Dental Implants in Silver Spring

It is possible for dental implants to become infected. This is known as “peri-implantitis.” However, this is a very rare complication, and it typically only occurs if the implant is not cared for and kept clean after surgery. 

You can avoid peri-implantitis by following your dentist’s instructions while recovering, and by brushing and flossing regularly after your implant has healed. 

Yes. Bone loss occurs when your jaw bone is no longer stimulated by the natural pressure of chewing and biting. Your tooth transmits this force through the root and into your jaw bone, which keeps your jaw bone healthy.

When you lose a tooth, this process stops, and the jaw bone tends to weaken. Since the post of the dental implant is placed directly into the jaw bone and acts as a tooth root, it restimulates your jaw bone by transmitting the force of chewing and biting once again.

Some types of dental implant systems can be done in one day. The restoration is usually temporary until you have fully healed from your dental implant placement surgery. This solution allows you to speak and eat normally, however, the restoration is temporary. 
As your mouth heals, you’ll attend appointments at your doctor’s office where impressions will be taken. These impressions will guide the manufacturing of your restoration. This permanent restoration will be a more durable, long-lasting, and natural-looking prosthetic than your temporaries.

The dental implant process typically involves several stages and can vary from patient to patient. On average, it can take anywhere from a few months to over a year to complete, depending on your specific situation.

First, there's the initial consultation and evaluation with your dentist or oral surgeon to determine if you're a good candidate for dental implants. After that, the implant placement surgery is scheduled, where a small titanium post is surgically inserted into your jawbone.

Then, a healing period is needed to allow the implant to fuse with your jawbone, a process called osseointegration. This can take several months but is crucial for the implant's stability.

Once osseointegration is complete, an abutment is attached to the implant, and finally, a custom-made dental crown or prosthesis is placed on top. Throughout this process, your dentist will guide you and ensure that you're comfortable at every step. Remember, the timeframes can vary, so your dental team will provide a more precise timeline tailored to your case during your consultation.

Dental implants are often considered a long-lasting and reliable solution for replacing missing teeth. While they may not be entirely "permanent" in the sense that nothing in dentistry lasts forever, they can endure for many years and even a lifetime with proper care.

The success and longevity of dental implants depend on factors such as your oral hygiene routine, regular dental check-ups, and lifestyle choices. It's essential to brush and floss daily, visit your dentist for routine maintenance, and avoid habits like smoking, which can negatively impact implant health.

With proper care and maintenance, dental implants have an excellent track record for providing stable, functional, and natural-looking tooth replacements that can significantly enhance your quality of life. Your dentist will provide guidance on how to care for your dental implants to ensure they serve you well for years to come.