Dentists consider dental implants the best solution to replace missing or severely damaged teeth. Implants secure restorations at the jawbone so they function and look similar to natural teeth. Dr. Vernon Sheen is an expert dentist who offers dental implants at his Annapolis, MD, dental office.
Dental implants are the only permanent restorative dentistry solution for tooth loss that mimics the appearance of your teeth. They are also natural-looking and will almost fully restore form and function to your smile. They are now the treatment of choice for patients who want to eat, laugh, and smile without issues or restrictions. Traditional dentures and dental bridges do not offer the same quality and durability.
Who is a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Before he starts the dental implant process, Dr. Sheen will carefully check your overall dental health. He’ll also talk with you about your concerns and goals. He wants to make sure that dental implants in our Annapolis, MD office are the right choice for you.
To be a good candidate for dental implants, you need to be in generally good health, have strong bone in your jaw, and not have other dental problems that could interfere with healing. Don’t worry if your jaw doesn’t have enough bone to support an implant. Bone grafting can help. This procedure adds bone to your jaw so it’s strong enough to hold an implant safely.
If Dr. Sheen determines that dental implants are a good option for you, our team will also go over the cost of treatment. We can help answer questions about dental insurance, financing options, and payment plans to make sure your implant treatment is as manageable as possible.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
Implants offer many benefits over traditionally secured restorations. Dental implants:
- Ensure fear of slippage
- Do not require additional daily maintenance
- Help retain a stable bite
- Prevent bone recession
- Natural look and function
- Offer a 98% success rate among current patients
Compared to removable dentures and traditional bridges, implants last longer. This is because implants replace teeth at the root. Securely replacing one or more missing teeth improves bite function, speech, and eating.
The Parts of a Dental Implant
Dental implants involve multiple components to secure a permanent restoration. They’re comprised of three parts. The three main parts of a dental implant include:
- Implant post: We place this biocompatible titanium post in the jawbone. It creates a permanent and secure bond once it fuses with the jawbone. Because it uses biocompatible materials, the body accepts the implant safely and allows it to function for many years.
- Abutment: This piece connects to the implant after it has fully healed. It secures the dental crown, dental bridge, or denture. This is the piece between the implant post and the restoration that permanently seals them together.
- Prosthetic tooth or teeth: This restoration will vary depending on the number of missing teeth you have. It can be a dental crown for a single missing tooth or a dental bridge or denture for multiple missing teeth. The prosthetic attaches to the abutment. We color-match all restorations to the exact color, shape, and size of your natural teeth.
These three parts work together to create a dental implant that looks, feels, and works like a real tooth. An implant can help you regain your bite function and confidence. We ensure your new tooth or teeth blend in seamlessly with the rest of your smile.
The Dental Implant Procedure in Annapolis, MD
The implant process involves several steps. Treatment planning is the first and most essential step. Since no two patients are alike, each patient will have a personalized plan based on their circumstances.
Exam and Pretreatments
Dr. Sheen will examine your oral health to determine if you are a candidate for dental implants. You must be healthy, free of dental health issues, and have enough bone density to support the implant fixtures.
You may need a tooth extraction, periodontal therapy, or a bone graft before we begin the implant process. These treatments create a stable foundation for the implants to heal properly.
Implant Placement
Dr. Sheen will coordinate with a local oral surgeon for the implant placement. Once the implants are in place, they require at least three to six months of healing. During this time, the implant fixtures will integrate with the surrounding bone. This process is called osseointegration. This creates a sturdy base for the dental prosthesis.
Abutment and Healing
The next step is to attach an abutment, a small piece that connects the implant to the dental restoration. The soft tissue around the abutment will take another few weeks to heal. A dental laboratory will fabricate your permanent restoration during this time. We can secure use a dental crown, bridge, or dentures based on your number of missing teeth.
Final Restoration
Once your abutment heals, we can attach your permanent restoration. You’ll leave our office with a new functional and beautiful smile. You should brush and floss daily to care for your dental implants. Continue to visit our office for dental cleaning and exams every six months. Aftercare will help your restoration last.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have more questions about how dental implants can restore your teeth? Continue to read answers to frequently asked questions about dental implants in our Annapolis, MD, office.
How long will the dental implants last?
Dental implants are made of titanium that’ll last a lifetime. However, you must take good care of your oral health and visit our local dentist’s office to ensure they last. Dr. Sheen will need to replace the dental prosthesis. Your crown, bridge, or denture will begin to deteriorate over time from normal wear and tear.
How painful is it to get dental implants?
Having a dentist place dental implants is not as painful as you think. Our local oral surgeon will provide general and local anesthetic for your comfort. He or she will make small incisions in the gums that may be sore for a few days while they heal. Overall, most patients find the discomfort very tolerable.
How long will the dental implant process take?
Treatment times will vary for each patient. It can take about four to eight months for most patients to complete. But patients who need dental work completed before may have to wait up to a year. After an evaluation, our dentist will create a treatment plan that includes the duration of your treatment.
Can tooth implants be placed immediately after a tooth extraction?
Yes, in many cases, we can place an implant right after we remove a tooth. This is called immediate placement and depends on the condition of your bone and gums. If there’s an infection or not enough bone, our dentist may wait a few months. We’ll evaluate the area and decide what’s best.
Are there age limits for getting dental implants?
There’s no upper age limit for tooth implants. However, we don’t place implants until jaw growth is complete around age 18. Older adults can safely receive implants if they are healthy and have enough bone.
We’ll also consider your medical conditions and medications before treatment. Dr. Sheen will perform a full evaluation to determine if implants are a good fit.
How soon after implant placement can I resume my normal work and activities?
Most people return to work within one to two days after the procedure. You may need a full day to recover if you get sedation. We suggest you avoid heavy lifting or intense exercise for a few days as you heal. Our office will give you specific instructions based on your case.
Replace Missing Teeth
Get comfortable treatment with dental implants in our Annapolis, MD, dental office. Call (443) 482-5202 or schedule a dental appointment online. Please let us know if you have dental implants or restorative care questions. We’re here to help you find the best treatment for your missing teeth.
Learn more about dental implant treatment in our Annapolis office: