How to Properly Care For Your New Dental Implant

dental implantIf you made the wise decision to replacing your missing or damaged teeth with dental implants and have just completed implant treatment, you may be wondering how to care for your new restorations.

Your dentist usually advises you about how to take care of your newly placed dental implant, though it never hurts to refresh your memory. It’s extremely important to take proper care of you dental implants after getting them surgically placed. The success of your dental implant ultimately relies on how well you care for it. The following instructions involve ways you can properly care for your new dental implant:

Don’t bother your dental implant. Immediately after getting your implant surgically placed you need to abstain from bothering it, so don’t think about poking around at it with your tongue. Agitating the implant will only will only prolong the healing process and may even lead to additional problems.

Ice the affected area. To some it may be alarming when they realize that certain areas of their face swell, but I assure you swelling is a completely normal occurrence. To help minimize the swelling you can apply an icepack or a frozen bags on your cheek where the swelling has occurred. Apply this method as much as possible for the first 36 hours.

Don’t worry if you see blood. Some bleeding or redness in your saliva within the first 24 hours after having your dental implant placed is normal. You can control excessive bleeding by biting down on a gauze pad placed where the implant is for 30 minutes. If that doesn’t stop the excessive bleeding, call your dentist for further help.

Modify your diet. Be sure to drink plenty of liquids and stick to eating soft foods for the first few days after getting your implant placed. You can gradually work your way back to eating harder food as your implant heals. Though you should be sure to avoid chewing near your implant while eating and avoid swishing liquids around you mouth the first week after the dental implant procedure.

Practicing proper oral hygiene is essential. Good oral hygiene is key to healing, making it crucial for you to keep your mouth as clean as possible. Your dentist typically prescribes you a mouthwash to use for the first week or so after the procedure. You should also be brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush, and when doing so, be sure to gently brush around your implant.

Decrease your level of activity. You should keep your level of activity to a minimum immediately following the implant procedure. If you are exercising and your implant begins to throb and bleed, discontinue immediately. Keep in mind that you aren’t consuming a normal amount of nutrients, so that it may weaken and further limit your exercise.

It’s typically takes three to six for the dental implant itself to fully fuse with the jawbone and achieve full strength. While it takes another two months for the crown to be custom-made and fitted. Though this time frame can vary with each individual patient. Your dentist can usually give you an accurate ideas of when the entire treatment will be compete.

If you’re interested in replacing your missing teeth with dental implants, contact Dr. Patrick Simone, DDS in Henderson, NV at 702-735-2755 to schedule a consultation today. Or visit www.patricksimonedds.com for additional information.

Dr. Patrick Simone proudly accepts patients from Henderson, Las Vegas, Silverado Rach, Enterprise, Whitney, Spring Valley and all surrounding areas.

How Cosmetic Dentistry Can Change Your Life | Las Vegas Dentist

sedation-dentistrySome people don’t truly realize the impact that teeth and smiles have. However, only you can realize the benefits through personal experience. For those that have less than perfect teeth, smiling may make them feel uncomfortable or less confident, that’s where cosmetic dentistry comes into play. Cosmetic dentistry offers a myriad of benefits to those whom feel self-conscious with the appearance of their smile. From whitening discolored teeth to replacing missing ones, cosmetic dentistry can address almost any dental problem. And while cosmetic dentistry is often only seen as an aesthetics-first field, it can also restore the functionality of your teeth.

What can cosmetic dentist do for me?

Did you know that cosmetic dentists are actually restorative dentists that have taken the time to further study smile design and the use of various types of dental materials?

Very much like restorative dentists, cosmetic dentists also use the crowns and dental implants in their practices. However, cosmetic dentists not only focus on restoring functionality, but also to create a smile that looks ever better than it did before.

Essentially, this means that cosmetic dentistry not only aims to improve the aesthetics of your smile, but also the restoration of proper function to your teeth.

