Austin Laser Dentist - Helen Ragsdale DDS, 11615 Angus Rd Ste 101, Austin 78759, United States (US) - Phone: 512 346-4690

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Are Dental Implants Right For Me?

Are dental implants right for me?

Dental Implants are highly regarded as one of the best forms of restorative treatment. This incredible technology can help patients replace one or more missing teeth. Even patients without any teeth can benefit from implant-supported dentures. 

The first step in the dental implant journey is establishing if you are a good candidate. Dr. Helen Ragsdale, a dentist in Austin, TX, can examine your smile to determine if dental implants are the best option for you. This process is simple! Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation. 

Here are the three key factors involved in determining if dental implants are right for you:  

  1. Health background

Many patients with dental implants come from varied health backgrounds. The importance of sharing all health information with Dr. Ragsdale is so that she can understand how any overall health problems might contribute to unfavorable oral conditions. Certain health issues are especially important to note:

  • Heart disease
  • Respiratory Problems
  • Diabetes
  • Cancer

Some conditions and medications may not seem like a big deal but they can contribute to dry mouth, slower healing times, and sporadic bleeding. So it is important to communicate everything. A health condition does not automatically disqualify anyone from getting dental implants but it is an important aspect for the doctor and patient to consider together. 

  1. Healthy gums

Healthy gums are a very important factor when it comes to the consideration of dental implants. In short, healthy gums mean healthy bone! 

Dr. Ragsdale and her team regularly treat and help to prevent periodontal disease (or disease of the gums) with advanced laser treatment and technology. 

Periodontal disease is a bacteria that gets trapped below the gums and this bacteria can erode bone over time. Loss of bone will ultimately contribute to tooth loss. It is very important to evaluate and know a patient’s periodontal status when considering dental implants. 

  1. Healthy bones

Healthy bone structure is a critical component in determining if dental implants are the right choice for a patient. 

When evaluating a patient’s periodontal status, special measurements will be taken to determine if a patient has healthy bone levels. Dental implants are placed directly into the bone and over time will fuse together with the bone, much like the original tooth structure. 

This strong structure provides the opportunity to replace missing teeth with prostheses such as crowns, bridges, and even dentures.

Consider This: Are dental implants safe?

Yes! They are very safe and effective! Dental implants have a success rate of over 95% and it is estimated by 2026 23% of the population will have them. Dental implants do not only replace missing teeth but they also contribute to many other healthy oral conditions. 

Conditions such as occlusion (how the upper and lower jaw come together), tooth alignment, the ability to properly chew food and digestion, and even the physical appearance can all be improved with dental implants.

Austin, TX Dental Implants

Dr. Ragsdale and her team are skilled in dental implants and restorations. Using laser treatment and advanced technology, they proudly serve Austin and its surrounding communities. Call us today at 512-346-4690 to schedule a consultation or schedule your appointment online and start your journey towards a more beautiful and healthy smile!

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Dental Implants: 6 Facts You Need to Know

A cross-sectional model displaying how dental implants are inserted into the jaw bone to replace missing teeth.

Dental professionals widely regard dental implants as the best permanent tooth-replacement solution available today. This is because implants don’t just replace missing teeth–they also promote optimum oral and overall health.

Dr. Helen Ragsdale is the most qualified and experienced dentist serving Austin, TX, and the surrounding areas. Her gentle dentistry techniques and use of top-tier technology make her a favorite among her patients and community. So, don’t wait for a second longer–schedule your dental implant consultation today by calling 512-346-4690 or booking it online here.

If you’re not convinced that dental implants are right for you, then keep reading. We’ll give you six facts that will make you wish you had called our Austin Laser Dentist sooner!

Fact #1: Humans have been using dental implants for millennia.

Historians have found that ancient civilizations as far back as 2,500 BC have been replacing missing teeth. However, dental implants have come a long way from the shell-and-stone implants of yesteryear. 

Arguably, the first modern, surgically-placed implant took place in 1809. Since then, dental professionals have been refining the implant process. Therefore, patients with dental implants today can feel confident that their restoration is safe, effective, and biocompatible.

Fact #2: Dental implants have an extremely high success rate.

Due to refining the procedure, teeth implants have one of the highest success rates among tooth-replacement options available today. In fact, implants typically have a success rate of 95% or above! 

However, there are a few reasons why a dental implant might fail, including:

  • -Poor dental hygiene
  • -Health conditions that make wound healing more difficult, like diabetes
  • -Smoking and chewing tobacco products
  • -Excessive jaw bone deterioration

Fact #3: Dental implants are permanent.

Through a process known as osseointegration, a tooth implant fuses to the bone tissue of the jaw. Subsequently, a tooth implant is a permanent fixture that dentists intend to last for a lifetime.

Nevertheless, the restoration–such as a dental crown or bridge–that a dentist places on the implant may need to be replaced after a decade. However, patients can prolong the life of their restorations by:

  • -Brushing twice daily and flossing once daily
  • -Visiting a dentist at least every 6 months
  • -Limiting sugary and acidic foods and drinks

Fact #4: Implants improve patients’ chewing and speaking function.

