dental implants

Dental Implants are the preferred procedure for replacing missing teeth, whether it be a single tooth implant or an implant bridge to replace multiple missing teeth. Placing dental implants, as well as the final implants crowns, is a process that takes place over several months but the result is worth the investment of time and expense.  Dental implants offer a stable foundation for crowns and bridges, allowing them to last for years to come if cared for properly.  This blog will break down the what, when, why,and how of dental implants and why placement by your Henderson, NV dentist is the right choice for you.

What Are Dental Implants

Dental implants are posts made of titanium that are placed into the bone under your gums. Imagine a piece of construction rebar stuck in concrete or a screw in a piece of wood.  The implant replaces the function of the tooth root that is no longer there because the tooth was extracted, lost in an accident, or was never present at birth.  The post is placed below the gum line and allowed to heal for several months before a tooth is placed on the implant.  During that time, the implant fuses, or integrates, with the bone.  This allows for a strong foundation for the implant crown to attach to.  

When is Dental Implacemant a Viable Option

A dental implant is a viable option for patients that have lost teeth, of course, but there are considerations in order to predict the prognosis.  A dental implant needs:

1. Sufficient Bone Density – A strong and healthy jawbone is necessary to support the implant. If bone loss has occurred, bone grafting may be required.
2. Good Oral Health – Healthy gums and a mouth free from untreated periodontal disease are essential for successful implantation.
3. Commitment to Oral Hygiene – Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups help ensure the longevity of implants.
4. No Uncontrolled Medical Conditions – Conditions such as diabetes or autoimmune diseases should be well-managed before undergoing implant surgery.
5. No Sinus Interference-If the implant is placed in the maxilla, or upper jaw, the sinus membrane way need to be lifted up and out of the way of the implant, but not in all cases.

The first step in deciding if a dental implant is right for you, is to determine bone health and bone level with a CT image in our office. The CT image helps Dr. Ashley Christensen determine if a bone graft is needed in order to provide the implant with a strong foundation. The CT image also tells Dr. Christensen what size implant is appropriate based on the height of your bone.  If a dental implant is being placed in your maxilla, or upper jaw, Dr. Christensen will view the sinus on the CT scan and determine if it needs to be lifted up and out of the way before an implant is placed.  Our Henderson, NV dental team will also discuss your willingness to and understanding that proper home care and regular visits to your hygienist are crucial to the success of dental implants.

Why Choose Dental Implants? The Key Benefits

Dental implants offer numerous advantages compared to other tooth replacement options, including:

1. Natural Appearance – Implants look and feel just like real teeth, providing a seamless and aesthetic solution.
2. Improved Functionality – With implants, you can eat, speak, and smile with confidence, as they function just like natural teeth.
3. Durability – With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, making them a cost-effective investment in the long run.
4. Bone Preservation – Implants prevent bone loss by stimulating the jawbone, unlike traditional dentures, which can accelerate bone deterioration.
5. No Impact on Surrounding Teeth – Unlike dental bridges, which require support from adjacent teeth, implants stand independently, preserving the health of neighboring teeth.
6. Enhanced Oral Health – Since implants do not require alterations to nearby teeth, they help maintain the integrity of your natural tooth structure

How Dental Implants Replace Missing Teeth

Dental implants provide solutions for various levels of tooth loss. There are two primary ways implants replace missing teeth: single-tooth implants and implant-supported bridges.

Single-Tooth Implants

A single-tooth implant is used when one tooth is missing. The process involves:

1. Implant Placement – The titanium implant is surgically inserted into the jawbone under local anesthesia.
2. Healing and Osseointegration – Over the next several months, the implant integrates with the bone, ensuring stability.
3. Abutment Placement – Once the implant is secure, an abutment (a small connector piece) is attached to hold the crown.
4. Crown Attachment – A custom-made dental crown is placed on top, completing the restoration.

