It鈥檚 easy to assume that if a tooth isn鈥檛 hurting, it must be healthy. But in dentistry, that鈥檚 not always the case. Pain is just one signal your body uses to indicate a problem鈥攁nd sometimes, serious issues develop silently.

Teeth can become damaged or infected without triggering immediate discomfort. In fact, by the time pain appears, the issue may already be advanced. That鈥檚 why dentists rely on exams and imaging, not just symptoms, to determine whether a tooth needs to be removed.

Severe Decay or Hidden Infection

A tooth can have extensive decay or infection without causing noticeable pain. This can happen if the nerve inside the tooth has already been damaged or died. Without an active nerve response, you may not feel anything鈥攅ven though the surrounding bone and tissue are at risk.

If left untreated, this type of infection can spread to nearby teeth, gums, or even other areas of the body. In these cases, removing the tooth is often the safest way to protect your overall oral health.

Advanced Gum Disease

Gum disease 诲辞别蝉苍鈥檛 always cause obvious discomfort in its early or moderate stages. However, as it progresses, it can weaken the structures that support your teeth, including the bone.

A tooth affected by advanced periodontal disease may become loose or unstable, even if it 诲辞别蝉苍鈥檛 hurt. Extracting the tooth can help prevent further damage to surrounding teeth and create a healthier foundation for future treatments.

Impacted or Problematic Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth are a common reason for extractions that don鈥檛 involve pain. These teeth may be impacted, meaning they don鈥檛 fully emerge from the gums, or they may grow at awkward angles.

Even if they鈥檙e not currently causing discomfort, impacted wisdom teeth can trap bacteria, increase the risk of infection, or damage neighboring teeth over time. Dentists often recommend removing them proactively to avoid complications later.

Overcrowding and Orthodontic Needs

Sometimes, a tooth extraction is part of a larger treatment plan鈥攅specially in orthodontics. If your mouth 诲辞别蝉苍鈥檛 have enough space for all your teeth to align properly, removing one or more teeth may be necessary.

Even though those teeth are healthy and pain-free, extracting them can help achieve better alignment, improve bite function, and support long-term oral health.

Cracks or Structural Damage

A tooth can be cracked or structurally compromised without causing immediate pain. Small fractures may not reach the nerve right away, but they can worsen over time.

If the damage is too severe to repair with a crown or other restoration, extraction may be the best option to prevent future complications.

Preventing Bigger Problems Down the Road

In many cases, a pain-free extraction is recommended as a preventive measure. Dentists aim to address potential issues early, before they turn into more complex, costly, or painful problems.

By removing a compromised tooth at the right time, you can avoid infections, damage to surrounding teeth, and more invasive treatments later on.

Taking action early can make all the difference in protecting your long-term oral health.

About the Practice

黑料社区 maintains stress-free dentistry, even for procedures like tooth extractions. Led by a compassion team of dentists, our patients receive comprehensive, patient-centered dental care focused on both prevention and long-term wellness. We use modern diagnostic tools to identify concerns early鈥攅ven when symptoms aren鈥檛 obvious. Our doctors take time to explain every recommendation, including tooth extractions, so patients feel informed and confident in their care. Whether addressing a current issue or preventing future complications, the practice is committed to helping patients maintain healthy, comfortable smiles.

Call us at (773) 646-6262 or schedule your appointment online.

The post My Tooth Doesn鈥檛 Hurt. Do I Still Need an Extraction? appeared first on 黑料社区 Blog.

Not everything you read on the internet is true, and cosmetic dentistry 鈥渇acts鈥� are no different! It鈥檚 always a good idea to talk to your dentist before jumping to conclusions on any one treatment. In the meantime, you can keep reading to learn more about four common cosmetic dentistry myths that are just that 鈥� myths.

#1. 鈥淐osmetic Dentistry ONLY Improves Your Appearance鈥�

Actually, the only cosmetic dentistry treatment that 诲辞别蝉苍鈥檛 also improve your oral health is teeth whitening. Porcelain veneers can reduce dental sensitivity by acting as a shield for weakened enamel. Gum recontouring can slim down your gumline and make it easier to brush and floss your teeth. Dental bonding can conceal dental cracks and chips 鈥� and so on and so forth.

