If you have a missing or damaged tooth, you may want to know whether you are a candidate for dental implants. These appliances can transform your smile and improve your quality of life.

Fortunately, most healthy adult patients are good candidates for dental implants. This blog will explain what makes a patient a candidate and describe the process of receiving implants.

Patients Eligible for Dental Implants

You can probably receive dental implants if you have one or more problem teeth. Here are several characteristics of the ideal implant patient:

Teeth Needing Replacement

A dental implant can replace just one tooth or an entire arch. No matter how many teeth you are missing, you may be able to receive a full, natural-looking smile.

Healthy Gums

A successful dental implant surgery depends on healthy gums. If the gums are not robust, you may experience a post-surgical infection and implant failure.

Strong Jawbone Mass

A dental implant needs adequate bone mass to place an anchor. If your tooth has been missing for any length of time, its socket will begin to reabsorb into your body. Patients with compromised jawbone mass can receive a dental bone graft to add more healthy tissue.

Good Overall Health

Good health is required for recovery from dental implant surgery. Patients with certain illnesses and chronic conditions may need to delay receiving implants.

The Dental Implant Process

Step 1: Consultation

Your first appointment will involve meeting the dentist and discussing your expectations. The dentist will take highly detailed digital scans of your oral structures to determine whether you are a good candidate for the procedure.

If you have low jawbone mass in the area where the implant will go, you will need a bone graft from an oral surgeon before proceeding.

Step 2: Removing the Damaged Tooth

Next, the damaged tooth will need to be extracted. Sometimes, the dentist can place the implant in the same appointment as the tooth extraction.

Step 3: Bone Grafting

Patients with compromised jawbone mass need to see an oral surgeon for a bone graft. A bone graft is a simple surgical procedure that places ground and sterilized bone material in the jawbone, covered by a dissolvable membrane. Over a few months, the bone material will encourage your body to produce new, healthy tissue.

Step 4: Dental Implant Placement

After any bone grafts have healed, you can proceed to dental implant surgery. The dentist provides anesthesia and inserts the small titanium anchor in your jawbone.

Step 5: Bone Healing

The anchor will permanently bond with your jawbone in osseointegration, creating a solid base for your final restoration.

Step 6: Abutment Placement

During your following procedure, the dentist places a stainless steel cap or abutment over the anchor. The abutment will hold the restoration.

Step 7: Final Restoration

After healing, the anchor and abutment will be ready to accept a crown, bridge, or denture. Your dentist will ensure the final restoration has a perfect fit. After your implant heals, you can eat anything you want without worry.

Potential Issues

Patients with the following conditions should speak to their primary care physician before planning implant surgery:

• Any medical condition that impedes healing (cancer, uncontrolled diabetes, etc.)
• Other health issues that preclude oral surgery
• Untreated tooth decay or gum disease
• Smoking or tobacco use
• Pregnancy

Caring For Your Implants

Single-tooth dental implants require the same care as healthy teeth. To ensure your implant's health, brush and floss regularly and see your dentist often.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants

Which is better, implants or traditional dentures?

Dental implants have many advantages over conventional dentures. Implants do not slip, click, or trap food. They require significantly less maintenance and fewer follow-up visits. They keep the jawbone healthy and do not require relining. You can choose from single-tooth implants, bridges, and implant-supported dentures to meet your needs.

Is dental implant surgery uncomfortable?

Thanks to local anesthesia, the surgery itself is painless. However, you may experience minor discomfort while your implants heal. You may need over-the-counter or prescription medication. As healing progresses, you can gradually add your favorite foods to your diet.

Call Davis Gribble Hollowwa Dental

Dental implants can create a gorgeous, natural smile and boost your oral health. Your dentist can help determine whether you can benefit from this advanced procedure. Please call our Albuquerque, NM, office at 505-898-1976 to schedule a consultation today.

Dental implants are today's most advanced type of tooth replacement. They can help patients regain a healthy smile that looks and feels natural.

Patients thinking about getting dental implants may feel uneasy about the procedure. Luckily, it is much more straightforward than anticipated. Our step-by-step guide will help you know what to expect.

