Dental implants are the top choice for tooth replacement because they restore both the look and function of natural teeth. They also provide the support that allows you to eat, talk, and smile with confidence. Dental implants in our Washington, DC, office are one of our most popular services and the most modern way of replacing missing teeth.
At Slate Dental, we focus on giving our patients the best care in a comfortable and welcoming setting. We offer dental implants and other restorative treatments to both new and existing patients in the Washington, DC area.
Why Choose Dr. John Slate?
Dr. John Slate has the training, experience, and dedication to provide long-lasting results with implants. Dr. Slate is proud to have received an award from the Academy of Osseointegration, which honors dentists who have made important contributions to the field of implant dentistry. This means he stays up to date with the latest techniques and provides care that meets the highest standards.
In addition to placing dental implants, Dr. Slate also specializes in full mouth rehabilitation. He works with patients who need to replace several or even all of their teeth. Dr. Slate uses dental implants to anchor strong, natural-looking restorations that improve both appearance and function. Whether you need to replace one tooth or many, Dr. Slate can create a personalized treatment plan to restore your teeth and confidence.
The Parts of An Implant
A dental implant is a small metal post made of titanium. Dr. Slate or an oral surgeon places it your jawbone where a tooth is missing. This post acts like the root of a natural tooth to provide strong support for a replacement.
Once your jawbone fuses with the implant, Dr. Slate places an abutment. This connecter piece will secure the post to the restoration. Dr. Slate will place a custom dental crown, bridge, or denture on top to complete the restoration.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants have many advantages, which is why they are a popular choice for our patients. Some of the benefits of dental implants in our Washington, DC office include:
- Natural Look and Feel: Dental implants are made to look just like your real teeth. The top part of the implant, called a crown, is custom-made to match the color and shape of your other teeth. This helps it blend in with your smile, so most people won’t even notice it’s not a natural tooth.
- Long-Lasting Solution: With the right care, implants can last for many years. Some people even have their implants for the rest of their lives. This makes them a smart long-term investment in your oral health.
- Improved Oral Health: When you lose a tooth, the jawbone underneath can start to shrink. Dental implants help keep the bone strong by acting like a real tooth root. These restorations combat facial sagging and prevent nearby teeth from shifting out of place.
- Comfort and Stability: Unlike dentures, implants stay securely in place. You don’t have to worry about them slipping or needing any adhesives. This means you can eat, talk, and smile without worry.
- Better Function: Dental implants restore full chewing power so you can enjoy all your favorite foods again. They also help improve speech and make it easier to speak clearly.
- Protect Nearby Teeth: Unlike traditional bridges, implants don’t require changing or altering the teeth next to them. This keeps your natural teeth healthy and untouched.
Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Dental implants might be a good choice for you if you want a permanent way to replace missing teeth. To qualify, your mouth and overall health need to meet certain conditions:
Healthy Gums and Bone
For instance, you need healthy gums and enough bone in your jaw to hold the implant securely. If your bone has weakened over time, a dentist might suggest a bone graft before moving forward with the implant.
Good Oral Hygiene and Overall Health
Regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits keep the implant and surrounding teeth in good shape. Some health problems, like uncontrolled diabetes or heart conditions, can affect how well your body heals after the procedure. However, you can manage many of these issues with help from your doctor and dentist.
Age
Dental implants are typically for adults. Young patients will need to wait until their jawbones are fully developed. However, you’re never too old for implants. As long as you’re healthy, you can get an implant restoration.
Schedule a visit if you’re unsure whether dental implants are right for you. Dr. Slate will evaluate your health, check your jawbone using X-rays, and then create the most relevant treatment plan.
Even if you don’t qualify at first, we can prepare your mouth for implants. You’ll need to address issues like gum disease and bone loss to build up strength for implants. Dr. Slate may recommend bone grafting as an implant pretreatment to ensure you have enough jawbone. He can also treat problems like cavities or gum infections in his office.
The Dental Implant Process in Washington, DC
The process of getting a dental implant takes several steps to ensure the best results. While it can take several months to get an implant restoration, these restorations last longer than removable options. The steps to getting implants include:
Consultation & Exam
Your first visit is all about planning. Dr. Slate will examine your teeth and gums to make sure you’re a good candidate for an implant. He will take digital X-rays to check the condition of your jawbone, since it needs to be strong enough to hold the implant. If everything looks good, you’ll discuss the treatment plan and what to expect.
Implant Placement
If you’re ready to move forward, the next step is placing the implant, a small titanium post that acts like a tooth root. Dr. Slate will use local anesthesia to numb the area so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. Then he carefully inserts the implant post into your jawbone.
Healing Time
After the implant is placed, your jawbone needs time to heal and grow around it, creating a strong bond. This process, called osseointegration, usually takes a few months. In the meantime, Dr. Slate may provide a temporary solution, such as an Essix retainer, to fill the gap and keep your smile while you heal.
Abutment and Final Restoration
Once the implant has fully fused with your jawbone, Dr. Slate will place an abutment. This piece connects the implant post to your restoration. You’ll need more time for your gums to heal before he can place your implant restoration.
When your post and abutment have healed, Dr. Slate will place a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture. The restoration is designed to match your natural teeth in color, shape, and function. Dr. Slate works with a local dental lab to create custom
Aftercare
Caring for your implant restoration is simple. You can follow these recommendations on how to care for dental implants after treatment in our Washington, DC, dental office:
Brush Twice a Day
It’s important to brush your teeth in the morning and at night to remove food and plaque. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush so you don’t hurt your gums or damage the implant. Make sure to gently brush around the implant and your other teeth to keep everything clean.
Some toothpastes have strong ingredients that can scratch the surface of your implant. Look for a gentle toothpaste made for sensitive teeth or dental implants. A non-abrasive toothpaste will clean your teeth without causing damage.
Floss Daily
Flossing helps clean between your teeth and around your dental implants where your toothbrush can’t reach. You can use special tools like floss threaders or a water flosser to make this easier. Removing food and plaque from these areas helps prevent gum disease and keeps your implants healthy.
Eat Soft Foods First
Your mouth needs time to heal after treatment. Chewing hard foods like nuts or candies can put too much pressure on the implant and slow down the healing process. Sticky foods, like gum or caramel, can also pull on the implant and cause problems. Once you’re fully healed, you can begin to expand your diet.
Don’t Use Tobacco Products
Smoking, vaping, or using tobacco slows down healing and makes it harder for your implant to stay in place. It also increases the risk of gum disease, which can lead to implant failure. If you want your implant to last, it’s best to quit smoking or avoid tobacco products.
Visit Our Dentist Regularly
Regular checkups and cleanings help Dr. Slate keep an eye on your implant and make sure it’s doing well. Your dentist can clean around the implant and check for any signs of infection or other issues. These visits are a key part of keeping your mouth healthy.
Schedule an Implant Consultation
Slate Dental provides the highest level of care in a friendly and supportive environment. Whether you’re replacing one tooth or many, dental implants are a great way to bring back your smile and improve your oral health. Our team is here to guide you through every step of the process so you have a smooth and successful treatment.
If you want to replace a missing tooth or want to learn more about dental implants, schedule an appointment at Slate Dental today. Let us help you restore your smile and your confidence. We serve dental patients in Georgetown, Forest Hills, and Dupont Circle.