How to Make Implants Last a Lifetime

Many patients who opt for dental implants do so because of their longevity and durability. Over the course of a patient’s lifetime, dental implant treatment may actually prove less costly than other restorative treatment options. What these patients must also realize is that without proper care, even a permanent treatment such as dental implants can be damaged. Without proper nutrition, hygiene, and dental visits, implants can fail due to periodontal infection. This guide was designed to help patients understand how to protect their implants with at-home care.

Hygiene is Essential

Cleaning your dental implant is just as important as properly cleaning your natural teeth. The health of your implant prosthesis depends on the health of supporting tissues, which makes having healthy gums essential. As bacterial film accrues on teeth, it’s important to brush and floss teeth daily to remove it, otherwise leftover particles may cause infection. 

Regular dental visits will also help preserve the health of your implant, as your hygienist can complete a thorough cleaning and provide advice on your home care efforts. In cases where additional treatment is needed, such as periodontal cleanings or implant maintenance, you may need to see a specialist.

A Healthy and Balanced Diet

It’s well-known that balanced diet can positively impact your overall health and well-being, but many may not understand how it directly impacts the health of your teeth, gums, and bone. Since implants are integrated into your dental structure, a healthy diet supports their continued use. Here are some tips to enhance your oral health:

• Drinking a lot of water to help you preserve saliva production, which helps your mouth neutralize the acidity of the mouth.
• Opt for healthier snacks; sugary and salty snacking prohibits your saliva neutralizing acid throughout the day, so avoid snacking or choose healthier options.
• Avoid bad habits that can negatively impact oral health and damage your implants, including drinking alcohol, smoking, and drinking sugary soft drinks.

Contact our Oral Surgeon for Implant Care

Offering complete oral surgery care in Northern Virginia, Dr. Snehal Patel and his talented staff are available to help you learn more about how to care for your dental implant. If you have questions about on-going care or are interested in exploring dental implants as an upgrade from a denture or bridge, the team at Lorton Springfield Dental Implant and Oral Surgery invites you to call or visit!

Am I Too Old For Dental Implants?

When it comes to a patient’s eligibility for dental implants, age is just a number. While many older patients fear they’re not good candidates, the truth is their age has little to do with determining whether or not they can receive implants and restorations. Whether you’re tired of dentures impacting your lifestyle, or you’ve had crowns and bridges replaced, dental implants have the durability and longevity to positively impact your life in a variety of ways.

Implants Are Made to Last

You may have noticed that traditional dentures and restorations such as dentures, bridges, and crowns require repair or adjustment, especially as the jaw begins to shrink and lose strength. What’s more, the care routine for bridges and dentures is never quite as simple as taking care of your natural teeth. Fortunately, dental implants can last over 25 years with proper care and require nothing more than regular dental visits and proper brushing and flossing.

What Do I Need to Obtain Implants?

The main non-age related concern when placing implants is the amount of healthy bone capable of supporting the implant. A dental implant is secured to the jawbone, but without sufficient bone, there is a higher risk of the dental implant failing. Additionally, it’s recommended that patients have healthy gum tissue, free of periodontal disease, ensuring the longevity of the implant prosthesis.

In the instance where a patient does not have sufficient jawbone, your oral surgeon can perform bone grafting, which allows a patient to rebuild lost bone and will allow for implant placement when the tissues have healed. When infection threatens the success of this procedure, patients are provided antibiotics and additional treatments to re-establish oral health. With grafts and periodontal treatment, it may take some time for the smile to be ready for implants. The benefits to oral health and function far outweigh the time and financial costs required to complete dental implant treatment.

Visit one of our Lorton Springfield Oral Surgery Practices for an Implant Consultation!

No matter your age, dental implants can dramatically improve your quality of life by providing a durable and strong tooth replacement option that mimics the beauty of your natural teeth. For complete dental implant treatment, visit Dr. Snehal Patel of Lorton Springfield Dental Implant and Oral Surgery, your Northern Virginia implant specialist.

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!

When Is Tooth Extraction Necessary?

When Is Tooth Extraction Necessary?

Thanks to better diets, increased awareness of oral health, and innovative dental technology, people are now keeping their natural teeth longer than ever, but that’s not to say that tooth extraction isn’t necessary some of the time.

Although you may feel self-conscious about needing one or more teeth removed, tooth extraction can actually benefit your smile and improve your overall health. There are several reasons why you may require a tooth extraction. We have listed some of the most common reasons below!

Dental Trauma

When your teeth experience trauma, it can happen in multiple ways. Sports injuries, a car accident, a fall or a fight can cause your teeth to come loose. Sometimes, your teeth can be saved and left in the socket. Other times, however, they need to be extracted and replaced with a dental implant.

Infection or Tooth Decay

If you don’t practice good oral hygiene or visit your dentist regularly, you put yourself at risk for contracting periodontal disease. The bacteria that builds up on your teeth slowly begins to degrade your tooth enamel and gum tissue, causing your teeth to loosen. If your teeth are beyond saving, then an extraction may be necessary so that other teeth do not become infected.

Wisdom Teeth

Between the ages of 17 and 25, most individuals will experience the eruption of their wisdom teeth. In most cases, the mouth is not large enough to accommodate additional units, leading to wisdom teeth becoming impacted underneath the gums. To keep the rest of your teeth from shifting, wisdom teeth are often extracted by an oral surgeon. The procedure is very common and can be performed in an hour’s time.