#2. 鈥淥nly Rich Celebrities Can Afford Cosmetic Dentistry鈥�

To be fair, this might have been true decades ago, when cosmetic dentistry treatments were still being perfected. Nowadays, though, modern technology has made the fabrication process much cheaper and dental cosmetics much more durable. All around, options like porcelain veneers and metal-free restorations are very cost-effective.

#3. 鈥淐osmetic Dentistry is Not Suitable for Seniors鈥�

One of the reasons cosmetic dentistry is so popular is that the vast majority of treatments are minimally invasive. You鈥檙e more likely to be too young for cosmetic dentistry than too old! A dentist wouldn鈥檛 recommend teeth whitening to a teenager whose pearly whites are still developing, for example, but would readily provide the service for anyone over the age of 18.

#4. 鈥淐osmetic Dentistry Will Make Your Teeth Look Fake鈥�

The same technology that has made dental cosmetics affordable has also given them a perfectly natural appearance. If you get porcelain veneers, dental bonding, or metal-free restorations, your dentist will be able to color-match the materials so that your cosmetics blend in seamlessly with the rest of your teeth.

Cosmetic dentistry can be worthwhile for many patients 鈥� particularly those who are not satisfied with the appearance of their smile and are preoccupied with how their teeth look. The vast majority of these treatments are safe, effective, and accessible, so before you write any one of them off completely, be sure to talk with your dentist and make sure a 鈥渇act鈥� you鈥檝e heard isn鈥檛 actually a myth!

About the Practice

At 黑料社区, our five dentists are ready to help you fall in love with your smile! We offer quality teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, gum recontouring, and more, and can further personalize your treatment plan with a smile makeover. Contact our office at 773-646-6262 to schedule an appointment.

The post 4 Cosmetic Dentistry Myths You SHOULDN鈥橳 Believe appeared first on 黑料社区 Blog.

If you鈥檝e ever wondered whether cosmetic dentistry has an age cutoff, you鈥檙e not alone. Many people assume treatments like veneers or teeth whitening are only for younger patients chasing a picture-perfect smile. The truth is much more encouraging. There is no upper age limit for cosmetic dentistry, and plenty of older adults choose to enhance their smiles well into their later years.

A healthy, confident smile isn鈥檛 about age鈥攊t鈥檚 about how you feel when you look in the mirror.

Is There an Age Limit for Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry is not restricted by birthdays or milestones. What matters most is your overall oral health, not the number of candles on your cake. As long as your gums and teeth are healthy enough to support treatment, cosmetic procedures can be safely and effectively performed at almost any age.

In fact, many seniors pursue cosmetic dentistry after retirement, when they finally have the time to focus on themselves. Whether it鈥檚 fixing chips that have accumulated over decades or brightening a smile dulled by age, cosmetic care can be tailored to meet you exactly where you are.

Why Seniors Choose Cosmetic Dentistry

Over time, teeth naturally experience wear and tear. Years of chewing, grinding, and exposure to staining foods can leave smiles looking tired or uneven. Cosmetic dentistry offers solutions that address these changes while still looking natural.

Beyond aesthetics, improving your smile can also boost confidence and quality of life. Many patients say they smile more often, feel better in social situations, and enjoy renewed self-assurance after cosmetic treatment. Feeling good about your smile can have a powerful ripple effect at any age.

Cosmetic Treatments That Work Well for Older Adults

Several cosmetic dental services are especially popular among senior patients.

Porcelain veneers are a great option for improving the appearance of chipped, discolored, or uneven teeth. They create a brighter, more uniform smile while still looking natural.

Dental crowns can restore both the appearance and strength of teeth that are cracked, worn down, or weakened by age. Crowns improve function while also enhancing the look of your smile.

