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Maximize Your Dental Benefits in Las Vegas Before They Expire!

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Did you know your dental insurance benefits will reset on December 31? As the year’s end approaches, it’s a great time to ensure you’re getting the most out of the dental insurance you’ve paid for. We’re here to help you maximize those benefits. Give us a call to schedule your end-of-year appointments for a stress-free way to wrap up 2024 with a healthy smile.

What Kind of Dental Appointment Should I Book?

Your dental needs are unique, so the best way to decide is by talking to your dentist. For most people, a routine dental exam and cleaning is an ideal end-of-year appointment. These preventive care visits are often fully or partially covered by insurance and can be an easy way to maintain your oral health.

Check your insurance plan to see if multiple cleanings are covered per year. If so, why not schedule your next one now? Booking before the holiday rush helps you stay on top of your dental health. Plus, a check-up is the perfect time to get any questions answered and learn more about your teeth and gums.

Understanding Appointment Types: Preventive vs. Elective Dental Services
Dental appointments are generally divided into two main categories: preventive and elective services.

Preventive Dentistry Services
Preventive dentistry focuses on maintaining oral health and preventing future issues. These services typically include regular cleanings and exams, x-rays, and oral cancer screenings. Dental insurance plans often cover preventive services in full, making it easy to stay on top of your oral health. Don’t forget, you can also support your dental health at home by brushing twice daily and flossing once daily.

What Preventive Dentistry in Las Vegas Can Do for You

Elective Dentistry Services
If Elective services are generally chosen for cosmetic reasons, enhancing the appearance of your smile rather than strictly maintaining oral health. These can include treatments like veneers, teeth whitening, and other aesthetic improvements. Insurance coverage for elective services varies, so it’s worth checking with your provider to understand your benefits. The end of the year can be a great time to schedule these larger appointments if you have remaining benefits to use!

Make the Most of Your Year-End Benefits for Major Dental Treatments
If you need extensive restorative dental treatments and have already met your deductible, now is an ideal time to complete these procedures! Restorative services—like dental implants, dentures, and other smile-restoring treatments—can become much more affordable once your deductible is met, as out-of-pocket costs are reduced.

If you’re nearing your annual maximum, reach out to us at A Great Smile Dental Las Vegas. We can help create a plan to split treatments across this year and next, ensuring you get the care you need while maximizing your dental insurance benefits. Our team will work with your insurance provider to arrange a plan tailored to your needs.

Make the Most of Your FSA
Remember, most Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) do not roll over! Check your FSA terms and give us a call to schedule any treatments before year’s end to take full advantage of these funds. Your oral health—and your wallet—will thank you!

Why Use Your Dental Benefits Now?
By maximizing your dental insurance benefits before the year ends, you can save potentially thousands of dollars. Deductibles reset, annual maximums won’t carry over, and premiums may increase. Don’t let 2024 benefits go to waste! Call us to schedule your appointments today, beat the holiday rush, and make the most of your dental insurance before the year wraps up. We look forward to seeing you!

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Transforming Your Smile with Dental Implants

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Dental implants are innovative solutions for replacing missing teeth, designed to closely mimic the natural tooth structure. They consist of a titanium post that acts as a tooth root, a connector (abutment), and a crown resembling the tooth’s visible part. Unlike dentures, which can be removed, dental implants are permanent fixtures that integrate with the jawbone, providing stability and support for daily activities like eating and speaking. This integration process, known as osseointegration, ensures that the implants function like natural teeth, offering both aesthetic and functional benefits.

The role of a periodontist in implant dentistry is crucial. Periodontists are dental specialists who focus on the structures surrounding and supporting the teeth, including gums and bones. Their expertise is vital in evaluating the health of the jawbone and gums to ensure they are suitable for implant placement. Dr. Ben Yaghmai, a renowned periodontist, emphasizes the importance of personalized care and thorough evaluation before proceeding with dental implants to ensure each patient’s unique needs are met for optimal outcomes.