Types of Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures

For misaligned, cracked or damaged teeth:

  • Veneers- Veneers are thin, shells that are customized in the shape and color of your choice. They can be used to restore cracked, chipped, broken, misaligned and even discolored teeth. Veneers can be used on multiple teeth.
  • Crowns- Dental crowns are placed over damaged teeth and used to restore function. Although, in cosmetic dentistry, dental crowns are also used to improve the aesthetics of damaged teeth. They’re also made to seamlessly blend with your natural teeth.
  • Dental Bonding- Bonding is known as a “quick-fix” to repair decayed, chipped, cracked and even discolored teeth. Dental bonding is typically recommended as an alternative to silver fillings.
  • Orthodontics- Orthodontics includes the use of different dental appliances, such as Invisalign, traditional braces and retainers. This helps move teeth into their correct position, fixing malocclusions and improving the aesthetics of one’s teeth.

For missing teeth:

  • Dental Implants- Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are placed into your jawbone to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. The crown that is placed over the implant is customized to match the color and shape of your existing teeth.
  • Bridges and Partial Dentures- Bridges are either anchored into opposing teeth or a dental implant, where they are placed permanently. Partial dentures are similar to bridges, but can be removed willingly.
  • Gum Contouring- With the use of soft tissue lasers, the gum lines of the teeth can be sculpted to improve one’s smile. This is typically done to improve what’s known as a gummy smile, which is the result of genetics.
  • Teeth Whitening- Cosmetic dentists can whiten teeth in many different ways, depending on the patient’s wants, needs and financial situation.

The procedures that are listed above are only a few of the many cosmetic dentistry procedures offered by cosmetic dentists.

If you’re ready to have your life changed and your smile transformed, contact Dr. Patrick Simone DDS in Henderson, NV at 702-735-2755 to schedule a consultation today! Or visit www.patricksimonedds.com to learn more about Dr. Patrick Simone and his team.

Dr. Patrick Simone DDS proudly accepts patients from Henderson, Las Vegas, Silverado Ranch, Enterprise, Whitney, Spring Valley and all surrounding areas.

What to Expect after Dental Implant Surgery |Cosmetic Dentistry

implant diagramIf you plan to have dental implants installed, I’m sure you already know all of the benefits they will provide for you. You’ll have to go through a healing process before you get to utilize those benefits though, and before any of that healing starts to happen you will see and feel a few side effects the first week or two. The most prominent side effects will appear over the first two days, and reach the worst state on the third day. There should be no cause for concern, as these side effects are common after oral surgery.

Side Effects over the First Week:

  • Soreness- You’ll experience some soreness in your jaw and gums since the tissue had to be damaged to accommodate the dental implants. You’ll be able to help the pain with over the counter prescription pain killers, and then eventually switch to less powerful pain killer such as ibuprofen or Tylenol.
  • Swelling- It’s very common for your jaw, gums and cheeks to swell up after dental implant surgery. The swelling will typically last for about a week. You can help reduce the swelling by applying an ice pack to the affected areas for 15 minutes at a time, with 15 minutes breaks in between.
  • Bruising- Bruises may start to appear on your jaw, gums, and neck which is a result of your dental implants being installed. Any discoloration will be more noticeable once swelling does down, but the bruising should start reduce or gone by the end of the first week.

After the first or second week, your face should look and feel considerably better, and you should be able to return to your normal daily activities. If any of the side effect do start to worsen, call your dentist immediately.

If you are interested in obtaining information about dental implants, contact Dr. Patrick Simone in Henderson, NV at 702-735-2755 or visit our website at www.patricksimonedds.com for more information.

Dr. Patrick Simone also proudly accepts patients from Henderson, Las Vegas, Silverado Ranch, Enterprise, Whitney, Spring Valley, and all surrounding areas.

Placing Dental Implants | Henderson Cosmetic Dentist

Placing dental implants is a thorough process that involves more than one step.

Before

In order to get a dental implant, one must be qualified to receive one. You must have enough bone in your jaw to allow and implant to be placed in the jawbone and you should be free of periodontal disease. A dental professional will administer a thorough examination to determine if you are suitable for implants.

Placing the Implants

Most implants are placed using a two-step process, although some newer implants may only need one step.

The Procedures

1.)    Antibiotics are administered and pain medicine are administered to you before the procedure. Your dentist will then use local anesthesia and may off you sedation if necessary. You can be sedated by taking medicine by mouth or through an intravenous line, or IV. In order to place the implants, an incision is made in your gums to expose the bone, then a hole is drilled to place the implant. You will then be stitched. In 7-10 days, you will return to have the stiches removed, then you will have to wait several months for the bone to bond with the implant.

