Dental implants are devices that replace the root of a missing tooth with a securely fitted anchoring device. They are made out of titanium and attach to the jawbone, making them extremely secure. Implants can last for decades with proper dental care, but it is important to see a dentist specializing in dental implants to ensure the procedure is done correctly. With dental implants, you don’t have to worry about wearing dentures or having your gums recede because they help prevent further loss of bone to your jawline.
Our expert dentists at Legacy Dentistry of Virginia are here to help answer your questions and put your mind at ease when it comes to dental implants.
Dental Implants: What are they?
Dental implants are dental devices used to replace missing teeth. You can get single-tooth implants or replace a whole row of teeth. With proper dental hygiene, dental implants can last for decades. They give you back the functions of your mouth that you’ve been missing—like, eating, drinking, and speaking. This is an excellent option for most patients who have extensive tooth issues and provides quick results.
Types of Dental Implants
There are two main types of dental implants patients can choose from depending on their current oral health. Keep in mind, you may need to get other dental work done before implants can be placed. If you don’t have enough jawbone support, you may need to get a bone graft procedure completed first.
Endosteal Implants
Endosteal implants are one of the most common types. Each contains a screw-shaped titanium placeholder post that’s inserted into your jawbone and fitted with either a ceramic or porcelain crown to cover it up. Endosteal implants provide long-lasting results that don’t compromise functionality or aesthetics. It also helps prevent any further bone loss in your jaw.
Endosteal implants may be right for you if:
- your jawbone isn’t compromised too much and can hold the implant in place.
- have good oral health overall.
- Are not a smoker.
All-On-Four Implants
Restoring your missing teeth with an all-on-four implant can give you your confidence back. Unline a single-tooth implant, which uses a separate titanium screw to support each crown, an all-on-four procedure only requires four strategically placed implants per dental arch, either top or bottom. The implants support permanent natural-looking dentures.
There are numerous benefits to the all-on-four procedure:
- Compared to a single-tooth implant, all-on-four implants are less invasive and more affordable.
- You will see results quickly and get your oral health back with full restoration and aesthetics.
- It is less likely that you will need bone grafts for this procedure.
- They are low maintenance and provide stability to your jaw for a permanent solution to missing teeth.
Post Care of Dental Implants
After dental implant surgery, most people experience some level of pain, swelling, and bleeding. Thankfully there is medication you can take to help ease the discomfort. With short-term use of over-the-counter medicine, your symptoms should subside, and you can resume your daily routine within one or two days without too much trouble.
Permanent dental implants provide long-lasting results and restore your mouth’s functionality back to normal. Implants can last around 15 years or more if you stay up to date with your oral care and preventative visits with your dentist. They may need to be replaced at some point, but not for a long time if you care for them properly.
Cost of Dental Implants
The cost of dental implants depends on the type of implant you need and if you require any prior treatments before your implants are placed. It’s important to check with your dental insurance provider to see if all or part of the procedure is covered under your insurance plan. You can also talk to our office staff about payment options so we can help you find a plan that works. There’s nothing more stressful than being hit with a bill you weren’t prepared for, so we’ll help you plan in advance.
Single-tooth dental implants can cost anywhere from $4,500 to $6,000. There may be some additional costs to consider as well.
- To stabilize the implant, you may need a bone graft before the procedure.
- Some patients may want to use general anesthesia during dental implant surgery. This is an additional cost.
- You may need more than one surgery if you have multiple implants being placed.
Choosing the Right Dentist in Chantilly, VA for Your Implants
You will need a dental implant specialist to perform this restorative dental procedure. Come with a list of questions for your specialist to ensure you understand exactly what will happen during the procedure and any costs associated with it.
It’s important to be comfortable with your dentist, especially when undergoing any type of surgery. Choose someone who is transparent and has a good bedside manner. It’s also important to consider the staff that works at the dental office as well. You will be scheduling appointments and discussing payments options and other customer service-type conversations with them as well.
If you’re considering getting dental implants, contact the team at Legacy Dentistry of Virginia today. Dr. Babington and Dr. Chung are available to answer of your questions and ensure your visit is comfortable and headache-free.
With a dental implant, you have the opportunity to get your life back and stop worrying about oral pain or discomfort. The endosteal implants and all-on-four implants are both great options for restoring the function and aesthetics of your mouth. Our team at Legacy Dentistry understands that there is no one size fits all solution when it comes to the dental implant process. We strive to find what’s best for our patients by providing different price points and solutions so you can decide which works best for your needs without having any unnecessary expenses in between. It’s important to know all of your options and get the whole picture before any procedure.
Legacy Dentistry of Virginia serves the Chantilly, VA community and surrounding cities. Contact our team today at (703) 378-5600.