The Dental Implant Procedure

Step 1: Patient Consultation

Your first appointment will be a consultation with your implant dentist. Your dentist will help you decide on the best solution for missing or damaged teeth.

They will take high-resolution digital X-rays to determine whether you are a good candidate for the implant procedure and check your jaw's anatomy and strength.

Step 2: Extractions

Next, your dentist will extract damaged teeth to make way for the replacements. We perform most extractions in our office for your convenience.

Step 3: Bone Grafts

You may need a bone graft procedure if your imaging scans indicate low bone density. An oral surgeon places ground and sterilized bone material in your jawbone, covering it with a dissolvable membrane and leaving it to heal. The material becomes a scaffold for new, healthy bones to grow. Within six months, your graft will have strengthened your jawbone enough to place the implant.

Step 4: Placing the Implant Post

The dentist uses a unique tool to make a small opening in the bone and inserts a titanium anchor. The post bonds with the bone to create a rock-solid foundation for your new implant.

Step 5: Abutment Placement

After a few months of healing, the dentist places a cap or abutment atop the implant post. The abutment will support the final crown restoration.

Step 6: Placing the Restoration

The abutment will heal before the final step. Your dentist will create an attractive crown, bridge, or denture that matches your natural teeth and then secure it.

The Healing Process

Follow your dentist's post-surgical instructions to ensure proper healing. Many patients feel discomfort for only a few weeks after the procedure. After the first seven to ten days, you should be able to eat most of the foods you usually enjoy.

Taking Care of Your Dental Implants

After your implants have healed, they need no more care than healthy natural teeth. Brush, floss, and visit your dentist as required.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants

How long do dental implants last?

The implant post itself may last decades to a lifetime. Due to normal wear, the restoration on top may need replacement every ten to fifteen years.

How uncomfortable is implant surgery?

Advanced procedures and anesthesia have made the implant procedure more comfortable than ever. Many patients opt for sedation, especially if they are having more than one implant done. Others find that local anesthesia is sufficient.

Call Davis Gribble Hollowwa Dental

If you've been thinking about dental implants, we would happily answer your questions and help you understand whether this procedure is the right choice. Please call our Albuquerque, NM, office at 505-898-1976 to schedule your consultation.

Dental implant surgery is a delicate and intricate procedure that requires proper aftercare to ensure successful healing. One of the most critical aspects of post-operative care is following a strict diet that promotes healing and minimizes discomfort.

After dental implant surgery, it is essential to avoid hard, crunchy, and chewy foods that can disrupt the implant area and cause pain. Instead, patients must opt for soft and nutritious foods that provide the necessary nutrients and support for the healing process.

In this comprehensive list, we will explore a wide range of soft and solid foods that are safe to eat after dental implant surgery. Whether you are recovering from a single implant or a full mouth restoration, this guide will help you navigate your post-operative diet and make informed choices that promote optimal healing.

Importance of diet after dental implant surgery

Diet plays a crucial role in post-operative care after dental implant surgery. The food you eat can significantly affect the healing process and determine the success of your implant. After surgery, the implant area is delicate and requires time to heal properly. Eating the wrong foods can disrupt the healing process and cause discomfort, swelling, and even infection. Therefore, it is essential to follow a strict diet plan that promotes healing and minimizes discomfort.

A soft food diet is recommended for the first few days after surgery to promote healing and minimize discomfort. Soft foods are easy to chew and swallow, reducing the risk of disrupting the implant area. As the healing process progresses, patients can gradually transition to solid foods. However, it is crucial to avoid hard, crunchy, and chewy foods for at least two weeks after surgery to prevent any damage to the implant area.