2.)    After the implants have integrated themselves into the bone, you will approach the second step. After being given local anesthesia, a small incision will be made in the gum to expose the implant, then a healing cap will be placed to sit above your gums.

For more information on new dental implants call Dr. Simone in Henderson, NV at 702-735-2755 or visit www.patricksimonedds.com.

Dr. Simone also proudly serves Henderson, Las Vegas, Silverado Ranch, Enterprise, Whitney, Spring Valley, and surrounding areas.

Excessive Teeth Whitening | Henderson Dentist

“Your teeth can never be too white.”

Oddly enough, as the saying goes, some individuals are taking physical perfection to another level by over doing it on their teeth whitening procedures. The most widely used oral products today are whitening strips and tray-based over the counter whitening kits. While tooth whitening can be a safe and effective technique, some individuals are going above the recommendations of their dentists.

Individuals who overdo whitening techniques have noticeably “Snow White” teeth that oftentimes look unnatural. Some individuals get to the point where their teeth begin to inhibit transparent figures. Over use of whitening products will cause major tooth sensitivity and leave patients more prone to needing root canal treatments.

If you are looking for a safer, more effective form of teeth whitening, consult your dentist. They will give you an overview of certain procedures and even offer some over the counter techniques that may be used, however only if used correctly.

For more information about our   in-office teeth whitening procedures call Dr. Simone in Henderson, NV at 702-735-2755 or visit www.patricksimonedds.com.

Dr. Simone also proudly accepts patients from Henderson, Las Vegas, Silverado Ranch, Enterprise, Whitney, Spring Valley, and surrounding areas.

Dental Implant Aftercare | Henderson Cosmetic Dentist

Now that your smile is rejuvenated with your new dental implant, it is essential that you following Dr. Simone’s aftercare tips:

  • Avoid hot foods and hot drinks your first day having dental implants as this could potentially damage your newly placed implant.
  • Avoid touching or disturbing the dental implant area with your finger of tongue.
  • Many patients experience swelling following their treatment. If you are experiencing minor swelling, simply apply an ice pack to the area until the swelling reduces.
  • Dental implants should be treated as natural teeth. Therefore individuals should thoroughly brush and floss after every meal to prevent plaque buildup.

Properly maintaining your dental implants is vital to your oral health. If you are experiencing any problem call Dr. Simone today for a thorough examination.

For more information about how to properly care for your new dental implants call Dr. Simone in Henderson, NV at 702-735-2755 or visit www.patricksimonedds.com.

Dr. Simone also proudly serves Henderson, Las Vegas, Silverado Ranch, Enterprise, Whitney, Spring Valley, and surrounding areas.

Henderson, NV | Cosmetic Dentistry | Rembrandt® Teeth-Whitening

Are you on a tight and busy schedule? Does it feel as though you never have time for a professional teeth whitening procedure?

Thanks to the latest technology used by Dr. Simone, you can have your ideal smile in only one hour! The Rembrandt® teeth-whitening system is the most popular and convenient procedure that can make your smile up to eight shades whiter! If you are worried about looking unnatural, Dr. Simone and his skilled staff will be able to give you the exact shade of color you would like to achieve during your visit.

So how does the Rembrandt® teeth-whitening system work? The Rembrandt® whitening procedure begins when trained clinicians apply whitening gel to the surface of your teeth. This gel is used with a “Sapphire” Plasma Arc to reduce the appearance of discoloration and stains. For maximum results, Dr. Simone and his staff will apply the gel for three 15 minutes sessions for a total of 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Don’t let time and your busy schedule get in the way of receiving your ideal smile. With the Rembrandt® teeth-whitening system your rejuvenated smile is only 1 hour away. Call Dr. Simone and his staff of professionals and ask about the Rembrandt® teeth whitening procedure.

For more information about our   in-office teeth whitening procedure call Dr. Simone in Henderson, NV at 702-735-2755 or visit www.patricksimonedds.com.

Dr. Simone also proudly accepts patients from Henderson, Las Vegas, Silverado Ranch, Enterprise, Whitney, Spring Valley, and surrounding areas.

