At Slate Dental, we focus on giving our patients the best care in a comfortable and welcoming setting. One of our most popular services is dental implants, which are a great way to replace missing teeth. 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.
We offer dental implants and other restorative treatments to both new and existing patients in the Washington, DC area.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a small metal post, usually made of titanium, that is placed into your jawbone where a tooth is missing. This post acts like the root of a natural tooth, providing strong support for a replacement tooth, which is called a dental crown. Once the implant has fused with your jawbone, Dr. Slate will place a custom crown on top to complete the restoration.
Dental implants might be a good choice for you if you’re looking for a permanent way to replace missing teeth. To qualify, your mouth and overall health need to meet certain conditions. 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 is also important. 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.
Dental implants are typically for adults, as young people may need to wait until their jawbones stop growing. If you grind your teeth, it could put extra stress on the implant, but a dentist can recommend ways to address this problem.
If you’re unsure whether dental implants are right for you, schedule a visit. Dr. Slate will evaluate your health, check your jawbone through X-rays, and create a treatment plan. Even if you don’t qualify at first, there are ways to prepare your mouth for implants, such as treating gum disease or building up bone strength.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants have many advantages, which is why they are a popular choice for replacing missing teeth. Some of the benefits include:
- Natural Look and Feel: Implants look and feel just like your real teeth. The custom crown on top matches the color and shape of your other teeth, so it blends right in with your smile.
- Long-Lasting Solution: With the right care, implants can last for many years, sometimes even a lifetime. This makes them a smart long-term investment in your oral health.
- Improved Oral Health: Dental implants help maintain your jawbone structure and prevent bone loss, which can happen when a tooth is missing. This keeps your face looking natural and prevents nearby teeth from shifting.
- 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: Implants don’t require changing or altering the teeth next to them. This keeps your natural teeth healthy and untouched.
The Dental Implant Process
The process of getting a dental implant takes several steps to ensure the best results:
- Consultation: During your first visit, Dr. Slate will check your overall oral health and discuss your treatment options. We will take x-rays to see if your jawbone is strong enough to support an implant.
- Implant Placement: If you’re a good candidate, the next step is placing the titanium post into your jawbone. A local oral surgeon or periodontist will perform this procedure under local anesthesia to keep you comfortable.
- Healing Time: After the implant is placed, it takes a few months for it to fuse with your jawbone in a process called osseointegration. During this time, you might have a temporary solution to fill the gap while your implant heals. Dr. Slate often uses an Essix retainer to cover the space and protect it.
- Crown Placement: Once the implant has fully healed, Dr. Slate will attach a custom-made crown to the post. This crown will look and function like your natural tooth, completing your smile and restoring full function to your mouth.
Why Choose Slate Dental for Dental Implants?
Slate Dental provides the highest level of care in a friendly and supportive environment. Whether you’re replacing one tooth or several, 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’re looking 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!