Dental implants can fix gaps in your smile, correct problems with your bite, and help prevent future issues that may affect your teeth, gums, and jaw.
According to the American College of Prosthodontists, nearly 180 million Americans have lost at least one tooth due to improper care, injury, or other misfortune. If you find yourself among these ranks, a dental implant could change your life by restoring your smile and removing any pain, discomfort, or confidence issues.
To find out how you can benefit from a dental implant, we welcome those in the Washington, D.C. area to contact us at Washington Center for Dentistry or visit our practice and take the first step toward a brighter dental future!
Types of implants
If you’re sick of bridges or tired of fumbling with dentures, an implant may be your best choice for correcting cosmetic and functional problems. With an implant, there’s no risk of slipping, so you can talk freely and enjoy any food you wish.
There are two main types of implants:
The most common is an endosteal (in the bone) implant. As the name suggests, these are implanted into the jawbone as an artificial root that will hold your new, artificial tooth or teeth in place.
The connection between your implant and jawbone is naturally strengthened through a biological process known as osseointegration: the living cells of the bone bond with the implant to form a structural and functional connection that can’t be broken without fracturing the jawbone itself. Osseointegration generally takes about 4 – 6 weeks. However, you’ll still be able to go about your everyday activities as you normally would.
Subperiosteal implants are less common and not implanted directly into the bone. Instead, they sit atop the jawbone, beneath your gums. Subperiosteal implants may be preferable for individuals who have suffered bone loss or whose jaw structure does not support the metal implant.
The top-notch team at Washington Center for Dentistry will consider the structure of your jawbone, your dental health, and your personal needs to select the right option for you.
Your new and improved smile is a simple, 4-step process away
The first step is an evaluation. Our team will perform a 3D CT scan, which creates an accurate, detailed representation of your mouth. They will also meticulously weigh all relevant factors, including the dimensions of your mouth, health history (both dental and general), level of oral hygiene, and bone density.
Step two is the blueprint. Our detail-attentive professionals will work with you to devise a plan to give you the cosmetic and functional results you desire. They’ll also treat any infection or gum disease before clearing you for the implantation procedure.
Step three is the procedure – one that our professionals have successfully completed countless times. With multiple anesthesia options, including local or general sedation, the process is painless and considered anxiety-free.
The procedure first requires the extraction of any damaged teeth. And, if necessary, a bone graft to bolster bone density. Then, an artificial root is implanted, with its top sitting below your gum line. An abutment is attached to this synthetic root to hold your new tooth. After a healing period, we take a dental impression to create and comfortably fit your new tooth.
The fourth step is the easiest yet: enjoy your new smile! Eat all the foods you love, flash your teeth confidently, and forget about the inconvenience of bridges or dentures. Though be sure to schedule a follow-up visit so we can check on your implant and create a personalized care plan just for you.
Post-extraction timeline
If a tooth extraction is necessary, you may have to wait before receiving an implant. Some patients can undergo implantation the same day. Others may have to wait a few months to allow proper healing. But waiting too long is detrimental, as bone loss occurs after tooth extraction. And if excessive bone loss occurs, it may rule you out for certain procedures.
To discover first-hand, like countless others have, how great your new smile will look and feel, contact us today at the Washington Center for Dentistry. We’d love to help you find the best treatment option for restoring your teeth and warmly welcome those in the Washington, D.C. area to visit our practice!