Dental Implants by Board Certified Prosthodontist Steven Rhodes, DDS
Las Vegas
Steve Rhodes is board certified on a national level and offers exceptional service and procedures that you just can't find at a general dentist's office! Below is an overview of the dental implants procedure we offer at our local Las Vegas office.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants provide a way to replace missing teeth, as well as a permanent solution to removable partial or complete dentures, due to their long-lasting support and stability. Dental implants are artificial roots and teeth that mimic real teeth. They are surgically placed into your jaw bone to enhance your natural smile by filling in the areas where you may have missing teeth. The benefit to getting dental implants is that they are long-lasting and durable, though on occasion may need to be re-tightened or replaced due to normal wear.
Reasons for getting dental implants:
· Replace missing teeth without affecting surrounding teeth
· Fix joint pain or bite problems caused by teeth shifting into the empty tooth space
· Restore a full smile
· Restore chewing ability, resolve speech and digestion problems
· Support a bridge or denture to make it more secure and comfortable for the wearer
What does getting dental implants involve?
Dental implants typically involve a number of visits over several months, due to the stages required to adequately fit the implants.
Your initial visit will involve getting x-rays and impressions of your current teeth and jaw to determine the best placement and the amount of spacing available for your implant. When the implant is initially created, the placement area will be numbed and the tooth will be surgically placed into the bone of your jaw. It takes up to six months for the dental implant to fully heal and integrate into your jaw. Depending on whether or not the post and anchor to hold the tooth are placed initially, a second surgery may be required.
Several weeks after placement, the dental implants will be fitted to the post portion of the anchor. This part of the process can take between one to two months depending on how many fittings are required. After the healing period, the new artificial teeth are then securely attached to the implant.
Once treatment is complete, we will offer care instructions for your new artificial tooth or teeth. Our recommendations include cleaning your teeth regularly as well as setting up regular check-ups to the dentist to prolong the life of your dental implant.
Interested in a dental implant procedure? Contact our local Las Vegas office today to schedule a consultation! Our staff would be happy to assist you with any questions you may have regarding dental implants.