Dental Implants

Dental implants are an incredible option for patients with missing teeth, allowing them to regain confidence in their smile, chew and speak properly, and overall enhance their health. While there are other options available to restore smiles after tooth loss (bridges and dentures), these appliances are not capable of supplying the benefits made possible by implants. 

The true difference here lies in the anchoring of the implant; utilizing the patient’s natural anatomy to secure the prosthetic, implants create a mutually beneficial relationship between the jawbone and appliance. While a full dental implant is composed of three separate components, the primary element of the implant is the implant post.

  • The implant post is a titanium structure that is placed within the jawbone. 
  • The post is topped with a connecting piece, known as an abutment. 
  • Finally, the procedure is concluded by the addition of a custom-made dental crown. 

As the full implant is used, it provides stimulation to the jawbone – this stimulation strengthens the bone, allowing it to better secure the post, as well as any remaining natural teeth. 

Dental implants are a revolutionary appliance, able to restore the full bite force while also enhancing health. As the closest replacement for a natural tooth, our team at Smile Makers Dental Center strongly recommends dental implants to our Falls Church, VA patients.

Single Implants

A single dental implant is designed to replace a single missing tooth. The implant consists of a titanium implant post, an abutment, and a custom-created dental crown. 

  • We will begin by surgically implanting the titanium post within the jawbone tissue. 
  • The area will then be sutured closed for a period of healing.
  • Once the implant has fused to the bone tissue, it will be stable enough to support the remaining appliances.
  • An abutment is then attached to the implant post, providing the crown a secure foundation to adhere to.
  • Finally, the custom-made crown is bonded to the abutment; with each piece securely in place, the implant is complete.

When cared for properly with proper oral hygiene and regular office visits, implants are designed to last for a lifetime. Dental crowns may need to be replaced every fifteen years; we will notify you when it comes time for the next crown.

Implant-Supported Bridges

Implant-supported bridges are very similar to traditional bridges; the only difference is that rather than attaching to neighboring teeth for support, the bridge is secured by dental implants. The bridge is designed to span a gap of three or more missing teeth within a section. Implants are placed on either side of the gap and given a period of time for healing before the abutments and bridge appliance is attached. 

The implant-supported bridge has a natural look and feel, and will last for years if cared for properly. Patients can smile again, enjoy their favorite foods, and experience better health with an implant-supported bridge.

All-On-4

All-on-4 is a quality solution that allows patients to restore a full arch of missing teeth with dental implants. Rather than placing an implant for each individual missing tooth, a full prosthetic appliance is designed to be attached by four implants on the upper or lower dental arch. These strategically positioned implants are capable of holding the prosthetic in place securely, meaning patients can enjoy a full bite force, complete comfort, and peace of mind knowing their smile is stable.

A New Smile For A New You

At Smile Makers Dental Center, our team is dedicated to your smile health, and your satisfaction with each visit. With dental implants, our focus is to ensure patients are educated on the benefits and processes associated with this procedure. By giving you the information necessary to make the best decision, we are confident that you will be happy through every step of your journey. 

We are proud to be a part of your new smile process, creating a more confident, happier, and healthier you. Call today to schedule your free implant consultation!

  • Scroll to Top