Dental Implants in Fredericksburg, VA

Dental implants are the most effective and healthy way to replace missing teeth. Implant restorations replace the entire missing tooth, from the root to the crown, mimicking the structure and function of a natural tooth.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are tooth replacements made of three distinct sections. The implant itself is a titanium or zirconia screw surgically placed in the jawbone to replace the tooth root. Once in place, the bone fuses around it (osseointegration), providing a strong and stable base to support a restoration. An abutment is a slender pin or fastener that is attached to the implant and holds the restoration in place. The restoration is the dental prosthetic that replaces the visible working portion of the tooth. This may be a dental crown, a bridge, or a special denture that attaches to one or more implants.

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Dental Implant Process

At Elevated Dental Care of Fredericksburg, our implant specialist will surgically place the dental implants and complete the final restorations. The process follows a stringent procedure to ensure successful osseointegration, patient comfort, and optimal recovery:

• Initial Consultation
• The doctor performs a comprehensive examination, which may include X-rays and, in some cases, 3D imaging. He discusses your treatment options and medical history.
• Treatment Planning
• He creates a customized plan for implant placement and reviews the timeline and costs with you.
• Tooth Extraction (if needed)
• He removes any damaged or failing teeth before implant placement.
• Bone Grafting (if required)
• If you need added bone to augment insufficient jawbone volume or density, he will perform bone grafting and allow a healing period before scheduling implant surgery.
• Implant Placement Surgery
• The doctor places the titanium or zirconia posts into the jawbone. A healing period allows the bone to fuse with the implants (osseointegration).
• Abutment Placement
• Small connectors are attached to the implants once healing is complete.
• Final Restoration
• The doctor attached custom crowns, bridges, or dentures to the implants via the abutments. The result is a full set of functional, natural-looking teeth.

Single or Multiple Tooth Implants

When an individual tooth is missing, damaged, or knocked out, a single-tooth implant is typically the solution. An individual implant is placed in the jawbone. When osseointegration is complete, the doctor attaches a crown to it using an abutment.

Multiple implants can be placed using the single implant model, with each implant supporting an individual crown, or we may be able to support several crowns in a row on two implants at either end, similar to a dental bridge.

Full Mouth Dental Implants

When a full arch of teeth in the upper or lower jaw is missing, several options are available for replacing it with implants.

All-On-X Dental Implants or Same Day Implants

One of the most popular full-mouth solutions we offer is the All-On-X dental implant procedure, often referred to as Same-Day Implants. With this procedure, a full arch of replacement teeth is supported on between four and six implants strategically placed in the jawbone.

A temporary arch of teeth is attached to the implants the same day that the implants are placed, so that you have teeth that day. When your implants have sufficiently fused with the surrounding jawbone, you return to our office and the temporary teeth are replaced with a permanent restoration.

Snap-On Dentures

Snap-On Dentures combine the removability of dentures with the stability of implants. The denture is specifically designed to be lightweight and comfortable. It snaps onto a bar or balls that are attached to the dental implants in the jawbone. This keeps the denture in place and prevents it from shifting, clicking, or pinching. However, you can remove the denture for cleaning and sleeping.

Screw-Retained Permanent Denture

These are lightweight implant dentures that are permanently screwed onto dental implants and sit just slightly above the gums, eliminating pressure points and discomfort. These are not removable except by your dentist. You brush them and clean them carefully under the denture to keep the gums clean.

Are You a Candidate for Implants?

Adults in good overall health who do not have active gum disease or dental health issues are good candidates for dental implants. If you are a candidate but have insufficient bone density to support implants, we can easily remedy the situation with bone grafting for most patients.

There are a few counter-indications. If you have a bleeding disorder, certain autoimmune diseases, are a heavy tobacco user, or have uncontrolled diabetes, dental implants may not be for you.

Cost of Dental Implants

It is almost impossible to provide an accurate estimate of the cost of dental implants without a consultation. There are numerous variables, including the type of implants, the number of teeth being replaced, anesthesia options, the type of restorations, whether bone grafting is necessary, and other factors. The doctor can provide you with an accurate price breakdown during your initial consultation.

Dental Implants FAQs

Can I eat after my dental implant procedure?

Yes, but you will be on a soft diet for several days while your gums heal and the osseointegration process begins.

Will I be able to speak normally?

You may experience a lisp for a few days after surgery, but this is typically due to temporary swelling around the surgical site. You will adjust quickly and, after the first week, you will speak clearly and comfortably, as your new teeth will feel like your own.

What if my overdenture breaks?

In most cases, we can repair or replace your overdenture without disturbing your dental implants.

What are the signs of implant rejection or infection?

While implant failure is rare, it does happen on occasion. If you experience any of the following symptoms, particularly after the first few weeks, please get in touch with us immediately:

• Fever and gum swelling
• Loosening of the restoration
• Pain while chewing or eating
• Bleeding gums or gum recession, exposing the implants
• Pus or discharge around the implant

What do I do if my restoration is chipped or cracked?

It is essential to contact us as soon as possible so that we can repair or replace the damaged crown, bridge, full arch, or denture before any damage occurs to the implants.

For more information about dental implants in Fredericksburg, call us today at Elevated Dental Care of Fredericksburg Phone Number (540) 786-2311 to schedule a consultation.