Dental bonding offers a conservative way to fix small chips, gaps, or uneven edges. It鈥檚 often completed in a single visit and can make subtle but meaningful improvements.

Professional teeth whitening can safely lift years of stains, helping your smile look fresher and more youthful without invasive treatment.

Each of these options can be customized based on your comfort, goals, and oral health needs.

What to Consider Before Starting Treatment

Before moving forward with cosmetic dentistry, your dentist will evaluate gum health, bone support, and any existing dental work. Some patients may benefit from restorative care first to ensure the best long-term results.

Clear communication is key. Sharing your expectations and concerns helps your dentist recommend treatments that align with your lifestyle and desired outcome. Cosmetic dentistry should feel empowering, never rushed or overwhelming. It鈥檚 never too late to invest in a smile that makes you feel confident and comfortable.

About the Practice

黑料社区 provides comprehensive cosmetic and restorative dental services designed to support patients at every stage of life. Our experienced dental team focuses on personalized treatment plans that balance aesthetics, comfort, and long-term oral health. With a range of cosmetic options available, we work closely with patients to help them achieve natural-looking results they can feel good about for years to come.

Call us at (773) 646-6262 or request an appointment online

The post Here鈥檚 Why There鈥檚 No Age Limit on Cosmetic Dentistry appeared first on 黑料社区 Blog.

When you step into the world of dentures, you may be excited about getting your full smile back. Since they were molded to your mouth, you might even enjoy how comfortable they are as well. This prosthetic helps you feel more confident that you might even wear them all day and night to revel in it. However, keeping them in 24/7 can actually be a bad idea. Here are three ways to better understand why to take them out at night.

1.)  Higher Risk of Gum Disease

As was mentioned above, dentures are customized to fit in your mouth. This helps create a suction that holds them in place while you eat, but it can reduce circulation to your gums. This generally isn’t a problem, as proper maintenance of them means taking them out and soaking them while you sleep.

However, by leaving them in, you prevent necessary nutrients from being delivered to the soft tissues. Not only that, but you won鈥檛 be able to clean underneath your prosthetic as well, causing a buildup of bacteria as well. Both these can leave you at a higher risk of gum disease.

2.)  Increased Chance of Denture Stomatitis

Denture stomatitis is a type of thrush that causes plenty of discomfort. Some symptoms of it are a burning sensation in your gums, inflammation, and noticeable redness. It can even weaken your immune system, so your body will have a harder time fighting off infections in your mouth.

This condition is caused by a buildup of bacteria and yeast. These can thrive in dark, moist environments, so cleaning underneath your prosthetic is crucial to avoid any problems. That way, they stay comfortable in the long run.

3.)  Quicker Jawbone Loss

Missing teeth are often associated with jawbone loss. That’s because there are no tooth roots to stimulate your jaw anymore. Your body will start to take the minerals in it to use elsewhere. It’s a natural process, but this can lead to facial collapse, which makes you develop more wrinkles and sunken cheeks.

Thankfully, dentures help slow down this process as some pressure gets sent through your gums to the bone underneath, but constantly wearing them can be bad. The friction can actually weaken your jaw. The fit of the prosthetic may change more quickly, leading to slippage or making them uncomfortable.

In the end, building a habit of taking your dentures out at night can be beneficial. Remember these three complications that can happen if not; that way, you can feel your best knowing your full smile is staying as healthy as it deserves to be for the long run.

About the Practice

At 黑料社区, you benefit from a team of skilled dentists who look after you and your oral health. We are proud to offer dentures to the local community, giving them confident grins once again. By customizing your prosthetic, we can help it feel comfortable and look entirely natural. If you need more tips about caring for your restoration, schedule an appointment or call our office at (773) 646-6262.

The post Caring for Full Smiles: 3 Risks of Never Removing Your Dentures appeared first on 黑料社区 Blog.

Dentures offer patients a new lease on life, especially when it comes to eating a variety of foods. The improved stability and bite force of these prosthetics make mealtime more enjoyable, even around the holidays. But are all food items equal? Should you be careful not to eat certain things because of the potential danger they can cause to your smile? Keep reading to discover which foods to avoid if you want to avoid a trip to the emergency dentist鈥檚 office.

