Implant Dentistry Questions

    OAKTON, VA, April 17, 2010 /24-7PressRelease/ -- What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is the strongest, most durable option if you have lost one or more teeth. During this procedure, a small, titanium peg will be implanted into your jaw bone, and your surrounding tissue and bone will naturally grow around it, holding the implant in place (called osseointegration). This peg acts as your tooth's natural root from which a dental crown or other restoration can be attached.

What are factors that might cause my tooth to fall out or require removal?

There are a number of reasons that you may lose a tooth, including:

- Advanced periodontitis (gum disease)
- An accident or trauma
- Severe tooth decay
- Excessive wear and tear
- Failed root canal
- Congenital defects

How long does dental implant surgery take?

Dental implant surgery generally takes between four and nine months to fully complete. This advanced surgical procedure is lengthy because there are two steps involved. The first step is the placement of the implant. Then you must wait several months so that your jaw bone grows around the implant, and holds it in place (called osseointegration). Then a restoration will be permanently secured to the end of the implant. You will be given temporary teeth, so you will never be without teeth during the months between surgeries.

Is there a chance of rejection if my jawbone does not grow around the implant?

This is rare, but possible. Though your body will not directly reject a dental implant like it would a heart of kidney, it may fail to effectively integrate with your jawbone. Dental implants are made of titanium, which your jawbone should grow safely and effectively around. However, certain factors can prevent this integration, such as misalignment, existing diseases improper force on the implant. If your implant "fails", you can wait for your mouth to heal and undergo the implant procedure a second time.

What can prevent me from being an implant candidate?

While most people can undergo dental implant surgery, the procedure is not for everyone. If you have uncontrolled diabetes or are undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, you may not be a good implant candidate. If you have diseases such as parathyroid disorders, blood disorders or certain bone disorders, these can also prohibit you from undergoing this procedure. Physical characters that may disqualify you as a candidate include low sinuses, poor bone quality or low nerve bundles. If you do not have sufficient jawbone to hold the implant in place, you can undergo a bone grafting procedure and can still qualify for a dental implant.

What factors contribute to the long-term success of dental implants?

When properly cared for, your dental implant can last decades or even your entire life. The long-term success of your restoration will first depend on the quality and quantity of your jawbone. The more bone you have and the better the quality of that bone, the longer your dental implant will last. The skill and expertise of your dental surgeon will also play a large role in the longevity of your dental implant. The quality of the restoration attached to the implant, whether it's a dental crown or bridge, will also make a difference. A restoration that is placed poorly or unevenly will negatively impact the lifetime of your implant.

If you would like more information on implant dentistry and you live in northern Virginia area, please visit the website for Softouch Dental Care of northern Virginia.

Website: www.softouchdentalcare.com/index.htm

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