Henderson Dentist |General Dentistry Improves your Smile

Dr. Patrick Simone DDS provides the following general dentistry procedures and solutions:

  • Teeth cleanings
  • Fluoride treatment
  • Gum disease treatment
  • Fillings

These general dentistry solutions will benefit your smile by allowing you to have the best oral health. Dr. Patrick Simone DDS is an expert in a variety of dental solutions that can assist you with your oral health and any dental issues. Teeth cleaning and fluoride treatment are offered to patients who are seeking a whiter and enhanced smile, while gum disease prevents the decay of teeth that can eventually lead to the loss of teeth. Fillings are essential to guarantee the strength and longevity of your teeth. For this reason, a visit to Dr. Patrick Simone DDS is essential to the health of your teeth so don’t wait and call today!

For more questions on the general dentistry procedures that Dr. Simone Patrick DDS in Henderson, NV offers call 702-735-2755 to make an appointment of visit www.patricksimonedds.com.

Dr. Patrick Simone DDS proudly serves Henderson, Las Vegas, Silverado Ranch, Enterprise, Whitney, Spring Valley, and surrounding areas.

10 Foods to give you a brighter, healthier smile | Henderson, NV

According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, certain foods naturally cleanse, brighten, and defend against bacteria that can harm your teeth and gums.

The following 10 foods were recommended by the academy for a healthy, brighter smile.

  • Pineapples can help whiten teeth. Pineapples contain an enzyme called bromelain, which acts as a natural stain remover. Bromelain also helps break up plaque.
  • Ginger can protect against periodontal disease, an inflammatory process that causes the loss of bone and supportive connective tissue in your mouth.
  • Carrots contain vitamin A, which is needed for healthy tooth enamel. Eating them raw stimulates saliva, your mouth’s natural cleanser.
  • Basil is a natural antibiotic that reduces bacteria in the mouth.
  • Cheese is rich in protein, calcium, and phosphorus, all of which help reduce acid in your mouth.
  • Sesame seeds help “scrub” away the plaque on your teeth. Chewing nuts can also provide a coarse, scrubbing action. Sesame seeds also contain bone and teeth-strengthening calcium.
  • Shiitake mushrooms contain a compound called lentinan, which inhibits bacteria from growing in your mouth.
  • Onions contain the sulfur compounds, thiosulfinates and thiosulfonates, which reduce bacteria that cause tooth decay. Eating them raw is a must as cooking will destroy these tooth-friendly compounds.
  • Salmon not only provides calcium but also vitamin D, another nutrient needed for healthy bones and teeth.
  • Broccoli contains iron, which helps form an acid-resistant film or barrier that can protect the enamel of your teeth.

For more information on cosmetic dentistry or other ways to brighten your smile, contact Dr. Patrick Simone, DDM and make an appointment at (702) 735-2755 or visit our website at http://www.patricksimonedds.com/.

Dr. Patrick Simone also proudly serves Las Vegas, Silverado Ranch, Enterprise, Whitney, Spring Valley, and surrounding areas.

Bonding vs Porcelain Veneers | Cosmetic Dentistry | Henderson, NV

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Is your smile not what you want it to be? If you would like to change your smile cosmetic dentist Dr. Patrick Simone DDS can help. Dr. Simone offers many cosmetic dentistry procedures including the most popular, bonding and porcelain veneers. But what is the difference between the two?

Both bonding and veneers have similarities. They both are used to cover dental imperfections. However, the procedures are quite different.

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding uses a smooth tooth colored solution which is applied to teeth. It covers stains, and fills in small chips and gaps. After the dental bonding solution has been applied and shaped a specialized dental light is used to harden the bonding material. Once the bonding solution is dried and cured additional layers may be applied depending on your situation. When the process is complete the tooth is then polished. Bonding is used on patients who need one or two teeth corrected.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are fabricated from a solid piece of porcelain. They fit over the front and underside of your tooth covering the entire surface of visible tooth. Veneers can be fitted to lengthen or widen teeth to close gaps or fill in chips. Porcelain veneers are generally used for patients who have several cosmetic problems or want their entire set of front facing teeth made over.

If you are unhappy with your smile and would like more information on bonding or porcelain veneers call Dr. Patrick Simone in Henderson, NV at 702-735-2755. Learn more about Dr. Simone and his practice by visiting his website at www.patricksimonedds.com.

Accepting patients from Las Vegas, Silverado Ranch, Enterprise, Whitney, Spring Valley and all surrounding areas.