6 Foods You Should Avoid While Wearing Dentures

No matter if you are wearing a full or partial denture, you need to be mindful of what and how you eat certain foods. Although it might seem as if you can bite down on virtually anything because of your new and improved smile, the reality is that your teeth are not permanent and can become damaged if you鈥檙e not careful.

Avoiding a trip to see your emergency dentist is possible if you avoid the following foods:

• Corn on the cob
• Raw vegetables and hard fruits
• Cranberry sauce and other similarly sticky substances
• Chewy, tough meats
• Hard nuts
• Marshmallows, caramel, and similarly sticky foods

Which Denture-Friendly Foods Can You Enjoy?

Instead of feeling as if you are missing out on the food items listed above, remember that you can indulge in the following items. Doing so will not only keep you satisfied but also ensure your dentures remain fully intact throughout the holidays:

• Mashed potatoes
• Green bean casserole
• Tender meats like turkey or ham
• Cooked vegetables
• Flaky fish like salmon
• Pasta or rice

It鈥檚 always important to remember to cut up any larger pieces of food into small bits so that you can chew them easily. If you are still struggling to eat with your dentures, start with softer foods and slowly move on to denser options. By chewing with both sides of your mouth, you evenly distribute your bite force so that your dentures don鈥檛 pop out of place.

Keeping in mind which foods to avoid and which ones to eat this holiday season will allow you to enjoy what is on your plate instead of rushing off to the emergency dentist鈥檚 office.

About the Practice
黑料社区 is a family-owned and locally operated dental practice that consists of multiple dentists and staff who prioritize patients鈥� needs. Delivering top-tier care, we help individuals who are living with dentures enjoy a better quality of life. When the holidays arrive, our team can recommend ways to avoid dental emergencies and unexpected problems, especially those caused by the foods that are consumed. If you want to make sure your artificial teeth stay intact this holiday season, visit our website or call (773) 646-6262 to make an appointment with one of our dentists.

The post Denture Safety: Which Foods Should You Avoid During the Holidays? appeared first on 黑料社区 Blog.

A dental emergency can happen at any moment. You may want to prepare for the unexpected, but it鈥檚 nearly impossible to do! Whether it was a severe toothache, some damage, or even if you need an emergency tooth extraction, you鈥檒l need to call your dentist to get an urgent visit scheduled. When you have your appointment, you may wonder what will happen during it. Here is what you can generally expect.

1.)  Assessing the Problem

When you are on the phone with your dental office, they’ll give you advice on how to handle your unique situation. Follow what they say to help give you some relief, and they’ll try to get you scheduled right away or in the very near future.

Once you get to your appointment, the front desk team will greet you with smiles. You’ll get checked in and then taken back to your treatment room. When you get settled, your dentist will then come by and do an oral assessment. You’ll likely get an X-ray to help them see the full extent of the issue.

2.)  Getting Treatment

With all the information they get, you鈥檒l be given a customized treatment plan. Depending on your unique situation, you may need a minor service or a more in-depth one. For instance, a filling can oftentimes be done during the same visit. However, a more major procedure like a root canal may need you to come back. The timing may not work for you, or it’ll give you a provider a chance to schedule enough time to do it.

Regardless of which scenario is true for you, your comfort will be prioritized. They’ll give you a local anesthesia to get rid of any pain you feel before giving you your permanent (or temporary) solution.

3.)  Have a Fallow-Up

After your initial visit, you鈥檒l need to come back for another in the near future! Your dentist often will want to see you back in just a couple of days or a week. This is to ensure that you are healing well or give you the one that you need. That way, you get back to your problem-free smile that you feel confident in.

Although the dental emergency you might’ve found yourself in may have left you worried, your dentist is here to help. You shouldn’t feel stressed about going to them for the help you deserve. Remember what generally happens during these appointments to feel better about the whole thing.

