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When someone is missing teeth, their jawbone begins to weaken, and they might experience facial collapse. There is also an emotional toll, as patients often feel like those around them are judging them for having a missing tooth. This can lead to poor self-confidence and even withdrawal from normal social behaviors.
At WestLake Dental Care in Sterling, Virginia we care about our Loudon County patients and want to help. This is why we currently offer affordable dental implants in Sterling, VA as a potential solution. Discover the many different types of dental implants available and let us help you determine which is the right fit.
Procedure Details:
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a synthetic tooth that is installed directly through the gums and into the jawbone, creating a permanent solution to tooth loss. The implant is composed of a root and a crown. The root is made of titanium or similar metal and is the part that rests in the jawbone. It is durable and sturdy, designed to withstand the rigors of chewing, speaking, and biting. The crown is made of porcelain or precious metal fused to porcelain.
Who Is a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Dental implants are an excellent solution for many individuals dealing with tooth loss, but they aren’t suitable for everyone. Candidates for dental implants typically have:
- Healthy Gums: Adequate gum tissue is essential for healing and support around the implant.
- Sufficient Bone Density: The jawbone must be dense enough to support the titanium root securely.
- Good Overall Health: Conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes or habits like smoking can affect healing.
- A Commitment to Oral Hygiene: Proper care is crucial to ensure the implant’s longevity.
During a consultation, your dentist will assess your oral and overall health to determine if dental implants are the best solution for you.
What Are the Benefits of Cosmetic Dental Implants?
Dental implants offer several benefits that other restoration solutions cannot, including but not limited to:
- All the functionality of a natural, healthy tooth
- Durable and long-lasting, resisting plaque and tooth decay
- Easy maintenance, only requiring brushing and flossing like natural teeth
- Sturdier than dentures, which can slip around in a patient’s mouth
- Completely natural-looking to blend seamlessly with your smile
The Dental Implant Process
The process of getting dental implants involves several steps designed to ensure the best long-term results. It begins with a thorough evaluation and ends with a fully functional, natural-looking tooth replacement.
- Initial Consultation: A dentist examines your teeth, gums, and jawbone structure to determine candidacy.
- Implant Placement: The titanium root is surgically placed into the jawbone.
- Osseointegration: Over the next few months, the implant fuses with the jawbone.
- Abutment Placement: A connector piece (abutment) is attached to the implant.
- Crown Placement: A custom-made crown is affixed to the abutment, completing the procedure.
Each step is tailored to your specific needs to ensure a comfortable and effective treatment experience.
How Long Does Healing From Dental Implants Take?
The healing process after receiving a dental implant varies from person to person but generally takes between 3 to 6 months. This time allows for osseointegration, where the titanium implant bonds with the jawbone. Factors influencing healing time include:
- Overall health and lifestyle habits
- The location of the implant
- Adherence to aftercare instructions
While the process requires patience, the result is a strong, durable replacement tooth designed to last a lifetime.
Foods You Can Eat While Recovering From Implant Surgery
During the initial healing phase, it’s important to stick to soft and nourishing foods to avoid irritating the implant site. Some great options include:
- Soft Proteins: Scrambled eggs, tofu, or soft fish like salmon.
- Dairy Products: Yogurt, cottage cheese, and soft cheese.
- Cooked Vegetables: Mashed potatoes, steamed carrots, or pureed squash.
- Fruits: Applesauce, mashed bananas, or blended smoothies.
- Grains: Oatmeal, cream of wheat, and soft pasta.
Avoid crunchy, hard, or sticky foods until your dentist advises you otherwise. Following these guidelines can help promote faster healing and reduce discomfort.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
Unfortunately, most dental insurance carriers in Virginia and across the country consider dental implants to be a cosmetic procedure rather than a necessary dental service. This means it’s likely that your insurance carrier does not cover the cost of dental implants. On average, the cost of a dental implant ranges anywhere from $3,000 – $5,000. While this may seem somewhat pricey, it is important to note that this price includes the cost of the implant, crown, and surgery. Additionally, dental implants are designed to last for as long as 20 years.
Contact Us Today for Dental Implants in Sterling, VA
In terms of personal wellbeing, the WestLake Dental Care team enjoys using dental implants because they have a positive effect on self-confidence and esteem. The implant can complete a smile, encouraging patients to actively engage in social behaviors like eating, chewing, smiling, and talking with others. We care about our Sterling, VA patients’ dental, physical, and mental health and want to provide the solutions necessary to recover from permanent tooth loss. To learn more about dental implants or to schedule a free consultation, contact our implant dentist in Sterling, VA today.
For more information about dental implants in Sterling, VA or to book an appointment, call us at (703) 444-5108 or visit our contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
Candidates for dental implants must exhibit the following qualities:
- Damaged and/or missing teeth
- A strong jawbone that can support dental implants
- Non-smoker
- Good overall health
Dental implants are made of three main components:
- Titanium alloy rods. These are screwed into the jawbone and act as the tooth's natural "root".
- Abutment. This connects the rod and crown together.
- Crown. The crown will cap the top of the tooth and it will resemble the shape and color of your natural teeth.
In general, regular cleaning and exam appointments take up to an hour. Some can take a little longer if extensive cleaning is needed, you’re due for X-rays, or there are any special circumstances.
The best way to care for your dental implants is to brush and floss them, the same way you do with your natural teeth!
I’ve had excellent care for years. Dr. T is great at explaining everything, making it less stressful, and making sure you feel comfortable. Everyone is friendly and service is prompt. I would recommend Westlake Dental Care to anyone.
– Margie W.
Potomac Falls, VA
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