Whether you have lost a single tooth, or are missing multiple teeth, dental implants look and feel more natural than other tooth replacement options. Dr. Gocke and Dr. McAdams of Virginia Oral, Facial & Implant Surgery are experienced oral surgeons who place high-quality dental implants for residents in Reston, Virginia.
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a screw-shaped artificial tooth root, usually made of titanium. An individual implant has three components: the implant screw, an abutment (or connector), and a dental crown. Other options are also available depending on your individual needs.
What Are the Dental Implant Options?
Dental implants are available for any number of missing teeth. Options for restoring tooth function and your smile include:
- Replace individual teeth – One implant replaces each missing tooth
- Replace multiple teeth in a row – An implant-supported dental bridge can replace missing teeth in a row
- Replace an entire upper or lower arch of teeth – Dental implants can support an upper or lower denture
What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
Dental implants have many benefits; most notably, the artificial tooth roots integrate with your jawbone and prevent jaw atrophy. The advantages exceed those of removable partial dentures, bridges, and dentures.
Benefits:
- They look and feel like natural teeth
- They fuse with your bone, so your replacement teeth will be stable
- The artificial roots stimulate your jawbone and prevent bone shrinkage and premature facial sagging
- Unlike a partial denture or a dental bridge, implants do not depend on adjacent teeth for support
- They are highly functional, so you can eat, speak, and socialize confidently
- They last for decades—often a lifetime
Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Most people with good oral and overall health are candidates for implants. Usually, our oral surgeons can accommodate existing health conditions and develop a treatment plan for implants. If you smoke, Dr. Gocke or Dr. McAdams will explain why quitting promotes successful implants. Your commitment to follow-up care and good oral hygiene are vital for healthy results.
What Is the Procedure?
The dental implant procedure begins with an initial consultation. Our doctors will examine your teeth and gums. They will also take a CT scan to determine whether your jawbone volume can support dental implants or if you need bone grafting. Dr. Gocke or Dr. McAdams will also review your health history before recommending a treatment plan.
Tooth Removal
Unsavable teeth require removal before implant placement. In some cases, Dr. Gocke or Dr. McAdams will complete tooth removal, bone grafting, and implant placement on the same day.
Bone Grafting
Bone grafting builds up shrunken or damaged bone and provides a stable foundation for your implants. Our oral surgeons will discuss grafting material options.
Dental Implant Placement and Healing
Our doctors will insert dental implants after making small precise openings through your gums and bone. Your doctor preselects implant lengths and diameters for an accurate fit. During the next three to four months of healing, your jawbone will lock the implants in place. Choosing soft foods that require little to no chewing will support your recovery.
Abutment And Crown Placement
After healing, Dr. Gocke or Dr. McAdams will expose the implants and attach the abutments. After another healing period, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth for a dental lab to make custom crowns, a bridge, or dentures. Your dentist will attach natural-looking replacement crowns to the implants.
How to Take Care of Dental Implants
Take care of your dental implants as you do your natural teeth—brushing twice daily and flossing daily. A water flosser will flush out food particles and help you maintain gum health. Also, keep your appointments for dental cleanings and exams to help your dentist and hygienist detect any concerns with your implants.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
The cost of dental implants varies with each patient because no two cases are the same. Depending on your needs, the price of implants may include:
- Tooth removal
- Bone grafting
- Implant components
- Implant surgery, materials, and supplies
- Replacement teeth and your dentist’s restoration fees
We will give you a cost estimate for your treatment plan during your consultation.
We Invite You to a Dental Implants Consultation in Reston, VA
Our board-certified oral surgeons use the highest standards to give patients in Reston, VA healthy, long-lasting dental implants. If you want more information on how implants can restore your smile, contact us at Virginia Oral, Facial & Implant Surgery for a consultation.