Soft foods to eat after dental implant surgery

After dental implant surgery, it is crucial to consume soft foods that are easy to chew and swallow. Soft foods are gentle on the implant area, reducing the risk of discomfort and swelling. Here are some of the best soft foods to eat after dental implant surgery:

• Soups and broths: Soups and broths are easy to swallow and can be easily customized to include a variety of vegetables and protein sources. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals, making them an excellent option for promoting healing.
• Mashed potatoes: Mashed potatoes are easy to chew and swallow and can be seasoned to your liking with herbs and spices. They are also a good source of potassium, which is essential for proper healing.
• Yogurt: Yogurt is a soft and creamy food that is easy to eat and rich in protein and probiotics. It helps to promote healing and reduce inflammation, making it an excellent choice for post-operative care.
• Scrambled eggs: Scrambled eggs are easy to chew and swallow and are a good source of protein. They can be seasoned with herbs and spices to add flavor and variety to your post-operative diet.
• Smoothies: Smoothies are a great way to get in essential nutrients while also being easy to swallow. They can be customized with a variety of fruits and vegetables to provide a wide range of vitamins and minerals.

Foods to avoid after dental implant surgery

After dental implant surgery, it is essential to avoid certain foods that can disrupt the healing process and cause discomfort. Here are some of the foods to avoid after dental implant surgery:

• Hard and crunchy foods: Hard and crunchy foods can cause damage to the implant area and should be avoided for at least two weeks after surgery. This includes foods like nuts, popcorn, and chips.
• Sticky and chewy foods: Sticky and chewy foods can stick to the implant area and cause discomfort. This includes foods like caramel, taffy, and chewing gum.
• Spicy and acidic foods: Spicy and acidic foods can irritate the implant area and cause discomfort. This includes foods like hot sauce, citrus fruits, and vinegar.
• Alcohol and tobacco: Alcohol and tobacco can slow down the healing process and increase the risk of infection. It is best to avoid these substances for at least two weeks after surgery.

Transitioning from soft foods to solid foods

As the healing process progresses, patients can gradually transition from soft foods to solid foods. However, it is crucial to do this slowly and carefully to avoid any damage to the implant area. Here are some tips for transitioning from soft foods to solid foods:

• Start with small bites: Start with small bites of soft and easily chewable foods and gradually increase the size of the bites.
• Chew slowly: Chew your food slowly and carefully to avoid any damage to the implant area.
• Avoid hard and crunchy foods: Avoid hard and crunchy foods for at least two weeks after surgery to reduce the risk of damage to the implant area.
• Eat a balanced diet: Make sure to include a variety of foods in your diet to ensure that you are getting all the essential nutrients needed for healing.

Essential Nutrients for dental implant recovery

Proper nutrition is essential for optimal healing after dental implant surgery. Here are some essential nutrients that are needed for dental implant recovery:

• Protein: Protein is essential for tissue repair and is crucial for proper healing after surgery. Good sources of protein include meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products.
• Vitamin C: Vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis and is crucial for proper wound healing. Good sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits, berries, and leafy green vegetables.
• Iron: Iron is essential for oxygen transport and is crucial for proper healing. Good sources of iron include red meat, poultry, fish, and leafy green vegetables.
• Calcium: Calcium is essential for bone health and is crucial for proper healing after dental implant surgery. Good sources of calcium include dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and fish.

Sample meal plan for after dental implant surgery

Here is a sample meal plan for after dental implant surgery:

• Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with soft, cooked vegetables and a glass of milk or a smoothie made with yogurt and fruit.
• Snack: Mashed avocado with soft crackers or a soft cheese with whole-grain crackers.
• Lunch: Chicken or vegetable soup with soft noodles or a soft sandwich made with whole-grain bread and soft fillings like tuna or egg salad.
• Snack: Soft fruit like bananas or berries with yogurt or a smoothie.
• Dinner: Soft-cooked fish or chicken with cooked vegetables like sweet potatoes or mashed potatoes.
• Snack: Soft cookies or a piece of soft fruit like a peach or plum.

Dental Implants in Albuquerque, NM

Following a strict diet that promotes healing and minimizes discomfort is crucial for post-operative care. Soft foods are recommended for the first few days after surgery, and patients can gradually transition to solid foods as the healing process progresses.

Essential nutrients like protein, vitamin C, iron, and calcium are crucial for proper healing after dental implant surgery. By following a proper diet plan, patients can promote optimal healing and ensure the success of their dental implant surgery.

For more information on dental implants or to schedule an appointment, contact us at 505-898-1976.

Replacing missing teeth is so important for your oral health and your overall well-being. And while there are different ways you can do this, nothing surpasses the strength, durability, and longevity of dental implants. 