Overcrowding

Not everyone is born with straight teeth. Some have too many teeth for their mouth to handle, which leads to overcrowding. Overcrowded teeth can negatively impact the smile, since teeth are more difficult to clean and therefore more prone to infection. To create a healthier smile, a dentist will remove unnecessary teeth and use braces to restore uniformity.

Weakened Immune System

A compromised immune system can seriously impact your health and can even go so far as to affect your teeth. When you have a weak immune system, you have a higher chance of contracting an infection. If your teeth become infected, they may require an extraction.

Call for More Information!

If you would like more information about tooth extractions, contact Lorton-Springfield Dental Implants & Oral Surgery and schedule an appointment!

Common Bone Grafting Questions

Common Bone Grafting Questions

Many patients inquire about dental implants only to find that they need a bone grafting procedure before any additional work begins. If you have been told that you need a bone graft, you are not alone! The procedure is actually more common than you might think.

Of course, you likely have some questions about what the procedure entails. Before you come in for an appointment, see if you might find the information you’re looking for here! We’ve answered some of your most common bone grafting questions below.

Why would you need bone grafting treatments?

Bone grafting is required if your jaw bone is too soft to retain dental implants on its own. If you have been missing teeth for some time, it’s likely that your jawbone has weakened without anything to support.

Bone grafting aims to strengthen your teeth by adding more bone to the jaw. Over time, the graft integrates with your natural bone to produce appropriate jaw bone density.

Can you get a bone graft the same day as an extraction?

In most cases, it is possible to perform a bone graft on the same day as a tooth extraction. It is actually recommended that you have both procedures performed back to back to ensure that the bone graft remains stable for as long as it is necessary to integrate with your natural jaw bone.

What about getting a bone graft on the same day as implant placement?

Bone grafts and implant placement are not performed at the same time. After a bone grafting procedure, it is important for the graft to take the allotted amount of time to integrate with your natural jaw bone. This ensures that the graft will effectively stabilize any implants that are placed. Typically, bone grafting takes between 4 and 12 months to heal completely, at which point implant placement can be scheduled.

What is the aftercare experience like?

Most patients experience some pain and swelling after their bone grafting procedure, which can be suppressed using ibuprofen and cold compresses. Dr. Patel may also prescribe an antibiotic to keep any infections at bay.

While you heal, it’s important that you do not disturb the surgical site with brushing or flossing. Maneuver around the area whenever possible. You will also benefit from a liquid or soft-food diet for the first few days after a bone graft. Once you start feeling more comfortable, you can begin to incorporate solid foods.

Give Us a Call for More Information!

If you have additional questions about bone grafting or would like to find out whether the procedure is right for you, contact Lorton-Springfield Dental Implants & Oral Surgery and schedule an appointment.

The Myths of Sedation Dentistry

The Myths of Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry is often misrepresented. Some see it as unnecessary or even harmful. Others just can’t tell whether it’s right for them. For patients who fear the dentist, it’s one of the most practical and efficient forms of treatment available. Even those who do just fine at the dentist’s office may not be aware of potential benefits.

If you’re curious about sedation dentistry but are unsure what to believe, read on to learn about and debunk some of the most common sedation myths.

Sedation Dentistry Makes You Unconscious

While it’s true you will be in a twilight state under sedation, you will still be conscious and capable of responding to simple commands. Many people think of sedation and general anesthesia as interchangeable terms when, in fact, the two techniques couldn’t be any more different. Sedation dentistry makes you feel drowsy enough that you don’t feel any discomfort or anxiety while you receive treatment.

You Can Only Receive Sedation for Complex Procedures

Sedation dentistry is very safe and can be used for even the simplest procedures. Patients who are unable to receive a dental cleaning due to their anxiety benefit from sedation techniques like nitrous oxide or IV sedation. On the other hand, more invasive procedures like wisdom teeth extraction can be combined sedation in pill form. If you’re interested in sedation options to improve your patient experience, contact Lorton Springfield Dental Implant Oral Surgery today!

Sedation is Only for Patients with Dental Anxiety

Sedation dentistry became well-known due to the many benefits it carries for dental anxiety patients; however, sedation is also effective on individuals who do not exhibit any fear. Patients with disabilities may be sedated to keep them calm during treatment while those with a sensitive gag can receive treatment more comfortably.

Particular procedures, like dental implants or veneers that are on the cusp of being more invasive, usually involve sedation practices instead of general anesthesia as a better way for dentists to monitor their patients.

The Side Effects 

As with any dental procedure, there is some risk involved with sedation, but with proper care and diligence, you may have some side effects. At most, you will remain drowsy after your treatment, but any sensation will wear off in a matter of hours. And to always better prepare, it’s better to have a trusted friend or family member bring you to and from your appointment if you know you will receive sedation.

Your dentist will also explain recovery details so that you know what to expect after receiving sedation. As long as you follow your dentist’s instructions, you shouldn’t experience any issues.

Learn More About Sedation By Scheduling an Appointment!

If you have questions about sedation dentistry or would like to find out whether the technique is right for you, contact Lorton Springfield Dental Implant Oral Surgery and schedule an appointment!