The Life Expectancy of Dental Implants

Several factors contribute to the longevity of dental implants, making them a durable option for tooth replacement. Good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing and flossing, are fundamental. Additionally, lifestyle choices like avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption significantly impact the lifespan of dental implants. Regular dental check-ups allow for early detection and management of potential issues, enhancing the durability of the implants. Dr. Ben Yaghmai advises his patients to maintain a healthy oral environment to maximize the benefits of their dental implants.

On average, dental implants can last between 15 to 25 years or more, depending on various factors. Individual health conditions, such as diabetes or osteoporosis, can influence the longevity of implants. The location of the implant also plays a role; implants placed at the back of the mouth endure more stress from chewing and may have a slightly shorter lifespan than those at the front. Nonetheless, with proper care and maintenance, many patients enjoy the benefits of their dental implants for decades, experiencing improved oral health and quality of life.

Busting Common Myths about Dental Implant Longevity

Several misconceptions about the longevity of dental implants often cause unnecessary concern. One common myth is that dental implants are prone to decay. Unlike natural teeth, implants are made of titanium and ceramic materials that do not decay. However, the surrounding gum tissue and bone still require care to prevent periodontal disease, which can affect implant stability. Dr. Ben Yaghmai highlights the importance of maintaining gum health through regular dental visits and oral hygiene practices.

Another prevalent myth is that dental implants can last a lifetime without issues. While implants are designed to be long-lasting, their success and longevity depend on various factors, including patient health, oral hygiene, and lifestyle choices. It is essential to understand that implants, like any medical procedure, require proper care and attention. By debunking these myths, Dr. Ben Yaghmai aims to provide his patients with realistic expectations and the knowledge to ensure the longevity of their dental implants.

How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Dental Implants

Extending the lifespan of dental implants involves a combination of good oral hygiene practices and regular dental care. Brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and flossing daily helps remove plaque and prevent gum disease, which can compromise the stability of implants. Using antimicrobial mouthwash can also aid in maintaining a healthy oral environment. Dr. Ben Yaghmai recommends that his patients follow a consistent oral hygiene routine to protect their dental implants and overall oral health.

Regular dental check-ups are crucial for the long-term success of dental implants. During these visits, Dr. Ben Yaghmai and his team can monitor the condition of the implants, gums, and surrounding bone, addressing any issues early on. Professional dental cleanings assist in removing plaque, tartar, and harmful bacteria, reducing the risk of gum disease and ensuring the implants remain in optimal condition. By adhering to these maintenance tips, patients can enjoy the benefits of their dental implants for many years.

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Why Regular Dental Checkups Are Essential

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Taking care of your teeth is key for maintaining oral health and a beautiful smile. Regular dental checkups and cleanings play a significant role in preventing various oral diseases and ensuring your teeth look their best. With only one set of natural adult teeth, it’s essential to prioritize their care. One of the most important steps you can take is to see your dentist regularly.

By committing to routine dental visits, you can catch potential issues early, avoiding more extensive and costly treatments down the line. A professional cleaning not only brightens your smile but also removes plaque and tartar that you might miss with regular brushing and flossing. Furthermore, regular checkups allow your dentist to provide personalized advice on improving your at-home dental care routine, tailored specifically to your needs. Investing in your oral health today sets the foundation for a lifetime of healthy, confident smiles.

The Necessity of Dental Checkups

You might wonder why regular dental checkups are necessary, especially if you’re not experiencing any noticeable issues. It’s tempting to skip these appointments, but many dental problems are detected early by professionals who can spot issues that are invisible to the untrained eye. Additionally, we are already halfway through 2024, and if you have dental insurance benefits, now is the perfect time to use them before they expire at the end of the year. Utilizing these benefits for routine checkups and cleanings can save you money and ensure you maintain optimal oral health.

What Happens at Your Dental Visit?

