Do you have a few questions about dental implants? When you're considering tooth replacement options, it's only natural to have a few 
concerns about the various methods. Dr. Paul Gibberman, Dr. Lauren Gibberman and Dr. Maria Hodas--your Alexandria, VA dentists--share information about dental implants.
Dental implants are versatile
No other tooth replacement option is designed to replace just one tooth or all of them. Single implants are ideal if you only need to replace a tooth or two, while implant-supported dentures are a good choice if you've lost all of your teeth. Implant-supported dentures are anchored by four to six implants per arch and offer benefits that traditional dentures don't, such as:
- Excellent comfort
- The ability to bite and chew hard foods
- Improved speaking ability because implants don't slip
- Stronger jawbone
Most people can benefit from implants
Dental implants are an excellent choice if you're in good health, have healthy gums and practice good oral hygiene. If you smoke or drink heavily or have uncontrolled diabetes, you may want to reconsider implants, as slow healing may affect the success of the procedure. A shallow or weak jawbone or grinding can also affect your implant, although you can address these problems with bone grafts and nightguards to prevent grinding.
Dental implants are the only long-lasting replacement options
Bridges and dentures wear out in approximately 10 to 15 years and must be replaced. With proper care, dental implants never need to be replaced. Titanium implants don't just sit on your gums; they're actually placed in your jawbone and take the place of your roots. Titanium is a light, tough metal that bonds to bone. Three to six months after you receive your implants, they'll fuse to your jawbone, providing an excellent foundation for the crown that your Alexandria dentist will connect to them. Regular brushing and flossing will keep your implant healthy and strong.
Dental implants restore your smile! Call your Alexandria, VA dentists at (703) 823-6616 to schedule an appointment to learn if you're a good candidate for implants.