At Prosper Family Dentistry, we’re proud to offer tooth replacement options to restore smile aesthetics and promote better oral health for our patients.
We also teach patients how to care for their new smiles after treatment and are always here if they have questions.
If you’re considering tooth replacement, including dental implants in Prosper, TX, we can help.
Now, let’s explore more about dental implants, including their upkeep and care.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are new tooth roots fabricated from biocompatible titanium. We use titanium because it has a long and proven track record—joint replacement, dental implants, and more.
Biocompatible means it can easily integrate into the bone, almost as if intended to be there! For dental implants, this means a strong foundation for a replacement tooth or prosthetic. Single dental implants rely on a dental crown capping the new tooth root. Prosthetics typically means four to six implants to secure an upper or lower denture to the jaw.
After your dentist surgically inserts your dental implants into the jaw, there is an integration period before crowning or prosthetic placement.
Dental Implants and Sedation Dentistry in Prosper, TX
For dental implant placement, we use local anesthesia. However, if you have an easy gag reflex, anxiety, or fear, we are happy to speak with you about our sedation dentistry, including nitrous oxide.
Nitrous oxide is a safe gas delivered to you through a nasal mask. While under its influence, you’ll feel relaxed and removed from your dental treatment—you’ll know what’s going on, but you’re unlikely to care very much. And your nitrous oxide is always coupled with local anesthesia during implant placement.
Why Your Prosper, TX Dentist Recommends Dental Implants
Our dental team (and most dentists) recommend dental implants above other tooth replacement options because they are like natural teeth.
First, they are the only option that replaces your lost root and your missing tooth. This makes them incredibly durable and provides a more natural function, restoring bite force and helping prevent jawbone loss and tooth migration. Jawbone loss can lead to tooth sensitivity and a prematurely aged appearance. Tooth migration throws off your bite and leads to tooth wear and tear.
With dental implants, you can incorporate crunchy foods and smile without worry. Dental implants never shift or move, giving you smile security.
Caring for Dental Implants
Dental implants are so like natural teeth that they are like a smile do-over. However, you want to maintain your implants for function and longevity.
Remember, it’s crucial to maintain gum health to prevent dental implant failure and further tooth loss.
Single Dental Implant Care
- Treat single implants like natural teeth.
- Brush and floss at least twice daily or after every meal.
- Visit your dentist twice yearly for oral checkups and dental cleanings.
- Talk to your dentist if you notice oral health changes.
- Talk to your dentist if you suspect bruxism (teeth grinding).
- Talk to your dentist about a mouthguard if you play sports.
Implant-Supported Denture Care
You can clean restorative teeth with a denture brush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Denture pastes are not the same as traditional toothpaste, so make sure you choose one that is made for dentures. You can also use a water flosser to clean debris from beneath the denture or rinse regularly with a non-alcohol mouthwash.
Your dentist may provide more personalized care tips depending on your unique case.
Learn Whether Dental Implants Are Right for You
We start you with a consultation to ensure candidacy for tooth replacement, including dental implants. At this visit, we consider jawbone health, sinus placement, and your specific smile goals before moving forward with dental implants.
This is a great time to ask questions and share your concerns with the dentist.
Often, you’re approved right away for dental implants. Other times, we recommend specific pretreatments to bring you into candidacy.
Your dentist will let you know what to expect.
Contact Your Dentist Office in Prosper, TX
If you have questions or are ready to schedule your consultation for dental implants in Prosper, TX, a team member at Prosper Smiles Family Dentistry is available to assist you today. We're here to help you take the next step towards restoring your smile.
We are happy to work with CareCredit financing, flexible spending accounts (FSA), and health savings accounts (HSA). And don’t forget to ask a team member about our Smile Savers Plan.