All You Need to Know About Getting Dental Implants in Virginia

A dental implant is a metal post surgically placed into the jawbone underneath the gum line. Once the implant has bonded with the jawbone, a small connector post, called an abutment, is placed on top of the implant. This post will eventually support the new tooth or teeth.

Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth and give you back your smile. They are also the next best thing for your natural teeth. Implants look and feel like your teeth and, with proper care, can last a lifetime.

Considering dental implants? There are some things you should know.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are made of titanium, a metal compatible with the human body. Titanium is used in many other medical procedures, such as hip replacements.

The implant is placed in the jawbone where the tooth is missing. The implant fuses with the bone over time, providing a solid foundation for the new tooth.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants have many benefits. They:

• Look and feel like your own teeth
• Allow you to eat and speak normally
• Improve your appearance
• Help to preserve the jawbone
• Are more comfortable than dentures
• Are long-lasting, with proper care

What Is the Process for Getting Dental Implants?

The first step is to meet with your dentist or implant surgeon to see if you are a good candidate for dental implants. Factors that will be considered include:

• The health of your gums and jawbone
• The number of teeth you need to replace
• Your overall health

If you are a good candidate for dental implants, the next step might involve getting a CT scan of your mouth. This helps the surgeon to plan the placement of the implant.

The next step is surgery. During the surgical procedure, the implant is placed in the jawbone. The incision is closed with stitches. After surgery, the implant will need to fuse with the bone. This process, called osseointegration, makes the implants very strong and durable. Once the implants are in place, they can support one or more dental crowns, bridges, or dentures.

Dental implants have a very high success rate and are a very safe and effective way to replace missing teeth. However, there are a few risks associated with dental implants, such as infection, implant failure, and nerve damage.

How Can Cochran Family Dental Help You with Dental Implants in Virginia?

If you are considering dental implants in Virginia, the team at Cochran Family Dental is here to help you. First, our doctors will perform a comprehensive evaluation to make sure that you are a good candidate for dental implants. This evaluation will include taking X-rays and impressions of your teeth. Once they have determined that you are a good candidate for dental implants, they will work with you to develop a treatment plan. This treatment plan will include the placement of the implants as well as the fabrication of your dental prosthetic.

What Should You Expect During the Implant Placement Procedure?

The implant placement procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia. Our doctor will make small incisions in your gums and place the implants into your jawbone during the procedure. Once the implants are in place, they close the incisions with sutures.

What Should You Expect After the Implant Placement Procedure?

After the implant placement procedure, you can expect some swelling and bruising. This is normal and will resolve on its own. Our dental care specialists will give you specific instructions on how to care for your mouth after the procedure. It is essential to follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper healing.

What is the Next Step?

The next step is to wait for the implants to heal. This can take several months. Once the implants have healed, our dentists will place the abutments, which are small metal connectors, on the implants. They will then take impressions of your teeth and use these impressions to fabricate your dental prosthetic.

When Will You be Able to Use Your New Dental Prosthetic?

Once the dental prosthetic is fabricated, you will be able to use it immediately. It is important to note that it may take some time to get used to your new dental prosthetic. However, most people adjust quickly and can eat and speak normally within a few days.

If you are considering dental implants in Virginia, Dr. Cochran and the team at Cochran Family Dental are here to help. Dr. Cochran has completed additional training in implant placement and has developed years of experience with implant surgical placement and restoration. We have been protecting the smiles of residents in Leesburg, Ashburn, Purcellville, Potomac Falls, Lansdowne, Sterling, Hamilton, and the surrounding Virginia communities for the past 20 years.

To schedule a consultation for dental implants, call Cochran Family Dental today at 703-771-9034 or email us using the contact form on this page. With dental implants, you can enjoy a new and improved smile.