Implant-Supported Bridges

For patients missing multiple teeth in a row, an implant-supported bridge is an excellent alternative to traditional bridges or partial dentures. This option involves:

1. Placement of Two or More Implants – Instead of placing an implant for each missing tooth, two or more implants serve as anchors for a bridge.
2. Abutment and Bridge Placement – After osseointegration, abutments are placed, and a custom-designed bridge is securely attached.
3. Final Restoration – The bridge restores both function and aesthetics, allowing you to eat and smile confidently.

You can’t have one without the other! Once the dental implant is allowed proper time to integrate with the bone and healing is complete, the next step is to place the implant crown.  Measurements, scans, and impressions are taken and sent to a local dental lab in Las Vegas.  The lab then uses this information to fabricate a custom crown for your dental implant.  The crown is then seated at our Henderson, NV dental office.  The crown can either be cemented to the implant abutment, or be screwed to the abutment.  

Dental Implants:Long-Term Prognosis

With proper care, dental implants can last for years to come. Maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding smoking, and attending regular dental check-ups are key to ensuring the success of your implants. Unlike other dental restorations that may need replacement every few years, implants provide a durable and long-lasting solution if cared for properly.

Dental implants are a game-changing solution for replacing missing teeth, offering stability, functionality, and aesthetics. Whether you need a single-tooth implant or an implant-supported bridge, implants can restore your smile and improve your quality of life. If you're considering dental implants, consult with our Henderson, NV dentists to determine if you're a suitable candidate and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile!

A beautiful smile can significantly improve your confidence and quality of life.  However, dental problems like missing teeth or ill-fitting dentures can not only lower your confidence but also make simple life sustaining activities like eating and speaking difficult. Fortunately, advances in dental technology offer solutions, one of which is dental implant supported, or snap-on, dentures. At Christensen Dental, we understand the importance of a confident smile and aim to educate our patients about these transformative dental prosthetics.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the world of dental implants and dentures, covering what they are, how they work, the ideal candidate, and the top six advantages they offer our patients.

Understanding Implant Supported Dentures

Snap-on dentures, also known as overdentures or implant-supported dentures, are removable dentures designed to replace missing teeth. Unlike traditional dentures, which rely solely on suction or adhesive for stability, snap-on dentures are anchored securely onto dental implants that are placed below the gum line by Dr. Ashley Christensen.

Implant supported dentures have two components:

Denture Base: Similar to conventional dentures, the base of snap-on dentures is made of acrylic or other durable materials custom-designed to fit the patient's mouth.  This is the pink part of dentures made to look like natural oral tissue, and acrylic teeth.

Implant Attachments: Dental implants, made of durable titanium, are surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as sturdy anchors for the denture.   The implant is placed below the gum line and then allowed to heal for a period of four to six months.  This healing time allows the implant to integrate with the jawbone and provide a sturdy base for the abutments.  Abutments are attached to the implant and snap into the denture.  

How Do Implant Dentures Work?

The procedure for snap-on dentures generally involves several stages:

Consultation and Evaluation: A thorough examination is conducted by our Henderson dentists to determine the patient's suitability for snap-on dentures. This includes assessing oral health, bone density, and discussing the patient's expectations.

Implant Placement: Dental implants are placed into the jawbone during a surgical procedure performed in our Henderson office by Dr. Ashley Christensen. Healing time is necessary to allow the dental implants to fuse with the bone (osseointegration), ensuring a strong foundation for the dentures.  This healing process typically takes four to six months.

Customization and Fitting: Impressions of the patient's mouth are taken to create custom dentures that fit comfortably and securely. Patients see a mockup of the dentures in wax, so that they have a complete picture of what the final denture will look like.  This also gives the patient and our Henderson dentists the opportunity to discuss any changes to the shade and/or shape of the teeth before the final denture is made in the lab.  Once complete, the dentures are then attached to the dental implants through specialized connectors.

Follow-Up Visits: Regular check-ups at Christensen Dental are essential to monitor the healing process, make any necessary adjustments, and ensure the dentures function optimally.

Ideal Candidates for Implant Supported Dentures

Snap-on dentures are an excellent option for individuals who:

Are Missing Multiple Teeth: Whether due to injury, decay, or other dental issues, those missing multiple teeth can benefit from snap-on dentures as a replacement solution.  Replacing multiple teeth this way, rather than with individual implants and crowns, will often be less expensive.

