Dr. Vernon Sheen is an expert dentist that offers dental implants at his Annapolis, MD dental office. Dentists consider this the best solution available to replace missing or severely damaged teeth. Implants secure restorations at the jawbone, allowing them to function and look very similar to natural teeth.
Dental implants are the only permanent solution for tooth loss that actually mimics natural teeth. Additionally, they are 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 with no issues or restrictions. Dentures and dental bridges do not offer the same level of quality and durability.
Dental Implant Candidates
Dr. Sheen will evaluate your overall dental health and discuss any concerns you have before beginning the implant process. Additionally, he will make sure dental implants will support your goals and determine if you are a candidate.
To qualify for teeth implants, you must be in good health, have solid bone density in the jaw, and be free from any additional oral health issues. If you do not have enough bone density, bone grafting is available to restore density in the jawbone and support a future restoration.
If you qualify for dental implants, we will discuss the cost of your treatment. Our helpful office staff is available to address any additional information about dental insurance, financing options, and payment schedules.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer many benefits over traditionally secured restorations. Continue reading to find some of the benefits of dental implants.
- No fear of slippage
- No additional daily maintenance
- Helps retain a stable bite
- Helps prevent bone recession
- Natural look and function
- 98% Success rate among current patients
Parts of a Dental Implant
Dental implants involve multiple components to permanently secure a restoration. They are comprised of three parts. Continue reading to learn about the three main parts of a dental implant.
- Implant post: a bio-compatible titanium post that is surgically implanted and fuses to the jaw bone, creating a permanent and secure bond. The implant post secures the restoration by fusing with the jawbone creating a stable foundation.
- Abutment: connects to the implant after it has fully healed, at the gum line and secures the dental crown, dental bridge, or denture. This is the piece between the implant foundation and the restoration that permanently seals them together.
- Prosthetic tooth: this can be a dental crown for a single missing tooth or a dental bridge or denture for multiple missing teeth that is attached to the abutment. The prosthetic tooth restoration is color matched to the exact color, shape, and size of your natural teeth so that it blends in seamlessly with the rest of your smile.
The Dental Implant Procedure
The implant process involves several steps, and planning is the most important. Since no two patients are alike, each patient will have a personalized plan based on their unique set of circumstances.
Dr. Sheen will examine your oral health to determine if you are a candidate for dental implants. You must be in good health, free of any oral health issues, and have enough bone density to support the implant fixtures. You may need an extraction, gum disease treatment, or a bone graft before we begin the implant process. These treatments are important for creating a stable foundation for the implants to heal properly.
Dr. Sheen will coordinate with a local oral surgeon for the implant placement. Once the implants are in place, they will require at least three to six months of healing. During this time, the implant fixtures will integrate with the surrounding bone. The process in which the implant fuses with the jawbone is called osseointegration. This creates a sturdy base for the dental prosthesis.
The next step is to attach an abutment which is a small piece that connects the implant to dental restoration. It will take another few weeks for the soft tissue around the abutment to heal. During this time your permanent restoration will be fabricated in a dental laboratory. Depending on the patient’s needs we may use a dental crown, dental bridge, or dentures.
Once you have healed from the attachment of the abutment we can attach your permanent restoration. Patients leave our office with a new functioning and aesthetically pleasing smile. Many patients report an increase in self-confidence after receiving implants. To care for your dental implants, you should continue brushing and flossing daily as well as visit your dentist every six months. Implant aftercare is crucial to the longevity and health of the restoration.
Dental Implants FAQs
Do you have further questions about how dental implants can restore your smile? Continue reading to find answers to frequently asked questions about dental implants in our office.
How long will the dental implants last?
Dental implants are made of titanium that will last a lifetime. However, you must take good care of your oral health and visit your local dentist office regulatory. On the other hand, your dentist will need to replace the dental prosthesis. They will begin to deteriorate due to 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. The dentist will provide general and local anesthetic for your comfort. They 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 time will be different for each patient. For most patients, it will take about four to eight months to complete. However, patients that need dental work completed before may have to wait up to a year. After an evaluation, your dentist will create a treatment plan which will include how long your treatment will take.