Dental Implants Dental implants are synthetic or artificial tooth roots that resemble a post or screw. These posts are surgically inserted into the jawbone to provide anchorage for a dental crown. The post is fabricated of titanium, a material that has been used in most replacement knees and hips. Titanium is well-known for pairing easily with human bone. A dentist then places a replacement tooth on the post. Dental Implant ProcedureDental implant surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia, with recovery times varying. There are three components that make up a dental implant: the implant post, abutment, and the artificial tooth. This is typically a dental crown. Once our dentist clears you for dental implant surgery, we will begin the procedure by drilling a small hole within the jawbone at the location of the lost tooth. The hole, often referred to as an osteotomy, is created using precise drills. The dentist will then insert the titanium screw into the site. You will need about three to six months for the implant post to fuse and pair with the bone. This is a process known as osseointegration, the fusing of the implant to the jawbone. The next step in receiving dental implants will be to have an abutment, or connector, placed on top of the implant post. This will serve as a connection piece between the implant and the restored tooth, or dental crown. Our dentist will prepare a temporary tooth replacement that you need to wear during this time you are healing. When you come back in to our office, the final step will involve attaching the artificial tooth to the abutment. The temporary tooth will be removed and the lasting one placed. After the placement, your bite looks and feels natural. At this point, the tooth implant procedure is complete. Depending on how many teeth need to be replaced will affect the procedure and timeline of the placement. There are innovative implant dentistry procedures such as the All-on-4 system which utilizes four posts to support an entire arch of artificial teeth. Am I Too Old For Dental Implants?Age does not determine whether a patient is a good candidate for dental implants. As long as a patient has good overall health and sufficient bone density in the jaw to support the implant, they can be candidates for dental implants. However, those with certain medical conditions may not be good candidates for dental implants. It is important to discuss any medical conditions or medications with your provider to determine if dental implants are a safe and viable option. How Long Do Dental Implants Last?Dental implants are designed to last for many years, often a lifetime, with proper care. Research shows that dental implants have a success rate of around 95 percent. However, the longevity of implants can be influenced by factors such as oral hygiene practices, lifestyle habits (such as smoking), and consistent dental visits. Book an appointment with our team at Smile Makers Dental Center to be evaluated for dental implants and get answers to any questions you may have regarding these restorations. Give us a call at one of our locations. |
 Bailey's Crossroads5659 Columbia Pike, Ste 100 Falls Church, VA (571) 648-1711 Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 10am - 5pm City of Falls Church313 Park Avenue, Ste 101 Falls Church, VA (571) 648-1713 Monday - Thursday: 9am - 5pm Fairfax2810 Old Lee Highway, Ste 200A Fairfax, VA (571) 773-6563 Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday: 10am - 6pm Friday: 9am - 5pm Leesburg19 Catoctin Cir NE Leesburg, VA (540) 882-0421 Tuesday - Friday: 9am - 5pm, Saturday: By Appointment Tysons8310 Old Courthouse Road, Ste A Tysons, VA (571) 773-6582 Monday - Friday: 10am - 6pm Saturday: By Appointment Woodbridge14416 Richmond Hwy Ste 16 Woodbridge, VA (571) 628-8583 Monday - Friday: 9am - 5pmSaturday: By Appointment |
