Why Shouldn’t I be Afraid of Dental Implants?

Why Shouldn’t I be Afraid of Dental Implants?

Undergoing implant placement surgery can be an overwhelming experience. Patients may have multiple reasons to why they are apprehensive to receive dental implants. To help alleviate concerns regarding the procedure, our dedicated staff at Lorton-Springfield Dental Implant & Oral Surgery want to inform individuals on why they should not be afraid of implant treatment.

What are the most concerning aspects of receiving dental implants?

Receiving dental implants consist of a consultation, any necessary bone grafting procedures, implant placement surgery, healing, and affixing the restoration. The two main reasons why patients are put off from obtaining implant-supported restorations is the length of treatment, surgery, and cost. Once implants are placed, patients must wait three to seven months for the implant to integrate with the surrounding bone. The dental implant procedure is extensive, but relatively painless and reestablishes an individual’s ability to eat their favorite foods and smile confidently. Dental implants feel as natural as your own teeth.

Implants are a long-term cost-effective solution. They are a permanent tooth replacement method, while traditional dentures require adjustment or replacement and do not stimulate bone density. Dental implants demand a higher upfront expense, but it will be a one-time investment. Traditional tooth replacement options such as dentures rest atop the gums and rely on adhesives or suction are a less costly option initially, but expenses add up over time.

What goes on during implant treatment?

Dental implants mainly consist of three components: the implant post, the abutment, and the restoration.  The surgery is when the implant post is placed into the jaw for it to integrate with the bone and create a strong foundation for the prosthetic. Once placed, a healing period is needed to give the implant enough time to fuse with the bone.

Once the implant placement has had enough time to integrate with the bone, an abutment is attached to the post and a restoration is affixed on the abutment. A dental implant replaces a missing tooth from root to crown, restoring your smile function. Implant supported restorations could mean anything from single unit crowns to full arch dentures, due to dental implants’ versatility.

If you have any questions regarding dental implants, and if there is anything our staff can clarify to put your mind at ease regarding this treatment call Lorton-Springfield Dental Implant & Oral Surgery! We want every person to have a strong, healthy, and beautiful smile.  

What is Bone Resorption?

What is Bone Resorption?

When considering implant placement for missing teeth, bone resorption may be a primary concern in the treatment.  For patients who have lost teeth, have periodontal disease, or major tooth decay, the bone that keeps teeth in place may have resorbed or receded. At Lorton-Springfield Dental Implant & Oral Surgery, we provide bone grafting procedures to restore the density of your jaw bone and structure.

Cause of Bone Resorption

Bone resorption has many causes such as missing teeth, excessive alcohol consumption, and pregnancy. A lost tooth in the smile initiates receding bone density due to the lack of stimulation for the jawbone.

The Impact on the Smile

The loss of bone impacts your oral health and overall facial structures. Bone resorption increases chances of developing or causes the following complications:

·         Misalignment due to the shifting of teeth

·         Jaw is more susceptible to succumbing to injury

·         Poor digestion associated with a weak bite

·         Jaw shrinkage or facial sagging resulting in a pre-matured appearance

·         Gum tissue decay

Bone Grafting and Implant Treatment

Patients who are experiencing missing teeth are highly recommended by dental professionals to undergo bone grafting procedures, as well as implant placement, to restore the function of their smile. For an individual to begin the implant treatment process, their bone density would need to be adequate to sustain the post. Dental implants replace a tooth from root to crown, so neighboring teeth make no attempt to fill in the empty space left by a missing tooth. Patients who receive implant-supported restorations regain the function and comfortability lost with missing teeth.

If you have been missing teeth for some time, your jaw bone mass may have reduced significantly. Bone grafting would be the recommended treatment to ensure success for your dental implant treatment. A bone graft consists of using the extracted bone tissue or with synthetic grafts and attaching it to the section where bone density must be improved. This will encourage bone tissue development and reestablish a healthy density.

If you have any questions regarding bone resorption and how it may be affecting individuals with missing teeth, call Lorton-Springfield Dental Implant & Oral Surgery! Our Springfield practice wants to keep everyone’s smiles healthy!