You have options to restore your smile after losing a tooth, and whatever you and your dentist ultimately choose, the important thing is to address it in time. Dental implants represent some of the best that modern dental technology has to offer, granting a longer-lasting solution to alternatives, but to find out if they are the solution for you, and to learn much more about them, contact the professionals of Virginia Dental Care in Arlington, VA.
The Way They Work
It all begins with a titanium post that is implanted directly onto the bone, in the space where the now-missing tooth used to be. Through a process called osseointegration, the post permanently fuses to the bone, creating very strong support for a crown, which will be attached to it to give back your smile its appearance as well as its full function.
Dental bridges require the teeth adjacent to the gap to support your new crown. Having to reshape these to accept a crown themselves. Bridges will remain an excellent choice for many patients, but the benefits of dental implants cannot be understated.
Not Everyone Is a Candidate
If the bone is not strong enough for the dental implant you may require a bone graft before you can qualify for the procedure. But these tend to have very high success rates.
However, if you're a smoker, some dentists may not recommend dental implants. The healing process can already be a somewhat lengthy one, and smoking can not only delay it but may cause the implant to fail. So if you are considering dental implants it's important to seek help in quitting the habit, it will improve your health in more ways than one.
Dental Implants in Arlington, VA
Dental implants can restore your smile's form and function, and though they require a longer initial investment of time, they last much longer than their alternatives. So to find out if dental implants are for you make an appointment today with your local Arlington, VA, dentists of Virginia Dental Care by dialing (703) 276-1010.