A regular dental visit typically involves two main parts: a checkup (or examination) and a cleaning (or oral prophylaxis).

The Dental Checkup

During the dental checkup, your dental professional will examine your mouth for cavities. X-rays may be taken to detect cavities between your teeth. The checkup also includes an assessment for plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth. Plaque is a clear, sticky layer of bacteria that can harden into tartar if not removed. Tartar cannot be eliminated through brushing and flossing alone, and its buildup can lead to oral diseases.

Next, your gums will be evaluated using a special tool to measure the depth of the spaces between your teeth and gums. Healthy gums have shallow spaces, while deeper spaces may indicate gum disease.

The checkup also includes a thorough examination of your tongue, throat, face, head, and neck to look for any signs of trouble such as swelling, redness, or possible indications of cancer.

The Dental Cleaning

Your dental visit also includes a professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar that you can’t remove at home. Special tools are used for scaling, which is the process of removing tartar from your teeth. After scaling, your teeth may be polished using a gritty paste that helps to remove surface stains. The final step is flossing, where your dental professional ensures that the areas between your teeth are thoroughly clean.

The Importance of Dental Hygiene

Dental checkups aim to prevent oral diseases and address any existing problems, such as cracked or broken teeth. If this is your first visit, our team will conduct a comprehensive exam and cleaning, including x-rays to identify hidden cavities or other issues.

During your appointment, we will also check for signs of gum disease. This condition, which can affect both bone and teeth, often starts painlessly but can become severe if left untreated. Early detection is key to managing it effectively.

Even if you brush and floss daily, regular professional cleanings are essential. Daily oral care helps remove plaque buildup that can lead to cavities, gingivitis, bad breath, and more, but it’s not a substitute for regular checkups with your dentist.

The Role of Regular Dental Visits

Regular dental visits are vital for maintaining oral health. Our dentists can detect issues like tooth decay, cavities, discoloration, or erosion that you might not notice at home. We provide effective treatments to keep your smile healthy and looking great.

When to Schedule Your First Dental Checkup

We recommend scheduling a dental checkup every six months to maintain optimal oral health and catch potential issues early. Depending on your specific needs or any pre-existing conditions, we might suggest more frequent visits. Your first visit will include a comprehensive exam, cleaning, and x-rays, followed by a discussion of any findings with your dentist.

Tips for Maintaining Oral Health Between Visits

– Avoid sugary foods and drinks to prevent cavities.

– Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth.

– Brush at least twice a day, especially before bed, to prevent bad breath and strengthen teeth.

– Schedule a dental checkup every six months to monitor and maintain your oral health.

Following these simple tips helps keep your teeth healthy and strong. Regular dental visits ensure that any issues are identified and addressed early, potentially saving you time and money on future treatments.

Schedule Your Checkup Today

Maintaining dental health is important. Regular visits to the dentist help reinforce good oral hygiene habits and provide opportunities to learn new care techniques. We recommend visiting us at A Great Smile Dental in Las Vegas, NV twice a year for x-rays and cleanings. Since we are halfway through 2024, now is the ideal time to use your dental benefits before they expire at the end of the year. Schedule your checkup today to keep your smile healthy and bright!

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Maximizing Your Dental Benefits in 2024

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The beginning of a new year is an excellent opportunity to set personal goals and concentrate on your health, particularly dental health, as it is directly influenced by changes in your dental insurance plans at the start of the year. Explore the different facets of dental insurance and learn how to make the most of your dental plans this January.

Every dental plan has its own unique features, but the majority adhere to the standard calendar year cycle. This typically means your dental benefits are bound to a certain timeframe, often resetting on January 1st annually. The start of the year marks a fresh beginning for your dental benefits. January is an ideal month to strategize the utilization of these benefits, including scheduling routine cleanings or any necessary treatments.

For detailed inquiries regarding your specific dental plan, you can typically locate a customer service contact number on the back of your insurance card. Alternatively, feel free to contact our office, and one of our friendly dental receptionists will be glad to assist you. They can also call the insurance company on your behalf if needed.