About the Practice

At 黑料社区, you benefit from a team of skilled dentists who look after you and your oral health. We are here for you when you suddenly run into a dental emergency through same-day appointments. By offering a wide range of treatments, we are equipped to handle plenty of these types of situations. If you currently need urgent oral care, the fastest way to schedule an appointment is by calling (773) 646-6262.

The post What Really Happens During an Emergency Dental Visit? appeared first on 黑料社区 Blog.

Noticing a bump on your gums can be concerning, especially if it appears suddenly or feels tender. While some gum bumps are harmless and temporary, others may signal an underlying dental issue that needs professional attention. Understanding the possible causes can help you know when it鈥檚 time to see your dentist and what treatment options are available. Here鈥檚 a closer look at the most common reasons for a bump on your gums.

Dental Abscess (Infection)

One of the most common causes of a bump on the gums is a dental abscess, which forms when bacteria cause an infection in the tooth or surrounding tissue. This infection can create a pus-filled pocket that appears as a small, painful bump on your gums.

Abscesses often develop due to untreated tooth decay, gum disease, or injury. Symptoms can include swelling, redness, throbbing pain, a bad taste in the mouth, or even fever. An abscess requires prompt dental treatment鈥攜our dentist may need to drain the infection, prescribe antibiotics, or perform a root canal to remove the source of bacteria.

If you suspect an abscess, don鈥檛 ignore it. Left untreated, the infection can spread to other areas of the mouth or even into the bloodstream.

Gum Cyst

A gum cyst, or 鈥渆pulis,鈥� is a small, fluid-filled sac that forms on the gums, often near the roots of teeth. These cysts are typically painless but may cause mild swelling or discomfort if they grow larger. Gum cysts can result from trauma, irritation, or blockage of a minor salivary gland.

Your dentist can diagnose a cyst through an exam or X-ray and determine whether it needs to be drained or removed. In most cases, treatment is quick and straightforward.

Irritation or Injury

Sometimes, a bump on your gums is simply the result of irritation or trauma. This can occur from brushing too hard, eating something sharp, or irritation from dental appliances like braces or dentures. These minor bumps often heal on their own within a few days once the irritation is removed.

To help with healing, rinse your mouth with warm salt water and avoid rough or spicy foods. However, if the bump 诲辞别蝉苍鈥檛 improve or becomes painful, it鈥檚 best to have your dentist check it out.

Canker Sore or Mouth Ulcer

A canker sore can sometimes appear on the gums and may look like a raised bump with a white or yellow center. These sores are usually caused by stress, minor injuries, or certain foods. While they can be uncomfortable, they鈥檙e not contagious and typically heal within one to two weeks. Over-the-counter gels or mouth rinses can help relieve discomfort while the sore heals naturally.

Oral Cancer (Less Common but Serious)

In rare cases, a persistent or unusual bump on the gums could be a sign of oral cancer. Cancerous lumps often don鈥檛 cause pain in the early stages, but they may appear red, white, or uneven in shape. If a bump 诲辞别蝉苍鈥檛 heal after two weeks or continues to grow, it鈥檚 important to see your dentist or doctor for an evaluation. Early detection greatly improves treatment outcomes.

A bump on your gums can have many causes鈥攆rom simple irritation to infection or, rarely, something more serious. The best approach is not to guess鈥攈ave it examined by your dentist. With an accurate diagnosis and timely treatment, you can protect your oral health and keep your smile healthy and pain-free.

About the Practice

Are you experiencing a dental emergency? If so, we want to help! Our expert team at 黑料社区 can offer you prompt treatment with same-day appointments for urgent situations. Our team of dentists has decades of experience, and as a family owned and operated dental practice, we don鈥檛 answer to any corporate overlords. Don鈥檛 delay 鈥� schedule an appointment online or call (773) 646-6262.

The post Why Do I Have a Bump on My Gums? appeared first on 黑料社区 Blog.

