Cosmetic and Advanced Dentistry is a cutting-edge dental implant office and home to Dr. Andrey Doroshenko and Dr. Ed Lazer. We offer top quality teeth implant services to our patients that are suffering from missing or severely damaged teeth. We attract patients from many surrounding communities including Towson, MD for our superior teeth replacement services.
An Introduction to Dental Implants
The actual dental implant is a small screw-like titanium post. It is just one part of this revolutionary tooth replacement system. However, it is the most important piece that sets this tooth replacement system apart from the rest. It will hold the dental implant restoration securely in place. Also, they replace the missing teeth roots which will prevent long-term bone loss. A typical dental implant restoration consists of three parts: the implant fixture or body, the abutment, and the restoration or dental prosthetic.
Implant Fixture or Body
The implant fixture, or body, is is a small screw-like titanium post. It serves as an artificial tooth root and is what the replacement tooth will attach to. The dentist or oral surgeon will surgically embed the implant body in your jaw bone. After that, the post will fuse with the bone to create a very strong anchor.
This osseointegration process typically spans over several months depending on the type of dental implant you get. Dental implants come in a variety of sizes. A standard dental implant is the most common, but mini and wide implants are also available.
Abutment
An abutment is a small metal connector that the dentist attaches to the implant and will protrude from the gums. The abutment essentially acts as a connector piece and is the foundation for the restoration. This is where the replacement tooth will attach to the implant. The dentist will only attach it after your mouth heals over the implant post and it fully fuses with your jaw bone.
Restoration or Dental Prosthetic
To create the final piece, your Towson, MD area dentist will take a dental impression of your teeth. The dental prosthetic that you get will depend on how many teeth you are replacing. The most common prosthetics that we connect include a dental crown, a denture, or a dental bridge. Next, he will send the impressions to a dental lab to fabricate the prosthetic, or create the prosthetic in-house using our CEREC machine. If you are only replacing one tooth, you will get a dental crown. However, you might get an implant-supported dental bridge or implant-supported denture if you are replacing many teeth.
What type of dental restoration will the dentist attach to my implants?
Each patient will have unique circumstances. Your dentist can custom design a treatment plan that will best suite your needs and goals. If you are missing one tooth, the dentist will place a dental crown. However, for multiple missing teeth there are several options. For consecutive missing teeth, your dentist will most likely use a dental bridge. Your dentist will replace a whole row of missing teeth with an implant-supported denture.
Will I need to see a specialist for the implant surgery?
No, you will not need to see a specialist if you are getting dental implants from us. Dr. Doroshenko is a prosthodontist and possesses advanced training in implant dentistry. He is qualified to perform the surgery that places the implant in the jaw bone right in our dental office. Because of this, every step of your implant treatment will take place at our Towson, MD area dentist office.
How do I Maintain my New Dental Implants?
Dental implant aftercare is an important part of keeping your dental implants and mouth healthy. Dental implants can last a lifetime when you take good care of them. Proper brushing and flossing are essential, as well as regular dental appointments to monitor the health of the implant. The following are our tips on how to elongate the lifespan of your new dental implant.
- Practice good oral hygiene: To maintain dental implants for a long time, it is important to practice good oral hygiene. This involves brushing twice daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush and flossing once a day. It is also important to use an anti-bacterial mouthwash to reduce plaque formation and the risk of infection.
- Visit your dentist regularly: Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential for maintaining healthy dental implants. Seeing your dentist regularly can help detect any issues that may arise and help prevent serious problems.
- Avoid chewing on hard items: Chewing on hard items such as ice, pen caps, or nails can damage your dental implants. It is important to avoid these items to prevent any damage to your implants.
- Quit bad habits: Smoking, drinking alcohol, and consuming large amounts of sugar can all increase your risk of implant failure. Quitting these habits can help reduce your risk of developing any issues with your dental implants.
- Watch what you eat: Eating certain types of food can increase your risk of developing issues with your implants. Foods and drinks with high levels of sugar, carbonation, and acid can erode the surfaces of your dental implants, leading to decay.
By following these tips, you can maintain your dental implants for a long time and enjoy a healthy smile.
Book Your Dental Implant Consultation in Towson, MD
If you are ready to invest in your oral health and well-being, call our office today to schedule a dental implant consultation. Here, we will discuss your oral health and determine if you qualify for dental implants. We can draft a treatment plan to address your missing teeth. Since every step of your implant journey will take place at our Towson, MD dental office, your entire treatment will be consistent. Call us today at (410) 697-6290 or schedule an appointment online with Cosmetic & Advanced Dentistry.