Dental Implants An Overview
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 & 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.
Dental Implants in Annapolis, MD: About 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. It is also a restoration that will not decay and with proper care 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.
I would highly recommend Dr.'s Lee, Bonfiglio, Vesely, & Associates to anyone looking for a great dental office! The personalized service and professionalism has made every visit enjoyable and comfortable. If you’re in the Annapolis area and looking for a great dental practice, look no further and make an appointment.Michael W Annapolis
I have been a patient at Dr's Lee, Bonfiglio, Vesely & Associates for 3 years and I would highly recommend this practice! Along with the beautiful, modern, spotless office, the environment is always calming with TV's in every room to help you relax. Everyone is friendly, professional, and they want to make sure you are comfortable at all times.Theresa B., Annapolis
Dr Lee is the best dentist I have been encountered in the Annapolis vicinity. He has repaired my front teeth; it makes me want to smile more often. He is proficient and caring. Go to Dr Lee, you won't be sorry.David L., Annapolis
Dental Implants What to Expect
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. Sedation dentistry is also offered as an option for patients who may be a little anxious or would just 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 Dental Implants
There are a variety of alternatives to dental implant surgery. 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 of 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 very 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, and it is difficult to speak and chew while wearing them. Implant-supported dentures eliminate these issues and restore full function to your bite.
Schedule a Dental Exam & Tooth Implant Consultation
Come in for an in-person consultation near you to find out if dental implants are right for you. Request an appointment online, or call (410) 989-8298 today.