Seek Enhanced Stability: If you are frustrated with the instability of traditional dentures, snap -on dentures are a wonderful option.  This is especially true if you have a lower denture that moves around when you speak or eat.  The bottom of your mouth and tongue are soft and mobile for the purpose of mastication and speaking, but it can be frustrating to adapt to lower dentures when speaking or eating.  Snap-on dentures are a more secure alternative for patients with a lower denture.

Have Good Oral Health: Excellent oral health and a healthy jawbone are prerequisites for successful implant placement. However, bone grafting procedures can sometimes be performed to improve the likelihood that an implant placement will be successful.  Our Henderson dentists will evaluate your bone level before placing implants and keep you informed if you are a candidate for snap-on dentures.

Desire Improved Functionality: Snap-on dentures allow for better chewing and speaking capabilities compared to traditional dentures, enhancing overall functionality.  As mentioned above, lower dentures especially move quite a bit when you speak or eat.  Adapting to this while learning to use your lower denture can be done but can often be frustrating for patients.  Snap-on dentures eliminate that annoyance.

Want Aesthetic Improvement: Beyond functionality, these dentures offer a natural-looking smile, boosting confidence and self-esteem.  During the process, we will work with you each step of the way to select a tooth shade and shape that is appropriate for your face shape, structure, and personal preference.

Snap-on dentures offered at Christensen Dental provide a transformative solution for patients seeking reliable, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing tooth replacement options. With their numerous advantages, these dentures not only restore functionality but also boost confidence and improve overall quality of life.

If you're considering dental implants for dentures as a solution to missing teeth or unstable traditional dentures, we are here to guide you through the process, ensuring a personalized treatment plan that meets your unique needs and goals.

Contact Christensen Dental today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards regaining your smile and confidence.

When we think about maintaining a healthy heart, brushing and flossing might not be the first things that come to mind. However, research has revealed a connection between oral health and cardiovascular health. Understanding this link could be a game-changer in how we approach both dental care and heart disease prevention. In this blog, we will explore the relationship between oral health and heart health, the science behind it, and practical steps you can take to protect both your smile and your heart. Christensen Dental is here to help you along the way!

The Science Behind the Connection

How Oral Health Affects the Heart

The mouth is often considered the gateway to the body, and it's home to millions of bacteria—some beneficial and some harmful. Poor oral hygiene can lead to the accumulation of harmful bacteria, causing gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis. These conditions are characterized by inflammation and infection of the gums, which can have far-reaching effects beyond the mouth.

The link between oral health and heart health primarily revolves around inflammation. Chronic inflammation in the gums can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis—a condition where plaque builds up in the arteries, leading to heart disease. Bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream, triggering an inflammatory response that affects the heart's arteries.

Key Studies and Findings

Several studies have highlighted the association between periodontal disease and cardiovascular conditions:

American Heart Association (AHA): Research published by the AHA suggests that periodontal disease is associated with an increased risk of heart disease. People with gum disease are nearly twice as likely to suffer from coronary artery disease compared to those with healthy gums.

European Society of Cardiology: A study found that individuals with severe gum disease had a higher likelihood of experiencing a heart attack.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): The CDC reports that heart disease and periodontal disease share common risk factors, such as smoking, poor diet, and diabetes, further linking the two conditions.

Understanding Periodontal Disease

What is Periodontal Disease?

Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It is primarily caused by poor brushing and flossing habits that allow plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—to build up on the teeth and harden.

There are two main stages of periodontal disease:

Gingivitis: The early stage of gum disease, characterized by red, swollen gums that may bleed easily. Gingivitis is reversible with good oral hygiene.

Periodontitis: The advanced stage, where the gums pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that become infected. This can lead to tooth loss and has been linked to systemic health issues, including heart disease.