Missing teeth are much more than a source of embarrassment. For example, missing teeth drastically and negatively impact regular chewing and speaking function.

So, if you’re avoiding certain foods or social situations, then dental implants are the perfect solution to restore your confidence. You can comfortably smile, speak, and eat with a tooth implant for years to come (even a lifetime!). 

Fact #5: Implants will make you look younger.

Prolonged tooth loss leads to dental shifting and drooping facial features. When combined, these factors can add years to your appearance.

However, replacing missing teeth prevents dental shifting and facial drooping. But, not only do teeth implants make you look younger, they also promote healthy blood circulation, nerve development, and bone growth at the surgical site.

Fact #6: You can live your life confidently with teeth implants!

Unlike other tooth-replacement options, dental implants are extremely reliable. Therefore, patients never have to worry about their implant slipping, moving, or irritating them when they eat or speak. 

So, if you’re tired of less-reliable dentures or dental bridges, then it’s time to make the switch to dental implants. We promise–it’s well worth the investment!

Dental Implants in Austin, TX

We know you’re ready to schedule your dental implant consultation. However, we know that financing your oral healthcare might make you nervous. But, never fear! Dr. Helen Ragsdale offers affordable and flexible in-house dental plans to make dental care more accessible for her patients.


So, don’t wait a second longer–schedule your consultation today by calling 512-346-4690 or booking it online!

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4 Common Dental Implant Myths

Patients who are missing one or several teeth may be weighing the different options that exist to replace them. Many patients believe dental implants are not an option for them because they are costly. Plus, other treatments are just as effective. Are these assumptions  true? Not necessarily.

Here are the facts about four common dental implant myths: 

Myth #1: Dental implants are an unproven procedure.

Dental implants are considered one of the most successful options available for tooth restoration today. In fact, the success rate of dental implant procedures is a whopping 98%.

Myth #2: Traditional dentures are just as effective as dental implants.

Traditional, removable dentures have been used as a restorative solution for decades. For many of those decades, they were the only option. Today, many dentists continue to offer them because they are an affordable, efficient solution for missing teeth. However, dentures are adept at restoring appearance but with limited functionality. Implant-supported prostheses  reestablish the appearance AND full functionality of the mouth.

Traditional dentures are not permanent. Because they are supported only by the gums, their fit loosens over time. As a result, dentures move and sometimes slip out when a patient is eating or speaking, leading to embarrassing moments. Foods that are hard and chewy also need to be avoided when wearing dentures as they are not as durable as implants.

A dental implant becomes a permanent part of the patient’s mouth and functions just as a natural tooth does. There is no risk of it slipping out while eating or chewing, and no reason to avoid favorite foods.

Dental implants can be used to stabilize dentures and in fact, many patients choose that option. The result is a natural, stable prosthesis that does not shift out of place.

Myth #3: Missing teeth don’t really need to be replaced.

All elements, from the smallest to the largest, of oral health work in harmony. If one element is missing or dysfunctional, it can lead to adverse conditions. 

When tooth roots are present, they send signals to jaw nerves to keep the jawbone dense and healthy. When a tooth is removed, the jawbone in that area no longer receives those signals. This results in bone deterioration over time. If the condition is left untreated noticeable changes in facial features can occur, including sagging skin around the jaw and an unhealthy appearance. It can also have a significant effect on chewing function and overall oral health.

Myth #4: Dental implants are unaffordable.

It is true that patients who choose dental implants will be making a significant investment. The total cost of treatment for a dental implant will vary depending on several factors, including:

  • Number of implants needed
  • Materials chosen
  • Experience of the dental professional

Dentists can help determine a treatment plan that fits both a patient’s needs and their budget. Dental implant procedures are not covered by most dental insurance companies, but financing options are available. 

Our dentist, Dr. Helen Ragsdale, works with CareCredit®, a leading healthcare payment program. CareCredit offers a range of monthly payments that allow patients to immediately begin treatment. With CareCredit, there are no fees, prepayment penalties, up-front costs, or interest.

It’s also important to note that while upfront costs of dental implants are more significant than those of other solutions, dental implants are permanent restorative options. Dental bridges, for example, may be less expensive initially but have to be replaced every 5-15 years, possibly making that option more costly over time.

The Best Dental Implant Care in Austin, TX

Dr. Ragsdale and our team at Austin Laser Dentist are committed to providing the highest quality dental care to each patient. Call 512 346-4690 or schedule your consultation online today to see how we can help you restore your beautiful smile.

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Dental Implants: The Best Way to Restore Beauty and Function

woman smiling with blue background

We see it all the time—patients who are desperate for a solution to their gapped-toothed smiles and caving facial features. Having missing teeth doesn’t just affect the function of a person’s smile, it changes the way they feel about themselves and their lives. Thankfully, dentists offer an effective, safe, and long-lasting solution through dental implants.

As dental professionals, our goal is to help patients achieve a healthy, beautiful, and function smile. For many patients, dental implants are the key! Check out this blog to learn how dental implants can improve your smile and life.