When looking at your options to replace your missing teeth, you may be interested in dental implants, but hesitate to jump into them right away. You’ve likely seen that you will need a surgical procedure to have them placed, and the thought of it may make you sweat. The good news is that you shouldn’t worry. This tooth replacement option is actually safe thanks to modern dentistry. Keep reading to help ease your fears.

What Makes Dental Implants a Safe Option?

Did you know that dental implants boast a success rate of 95%? When they are done by a trained professional, people can enjoy their rebuilt smile for years to come. Not only that, but many other factors come into play when it comes to their safety and reliability, such as:

• High-Quality Materials: This tooth replacement option is typically made out of titanium or zirconia. These are both biocompatible, which means they interact with the body without causing any adverse effects.
• Osseointegration: An implant post will be placed into your jawbone, and it then undergoes this process where it will fuse with the tissue, allowing it to be as stable as people love.
• Imaging Technology: Many offices have equipment, such as a 3D cone beam scanner, which creates a 3D map of your mouth. This allows your dentist to see your jawbone density and where placement needs to be for a successful treatment.
• Advanced Training and Techniques: Before a provider can place dental implants, they will undergo advanced training that specifically deals with implant placement. Not only that, but there are strict protocols that are followed to ensure the area stays sterile and reduces your risk of infection.

Why Can a Dental Implant Fail?

While dental implants are very successful and safe, there isn’t a surgery that is completely risk-free. There is a group of people (fewer than 5% of cases) who experience failure. It can happen due to multiple different reasons, such as poor oral hygiene and infection, to name a few.

That鈥檚 why it鈥檚 important to have a proper at-home routine and visit your dentist consistently. They are trained to watch for early warning signs and tackle any complications that threaten the longevity of your tooth replacement. In the end, your new smile can remain the strongest it can be for decades to come.

About the Practice

At 黑料社区, you benefit from a skilled team of dentists who help the community get the full grins they feel confident in. We offer dental implants as a reliable solution for missing teeth, completing the whole process under one roof! Through a thorough consultation, we can talk to you about this treatment and figure out whether it’s safe for you and what steps are needed for you to be eligible for it. If you have any questions about this tooth replacement option, schedule an appointment or call our office at (773) 646-6262.

The post Quelling Worries: Just How Safe Are Dental Implants? appeared first on 黑料社区 Blog.

When people think of dental implants, they often focus on their cosmetic benefits or how they restore chewing ability. While it鈥檚 true that implants provide a natural-looking smile and excellent functionality, there鈥檚 another question worth asking: can dental implants actually help you live longer? Surprisingly, maintaining your oral health with solutions like implants can play a role in your overall well-being and longevity.

The Link Between Oral Health and General Health

Oral health and overall health are closely connected. Tooth loss, gum disease, and chronic infections in the mouth can increase the risk of serious health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory issues. Research shows that poor oral health is linked to systemic inflammation, which is a common factor in many life-threatening illnesses. By replacing missing teeth with implants, you can reduce these risks by supporting healthier gums and a cleaner, more balanced mouth.

Restoring Proper Nutrition

Missing teeth can make it difficult to chew foods properly, leading many people to avoid nutritious options like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and lean meats. Over time, this can cause nutrient deficiencies that affect overall health. Dental implants function like natural teeth, restoring bite strength and allowing you to eat a wide variety of healthy foods. Better nutrition supports your immune system, heart, and bone health, which can contribute to a longer life.

Preventing Bone Loss and Facial Changes

When a tooth is lost, the jawbone underneath begins to deteriorate because it no longer receives stimulation from chewing. Bone loss can lead to a sunken facial appearance, making someone look older than they are. Dental implants stimulate the jawbone just like natural teeth, helping to preserve bone density and facial structure. In this way, implants not only protect oral function but also support a youthful, healthy appearance that can have psychological benefits and improve overall quality of life.

Reducing the Risk of Oral Infections

Spaces left by missing teeth can become traps for food and bacteria, increasing the risk of gum disease or oral infections. These infections don鈥檛 just stay in your mouth鈥攖hey can spread into the bloodstream and impact the heart, lungs, or other organs. Dental implants fill these gaps, making it easier to maintain good oral hygiene and reducing opportunities for bacteria to thrive.

