If you're missing one or more teeth, you'll want replacements that look and feel natural. Dr. Dougherty, Dr. Schlossberg, and Dr. Klotz are well qualified to complete all phases of your surgery and the implant restoration, so you won't have to visit specialists for the different phases of care. Unlike dentures, which can be removed, dental implants are a permanent tooth replacement option.
A dental implant is an artificial, titanium tooth root surgically implanted in the jawbone. Bone around the implant fuses to titanium root through a process called osseointegration. Once the healing process is complete, Dr. Dougherty, Dr. Schlossberg, and Dr. Klotz will secure a crown, bridge, or denture to the implant post(s). Because dental implants replace the tooth root and crown, they are the most natural replacement for a missing tooth.
Dr. Dougherty, Dr. Schlossberg, and Dr. Klotz will determine the answer to this question during your treatment planning. He can place one dental implant for a single tooth restoration or several implants to secure a prosthetic. Your bone density will dictate how many implants you can sustain. Placing enough implants is critical to the long-term success of the restoration.
Once in place, implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth, and you should care for them as such. Unlike bridges, dental implant restorations do not require special maintenance. Although dental implants will not decay, regular brushing and flossing is vital to keeping the surrounding gum tissue healthy.
When getting dental implants, you should select a dentist or dental team with in-depth knowledge and prior experience in all aspects of the treatment. At Bethesda Sedation Dentistry, we have this expertise. It is also important to know that implant treatment consists of two components: a surgical phase and a restorative phase. Dr. Dougherty, Dr. Schlossberg, and Dr. Klotz are trained and experienced in both phases of care.
If you're ready to experience total comfort and achieve optimal oral health and beauty with dental implants, call Bethesda Sedation Dentistry or schedule an appointment online. We will give your smile new life! Dr. Dougherty, Dr. Schlossberg, and Dr. Klotz and our team proudly serve residents of Bethesda, Potomac, Rockville, Washington DC, Northern Virginia, and beyond.