We Accept a Variety of Dental Insurance Plans

At our practice, A Great Smile Dental in Las Vegas, we understand the importance of hassle-free dental care. That’s why we accept a broad range of dental insurance plans and take care of filing your claims, saving you both time and effort. Our experienced benefit coordinators are here to assist you in maximizing your dental benefits while minimizing your out-of-pocket expenses. We provide clear, upfront information about what your insurance will cover and offer flexible options to manage any remaining balance. Your peace of mind and dental health are our top priorities.

Yearly Coverage Limits

The annual coverage limit is an essential component of your dental insurance plan. It represents the highest sum your dental insurance will pay over a calendar year. This limit is refreshed at the beginning of each new year. If you anticipate needing extensive dental work such as dental crowns, root canals, or cosmetic procedures, January is the perfect time to begin organizing these treatments. Our team is ready to explore your options with you and assist in devising the most effective strategy for your dental care.

Understanding Deductibles and Coverage

Dental plans commonly cover services like professional teeth cleanings and preventative dental care, usually including routine cleanings, oral exams, x-rays, and dental sealants. However, for dental services beyond preventative care, you’ll encounter a deductible. This is the amount you pay out-of-pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. Being aware of this deductible is essential for effectively planning your dental treatments.

Stay In-Network: Choosing dentists who are part of your insurance network is important for maximizing your benefits. In-network providers typically offer services at more affordable rates than out-of-network providers, leading to lower out-of-pocket expenses for you. Additionally, staying in-network often simplifies the claims process, as these providers directly bill your insurance company, reducing paperwork and administrative hassles for you. Moreover, in-network dentists have pre-negotiated rates with insurance companies, ensuring that you receive quality care at a cost that’s aligned with your plan’s coverage limits.

Understand the Fine Print: It’s important to read your policy thoroughly to grasp the exclusions, limitations, and waiting periods. This knowledge is key in preventing unexpected expenses and ensures that you’re fully aware of what your insurance covers and doesn’t cover. Additionally, understanding the fine print can help you make informed decisions about optional treatments or additional coverage needs, and it can guide you in timing major dental procedures effectively. Familiarity with your policy’s details also enables you to effectively advocate for yourself in discussions with both your dentist and insurance provider, ensuring that you receive the maximum benefits available to you.

Family Benefits: If your plan extends coverage to family members, it’s important to make sure that all eligible individuals are utilizing their benefits, particularly for preventive care. This not only helps in maintaining overall dental health for your family but also maximizes the value you get from your dental plan. Additionally, scheduling regular check-ups and cleanings for all family members can help in early detection and treatment of dental issues, potentially saving on more costly treatments down the line. Encouraging a routine of regular dental visits also instills good oral hygiene habits in younger family members, setting a foundation for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

Kickstart Your Year with a Healthy Smile

As we embark on a new year, understanding and utilizing your dental benefits to their fullest potential is essential for maintaining optimal oral health. By keeping informed about plan renewals, maximizing annual maximums, understanding deductibles, and leveraging covered services, you can ensure that you and your family receive the best dental care possible. Remember, preventive care is key to long-term dental wellness, and early planning for major procedures can save both time and resources. Always choose in-network providers when possible, and don’t hesitate to consult with your dental office for personalized advice. Let’s make 2024 a year of healthy smiles and wise utilization of dental benefits, setting a foundation for years of good oral health.

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Understanding the Process of Getting Dental Veneers

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Veneers in Las Vegas NV

Do you ever look at pictures of celebrities and wonder how they have such perfect teeth? While some may be genetically blessed, many have taken advantage of dental veneers. If you’ve been feeling self-conscious about your smile, perhaps due to discolored or chipped teeth, it may be time to consider updating your smile with veneers. If you are looking for veneers in Las Vegas NV, we can help you.

What are dental veneers? 

