Procedures
Dental Implants
Dental Implant Presentation
To provide you with a better understanding of dental implants, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to dental implants at our offices in Fairfax, Reston, Centreville, Burke and Woodbridge, VA are discussed.
Having trouble? Please make sure you have version 7 of the Flash browser plugin in order to correctly view this presentation. This software is available as a free download.
Dental Implant Overview
For a brief narrated overview of the dental implant process, please click the image below. It will launch our flash educational mini module in a separate window that may answer some of your questions about dental implants.
Having trouble? Please make sure you have version 7 of the Flash browser plugin in order to correctly view this presentation. This software is available as a free download.
Dental implants are changing the way people live in Virginia! Gone are the days when the only means of replacing missing teeth were with bridges and removable dentures. With the placement of dental implants, we can provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function just like natural teeth. They also help to preserve bone!
What are Dental Implants?
An implant is a small titanium device that is inserted into the jawbone to replace the root of the tooth that is missing. Think of it as an "artificial tooth root". During the healing process, bone grows around the implant and becomes integrated into the jawbone.
Once healing is completed, the implant will provide a solid foundation for a new crown. The crown is made by a lab and then attached to your implant by your dentist. For denture wearers, implants can be placed and special attachments can be utilized to provide more stability and predictable function.
What are the Advantages of Dental Implants?
There are several advantages to having implant-supported teeth over other traditional replacement options, such as bridges and removable dentures. Bridges, "bridge" the gap made from missing teeth. The enamel of the teeth on either side of the space are filed down and capped. An artificial crown replaces the missing tooth. In contrast, a crown placed on an implant attaches directly to the implant without having to adversely touch the teeth on either side. Therefore, preserving the structure of the adjacent teeth.
In the instance of removable dentures, the palate or roof of the mouth is covered by plastic, which can interfere with temperature sensation and the taste of food. Dentures attached to the implants provide profound stabilization and the opportunity to have an open palate denture. Specifically in the case of lower dentures, implants can provide great anchorage for your denture during speaking and eating.
Finally, implants are one of the healthiest options for replacement of missing teeth. This is because they place the jawbone under function thereby maintaining the bone volume and quality in the area of the missing teeth.
The Surgical Procedure
Usually the placement of dental implants is far easier than an extraction, with less swelling and discomfort post-operatively. For most patients, the placement of the implants will involve two surgical procedures. In the first surgery, implants are placed into the jawbone and the gums are sutured closed. You will never actually see the implants, just as you never see the roots of your natural teeth! For the next three to six months, the integration process occurs and bone forms around the implants. During this time, replacement teeth can be worn if desired in the form of a temporary removable partial denture or a flipper.
After the healing process is completed, the second procedure is performed, whereby the implants are uncovered and temporary healing collars, or abutments, are placed. These temporary metal abutments prepare the gums to accept the final crown. Your dentist can then take impressions of the implants and have the lab fabricate the crowns or denture. The new prosthesis will then be delivered by your dentist at a separate appointment. The sequencing of treatment may vary from case to case and will be discussed with you at your consultation appointment. A treatment plan will be devised to meet your individual needs and concerns.