If you’re missing one, two or even all of your teeth, you do not have to suffer poor oral function and the day-to-day embarrassment of a damaged smile. Instead, explore the versatility and stability of dental implants from Oakton Dentistry by Design. Both experts in modern prosthodontics, Dr. Pasquale J. Giordano and Dr. Joseph A. Khalil, evaluate patients for dental implants in their state-of-the-art office. Could you benefit from these amazing artificial teeth?
Dental Implant Details
If you don’t have a dental implant or know anyone who does, you probably wonder exactly what it is. A dental implant is a true artificial tooth. Its titanium metal root resides right in the jaw bone and melds to it through natural process called osseointegration. A metal abutment and porcelain crown finish the restoration after the implant site has healed fully.
Because of its position in the jaw and its affinity for bone, the titanium implant provides superior stability to this wonderful prosthetic. Also, the dental implant strengthens the jaw each time the patient bites and chews because these physical forces exercise the bone. Traditional bridges and partial dentures cannot do that because they simply rest on top of the gums and cannot activate the bonding forces of osseointegration.
Another important detail regarding dental implants is their versatility. Not only can your dentist in Oakton place them singly, they may use several of them to anchor fixed bridges or full dentures, avoiding the bone and gum recession, speech issues and slippage problems common to traditional tooth replacement options.
Who Can Receive Dental Implants?
The doctors examine each dental implant candidate, inspecting for decay, gum disease and other oral health issues. A viable candidate has good oral and systemic health. Also, the dentist looks for sufficient jaw bone density and size so the dental implant has a solid foundation in which to reside.
Additionally, a good candidate practices diligent oral hygiene at home, brushing twice daily and flossing every day as well. He or she also eats a tooth- and gum-friendly diet low in processed sugars and high in:
- Fruits
- Fibrous vegetables
- High-fiber breads
- Lean proteins
- High-calcium dairy products
Finally, dentists advise that their implant candidates who use tobacco consider quitting through a smoking cessation program because cigarettes contains toxins which degrade the gums and bone around dental implants. While people who smoke can still receive dental implants, their oral and overall health benefits from quitting.
Come in for an Evaluation
You can get all your questions about dental implants answered during a consultation with Dr. Giordano or Dr. Khalil. You could be well on your way to a strong, beautiful smile with dental implants. Please contact Oakton Dentistry by Design today for a restorative dentistry consultation.