Symptoms to Watch For:

Swollen, red, or tender gums

Bleeding while brushing or flossing

Persistent bad breath

Receding gums

Loose or shifting teeth

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact our Henderson, NV dental office to schedule a consult, get back on track with your cleanings, and get updated x-rays and an exam done.  Getting a full picture of your oral health helps Dr. Ashley Christensen and Dr. Tyler Christensen, address your treatment needs with you.

The Mechanisms Linking Oral and Heart Health

Bacterial Invasion and Inflammation

When the gums are inflamed due to periodontal disease, the protective barrier in the mouth is compromised. This allows bacteria to enter the bloodstream, where they can travel to other parts of the body, including the heart. Once in the bloodstream, these bacteria can attach to damaged areas in the heart and contribute to the formation of arterial plaques.

Immune System Response

The body’s immune response to these bacteria can lead to chronic inflammation, which is a significant risk factor for the development of atherosclerosis. This condition narrows the arteries and restricts blood flow, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Shared Risk Factors

Oral health and heart health share several common risk factors, including:

Smoking: A major risk factor for both gum disease and heart disease.

Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can contribute to gum disease and increase the risk of heart disease.

Poor Diet: Diets high in sugar and unhealthy fats can affect both oral and cardiovascular health.

Obesity: Being overweight increases the risk of both periodontal disease and heart disease.

Populations at Higher Risk

Diabetics

People with diabetes are more prone to infections, including gum disease. Poor blood sugar control can exacerbate periodontal issues, which in turn can make it harder to manage diabetes—creating a vicious cycle that also elevates heart disease risk.

Pregnant Women

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase the risk of gum disease, which has been linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes like preterm birth and low birth weight. These complications can also have long-term effects on the mother's heart health.

Older Adults

Aging naturally increases the risk of both periodontal disease and heart disease. Maintaining good oral hygiene becomes even more critical with age to prevent these interconnected health issues.

Preventive Measures for a Healthy Mouth and Heart

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Brush Twice Daily: Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your teeth thoroughly.

Floss Daily: Flossing removes plaque and food particles between teeth that brushing alone can’t reach.

Use Antiseptic Mouthwash: This can help reduce bacteria and plaque in the mouth.

Regular Dental Checkups

Professional Cleanings: Regular visits to our Henderson, NV dental office for cleanings and checkups can help detect early signs of gum disease.

Periodontal Screenings: Our dentists can perform screenings to assess gum health and recommend appropriate treatments.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Quit Smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for both gum disease and heart disease. Quitting can significantly improve your overall health.

Eat a Balanced Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains supports both oral and cardiovascular health.

Exercise Regularly: Physical activity improves circulation and helps manage weight, reducing the risk of both gum disease and heart disease.

Manage Stress: Chronic stress can affect your immune system, making it harder to fight off infections like gum disease.

When to Seek Help from Christensen Dental

Dental Warning Signs

If you notice any of the following symptoms, schedule an appointment with our Henderson, NV Dental Office:

Persistent bad breath

Gums that bleed easily

Pain while chewing

Loose or sensitive teeth

Receding gums or changes in the fit of your dentures

Medical Warning Signs

Consult your healthcare provider if you experience:

Chest pain or discomfort

Shortness of breath

Unusual fatigue

Irregular heartbeat

Early detection and treatment are key to preventing serious health issues.

The connection between oral health and heart health underscores the importance of a holistic approach to well-being. By taking care of your teeth and gums, you’re not just preserving your smile—you’re also protecting your heart. Regular dental checkups, good oral hygiene, and a healthy lifestyle can go a long way in reducing the risk of both gum disease and cardiovascular issues.

Remember, your mouth is a window to your overall health. Prioritize both dental and heart health for a longer, healthier life. If you have any concerns about your oral health or how it might be affecting your heart, don’t hesitate to reach out to our dental providers and your healthcare provider. Together, we can create a plan that supports your health from head to heart.

References:

American Heart Association. "Periodontal Disease and Cardiovascular Health."

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Oral Health Conditions."

European Society of Cardiology. "Gum Disease and Heart Disease Risk."

Mayo Clinic. "The Connection Between Oral Health and Overall Health."