Las Vegas Dental Implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth. They also stimulate bone growth and prevent bone loss that can occur when a tooth is missing.

Dental implants have a track record of success comparable or better than other tooth replacement options. Patients who practice good oral hygiene and have a strong immune system have the best chance for successful implants.

As the premier restoration for missing teeth, dental implants are designed to look and feel like natural teeth. They don’t slide around, shift out of place or break apart, and they help to support the jawbone structure, preventing bone loss. These three primary components, along with the surgical technique and materials used to craft an implant, work together harmoniously to provide patients with a permanent tooth replacement solution that looks as good as it feels.

Experienced dentists are skilled at assessing an individual’s unique teeth, gum lines and smile features to ensure an implant that blends seamlessly and complements existing teeth. They also understand the technical details of an implant, including the precise shape and size of the tooth it will replace. These small distinctions make a big difference in ensuring that the implant doesn’t stand out as a sore thumb, but rather becomes indistinguishable from the rest of your smile.

The abutment and crown that make up an implant are also carefully crafted to match the color, size and shape of the surrounding teeth. This is particularly important for patients requiring multiple implants to fill an entire mouth. The emergence profile of the implant should mimic the contours of the gum tissue, and the abutment must be crafted in such a way as to prevent gaps or ledges from forming between adjacent teeth.

Once in place, an implant fuses to the jawbone, helping to preserve its strength and supporting the surrounding teeth for an attractive, full-smile appearance. It is this natural aesthetic that has drawn many patients to dental implants, and which is reflected in the before-and-after cases that showcase how transformative they can be for a patient’s self-confidence and sense of well being.

Dental implants are also a long-lasting option, potentially lasting a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. Regular brushing and flossing, along with consistent follow-up visits for oral health checks, will help to keep your implants looking fresh and healthy. A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and other essential nutrients is also beneficial to the longevity of your implants.

Function

Dental implants are designed to provide an anchor for replacement teeth that look and function like natural teeth. This is accomplished by combining a titanium post that functions like a tooth root with an artificial crown. Titanium is a biocompatible metal that does not react with body tissues and encourages bone cells to grow on its surface.

This process, known as osseointegration, is what keeps the implant in place and prevents it from shifting or falling out of place. It is what gives dental implants their long-term durability and success.

When you get a tooth implant, your jawbone will begin to grow around it. Over time, this fuses the implant in place.

Unlike dentures, which can slip and lead to sore gums and mouth infections, dental implants are more comfortable and offer a better fit. They also don’t need to be anchored to neighboring teeth, which reduces the risk of those teeth needing treatment to support dentures.

The first step of the implant process involves a thorough evaluation and planning for your specific needs. Your dentist will take X-rays and 3D images of your teeth and jaw and make models. They may also refer you to a specialist to ensure you’re healthy enough for the procedure and to determine whether you have sufficient bone for an implant.

Once your doctor has determined that you’re a good candidate for dental implants, they will schedule surgery. During this procedure, the surgeon will create a space in your jawbone for the implant using a drill. They may also remove any excess bone or tissue that isn’t needed. Once the implant is in place, they will close the surgical site.

Following surgery, you may experience pain or discomfort in the area of the implant. This is normal and can be alleviated through over-the-counter or prescription painkillers. The surgical site may heal faster if you avoid smoking or other habits that can slow the healing process.

The healing process for the implant body may take several months, during which time you can eat and drink as usual. Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions regarding oral hygiene and routine care, as this is crucial for the long-term health of the implant.

Maintenance

Dental implants, the modern marvels of restorative dentistry, offer life-changing restorations to patients with missing teeth. However, they aren’t a “fit and forget” solution; they require constant monitoring, care and maintenance to ensure longevity. A patient’s commitment to a healthy oral hygiene routine is one of the most important factors in maintaining dental implant success and achieving long-term results.

It is important to note that dental implants can only be considered for edentulous patients in good general health. Chronic illnesses and habits such as tobacco use can interfere with healing and may prevent successful results. For these reasons, it is crucial that patients consult with a medical professional to determine if this treatment is right for them.

During the recovery period, it is important to follow all post-op instructions from your dental professional. These will vary, but may include restricting foods to soft ones to avoid putting unnecessary pressure on the surgical site. It is also important to rinse with saline solution to remove food particles and keep the area clean.

The most important aspect of maintenance is the continued commitment to a daily routine of brushing and flossing. This is important to eliminate the buildup of plaque, which can cause gum disease. Left untreated, gum disease around the implants can lead to bone loss (peri-implantitis). This is similar to the onset of periodontal disease in natural teeth, and will ultimately result in loss of the implant.

Routine dental exams, cleanings and x-rays are also critical for the success of implant restorations. They allow your dental professional to detect and address issues such as inflammation and infection early, preventing more severe problems down the road.

It is also essential to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water as this will offer many health benefits, not just to your teeth and gums but your entire body. A well-hydrated body is better equipped to fight infections and other diseases, including those related to the immune system.

Comfort

Unlike other tooth replacement options, dental implants are permanently embedded in your jawbone. This means they won’t slip or shift as you eat, speak, smile, laugh, yawn or cough. This also eliminates the need to use messy adhesives to secure your prosthetic, eliminating a potential source of pain and discomfort.

Additionally, because the implant integrates with your bone, it helps stimulate and preserve the bone, preventing further deterioration of your jawline and face. This prevents a hollow appearance and offers greater stability for your other teeth.

The implant surgery can be uncomfortable, but this is typically only for a short period of time and can be easily managed with analgesics. Dentists have been performing and perfecting this procedure for more than 30 years, so they are experts at making it as comfortable as possible. Most dentists will use a combination of local anesthesia, I.V. sedation or nitrous oxide to keep you numb and relaxed during the procedure.

With proper oral hygiene practices, you can expect your dental implants to last a lifetime. However, as they are a permanent solution, you’ll need to visit your dentist regularly for routine cleaning and maintenance to ensure they stay healthy.

Tooth replacement solutions with a bridge require the sacrifice of other teeth, which can lead to further oral health problems. Dental implants are a more permanent solution that preserves the strength of your natural teeth, jawbone and facial structure.

If you’re missing one or more of your teeth, it may be tempting to ignore them. But leaving gaps in your mouth can lead to further complications, including the shifting of other remaining teeth and a higher risk of gum disease, decay or even TMJ issues. Dental implants are a permanent solution that helps prevent these issues and keeps your smile looking beautiful.

Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth, so you can regain your confidence and a more youthful appearance. They also improve your ability to eat and speak, and can help reduce jawbone resorption and maintain your overall oral health. If you’re considering a tooth replacement option, schedule a consultation to see if dental implants are the right fit for you.