Dental veneers are wafer-thin, tooth-colored shells that are permanently affixed to the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. While there are different types of dental veneers, we offer porcelain veneers at A Great Smile Dental. Porcelain veneers look and feel natural, are  stain-resistant, and last about 10 to 15 years, or even longer.[*]

Veneers are used to correct several cosmetic concerns, including:

  • Tooth discoloration
  • Chipped or broken teeth
  • Shape or size irregularities
  • Wear from teeth grinding
  • Gaps between teeth  

Some people may only get one veneer in the case of a broken or chipped tooth, however, many people get multiple veneers to create an even, symmetrical smile. The top front eight teeth are most commonly corrected with veneers.

Veneers can last for over a decade, making them a semi-permanent investment that can drastically improve the appearance of your smile and, consequently, your confidence. 

What does the process of getting veneers entail? 

First, you’ll have a preliminary appointment with your dentist, during which they’ll conduct a thorough exam of your teeth, discuss your esthetic goals, and share the available options. 

If the doctor determines you’re a good candidate for veneers, your next appointment will involve your dentist removing a small amount of enamel from each tooth to create space for the veneers to adhere to. A putty mold of your teeth will then be created and sent to a laboratory where your veneers will be made. Temporary veneers will be prepared and applied to your teeth while you wait for the lab to create the permanent ones. 

A few weeks later, once your dentist receives your veneers, you’ll come back for another appointment to have the veneers applied. Permanently bonding the veneers to your teeth is a quick and easy process. The natural tooth will be cleaned, polished, and etched, and dental cement will be applied. The veneers will then be placed on your teeth and a special light will be used to cure the cement. After excess cement is removed and final adjustments are made, you’ll be ready to go with your new smile in tow!

Dental veneers in Las Vegas, NV

Veneers can drastically improve the appearance of your teeth, giving you a brighter, more even smile. If you’re interested in getting evaluated for dental veneers in the Las Vegas, NV area, contact A Great Smile Dental by calling 702-804-5154 or send us a message online. 

Dr. Ben Yaghma is dedicated to helping patients restore their smiles with veneers and other cosmetic and general dentistry services in Las Vegas, NV. Don’t spend one more day feeling self-conscious about your smile! 

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Achieve the Smile of Your Dreams: 6 Benefits of Invisalign

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Invisalign in Las Vegas NV

Having straight, healthy teeth not only boost your confidence but also protects you from developing serious oral health issues. While most people think of traditional metal braces when it comes to straightening teeth, there’s another less visible option: Invisalign. What exactly is Invisalign and what benefits does this treatment offer? Here’s what you need to know. If you are looking for Invisalign in Las Vegas NV, we can help you.

What is Invisalign? 

Invisalign is a brand of clear aligner—lightweight plastic trays that straighten or realign your teeth. The trays are almost completely transparent and worn over your teeth, much like a mouthguard.

To be fitted for Invisalign, your dentist will take computer-generated measurements of your teeth. Those measurements will then be used to create a sequence of plastic aligners. Approximately every two weeks, you’ll change to a new set of aligners. Over the course of the treatment, the aligners will gently and gradually move your teeth into their ideal positions.  

What are the benefits of Invisalign? 

1. They’re discreet 

One of the the biggest reasons people choose Invisalign over metal braces is because they’re hardly noticeable. Unlike traditional braces that have brackets and wires, Invisalign aligners are made of thin, clear plastic, making them virtually invisible.  

2. They’re more comfortable than metal braces 

Traditional metal braces can be uncomfortable and irritate the gums and cheeks. Invisalign aligners, on the other hand, are made of flexible, smooth plastic and don’t have any extruding pieces, making them a much more comfortable option. 

3. They allow for better dental hygiene 

Unlike metal braces, Invisalign aligners are removable. When it comes time to perform your regular dental hygiene routine, simply remove your Invisalign trays, clean your teeth, and put them back in. This allows you to maintain better dental hygiene than with fixed metal braces. 

