth, they still need proper care to last a lifetime. We recommend brushing and flossing twice daily as well as using an alcohol-free mouthwash on a regular basis. We also advise patients to visit us for routine cleanings and checkups.

These steps will help keep your implant healthy and strong. By following these guidelines, your implant can last a lifetime, allowing you to smile confidently without worrying about your replacements.

There are some circumstances that can affect your implant’s lifespan, such as a preexisting medical condition or smoking. We can evaluate these factors and determine if an implant is the right solution for you.

Many people choose to get dental implants when they have missing or damaged teeth. They want to regain the ability to chew and speak with ease. Additionally, gaps in the mouth can lead to lisps and other speech impediments. Implants can improve your diction and give you the confidence to communicate with anyone, whether it’s a friend or a colleague.

Dental implants are also a great option for people who have dentures or bridges. They can prevent the need for messy denture adhesives and they won’t shift around in your mouth while you’re eating or talking.

In some cases, a dentist can place the dental implant and restoration (like a crown or bridge) all in one appointment. This procedure, known as simultaneous loading, can reduce the recovery time by minimizing stress on your gums and bone.

It’s important to note that no two dental implants are the same, and each person heals differently. During your consultation, we will evaluate the health of your gums and bones, as well as any underlying conditions that could impact your healing. We will also review your lifestyle to ensure that you’re a good candidate for dental implants. For example, smoking can interfere with the healing process and make implants less effective. We can work with you to help you quit smoking if it’s an issue for you.

Unlike dentures and bridges that may need special cleaning products or adhesives, dental implants are a low-maintenance solution. They function just like natural teeth and are made to last a lifetime. But they still need your regular oral care and routine visits to the dentist for professional maintenance and cleanings.

Brushing and flossing are the first things you’ll need to do after a tooth extraction and the healing process for your new implant. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle flossing technique to avoid damage to your gums and teeth. Drink lots of water to keep your mouth and gums hydrated and to remove excess bacteria.

Dental implants can also be damaged by hard or sticky foods, so it’s important to make wise food choices as well. Stick to foods that are easily chewed and swallowed. Avoid chewing ice cubes or hard candy and be careful when eating caramel or other sticky foods.

If you have an implant-supported bridge, it’s important to clean the nooks and crannies between the artificial teeth and your gums with an interproximal brush. A dental flosser that loosens and flushes away plaque with a pressurized stream of water can also be used to keep your implant-supported bridge healthy.

The most significant factor in keeping your dental implants healthy is avoiding damaging habits, such as excessive or prolonged smoking. Smoking can greatly reduce the rate at which your mouth heals after surgery and can lead to gum disease or even total tooth loss in the long term.

If you’re missing a single or multiple teeth and are considering dental implants to restore your smile, the best thing you can do is schedule an initial FREE consultation with one of our experienced implant dentists. They’ll be able to assess your oral health and provide a complete treatment plan, including an estimate of time and costs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthier, more beautiful smile.