Are you missing a tooth? Do you want a replacement that looks natural and works just like a real tooth? If you answered yes, then dental implants might be the perfect solution for you. Dental implants in our Gaithersburg, MD, dental office are the best way to replace a missing tooth.
Implants do more than just fill the gap. They actually mimic your natural tooth in almost every way. An implant replaces the entire tooth, from root to crown. This means it looks, feels, and functions just like the tooth you lost.
While getting an implant takes a bit longer than other options, most patients feel it’s worth it. That’s because implants are a long-term solution that can last a lifetime.
Dental Implants in Gaithersburg, MD
Dr. Steven Anolik and Dr. Corey Anolik are experienced restorative dentists in Gaithersburg, MD. They stay up-to-date on the latest and greatest dental technologies to ensure that TotallySmiles is prepared with the best dental treatments possible. Dental implants are one of the best upgrades in modern dentistry.
A dental implant does more than a bridge can. It replaces your entire tooth, all the way down to the root. Although it takes a bit longer to heal from the implant procedure compared to a bridge, patients are extremely happy with the results. That’s because implants offer strong, reliable, and long-lasting benefits that make them worth the wait.
What to Expect from the Procedure
Getting a dental implant is a multi-step process that replaces your missing tooth from the root up. The process begins with a minor surgical procedure. A skilled oral surgeon will place a small titanium post into your jawbone, right where your missing tooth used to be. This post acts like an artificial tooth root.
After the procedure, your body needs time to heal. Over the next six months, your jawbone will gradually fuse with the post in a process called osseointegration. This creates a root so the implant has a super strong foundation.
Before anything happens, our doctors will create a detailed digital plan for your new tooth. Using digital scans, X-rays, and 3D images of your mouth, we gather all the information we need to ensure your implant is perfect. We coordinate with the best specialists to handle the surgery.
Once your mouth has fully healed after surgery, we’ll place a small connector piece called an abutment on top of the implant post. This abutment will hold your new tooth in place. After a short healing period, we’ll attach a custom-made dental crown to the abutment. This crown will match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth.
Once finished, your dental implant will look, feel, and function just like a real tooth. Your implant can last a lifetime with daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups.
The Benefits of Dental Implants in Gaithersburg, MD
Dental implants are the gold standard of tooth replacement solutions. We recommend them to patients with missing teeth whenever possible. They have many benefits that other tooth restorations don’t.
Jawbone Retention
Implants are the only restoration that replaces the tooth root and the crown. One of the most noticeable side effects of missing teeth is that the jawbone deteriorates in the area without the root. Since implants replace it, they stop the jawbone from deteriorating further and help it heal. The implant post integrates with the jawbone, giving implants unmatched strength.
Dental implants are a lifetime solution for missing teeth. Unlike other treatments, you don’t have to worry about adjusting or replacing them in the future. Since they stop jawbone degeneration, the fit of your implants won’t change.
Improved Bite
With solutions like removable dentures, you have to stop eating certain foods because you can’t chew and break them down. Implants are the closest you can get to having full function back. You get back up to 100% of your bite. You don’t have to give up any foods you love because you can bite and chew almost anything.
Low Maintenance
Implants don’t need your dentist to adjust natural teeth, or excessive maintenance. When caring for them, you just have to brush and floss. If you have a fixed bridge as your final restoration, we may need to teach you techniques for flossing under the bridge. But you don’t need to use adhesives or special cleaners.
Comfortable
Since they feel like real teeth, they’re the most comfortable tooth replacement option. Removable dentures can slip or fall out when you’re eating or speaking. That’s something you never have to worry about with implants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you want to learn more? We’re here to help. Dr. Steven Anolik and Dr. Corey Anolik are here to answer your frequently asked questions about tooth implants in Gaithersburg, MD.
Can anyone get dental implants?
Not everyone can get dental implants right away. To be a good candidate, you need healthy gums and enough jawbone to hold the implant in place. If your jawbone isn’t strong enough, our dentist may recommend a bone graft to build it up before the implant is placed. Your overall health also matters, since conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or smoking can affect healing. The best way to know if implants are right for you is to schedule an exam and talk with Dr. Anolik.
How painful is getting a dental implant?
The dental implant process isn’t very painful. We use local anesthesia during the procedure, so you should only feel little discomfort. After the anesthesia wears off, you may experience some soreness, swelling, or minor bleeding. However, these symptoms are manageable with over-the-counter pain medication.
Will dental implants be noticeable?
No, dental implant crowns are custom-made and blend in with your existing teeth. The crown is custom-made to match your surrounding teeth’s color, shape, and size. So, once the implant heals and the crown is in place, most people won’t notice you have an implant unless you tell them.
How long do dental implant posts last?
Dental implants often have an average lifespan of 25 years or more. With proper oral hygiene and care, the tooth implant posts can last a lifetime. However, because of normal wear and tear, the dentist may need to replace the crown that attaches to the implant every 10-15 years.
How long after extraction can I get tooth implants?
You can get dental implants after your extraction site completely heals. Oral surgeons and dentists often advise waiting 3-6 months for the area to heal before implant placement. But in some cases, immediate implants are possible right after extraction. This will depend on your bone condition and overall oral health.
How do I take care of my dental implants?
Taking care of dental implants is almost the same as caring for natural teeth. You should brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily to keep the area around your implant clean. Regular dental check-ups are also important so your dentist can make sure everything is healthy. Try to avoid habits like smoking or chewing on hard objects, since they can damage your implant. With good care, your dental implant can last a lifetime.
Can dental implants get cavities?
Dental implants can’t get cavities since they have titanium metal and porcelain. However, it’s still important to have good oral hygiene. If bacteria builds up around the tooth implant, gum disease and infection can still happen. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups will keep your implants healthy.
Can my dentist remove dental implants?
Yes, dentists and oral surgeons can remove dental implants if necessary. We may need to remove tooth implants because of failure from infection, trauma, or improper placement. Removing teeth is usually a last resort. Maintaining good oral health can help prevent issues that cause implant failure.
Schedule An Appointment Today
Visit TotallySmiles for a dental exam and a consultation to see if this treatment option is best for you. Schedule an appointment online or give us a call at 301-701-5861 today. We look forward to seeing you soon.