Are you missing permanent teeth due to decay or a dental injury? Replace one or more missing teeth with dental implants. Implants are titanium screws that an oral surgeon places in the jaw bone beneath the gum tissue. As dental restorations, implants create a foundation for restorations once they become a part of the smile. At Smiles by Mia, we can replace missing teeth with dental implants in our Burke, VA office.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
Dental implants come with many advantages. Implants:
- Support one and tissue retention
- Improve speech
- Do not have dietary restrictions
- Are permanent restorations
- Prevent jaw deterioration
- Fully support the bite
If you are missing teeth but need a dental restoration, or if you have a removable restoration but require more security, contact our office. Our team is here to customize treatment according to your specific needs.
Dental Implants
Before implant treatment, we ensure that patients have enough bone tissue to support their dental implants. We can recommend bone grafting, which takes healthy tissue from one part of the mouth to another. Additionally, we can perform gum disease treatment or extractions as needed to ensure patients are in good oral health. We take dental x-rays to find the best areas to place the implants for maximum support. Then, we take dental impressions to create a tooth crown, dental bridge, or denture.
An oral surgeon first cuts the gum tissue to access the jaw bone. They place the titanium screw into the jawbone and a temporary cap on each implant. During a three to six-month period called osseointegration, the implant post fuses with the jaw bone tissue. This process ensures that the implants last patients for years to come. Once the implants heal, we attach the permanent restoration.
Post-Op Dental Implant Care
We cover the newly added implants with a healing cap that looks like a screw. Avoid the healing cap for two weeks. Pushing on this healing cap can loosen the implant. We will also provide you with gauze, which you can take out the first day. Take pain medication and antibiotics as prescribed.
It is normal for you to experience bleeding on the first day. Use ice on your cheek for two to three days to combat swelling and bruising. On the night of the procedure, you can brush around the area, but do not use an electric toothbrush. Rinse with a mouthwash the day after your surgery to keep the area clean. You will have a seamless recovery if you follow these instructions. Please call us if you have any questions during the healing process. You can read our full post-op instructions for dental implants here.
Replace Missing Teeth
Do you want to learn more about dental implants? Are you interested in dental implants are right for you? Schedule a dental consultation with the team at Smiles by Mia online. You can also call us at (571) 789-1265. If you have any questions about implant treatment, please let us know and we can help.