Millions of Americans suffer from tooth loss–whether it is due to tooth decay, gum disease, or injury. Previously, the only treatment options available for people with missing teeth were bridges and dentures. With advancements in dental technology, there’s a more permanent option: dental implants.
Teeth are designed to last a lifetime, but sometimes they don’t. By replacing missing teeth with dental implants in Chester, VA United Smiles can help you restore your smile while maintaining your general health and the health of your neighboring teeth.
Preparing for Dental Implants in Chester, VA
Not everyone is a candidate for dental implants, but those who are will need to:
- Be in good health
- Have healthy gums
- Have enough bone in his or her jaw
To determine if you are a candidate for dental implants, our staff at United Smiles will perform a proper examination of your mouth.
Many patients in Chester, VA are interested in dental implants because they have been missing teeth for a number of years. However, other patients might need implants to replace teeth that were extracted because of severe decay, periodontal disease, infection or injury. In other cases, a person’s teeth may need to be extracted and the implant placed at the same time.
Unfortunately, if you have a severe infection in a tooth root or gums, Dr. George P. Varkey, our Chester, VA dentist, may wait a few months after removing the teeth to allow for the affected area to heal. Before your dental implant can be placed, Dr. Varkey may also perform a bone graft to increase the chance of success.
The Dental Implant Procedure
If you are a candidate for dental implants in Chester, VA our team at United Smiles will work with you throughout the procedure. Receiving a dental implant is a surgical procedure because an artificial tooth root is implanted into the jawbone. The implantation of the artificial tooth root allows for a permanent base for a fixed crown.
After the artificial tooth root is placed into the jawbone, the two will bond together through a process called osseointegration. This process can typically take between two to six months to complete. During this time, you will be fitted with a temporary crown so you can maintain your normal day-to-day activities. Once the dental implant is secured in the jawbone, a permanent crown will be cemented in place.
While some people turn to temporary solutions–such as dental bridges or removable dentures–patients who want a permanent solution should look to dental implants in Chester, Va from United Smiles. It doesn’t matter whether you’ve lost a tooth due to decay, trauma or overcrowding, it is important to visit United Smiles immediately.