While most patients are familiar with the benefits of this innovative restoration option, few understand how each component of a dental implant supports long-term success.

The Implant Post
Made of titanium, the implant fixture provides the base for the future prosthetic. During placement surgery, our oral surgeon makes an incision into the gums at the placement area to expose the bone. Specific instruments are then used to create a site for the implant to be placed. The fixture is then covered with a healing cap.

All successful implant treatments require a sturdy foundation. As titanium is biocompatible, it interacts with surrounding bone tissue to anchor itself in place. Over the course of recovery, this compatibility encourages successful osseointegration and ultimately provides a stable base for the rest of the prosthetic.

Abutment
This component is a connective piece that sits on top of the implant fixture and holds the dental prosthesis, which can be a crown, bridge, or denture. Often made of zirconia, abutments are secured after the implant has fully integrated into the bone. Similar to crowns, abutments are custom made for each patient. Impressions for the abutment are typically taken at the same time your prosthetic is being developed, ensuring consistency and precision in your restoration.

Prosthesis
Unlike traditional restorative solutions, dental implants can be adapted to meet a wide number of teeth replacement needs. As such, the prosthetic used to cover the abutment can vary from patient to patient. For patients with single tooth loss, porcelain crowns are ideal and are uniquely fabricated to match neighboring teeth. For patients in need of two or more implants, larger restorations such as bridges and dentures are typically attached. Unique abutments may also be created to support these larger prosthetics, particularly for patients receiving removable dentures.

Ready for Dental Implants? Call Lorton-Springfield Dental Implants & Oral Surgery
Our two locations in Lorton and Springfield serve patients throughout Prince William County. NOVA oral surgeon Dr. Snehal Patel works closely with local dentists to provide patients with long-term teeth replacement options through dental implants. Whether you’re looking to replace one missing tooth or need full arch replacement with hybrid dental implants, our experienced oral surgeon can provide you with a personalized implant solution for your smile. Call today!

Using Dental Implants to Treat Periodontal Disease

While easily prevented, gum disease can leave a lasting negative impact on the rest of your smile. In more advanced cases, periodontitis can cause teeth loss, compromising the long-term function, aesthetics, and health of the dentition.

For patients suffering from advanced gum disease, treatment and restoration go hand in hand. In Northern Virginia, Lorton-Springfield oral surgeon Dr. Snehal Patel offers dental implants as a long-term restorative solution for people who have lost one or more teeth to gum disease. By coordinating treatment and restoration care closely with your general dentist and periodontist, our oral surgeon in Springfield helps patients reverse the damage caused by advanced periodontitis and restore function to their smile.

Why Consider Dental Implants after Gum Disease

Treating advanced gum disease requires a multi-faceted approach. In cases where infection has caused tooth loss or bone deterioration, treating and removing infected tissue is just one part of the solution. While some may opt for traditional tooth replacement, dentures and bridges do not fully address bone loss, opening to door for further dental issues in the future.

Dental implants are purposely designed to functionally mimic natural teeth and interact with bone tissue just like natural teeth roots. As a result, implants stimulate bone regrowth, preventing further tissue resorption and protecting the overall structure of the jaw. Since most patients with weakened jaw bones often require bone grafting prior to implant placement, this oral surgery further reinforces the jaw bone and helps improve overall oral health.

Above the gums, dental implants serve as a sterile tooth replacement, protecting dental alignment and restoring missing teeth without compromising neighboring healthy teeth. While patients recovering from gum disease do have a higher risk of implant failure, comprehensive gum disease therapy before implant placement and vigilant oral hygiene following implant treatment can enhance the longevity of your new restoration.

Dental Implants in Lorton and Springfield

During your implant treatment, our goal is to ensure long-lasting, predictable results. By relying on the latest dental technology and coordinating treatment with your dentist, our oral surgeon is able to provide patients with comprehensive care. For more information about dental implants following gum disease treatment, call or visit Dr. Patel today.