Dental implants are a popular and effective way to replace missing teeth. They offer a long-term solution that looks, feels, and functions like natural teeth. With dental implants, you no longer have to worry about replacement options. While the process may be longer than others, dental implants can last a lifetime. Dental implants are a restorative dental treatment Dr. Aaron Barborka provides in our Winchester, VA, dental office.
Getting Dental Implants in Winchester, VA
Dental implants provide a long-lasting solution for missing teeth. They look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The process takes several months, but the results can last a lifetime. Here’s what to expect during each step.
- Initial Consultation: The first step is a consultation with us. We examine your mouth, take X-rays, and review your medical history. We also check your jawbone to see if it’s strong enough to support an implant. If your bone is too thin or weak, you may need a bone graft before getting an implant.
- Tooth Extraction (If Needed): If you still have a damaged tooth in the area, Dr. Barborka removes it before placing the implant. We use local anesthesia to keep you comfortable during the extraction. Sometimes, we can place the implant on the same day as the extraction, but most patients need time to heal first.
- Bone Grafting (If Needed): Some people need a bone graft to strengthen the jaw before getting an implant. A surgeon adds bone material to the area and allows it to heal. This process can take several months, but it ensures a strong foundation for the implant.
- Placing the Implant: We place the implant once the jawbone is ready. The dentist numbs the area and surgically inserts a small titanium post into the jawbone. This post acts like a tooth root and supports the new tooth. After the surgery, the bone needs time to heal around the implant, which usually takes three to six months.
- Attaching the Abutment: After the implant fuses with the bone, we attach an abutment. This small connector sits on the implant and holds the artificial tooth. Dr. Barborka may need to make a small cut in the gum to expose the implant before attaching the abutment. The gums then heal around it, which takes about two weeks.
- Placing the Crown: The final step is attaching the artificial tooth, a dental crown. We take impressions of your mouth to create a custom crown that matches your natural teeth. Once ready, they secure it to the abutment, completing the process. Dental implants can also support a fixed bridge or denture.
Dental Implants Benefits
Dental implants are a popular solution for replacing missing teeth, and they offer many advantages over other options like dentures or bridges. Not only do they restore the appearance of a smile, but they also improve functionality, comfort, and overall oral health.
A Natural Look and Feel
One of the main reasons people choose dental implants is because they look and feel like natural teeth. Implants are custom-made to match your surrounding teeth’ size, shape, and color. Once placed, they blend seamlessly with your smile, making it difficult for others to tell they are artificial. Unlike dentures that can shift or move in the mouth, dental implants are firmly attached to the jawbone, so they feel like your real teeth.
Improved Comfort
Dentures, bridges, and other tooth replacements often cause discomfort. They can shift, slip, or irritate the gums, making speaking or eating difficult. Dental implants, on the other hand, are securely placed in the jawbone, meaning they stay in place and do not cause irritation. Since implants act like natural tooth roots, they offer a stable foundation, improving comfort during everyday activities.
Better Functionality
Dental implants restore the full functionality of your teeth. When a tooth is missing, it can make chewing and speaking more challenging. With implants, you can eat all your favorite foods without worrying about tooth replacement slipping or causing discomfort. Because implants are attached to the jawbone, they help preserve the strength of your bite, allowing you to chew naturally and speak clearly.
Prevention of Bone Loss
When you lose a tooth, the bone in your jaw that once supported the tooth begins to shrink over time. This bone loss can cause changes in your facial appearance, such as a sunken or hollow look. Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that helps prevent bone loss. The titanium post used for the implant fuses with the jawbone, mimicking the natural tooth root and stimulating bone growth. This keeps the jawbone healthy and prevents further bone loss.
Durability and Longevity
Dental implants are built to last. They can last a lifetime, unlike other tooth replacements like bridges or dentures, which may need to be replaced every 5 to 10 years. The materials used in implants, such as titanium, are extremely durable and resistant to wear. This means dental implants provide a long-term solution for missing teeth, saving you time and money in the future.
Improved Oral Health
Dental implants help maintain good oral health by preventing the shifting of nearby teeth. When a tooth is missing, the surrounding teeth may drift out of place, leading to bite problems or further tooth loss. Implants fill in the gap, keeping the remaining teeth in their proper positions. Additionally, unlike bridges, which require altering healthy adjacent teeth, implants do not affect surrounding teeth, helping maintain the natural structure of your mouth.
Boost in Confidence and Self-Esteem
Missing teeth can make people feel self-conscious or embarrassed about their appearance. This can lead to avoiding social situations, smiling less, or even feeling uncomfortable when talking or eating in front of others. Dental implants help restore the appearance of your smile and give you the confidence to enjoy life without worrying about your teeth. Whether at work, during social events, or in everyday interactions, dental implants can help you feel more comfortable and self-assured.
Caring for Dental Implants
Dental implants are a great investment in oral health, but like natural teeth, they need proper care to stay strong and functional. Taking good care of your implants can help ensure they last for many years and stay free from complications.
Brush and Floss Regularly
Brushing your dental implants is just as important as brushing your natural teeth. It is essential to brush your implants twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. This helps remove plaque and prevent gum disease around the implant.
Flossing is also crucial for keeping your dental implants clean. Use implant-specific floss or a floss threader to get between the implants and prevent plaque buildup. Regular flossing will help keep your gums healthy and prevent infections.
Visit Our Office Regularly
Even though dental implants are durable, regular visits to your dentist are important for monitoring their health. Dr. Barborka will check for signs of gum disease, infection, or implant failure. These check-ups help catch problems early before they become serious. Make sure to keep your scheduled appointments for cleanings and exams to ensure the long-term success of your implants.
Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods
While dental implants are strong, it is still important to avoid eating very hard or sticky foods that could damage them. For example, chewing ice or biting into hard candies can cause unnecessary stress on the implant. Sticky foods like caramel can also get stuck around the implant, making it harder to clean. Stick to soft, healthy foods and use caution when eating anything that could potentially harm your implants.
Don’t Smoke
Smoking can be harmful to your dental implants. The chemicals in tobacco can interfere with the healing process after surgery and increase the risk of gum disease and implant failure. If you’re a smoker, consider quitting or at least reducing your smoking habits to give your implants the best chance for success.
Use a Mouthguard for Sports
If you play sports or engage in activities that could injure your mouth, it’s a good idea to wear a mouthguard. A mouthguard protects your implants from trauma and helps prevent accidents that could damage the implant or surrounding teeth.
Avoid Teeth Grinding
If you grind your teeth at night, it can put extra pressure on your dental implants. This may lead to implant failure or damage over time. If you suspect you grind your teeth, talk to your dentist about getting a nightguard to protect your implants while you sleep.
Watch for Signs of Infection
While dental implants are generally very safe, it’s important to keep an eye on any signs of infection or complications. These can include:
- Swelling or redness around the implant site
- Pain or discomfort that doesn’t go away
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Bad breath or a foul taste in your mouth
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your dentist right away. Early intervention can prevent serious problems from developing.
Maintain Overall Oral Health
Caring for your gums is just as important as caring for your implants. Healthy gums help keep your implants secure and free from infection. Be sure to brush your gums gently and avoid unhealthy habits like neglecting oral hygiene or consuming too much sugar.
Schedule an Appointment
Are dental implants the right choice to replace your missing teeth? Call us or schedule an appointment online.