Improved Smile

Although aesthetics isn’t our main concern, improved appearance is one of the greatest benefits of dental implants. When a patient has one or more missing teeth replaced, he or she becomes much more confident and comfortable with their smile.

In turn, they smile more because they are no longer scared to show their teeth and because they are happier as well.

Improve Appearance

Along with replacing one or more missing teeth, dental implants strengthen the jawbone which reduces jawbone atrophy.

Atrophy—or bone deterioration—causes the face to droop and facial features to cave in. This occurs because there is no tooth root to stimulate the jawbone and keep it strong; it is important that we point this out because we want patients to understand that this benefit only comes from dental implants. Dentures and dental bridges only restore the crown of the tooth, not the root.

Another reason aesthetics are important is that we want our patients to feel confident and self-assured. A less-than-perfect smile can certainly be the reason for low self-esteem which affects every area of a person’s life. As dental professionals, we want our patients to have healthy smiles as well as beautiful ones!

Restored Function

Missing teeth can make chewing and talking much more difficult. People with missing teeth may struggle to eat some of their favorite foods like apples or steak. Additionally, when we don’t chew our foods enough, our digestive systems suffer.

Depending on where the missing tooth or teeth are, a person may suffer from a speech impediment. In addition to being insecure about their smile, they may be self-conscious when speaking to others. Imagine the impact that could have on a person’s work and personal life.

Thankfully, dental implants can completely restore a person’s ability to chew and speak properly so these other problems are resolved as well.

Lifetime Solution

One major advantage of dental implants is that they typically last a lifetime. Unlike dentures and dental bridges, most patients never need to have their dental implant replaced because of the highly-successful procedure and biocompatible materials.

When patients choose an experienced and trusted dentist to plan their dental implant treatment, they are much less likely to experience complications. This is because the dentist knows what a suitable candidate for dental implants looks like and places the implant properly. In more complex cases, the dentist may recommend the patient to an oral surgeon for the implant placement.

Whatever the case, dental implant patients can rest assured knowing that their restoration will be extremely long-lasting.

Dental Implants in Austin, TX

Are you ready to have your beautiful and functioning smile back? Our gentle and experienced dentist, Dr. Helen Ragsdale is prepared to do just that! Call us today to schedule your initial consultation at (512) 346-4690.

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5 Advantages of Dental Implants

man with thumbs up

Patients with one or more missing teeth are susceptible to a wide range of oral and overall health issues. While most people believe that missing teeth is simply an aesthetic issue, it can contribute to problems like dental decay, gum disease, and even heart disease. fortunately, there are various options when it comes to replacing one or more missing teeth. These include dental bridges and dentures, but the most effective and beneficial option is dental implants.

In this blog, our Austin Laser Dentist discusses the major benefits of choosing dental implants over other tooth-replacement options.

1. Jawbone support

One of the greatest benefits of dental implants is that it restores and preserves the jawbone. Most people with missing teeth don’t realize that the tooth root is responsible for maintaining jawbone structure.

When a tooth is lost, the jawbone begins to slowly deteriorate which leads to atrophy and facial sagging, but when it’s replaced, the jawbone is stimulated and integrates with the implant. This three-to-eight- month process is called osseointegration.

Additionally, the process of placing dental implants doesn’t require the removal of adjacent teeth like with dental bridges. Therefore, the risk of oral health complications is reduced.

2. Natural appearance

Dental implants are made up of three parts: the implant, abutment, and crown. These three parts emulate a natural tooth because the small, screw-like implant acts as the tooth root and the crown as the natural tooth. The abutment simply holds the two parts together.

Additionally, the crown, or prosthetic, is created to look just like the rest of the patient’s teeth. The implant itself helps maintain facial and bone features that often deteriorate over time.

3. Restored function

People with missing teeth often struggle with chewing, eating, and speaking properly. The strength that natural teeth offer enables patients to maintain jawbone strength so that these functions are completely reinstated.

4. Comfort

Compared to traditional dentures, dental implants are far more comfortable. Denture-wearers often complain about movement that irritates and inflames the gums. Movement and slippage most often occur while eating and talking. To remedy this problem, patients need to have their dentures remade or relined or use creams and adhesives to make their current denture more comfortable.

Dental implants can be used to secure dentures, dental bridges, and single-tooth restorations. The secure implant prevents movement so patients can live a more comfortable life.

5. High success rate

The dental implant procedure has a nearly 100% success rate. This is contributed to its predictability.  Dentists are able to determine who is a suitable candidate for dental implants before performing the procedure. Qualifications for dental implant surgery include:

  • Healthy teeth
  • Healthy gums
  • Good overall health
  • Being tobacco-free

Once a patient has been approved, the dentist moves forward with the procedure. However, the success rate isn’t simply based on the immediate outcomes, but the long-term ones.

As long as the patient cares for their dental implant properly—just as they would their natural teeth—the dental implant will likely last forever.

Schedule an Initial Consultation

Another key to dental implant success is choosing an experienced and expert dentist. Dr. Helen Ragsdale is just that! She and our team are prepared to give you the most comfortable and enjoyable dental experience possible.

Call our Austin, TX office today at (512) 346-4690 to schedule an initial consultation.