Tooth loss left untreated can become problematic for many patients. If one or more teeth within the dental arch are extracted or lost, the surrounding teeth may shift out of place. Patients also experience bone resorption, which is the shrinking of the bone of the jaw. This can cause other teeth to become loose or lost over time. Instead, Dr. Chong Lee of McLean, VA encourages patients to consider the advantages of tooth replacement options as soon as possible, especially if they are good candidates for dental implants.
What is a dental implant?
Dr. Chong Lee of Galleria Dental Aesthetics describes dental implants as restorations designed to offer a proper foundation for replacement teeth. The dental implant itself is a titanium metal post that is implanted during oral surgery into the bone of the jaw where teeth are missing. The bone grows around the titanium implant to provide a strong foundation for replacement teeth. Additionally, dental implants will preserve the bone and face structure that can often occur with missing permanent teeth.
What are the benefits of dental implants?
There are many benefits to dental implants. First and foremost, they can help change the way people live. Patients can avoid removable dentures and other restorations that impact the existing teeth. They can eat with confidence, smile with enthusiasm, and avoid embarrassment often associated with other dental restoration options. Dental implants are incredibly strong and durable, and when patients properly care for their implants and overall oral health, they may enjoy these restorations for a lifetime!
How are dental implants used?
Dental implants may be used in a variety of ways. Some dental implants are placed to replace a single tooth with their abutment covered with a dental crown. An implant may also act as one or both ends of a dental bridge to hold it in place. Patients with full dentures who are worried about slipping may also utilized dental implants along the arch to stabilize their appliance.
Call Galleria Dental Aesthetics today
If you want to find out more about candidacy for dental implants or any other restorative solution available with Dr. Chong Lee, contact the office at (703) 448-1020. Our friendly front office team can help schedule you for an appointment at our practice, located at 1600 Tysons Boulevard, Suite #120 in McLean, VA. We invite new and existing patients to get started taking action on their oral health and wellness!