With a natural-looking appearance and a high level of functionality, dental implants are the gold standard in tooth replacement. But because it requires that a titanium post be implanted into the jaw bone, many patients ask about safety. So, are dental implants safe? 

How Do Dental Implants Work?

In trying to create a sturdy anchor to hold the artificial tooth, dental implants start with placing a titanium post into the jaw bone. This will be left for several weeks so that the two can fuse together. Once it does, you can move forward with having the artificial tooth placed. 

An abutment is attached to the implant and this will hold the artificial tooth — a customized dental crown. This crown will be created to blend beautifully with your other teeth in color, size, shape, and so forth. 

The entire procedure will take a few months to fully complete and heal, so patience is essential. 

Are Dental Implants Safe? 

Are dental implants safe? Yes — especially if you are a good candidate for the procedure and have a highly trained dentist.

Being of good general health and having strong bone structure and good bone density, healthy gums, and good oral health all contribute to the success of the procedure. 

Don’t rush into getting dental implants until you understand how they work, the complications that may arise, and the importance of choosing the right dentist. That’s how you can feel good about your decision to replace your teeth. 

Known Risks and Complications

You always want to be selective of the dental professional who is handling your dental implants. The more skilled and experienced they are, the greater level of confidence you can have in their ability to provide you with long-lasting tooth replacement. This is your greatest line of defense against successful dental implants – and a failed procedure. 

As with any medical or dental treatment, there is always the slight possibility that complications may occur. With dental implants, a condition known as peri-implantitis may appear. Very rare, this is a bacterial infection that can appear near the implant area and is the result of not keeping the surgical site clean during and after the procedure. 

Implant rejection is another complication — but this one is even more rare. An immune response or allergic reaction could reject the titanium post, causing the implant to fail. 

While both of these situations are potential risks, they are not very common at all. Be sure to talk to your dentist if you have any concerns. 

Are Dental Implants Right For You?

At Davis Gribble Hollowwa Dental, we have seen how much dental implants can transform a smile – and your dental health. Our team has the precision and skill to give you the best and longest-lasting results. 
To see if dental implants are the right solution for you, contact us today at 505-898-1976. Or, schedule your appointment online.

Dental implants are excellent replacements for missing or damaged teeth. These permanent dental appliances are built from safe, biocompatible materials like titanium, zirconium oxide, stainless steel, and ceramics.

Materials Included in Dental Implants

Titanium

Implant posts are often titanium or made of one of its alloys. Titanium is a preferred material for implants because it does not corrode easily and can bond with the natural bone.

Zirconium Oxide

Zirconium oxide is a newer material but works much like titanium. It is ideal for patients with titanium allergies.

Stainless Steel

The abutment or cap on top of the dental implant post is stainless steel. Stainless steel is durable and corrosion-resistant.

Ceramics

Dental ceramics have advanced a great deal over the past few years, and they are both long-lasting and attractive, with an appearance much like natural teeth. The dental crowns used to create the final restoration are often ceramic. Other crown materials used include gold and porcelain-coated metal.

How Dental Implants Work

A dental implant post replaces the missing root, permanently anchoring the restoration. The titanium or zirconium post screws into the jaw, where it bonds with the bone. This bond is called osseointegration.

The stainless steel abutment protects the top of the post and provides a place to attach the dental crown that replaces the tooth.

Advantages of Dental Implants

Restore Chewing Function

If you are missing a tooth, you understand the difficulty of chewing with a gap between teeth. An implant restores your ability to chew food.

Prevent Jawbone Deterioration

Extracted teeth leave an empty socket behind. If you neglect to replace a missing tooth, the area around the socket deteriorates. You can lose up to 25% of your bone density in that area in the first year after losing a tooth, and the bone continues to degrade.

Protect Oral Health

If you have a missing tooth, your remaining teeth will shift. They may become crooked and harder to keep clean. You may encounter more tooth decay and have a higher risk of gum disease.

Improve Quality of Life

When you have dental implants, you will feel free to smile, laugh, and express yourself again without worrying about your teeth's appearance. You can eat what you want rather than protect your tooth from further damage.

