Dental Implants
We can replace your teeth in the strongest and most secure way possible with dental implants, to help you smile with confidence and joy.
Dental implants, available at our City Center office located in Newport News, VA, are titanium root replacements placed directly into the jawbone. Since titanium is very compatible with biological tissue, the dental implants securely integrate into your mouth as bone adheres to them. Dental implants are an excellent solution for patients with one or more missing teeth as a result of extraction from periodontal disease or decay. When restored, dental implants serve both an esthetic and functional purpose. Dental implants are a versatile way to restore missing teeth. Once the tissue and bone around the dental implant have healed, they can be utilized to replace a single missing tooth with a crown or replace multiple missing teeth with bridges or attachments to dentures. To ensure that your treatment is as comfortable and relaxed as possible, we offer various ways to keep you comfortable, such as nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and oral sedation. To learn more about dental implants, contact our City Center office, located in Newport News, Virginia.
Implant Crown Restoration
All of our dentists are able to restore implants and each of them will take into account tooth color and size, as well as other features to ensure that the restorative work is as realistic looking as possible.
Implant-Supported Dentures
A safe and effective choice, dental implants can also be used to hold dentures in place. The dentures may be held in place by a pair of dental implants or by multiple dental implants. In either case, the implant-supported dentures look natural and are extremely durable. This effective option supports the esthetic view of the mouth, while also supporting the overall structure and function. Just like caring for your regular teeth, you’ll need to brush twice a day and completely clean the mouth, to include the tongue, gums and roof of the mouth to remove any plaque, especially around the implants. You will need to rinse your dentures to remove any food particles, gently brush the surface of the dentures, and put them in a safe place covered in water to prevent warping.
Implant-Supported Bridges
Comfortable and natural looking, implant-supported bridges fit discreetly over dental implants for optimal support. The dental implants hold the bridge securely so that they look and function like natural teeth and allow you to care for them just as easily. Implant-supported bridges have a strong structure that withstand the force of normal biting and chewing, patients can maintain normal eating, talking and smiling. These effective implant-supported bridges are 100% resistant to decay, so they can last for many years to come.
Candidates for Dental Implants
Dental Implants are an ideal solution for patients with missing teeth, who wish to create a more natural smile. Dental implants may be the best option if you:
- Have one or more missing teeth
- Have healthy oral tissues with no periodontal disease
- Have adequate bone for securing the implants or bone grafts
- Have no underlying health conditions that affect bone healing
- Are uninterested or unable to have oral dentures
- Don’t smoke tobacco
Results
Once your dental implants are fused with the natural bone, your implants are considered successful. Just like your natural teeth, your implants still need to be taken care of in order to properly maintain their health. Following a dental implant procedure, it’s important to ensure that you are taking proper care of your oral health. As usual, you will want to practice excellent oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing to keep the gum tissue and teeth clean. Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups for the proper functioning of your implants. Finally, avoid damaging habits, such as chewing ice, hard candies, smoking tobacco, consuming teeth staining foods/liquids, and grinding your teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are dental implants?
Dental Implants are biocompatible titanium root replacements that are surgically placed into your jawbone. When dental implants are placed in your jawbone, they fuse with your natural bone.
Who are dental implants for?
Dental implants are for those who are missing one or more teeth. Implants can work as a more permanent, comfortable and natural alternative to dentures and traditional bridges.
Are there any disadvantages to dental implants?
Getting fitted for dental implants can take a long time. Depending on your healing capabilities, it can take up to six months for your implants to fuse with the jawbone. Side effects are rare but do include things such as infections or poor oral hygiene leading to periodontal disease. Additional surgeries such as bone grafts or sinus lifts may be needed for your implants to fit in your mouth securely.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are designed to be a permanent tooth replacement when properly maintained. Factors like poor oral hygiene or being predisposed to other dental diseases can lead to dental implant failure, similarly, chewing or biting hard items can negatively affect the lifespan of your implants.
Are dental implants removable?
Dental implants are fixed solidly in your jaw. They fuse to the bone and are not removable. This allows the teeth to be replaced in a manner that is close to the natural teeth.