According to the American College of Prosthodontists, about 178 million Americans are missing at least one tooth. If that describes you, consider exploring dental implants with Pariana Tung, DDS, MSc, PhD, at Signature Smiles Dentistry in Fairfax County and Falls Church, Virginia. Dental implants are the premier tooth-replacement option used by dental professionals today. With implants, you can enjoy healthy-looking prosthetic teeth that fill gaps in your smile and provide functional benefits. Call the office or book an appointment online today to learn more.
Dental implants are a practical solution to missing teeth. This treatment option requires your dentist to implant a small metal post deep into your jawbone, creating a durable foundation for crowns, bridges, and dentures. Prosthetic teeth that are supported by implants will look, feel, and function like natural teeth.
Oral surgery for dental implants shouldn’t be painful or too complicated. Because implants are incredibly effective, they are well worth the time and effort it takes to place them.
Getting dental implants requires at least two in-office visits with Dr. Tung.
The first step is scheduling your oral surgery appointment. Then, there’s the planning stage, where Dr. Tung uses imaging scans to plan for the placement of your implants. The X-ray scans allow her to gain a better look at the nerve pathways, soft tissue, and bone before deciding where to place the implant.
Before oral surgery, Dr. Tung administers a local anesthetic to make the procedure more comfortable for you. She uses a cutting-edge system drill to insert the implant directly into your jawbone.
During the procedure, you won’t feel much of anything. However, afterward, your jaw will need time to heal. The implant needs time to fuse to your jawbone to support replacement teeth properly. Recovery time for dental implants typically takes a couple of months.
Once your jawbone has fully healed, you’ll return to have your permanent, natural-looking restoration attached to your implant.
Dental implants offer many significant benefits for individuals with missing teeth, including:
Some patients have a weak or insufficient jawbone that can’t properly support implants. If so, you will need an additional bone grafting procedure. Dr. Tung grafts additional bone-like material onto your jawbone during bone grafting to help strengthen the area and better support implants.
Most dental implants will last a lifetime if you practice good oral hygiene. Approximately 90% of all dental implants last at least 30 years. However, the longevity of your implant depends primarily on you. Make sure to continue brushing, flossing, and maintaining your regularly scheduled cleanings with Dr. Tung.
To learn more about the benefits of dental implants, call the office, or schedule a consultation online today.