If you're missing teeth, dental implants can restore not just your smile but your confidence and oral health too. Before you decide, it’s helpful to understand what dental implants involve, their benefits, and what you can expect during the process. What to Expect Consultation : Your dentist will evaluate your jawbone health and oral condition. Implant Placement : A titanium post is surgically placed into the jawbone. Healing Period : Osseointegration occurs — the bone fuses to the implant — usually over 3–6 months. Crown Attachment : A custom crown is placed on top to complete your new tooth. Costs On average, a single tooth implant (including implant, abutment, and crown) ranges between $3,000 and $7,000. Costs vary based on your location, dentist, and whether additional procedures (like bone grafting) are needed. Benefits of Dental Implants Natural appearance and feel Improved speech and chewing Prevents bone loss in the jaw High durability — often lasting decades with proper care No need to alter surrounding teeth (unlike bridges) At-Home Care for Your Dental Implants To ensure your dental implants heal properly and last long, here are some easy steps to follow: 1.Brush Gently Brush your implants twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Be gentle to avoid irritation around the implant. 2. Floss Daily Use special implant-friendly floss or a water flosser to clean between your implants. This helps prevent plaque buildup and keeps your implants healthy. 3. Avoid Hard Foods Stick to soft foods during the healing period to avoid damaging your new implant. Skip hard foods like nuts, ice, and crunchy snacks for a few months. 4. Manage Pain It’s normal to have some pain or swelling after surgery. Take over-the-counter pain meds as recommended by your dentist, and apply ice packs for comfort. 5. Follow-Up Visits Attend your regular check-ups so your dentist can ensure your implants are healing well. These visits help catch any issues early. 6. Avoid Smoking Smoking can delay healing and increase the risk of implant failure. Try to avoid smoking, especially in the early healing stages. 7. Watch for Infection If you notice any pain, swelling, or unusual discomfort, reach out to your dentist right away. Prompt action can prevent more serious problems. Dental implants are a significant investment, but they offer a lifetime of benefits for your health, confidence, and quality of life. A consultation with your dentist can help determine if implants are the right choice for you. Sites/Resources: Mayo Clinic — "Dental implant surgery" https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/dental-implant-surgery/about/pac-20384622 GoodRx — "How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?" https://www.goodrx.com/health-topic/procedures/dental-implant-cost WebMD — "Dental Implants" https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/dental-implants 

Good oral health isn’t just about brushing and flossing — it's also about the little habits you don’t even think about. Some everyday actions could be putting your smile at risk without you realizing it. Here's how to protect your teeth while living your life:

When most people think about oral health, they focus on having a bright, beautiful smile. But did you know that your mouth is a window into the health of your entire body? Studies show that oral health is deeply connected to overall wellness — meaning a healthy smile can lead to a healthier life. Here are five powerful ways oral health influences your well-being: 1. Heart Health Gum disease (periodontitis) has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease. Bacteria from inflamed gums can enter the bloodstream. This can cause blood vessel inflammation and contribute to clogged arteries and heart attacks. Regular dental cleanings and good oral hygiene can help protect your heart health. 2. Brain Function New research suggests that bacteria from gum disease may travel to the brain. This bacteria could play a role in cognitive decline and dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. Maintaining good oral health may help protect both your mind and your smile. 3. Nutritional Health Teeth are essential for eating a wide variety of healthy foods. Missing or painful teeth can limit your diet, leading to poor nutrition. Good oral health supports better digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall health. 4. Mental and Emotional Wellness A healthy, confident smile can significantly boost your self-esteem and mental health. People with poor oral health may experience social anxiety, depression, or embarrassment. These issues can negatively impact overall quality of life. 5. Pregnancy Outcomes Pregnant women with gum disease are at a higher risk of complications like preterm birth and low birth weight. Maintaining oral health is crucial for the health of both the mother and the baby. Your mouth and body are deeply connected. By investing a little extra care into your oral health, you’re taking important steps toward protecting your heart, mind, and overall wellness.  Sites/Resources: Mayo Clinic — "Oral health: A window to your overall health" https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/dental/art-20047475 The Sun — "How your mouth could predict dementia risk – and how to combat it" https://www.thesun.ie/health/15114415/mouth-predict-dementia-risk-combat-it/ CareQuest — "How Oral Health Affects Overall Health — and How to Improve Both" https://www.carequest.org/about/blog-post/how-oral-health-affects-overall-health-and-how-improve-both Guardian Life — "Oral health and overall health: Why a healthy mouth matters" https://www.guardianlife.com/oral-and-overall-health

There’s power in your diet – not just for overall health, but also for your oral health. While brushing and flossing are vital for a healthy smile, a balanced diet is just as important. Eating the right foods strengthens teeth, prevents cavities, and supports a healthy smile. What you eat influences the health of your teeth and gums in several ways: Sugar and Acidic Foods: Foods and drinks that are high in sugar or acid can promote tooth decay by feeding harmful bacteria in your mouth. When these bacteria break down sugar, they produce acid that can erode tooth enamel, leading to cavities. Nutrient Deficiency: A lack of essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus can weaken teeth, making them more susceptible to decay and gum disease. Saliva Production: Certain foods help stimulate saliva, which plays a crucial role in neutralizing acids, washing away food particles, and keeping your mouth hydrated. A dry mouth can increase the risk of tooth decay and bad breath. Here are 7 Good Foods for Dental Health: 1. Dairy Products (Cheese, Yogurt, Milk) Rich in calcium and phosphorus, strengthening enamel Balances pH levels in the mouth and promotes saliva production Yogurt contains probiotics, promoting healthy gums and reducing bad bacteria 2. Leafy Greens (Spinach, Kale, Collard Greens) High in calcium, folic acid, and fiber for strong bones and teeth Reduces inflammation in gums Stimulates saliva production to wash away food and neutralize acids 3. Apples, Carrots, and Celery Low in sugar, high in fiber and water Stimulate gums and promote saliva production Natural crunch helps clean teeth and massage gums 4. Almonds and Other Nuts Packed with healthy fats, calcium, magnesium, and protein Supports tooth enamel and maintains healthy gums Low-sugar, nutrient-dense snack 5. Green Tea Rich in antioxidants with natural antibacterial properties Fights bacteria, reduces plaque buildup, and prevents cavities Contains catechins that reduce inflammation and protect against gum disease 6. Water Keeps mouth hydrated and helps wash away food particles Supports saliva production and neutralizes acids Reduces the risk of tooth decay and gum disease 7. Fatty Fish (Salmon, Sardines, Mackerel) High in omega-3s and vitamin D Reduces inflammation and promotes healthy blood circulation in gums Supports gum health and prevents gum disease By making smart food choices and drinking plenty of water, you can support your oral health and maintain a beautiful smile for years to come. Book a dental visit at Athena Dental today for a healthier smile. Call 786-408-6651 to learn more.