Investing in Implants

Getting a dental implant may seem like a significant expense, but it represents an investment in oral health. Implants last longer than bridges and protect your oral health.

Call Davis Gribble Hollowwa

If you are interested in receiving one or more dental implants, please call our Albuquerque, NM office at 505-898-1976 to schedule an appointment for a consultation. We would be happy to answer your dental questions and help you understand the benefits of dental implants.

Today, dentists consider implants superior replacements for damaged or missing teeth. Dental implants are strong, effective, long-lasting restorations that look and feel like healthy natural teeth.

A dental implant can last a lifetime with proper care. The dental crown on top may need replacement in 10 to 15 years, but may last much longer with required maintenance.

If you are considering dental implants but have yet to decide, research and talk to your dentist about your options. This blog provides reasons to consider replacing missing teeth and information about the implant process.

Problems Caused by Missing Teeth

If you have missing teeth, it is wise to restore them as soon as possible. If you leave a gap in your teeth, you may encounter the following problems:

Lack of Self-Confidence

Having missing teeth makes people reluctant to smile. They may feel self-conscious about their teeth and avoid social situations and being photographed.

Shifting Teeth

Your remaining teeth may shift out of position, becoming crooked or crowded. Since crooked teeth are harder to keep clean, you may encounter more problems with tooth decay and gum disease. Implants can improve your oral health by reducing these problems.

Loss of Chewing Ability

Patients with missing or damaged teeth are already familiar with chewing food only on one side of their mouths. They may need to avoid spaces and teeth that are painful to chew with.

With implants, you will be able to chew and eat freely once more. You can eat almost anything with implants without the special consideration needed by traditional bridges and dentures.

Unclear Speech

Missing teeth can lead to speech impediments. Replacing these teeth can help you speak clearly.

The Dental Implant Process

Dental implant surgeries today are comfortable for the patient. The dentist places the biocompatible titanium anchor in the jawbone. The dental implant anchor bonds with the jawbone in a few months.

After the implant and jawbone have bonded, the dentist adds abutment posts and dental crowns to replace the missing teeth.

A dental implant can last a lifetime, though the crown on top may need replacement in several years.

Caring for Your Implants

You can care for single-tooth dental implants as you would healthy, natural teeth. Brush twice daily, floss at least once each day, and visit your dentist for all recommended appointments.

Implant Options

In addition to single-tooth implants, we offer implant-supported bridges, total arch replacements, and full-arch dentures using only four implants. These restorations are more durable than their traditional counterparts and provide a better patient experience.

Call Davis Gribble Hollowwa Dental

If you would like to learn more about dental implants, call our Albuquerque office at 505-898-1976 to set up an appointment for a consultation. We will explain more about the procedure and answer any questions you might have.

Dental implants are a permanent and cost-effective way to replace missing teeth. They are quickly becoming a popular choice for those looking for a solution for missing teeth, as they can be tailored to a person’s unique set of needs and offer a more natural feeling than other dental prosthetics.

While the cost of a full mouth of dental implants can seem intimidating, it is important to understand the factors that go into the cost of this treatment before making a decision.

This article will provide you with information on the cost of a full mouth of dental implants, the different types of implants available, and how to budget for the procedure. With this information, you will be able to make an informed decision on which dental implants are right for you.

Overview of Dental Implants

Dental implants are a type of prosthetic replacement used to hold dental restorations such as crowns, artificial dentures, or false teeth. There are two types of dental implants: osseointegrated dental implants and mini dental implants.

• Osseointegrated dental implants are surgically placed in the jawbone and permanently fixed in place.
• Mini dental implants are placed on the surface of the jawbone and do not penetrate the jawbone.

Dental implants can replace one or multiple teeth or be used to hold dentures. They are a popular procedure, with millions of procedures performed every year. While dental implants are more costly than other dental prosthetics, such as dentures and bridges, they offer several advantages. Dental implants look and feel more like natural teeth than other dental prosthetics and can last a lifetime with proper care.

Cost Factors for a Full Mouth of Dental Implants

Cost is a major consideration when deciding on dental implants. The exact cost of a full mouth of dental implants will depend on several factors, including the number of teeth being replaced, the type of dental implants used, and the dentist or oral surgeon performing the procedure.