Enhancing Mental and Social Health

Longevity isn鈥檛 just about physical health鈥攊t鈥檚 also about mental and emotional well-being. Tooth loss can negatively affect self-esteem and confidence, sometimes leading to social isolation or even depression. Dental implants restore the appearance and function of natural teeth, giving patients the confidence to smile, speak, and engage socially. Studies consistently show that people with strong social connections tend to live longer, healthier lives.

While dental implants are not a magic cure for longevity, they contribute significantly to factors that support a longer, healthier life. By improving nutrition, preventing bone loss, reducing infection risk, and enhancing confidence, implants go far beyond restoring a smile鈥攖hey help protect your overall health and quality of life. Investing in dental implants may not only give you back your teeth but also contribute to your long-term well-being.

About the Practice

Here at 黑料社区, we offer the gold standard for tooth replacement with dental implants. We place and restore implants at our office, so you don鈥檛 need a referral to another office. Our team of dentists have a collective decades of experience, so you can rest assured you鈥檙e getting the best care available. While implants are a sizeable investment, we have financing options available to help turn your dreams into reality. Don鈥檛 delay 鈥� schedule your appointment now online or call us at (773) 646-6262.

The post Lifesavers: Can Dental Implants Help You Live Longer? appeared first on 黑料社区 Blog.

Dental implants were designed to last a lifetime, but exactly how long depends on a variety of factors, including how you use and care for them, as well as the materials they鈥檙e made of. Here鈥檚 a quick breakdown of their parts, and how long you can expect each to remain looking and working it鈥檚 best!

How Long Will My Dental Implants Last?

Your new dental implants are comprised of three main parts: the posts (implants), the abutments, and the crowns (teeth). Each individual piece has its own estimated lifespan based on its materials and how well you care for it. Here鈥檚 a closer look:

• Dental implant (post): The dental implant post can be made of either titanium or zirconia. These biocompatible materials have a very high success rate when integrating with your jawbone. Both are durable and long-lasting; however, zirconia has been found to be slightly less corrosion resistant than titanium. Still, with proper use, both types are capable of lasting 30 years or more.
• Abutments: this is where the tooth (crown) sits. Abutments are made of the same material as the dental implant posts and provide the same level of durability as they do. However, these pieces are more likely to need replacement, as they are not integrated with the bone and have less protection from damage.
• Crowns: The crowns are the teeth of your dental implant, and the easiest part of the prosthetic to damage. Thankfully, they鈥檙e also the fastest and most affordable pieces to replace, too. They can be made of porcelain or acrylic, but porcelain is typically more durable. However, both materials can still chip if placed under too much pressure, so it鈥檚 important to be careful to only use them for actual food: no using them to bite fingernails, tear packaging, or chew on pen caps.

How to Make Your Dental Implants Last Longer

In addition to choosing quality materials for your dental implants, you can help ensure that they last as long as possible by properly caring for them. Here are a few tips to help you:

• Be sure to brush your teeth and dental implants twice daily and floss once a day.
• Always use a non-abrasive toothpaste on your dental implants to prevent them from getting scratched.
• Visit your dentist every six months for your regular check-up and cleaning appointments, even if you have no remaining natural teeth.
• Only use your dental implants to chew food.
• Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth (bruxism).
• Don鈥檛 smoke, vape, or use tobacco products.

Remember, although your dental implants were designed to permanently replace missing teeth, they will only last if you take proper care of them, so be sure to follow these instructions for a lifetime of beautiful smiles!

About Our Practice

At 黑料社区, we鈥檙e proud to be a family owned and operated practice. Whether you鈥檙e looking for a routine exam and cleaning, a cosmetic treatment, or you鈥檙e ready to restore your smile with the help of dental implants, let our family help you and yours get the best oral health care of your life. To schedule an appointment for dental implants, please visit our website or call us today at 773-646-6262.

The post How Long Do Dental Implants Last? appeared first on 黑料社区 Blog.