4. You can eat whatever you want 

Another perk of having removable aligners is that you can eat whatever you desire. There’s no need to avoid hard, crunchy foods as with metal braces. When you want to eat or drink a beverage (other than water), remove your Invisalign aligners. Then just reinsert them when you’ve finished eating. 

5. They improve overall dental health 

With Invisalign treatment, you’ll not only improve your smile, but also your overall dental health. This is because having straight teeth decreases the risk of tooth decay, helps prevent gum disease, and reduces the need for future dental treatments. 

6. Saves you time 

Because there are no metal wires or brackets, Invisalign treatment typically doesn’t require as many maintenance trips to the dentist. On top of that, appointments tend to be shorter and less involved saving you time and money.  

Invisalign treatment in Las Vegas, NV


Invisalign has a 20-year proven track record of transforming people’s smiles and improving their dental health. If you’re seeking Invisalign in Las Vegas, NV, reach out to A Great Smile Dental by calling 702-804-5154 or sending us a message online. Dr. Ben Yaghmai can examine your teeth and determine if you’re a candidate for Invisalign. Take the first step to achieving the smile of your dreams today!

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5 Facts You Should Know About Dental Implants

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Implant Dentistry in Las Vegas NV

More than 120 million people in the U.S. are missing at least one tooth.[*] Missing teeth not only affect your confidence, but also your oral health, facial posture, and physical health. If you are looking for implant dentistry in Las Vegas NV, we can help you.

Whether you’re missing teeth due to an accident, aging, decay, or gum disease, missing teeth don’t have to impact your life and well-being. The advancement of dental implants has enabled countless patients to restore their teeth, resulting in a better smile and improved health. 

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a titanium pole that acts as a replacement root of a missing tooth. After being inserted into the jawbone by an oral surgeon, the dental implant will be left alone for several months, during which time it fuses to the surrounding bone. The dental implant acts as a sturdy anchor for an artificial tooth called a crown, which looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth.

Quick facts about dental implants

Here are some quick facts to consider when deciding whether or not dental implants are right for you.

  1. They can replace teeth in a variety of ways

Dental implants can be used to replace one missing tooth or multiple missing teeth. They can even be used to support an entire arch of replacement teeth that are fixed into the mouth and never removed. In some cases, an entire arch of replacement teeth can be supported by as few as four dental implants. It’s comparable to a table, which only needs four legs to hold it up.   

  1. They’re built to last

Unlike dentures or dental bridges, which typically last seven to ten years, dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care. Aside from regular dental hygiene, implants require no extra maintenance and are the next best thing to natural teeth. 

  1. They offer many benefits 

A dental implant is surgically inserted into the jawbone to replace the root of the missing tooth. A crown then goes on top of the implant to simulate an actual tooth. The result is a natural-looking tooth that offers many benefits:

  • Restores your ability to chew properly 
  • Restores your appearance
  • Helps keep your jawbone from shrinking due to bone loss
  • Preserves the health of the surrounding bone and gums
  • Helps keep adjacent (nearby) teeth stable
  • Improves your quality of life
  1. They feel natural 

Not only do dental implants look natural, but they feel natural, too. Unlike dentures, which often cause people to struggle with speaking normally and are prone to shifting around, dental implants allow you to speak, eat, and feel the same way you did with your natural teeth.

  1. They aren’t for everyone 

Unfortunately, not everyone is a candidate for dental implants. Ideal candidates for a dental implant are people who:[*]

  • Have good general and oral health.
  • Have adequate bone in their jaw to support the implant.
  • Have healthy gum tissue free of periodontal disease.

Implant dentistry in Las Vegas, NV

If you’re in the Las Vegas area and interested in seeing if you’re a candidate for dental implants, reach out to A Great Smile Dental by calling 702-804-5154 or sending us a message online. Dr. Ben Yaghmai expertly blends artistry with the science of implant dentistry to restore your smile to perfection.