Implants

Did you know that dental implants are one of the most frequently performed procedures in the United States? In fact, more than 5 million implants are placed annually in the US alone! This is because implants have a natural appearance and a secure, comfortable, and functional fit to ensure they are the best course of action for smile repairment.

With dental implants from Aesthetic Dentistry of Lorton in Lorton, VA you can smile again free from pain or embarrassment!

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are much more than just “fake teeth.” Using state-of-the-art technology, dental professionals from all over have been able to successfully remedy tooth damage by recreating your smile in a safe, efficient, and long-lasting manner. A dental implant is a small post, typically made from titanium, that is inserted deep into a patient’s jawbone to serve as a solid foundation for either a bridge or a crown, that matches the look and function of the patient’s missing teeth. Once installed, dental implants are a great option for repairing loose, missing, or damaged teeth.

How Do Dental Implants Work?

During your visit to Aesthetic Dentistry of Lorton your dentist will discuss options with you to determine which implant procedure best suits your needs. After an implant is chosen, the dentist will insert it into the jawbone along with a visible crown section. Once in place, the implant is firmly attached to the affected tooth with a screw. Over the next few months, the implants and the jawbone will bond together to form anchors for your artificial teeth. In the meantime, a temporary tooth can be worn over the implant sites for protection. 

Types of Dental Implants

Developed by the Mayans in 600 A.D., implants are now stronger than ever. Now, thanks to modern technology, dentists have several types of dental implants to work with, including:

Endosteal Implants- The most commonly used dental implant, they are embedded in the jawbone and utilize screws and other apparatuses to hold replacement teeth, dentures, and bridges firmly in place.

Subperiosteal Implants- Similar to endosteal implants but with one big difference; they hold restored teeth on top of bones that are not sturdy enough to hold an implant inside of them.

Overdentures- Situated on top of dental implants for stability, they are an alternative to dentures that provide wearers with comfort, improved speech, and the ability to better chew various types of food.

Implant-Supported Bridges- Inserted in three pieces, implant-supported bridges are usually used for patients who are missing multiple teeth or whose weak jawbones will not withstand holding an implant in place. They are also used if the new tooth is too close to a nerve for other types of implants to be used.

All-On 4 Implants- A flexible option for patients looking for an alternative to dentures. It requires a procedure that places a tiny screw in the jawbone to replace the root of a damaged or missing tooth. Then, a dental crown is connected to a replacement tooth that matches its partners.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants are a common procedure that can be beneficial for patients of all ages. In most instances, a dentist will suggest dental implants for patients who practice good oral hygiene, are able to undergo oral surgery, have a tooth removed, and have gums that can hold the implant in place. In addition to being relatively pain-free, implants are also preferred because they present patients with a practical alternative to surgeries.

Here are some of the other benefits of dental implants:

• They can add a level of support for dentures or partial denture
• You can stop feeling self-conscious about missing or loose teeth
• Implants look and feel natural because your implants are fitted to avoid slipping
• No surrounding teeth have to be affected or disturbed in any way to secure an implant
• You can talk and eat as you normally would, and with no additional inconvenience
• Your self-esteem will improve, and you will no longer have to worry about missing teeth

Are Dental Implants Painful?

Dental implants are widely considered to be mostly pain-free due to the procedure being performed with either general or local anesthesia. After treatment, it is not uncommon for patients to experience some pain once this anesthetic has worn off. Initially, the discomfort may last between two to ten days. However, pain at the implant site can be reduced with an ice pack, over-the-counter pain medication, and by eating soft foods. You should call your dentist if you experience prolonged discomfort or if your pain persists for a longer period of time.

If you want to bring luster to your smile and feel better about your oral health, consider getting dental implants from . Having a better smile has never been easier! We can help you select a dental implant that is restorative, stable, and guaranteed to bring luster to your smile! Call 703-339-5090 for more information.