What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are the primary choice in tooth replacement technology. These titanium posts are surgically placed into the jawbone, where they merge with your natural bone tissue through a process called osseointegration. This creates a secure, stable foundation that can support a crown, bridge, or denture, effectively replacing both the root and visible portion of your missing tooth.
The implant itself consists of three main sections:
- The titanium implant functions as the artificial tooth root, providing stability and stimulation to the jawbone.
- An abutment connects the implant to the restoration, acting as a connector piece.
- The crown, bridge, or denture serves as the visible replacement tooth that matches your natural teeth in both appearance and function.
Unlike traditional bridges or dentures, dental implants don’t rely on adjacent teeth for support. This independence helps preserve your existing healthy teeth while providing a permanent solution that can last decades. Our Virginia Beach oral surgeons are experienced in dental implantation and can help you rediscover your confidence.
Benefits of Dental Implants
The advantages of dental implants reach far beyond the visual appeal of a new tooth. These restorations provide stability, allowing you to smile, speak, and eat with confidence. With over 120 million Americans having at least one missing tooth, the need for dental implants and other replacement options is continuing to grow every year. Unlike removable dentures, implants won’t slip or shift during conversation or meals, eliminating the embarrassing moments and dietary restrictions often associated with traditional prosthetics.
Dental implants also help protect your facial structure and maintain the health of your jawbone. When teeth are lost, the underlying bone begins to break down due to a lack of stimulation. Implants provide the critical stimulation needed to sustain bone density, stopping the sunken facial appearance that can develop over time. Preserving bone structure is particularly important for patients considering multiple tooth replacement options.
The longevity of dental implants makes them a worthy investment in your oral health. With proper care and support, implants can last 25 years or more, making them a more cost-effective option than bridges or dentures, which require regular replacement. Our bone grafting procedures can help ensure adequate bone volume for successful implant placement when needed.
The Dental Implant Process
Your dental implant journey begins with an evaluation, which includes advanced imaging to assess bone density, proximity to the sinuses, and nerve locations. This detailed planning allows us to determine the best implant size, type, and placement strategy for your unique situation.
During the surgical phase, we place the titanium implant into the jawbone under local anesthesia or sedation for your comfort. The surgical site is then left to heal for several months while osseointegration occurs. This healing period is crucial for creating a strong bond between the implant and the underlying bone.
Following successful integration, we attach the abutment and create your custom restoration. Our team works closely with skilled dental laboratories to ensure your final crown, bridge, or denture matches your natural teeth perfectly. The entire process requires patience, but the results provide a lifetime of improved function and aesthetics.
Advanced Technology and Techniques
Our practice utilizes state-of-the-art technology to enhance implant success rates and patient comfort. Cone beam CT imaging provides three-dimensional views of your jawbone, allowing for precise implant placement and reduced risk of complications. This advanced imaging helps us identify optimal implant positions while avoiding critical anatomical structures.
We also offer same-day implant procedures when appropriate, allowing qualifying patients to receive implants and temporary restorations during a single appointment. This approach can significantly reduce treatment time while providing immediate function and aesthetics. However, not all cases are suitable for immediate loading, and we carefully evaluate each patient to determine the best approach.
