Missing teeth can affect more than just your appearance. They can impact your ability to speak clearly, chew comfortably and maintain proper alignment of your remaining teeth. At Elrod & Dunham Dentistry, we offer dental implants in Richmond, Mechanicsville, Atlee and Goochland, Virginia, as a reliable and long-lasting solution for tooth replacement that promotes both function and aesthetics.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into your jawbone to serve as artificial tooth roots. These posts are biocompatible and fuse naturally with your bone over time through a process called osseointegration. Once the implant has fully integrated, it provides a stable foundation for a custom restoration such as a dental crown, bridge or denture.
This treatment is ideal for replacing a single missing tooth, several teeth or even an entire arch. Each dental implants restoration in Richmond, Mechanicsville, Atlee and Goochland, Virginia, is tailored to blend seamlessly with your natural smile, ensuring a comfortable fit and a natural appearance.
The Dental Implant Process
The dental implant process typically begins with a comprehensive evaluation to determine your candidacy. Once your oral health and bone structure are assessed, the implant is surgically placed into the jaw. After a healing period that usually lasts a few months, during which the implant bonds with the bone, an abutment is attached to the post. This abutment connects the implant to your final restoration.
Your custom restoration is then designed and placed to complete your new smile. Our team works closely with you throughout each step to ensure the final result of your dental implant treatment in Richmond, Mechanicsville, Atlee and Goochland, Virginia, is both functional and visually pleasing.
Why Choose Dental Implants?
Dental implants in Richmond, Mechanicsville, Atlee and Goochland, Virginia, offer several advantages over other tooth replacement options. They are the only solution that replaces both the root and crown of a missing tooth, which helps preserve jawbone density and prevent the facial sagging often associated with tooth loss. Unlike removable dentures, implants do not shift or require adhesives. With proper care, they can last many years or even a lifetime.
If you are looking for a permanent, natural-looking way to restore your smile, dental implants may be the right solution for you. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Joseph Elrod, Dr. Bryson Dunham and associates and learn more about how implant dentistry can improve your quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
What makes someone a good candidate for dental implants?
A good candidate for dental implants typically has healthy gums, adequate jawbone density and no untreated oral infections. Candidates should also be free from health conditions that impair healing, such as uncontrolled diabetes. Our dentists will evaluate your full medical and dental history to determine whether implant treatment is appropriate for your specific needs.
How long does the dental implant process take from start to finish?
The full dental implant process often spans several months. This timeline includes the initial consultation, surgical placement, healing time for the bone to integrate with the implant and placement of the final restoration. Healing can take three to six months, depending on your body’s response and whether any preliminary procedures are needed.
Are dental implants safe, and what are the risks?
Dental implants are considered a very safe and predictable treatment with a high success rate. However, like any surgical procedure, there are potential risks, such as infection, implant failure or nerve damage. These complications are rare and can be minimized by choosing an experienced dental provider, such as our dentists, and following all post-operative care instructions closely.
Can dental implants be used to support dentures?
Yes, implants can be used to anchor full or partial dentures, creating a more secure and comfortable fit than traditional removable dentures. Implant-supported dentures snap into place and reduce shifting or irritation. This option offers improved stability, better chewing efficiency and enhanced confidence when speaking or eating in social situations.
What areas do you serve?
Dr. Elrod, Dr. Dunham and our associates offer implant dentistry in Richmond, Mechanicsville, Atlee and Goochland, Virginia, and to patients in the surrounding areas. Reach out today to schedule your consultation and learn if you are a candidate for dental implants!