Implants & Periodontists - Leesburg, VA

Periodontitis is a severe gum infection that damages the soft tissue and destroys the bone supporting the teeth. As the disease progresses, gums recede, and pockets form around the teeth, harboring bacteria. Without treatment, the structural support weakens, leading to loose teeth and eventual tooth loss. Early intervention by a periodontist can halt the progression and preserve natural teeth.

Guided implant surgery utilizes advanced imaging technology and computer software to plan and execute the precise placement of dental implants. By creating a 3D model of the patient’s jaw, dentists can determine the optimal implant positions, angles, and depths. This method increases accuracy, reduces surgery time, and enhances the predictability of outcomes.

Signs that you might benefit from implant-supported dentures include chronic discomfort with traditional dentures, difficulty chewing certain foods, frequent denture slippage, and sore spots on the gums. Additionally, if you are experiencing bone loss in the jaw or desire a more permanent and stable solution for missing teeth, implant-supported dentures may be an ideal option.

Age itself is not a limiting factor for dental implants. Many healthy older adults successfully receive implants. The primary considerations are overall health, bone density, and the ability to heal properly. A comprehensive medical and dental evaluation ensures that the patient is a suitable candidate, regardless of age.

The initial healing period after dental implant surgery typically lasts about one to two weeks. During this time, patients may experience minor discomfort and swelling. However, osseointegration, where the implant fuses with the jawbone, takes several months. During this phase, it’s important to follow the dentist’s instructions to ensure proper healing and implant stability.

Dental implants are commonly made from titanium due to its biocompatibility and strength. Titanium allows the implant to integrate seamlessly with the bone. The crowns or prosthetic teeth attached to the implants can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, or zirconia. These materials are chosen for their durability and ability to mimic the appearance of natural teeth.

Yes, dental implants can replace multiple missing teeth. Depending on the situation, individual implants can support single crowns, or a few implants can support a bridge or denture. All-on-4 dental implants, for instance, use four implants to support an entire arch of teeth, making it a cost-effective and efficient solution for extensive tooth loss.

A sinus lift is a surgical procedure that adds bone to the upper jaw in the area of the molars and premolars. When the sinus floor is too close to the jaw or there isn’t enough bone height, a sinus lift creates more bone volume to securely place dental implants. This procedure is essential for patients who have lost bone due to periodontal disease or tooth loss.

Peri-implantitis is an inflammatory condition similar to periodontitis but affects the tissues around a dental implant. It leads to the loss of supporting bone and can cause implant failure if not addressed promptly. Treatment involves cleaning the infected area, removing bacterial deposits, and sometimes regenerative procedures to restore lost bone. Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental visits are key to preventing peri-implantitis.