The following factors will affect the cost of a full mouth of dental implants.

• Number of dental implants: The more teeth being replaced with dental implants, the more costly the procedure will be.
• Dentist or oral surgeon: This factor can significantly alter the cost of dental implants. Dentists and oral surgeons who specialize in this procedure will be more expensive than general dentists who do not specialize in dental implants.
• Location: The cost of dental implants varies drastically based on location. The cost of dental implants in New York City, for example, will likely be much higher than the cost of dental implants in a rural area.

Average Cost of Full Mouth Of Dental Implants

The average cost of a full mouth of dental implants in Albuquerque varies with the range between $12,000 and $30,000.

This is largely due to the wide range of factors that can affect the cost of dental implants. The average cost of a full mouth of dental implants will have a wide range based on the number of teeth being replaced and the location where the procedure is performed.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants offer many benefits compared to other dental prosthetics. Dental implants are more like natural teeth than other types of dental prosthetics, such as dentures. They look and feel more like natural teeth and can last a lifetime with proper care.

Compared to dentures, dental implants offer many advantages. They offer better retention, fit, and comfort, and they are a more permanent solution than dentures. Dental implants are also better than bridges in several ways. They will not loosen or fall out over time, as bridges sometimes do. They also don’t require neighboring teeth to be ground down, which can be damaging to those teeth and cause additional issues down the road.

Full Mouth Dental Implants in Albuquerque

There’s no denying the fact that dental implants are life-changing. Our team at Davis Gribble Hollowwa, takes your dental health seriously and will take the time to give you a smile you’ve always desired.To learn more about our dental implant services or to schedule an appointment, contact us today at 505-898-1976.

When it comes to artificial tooth replacements, dental implants are the gold standard. They are natural in their appearance and function much like a real tooth. While they have been around for decades, only in more recent years have they become a go-to option for many dental patients. 

According to the National Institute of Health, many adults (ages 20 to 64) have an average of 3.28 permanent teeth that are decayed or missing. Dental implants just may be the most ideal solution. But what are they? How do they work? And who can take advantage of them?

What Are Dental Implants?

Simply put, a dental implant is a tooth alternative that can be used to replace either one or multiple missing teeth. When the multi-step procedure is all done, you will have a tooth with the appearance and functionality of a real tooth. 

The first step involves implantation. A post, often made of titanium, is implanted into your jaw bone. This is going to act as an artificial root to hold the tooth in place. Time is given to allow for the post to fuse with the bone, creating a sturdy anchor. This may take a few months. 

When your dentist feels you are ready to move forward, an abutment will be placed on the post. This will hold the artificial tooth - a customized dental crown - in place securely. The idea is for the tooth to blend beautifully with your other teeth so that it looks just like a real tooth. 

Of course, before a dentist will move forward with a dental implant procedure, it is important to determine whether or not you are a candidate. You need to have a great level of oral health and a generally good sense of overall well-being. Further, because the implant relies on the jaw bone, for instance, you have to have good bone density. If you don’t, bone grafting may have to take place before moving forward with the dental implants. 

The Important Role of Dental Implants

Those who are missing a tooth may not always see the significance of replacing it - especially when it comes to a tooth that isn’t visible. After all, aesthetics is the only reason why you’d want to fill that gap, right? Wrong.  

Believe it or not, leaving an empty space where a tooth once was can lead to significant oral health issues over time. The surrounding teeth no longer have the support they were always used to and, in turn, can begin shifting. This can lead to changes in your bite, gum disease, tooth decay, TMJ disorder, change in facial structure, and more. 

It doesn’t matter whether you have one missing tooth or many, it is imperative that you fill in the gaps with a natural-appearing tooth alternative such as dental implants. 

Dental Implants in Albuquerque, NM

Ready to learn more about dental implants? Want to see if you are a good candidate? Davis Gribble Hollowwa Dental can help. Our highly skilled dental team has extensive experience in dental implants. As a result, our patients receive a successful outcome each and every time. 

Contact us today at 505-898-1976. Or, schedule an appointment online.