Dental Implants and Bone Grafts

Dental implants are a game-changer in the field of dentistry. They are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed into the jawbone to provide a strong foundation for replacement teeth. Made from biocompatible materials such as titanium, dental implants fuse with the natural bone over time, creating a sturdy and long-lasting support system.

Dental implants are versatile solutions that offer both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits compared to traditional tooth replacement methods such as dentures or bridges. Whether you're missing one tooth or several, dental implants can help restore your smile's beauty and functionality while preserving overall oral health.

The Surgical Procedure for Getting Dental Implants

The procedure for getting dental implants is a multi-step process that requires careful planning and precision to ensure successful results.

First, a thorough examination of your oral health will be conducted by our oral surgeon. This may include X-rays, CT scans, and impressions of your teeth and jaw. Once it has been determined that you are a suitable candidate for dental implants, the next step is the surgical placement of the implant into your jawbone. This is done under local anesthesia to minimize discomfort.

After the implant has been placed, there is a healing period known as osseointegration, where the implant fuses with the surrounding bone tissue. This can take several months but is crucial for ensuring stability and long-term success.

Once osseointegration has occurred, an abutment will be attached to the implant. The abutment serves as a connector between the implant and the replacement tooth (crown). Impressions will then be taken to create a custom-made crown that matches your natural teeth in size, shape, and color.

Once the crown has been fabricated in a dental lab, it will be attached to the abutment using dental cement or screws. The surgeon will make any necessary adjustments to ensure proper fit and bite alignment.

The Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants offer numerous benefits that make them a popular choice for those seeking to restore their smiles and improve oral health.

• Dental implants provide a permanent solution to tooth loss. Unlike dentures or bridges, which may need to be replaced over time, dental implants are designed to last a lifetime with proper care. This not only saves you money in the long run but also eliminates the hassle of constantly having to remove and clean removable prosthetics.
• Dental implants function just like natural teeth. They are securely anchored into your jawbone, providing stability and allowing you to eat your favorite foods without any worry or discomfort. This means you can enjoy an unrestricted diet and savor every bite!
• Dental implants help maintain the health of the bone structures in your jaw. When a tooth is lost, the underlying bone begins to deteriorate due to lack of stimulation. However, dental implants stimulate the jawbone and prevent further bone loss.
• In addition to these functional benefits, dental implants also have aesthetic advantages. Because they are custom-made to match your natural teeth in color and shape, they blend in seamlessly with your existing smile – no one will even know you have an implant!
• Restoring missing teeth with natural-looking replacements like dental implants can make you feel secure and give you the confidence to smile freely again.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are designed to be a long-term solution for missing teeth. With proper care and maintenance, they can last a lifetime. However, it's important to note that the success of an implant depends on various factors such as oral hygiene practices, lifestyle habits, and overall health.

Are Dental Implants Painful?

During the implant placement procedure, local anesthesia is used to numb the area, ensuring minimal discomfort or pain. Afterward, some patients may experience mild soreness or swelling that can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.

Can Anyone Get Dental Implants?

In general, most people who have lost a tooth or multiple teeth are candidates for dental implants. However, certain factors, such as gum disease or insufficient bone density in the jaw, may need to be addressed before proceeding with implant surgery.

What Is the Recovery Time After Getting Dental Implants?

The recovery time after getting dental implants varies from person to person but typically ranges from a few days to a week. During this time, it's important to follow all post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon to ensure proper healing.

Can I Eat Normally With Dental Implants?

Yes! One of the great benefits of dental implants is that they function just like natural teeth, allowing you to eat comfortably without any restrictions once fully healed.

To learn more about the services we offer, visit Associated Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons at one of our three convenient locations. You can find our Frederick dental office at 6550 Mercantile Drive E, Suite 101, Frederick, MD 21703, our Hagerstown dental office at 1144 Opal Court, Hagerstown, MD 21740, and our Martinsburg dental office at 1007 Sushruta Dr, Martinsburg, WV 25401. You can also call us for any queries at (301) 694-0870, (301) 733-2500, or (304) 263-0991, respectively.