Our team at Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates of Nevada offers the most advanced dentistry and oral/facial surgical services available from our offices in Summerlin and the East Side of Las Vegas, 

We’re happy to provide information about dental implants, which, for many of our patients, are a very comfortable and cosmetically pleasing alternative to traditional crowns, dentures, or bridges.

Understanding dental implants

A dental implant includes a screw-like fixture or post, typically made from titanium and surgically implanted into the jawbone. Once the bone in your jaw bonds with the screw, it serves as a very stable anchor for the implant’s visible portion (crown).

The crown portion of the implant is typically made from porcelain and shaded carefully to match the color of your remaining teeth. Although very durable, implant crowns can be replaced if necessary. The screw portion of the implant is designed to remain within the jaw, where it mimics a natural tooth root.  

Implants can replace one or many missing teeth. Your oral surgeon may also recommend implants to secure dentures in place and help prevent slippage during everyday use.

What are the benefits of dental implants?

Dental implants offer many benefits when compared to other types of prosthetic teeth, including:  

• A very realistic appearance that closely resembles natural teeth

• Ease of care, i.e., brush and floss as usual

• Reduced risk of bone loss caused by missing teeth

• No slippage when chewing, smiling or talking

Perhaps the most significant benefit of dental implants is the self-confidence that comes with a healthy and cosmetically pleasing smile.

Are dental implants permanent?

The crown portion of an implant, like a natural tooth, is susceptible to chipping, cracking, and other similar damage over time. 

Minor repairs can be accomplished during routine office visits, and the crown itself can be replaced entirely for extensive damage sustained during a fall or other trauma, 

Generally, however, the crowns typically last for 10-15 years before natural wear and tear experienced with chewing requires a replacement. In most cases, the screw portion of the implant is expected to last for 25 years or more. 

In comparison, the American Dental Association recommends replacing or at least relining traditional dentures every five to 10 years.

Certain factors, however, can affect a dental implant’s longevity. These include:

• Receding gums, which can expose the implant and lead to bone loss

• Medical conditions such as diabetes, which increase your risk of infection and gum disorders

• Lack of sufficient bone at the time of the implant

• Poor placement of an implant within the jaw

• Loss of bone density due to osteoporosis

• Plaque buildup around an implant (peri-implant disease), typically due to poor oral hygiene

• Habits such as bruxism (teeth grinding) which is often correctable with a dental appliance

Keep in mind that many of these issues can be prevented or successfully treated as part of your routine oral health care.  

Our surgeons always complete a thorough exam, detailed review of your medical history, and diagnostic studies as necessary before recommending dental implants.

Schedule a visit at Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates of Nevada today for more information and guidance regarding dental implants, or any of the other services we offer.