Dental implants look and feel just like your natural teeth, so much so that you may even forget you ever lost a tooth. Lee, Bonfiglio, Vesely and Associates is one of the leading dental centers in Annapolis for dental implant treatment. Our doctors have restored hundreds of dental implants in Annapolis, MD. They also have training on the many systems of implants on the market.
Dr. Albert Lee is a Diplomate of the International Congress of Implantology (ICOI) and has an IPS Mastership (Prosthetic) in the ICOI. Dr. Thomas Bonfiglio and Dr. Edward Vesely are both fellows of the ICOI. This organization provides advanced training and resources on the latest developments in implant dentistry.
About Dental Implants
Dental implants are a breakthrough in modern dentistry. They are the only dental restoration for missing teeth that feel and look most like natural teeth. The restoration a dentist uses will also match the exact color, size, and shape of the patient’s natural teeth. As a result, the restoration will blend in seamlessly with the rest of the patient’s smile. Good candidates for dental implants should have good oral health and jawbone density.
A dental implant is a titanium post surgically placed in the jawbone to help support an artificial tooth, fixed bridge, or a removable or fixed denture. This restoration will not decay. With proper care, it will last a lifetime.
A dental implant can restore a single tooth without affecting the adjacent teeth. It’s a stand-alone restoration that mirrors the replacement tooth. It can also replace multiple missing teeth or an entire arch using a dental bridge or dentures. This gives patients full function back to their bite.
Depending on the tooth the dentist replaces and the jawbone, they can place an immediate-functioning temporary tooth. This helps to create an excellent esthetic result, with shorter treatment time and minimized pain.
Dental Implants in Annapolis, MD
Once we place the implant into the jaw, the bone around the implant needs to heal for twelve weeks to six months. During a process called osseointegration, the implant fuses with the jaw bone. After this healing period, we place a temporary support post, known as a healing abutment, to shape the gum. Next, after a brief period, our team can attach the tooth securely to the implant using screws.
We explain the exact sequence of steps and the duration of each on a patient-by-patient basis.
We will also discuss each step of the process before beginning treatment. Our office offers Sedation dentistry as an option for patients who may be anxious or would rather sleep through a procedure. Lastly, the dental implant procedure sometimes includes a bone graft to build good bone density for implant support.
Alternatives to Implants
Alternatives to dental implant surgery can include bridges and dentures. If you have one or a few missing teeth, a dental bridge may be an alternative restoration. If you are missing most or all of your teeth, the dentist may suggest a partial or full denture. Our dentists will review all the options with you and help you make the best decision for your goals and budget.
Implants vs. Bridges vs. Dentures
All three of these restorations replace missing teeth. However, a dental implant is the only one that replaces the actual root structure of a tooth. This means that the prosthetic tooth (or teeth) is permanently fixed in the mouth and does not require any support from neighboring teeth or the use of adhesives. This reduces patients’ risk of jaw bone deterioration and gum disease. It also does not require dietary restrictions and functions similar to patients’ natural teeth.
In denture-wearing patients, dental implants can improve the stability of ill-fitting dentures for better speech and chewing function. Some of the most common complaints we hear from patients who wear traditional dentures are that they do not stay in place. Another one is that it’s difficult to speak and chew while wearing them. Implant-supported dentures eliminate these issues and restore full function to your bite.
Dental Implant FAQs
Learn more about dental implants in Annapolis, MD with answers to these common patient questions:
How long does a dental implant last?
Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime. Our dentists conduct a comprehensive patient exam and thorough treatment planning to ensure that the placement and restoration of your tooth implant are optimal for long-term health, beauty, and stability.
How much do dental implants cost?
The cost of dental implants varies based on your personal health, goals and budget. Major factors to be considered in the price of dental implants is bone health, condition of neighboring teeth and number of dental implants to be placed. We offer flexible payment options, including financing to help with the cost of affordable dental implant treatments.
We will review all of the details, including the cost of your implant procedure and payment options before treatment. If you have dental insurance, our staff will work with your insurance provider to maximize your benefits.
Who is not a good candidate for implants?
We will not recommend dental implant treatment if you have oral health problems, insufficient healthy jaw bone, or if you are a heavy smoker.
- Tooth or gum infections: Tooth decay and gum disease can impact the stability of your implant posts. Before implant treatment, we will provide tooth extractions, root canal therapy, and gum disease treatment if needed. Once you are healthy, we will discuss implant treatment.
- Jaw bone loss: After you lose one or more permanent teeth, you can begin to lose some of your natural jaw bone. without this jaw bone, the implant post cannot stay in the mouth. We can help build up healthy tissue with bone grafting.
- Heavy smokers: We do not recommend implants if you are a heavy smoker. You must avoid tobacco products during implant treatment. The nicotine in tobacco restricts the blood vessels, which makes it hard for the implants to fuse with the jaw bone. Tobacco use during implant treatment may lead to implant failure.
Is the dental implant procedure painful?
No. A local anesthetic will be used to numb your mouth. You will not feel any pain during the procedure. You may need oral surgery if the issue is severe, but you will also be given the option of oral conscious sedation.
Can I still get teeth implants if I lost teeth a long time ago?
Yes. It doesn’t matter how long ago you lost your teeth. Our dentists are experienced in providing affordable dental implants for all ages. However, the longer you wait, the more likely it will be that you need more advanced treatment.
Can dental implants get cavities?
No. They can not get cavities, decay over time, or become discolored if you follow proper oral hygiene tips from our dentists. The material used is highly stain-resistant and durable.
Can you brush your teeth after implant surgery?
After getting dental implants, it’s important to keep brushing your teeth. The cleaner your mouth is, the less chance of infection at the surgical site and in your mouth. When you brush the surgical site, do so very gently.
How long will I bleed after implants?
Pus drainage, minor bleeding, and red saliva are all normal in the first three days after implant surgery. Apply gauze to the wound if bleeding continues. Call us if you continue to bleed.
Schedule a Dental Exam and Tooth Implant Consultation
Come in for an in-person consultation near you to find out if dental implants in Annapolis, MD, are right for you. Request an appointment online, or call (410) 989-8298 today.
