At Merrifield Smiles, we believe that patient education is an important part of our commitment to providing high-quality dental care. That’s why we’ve put together this list of frequently asked questions about dental implants. Led by prosthodontist Dr. Mustafa Al-Karagholi, DDS, our team has extensive experience in implant dentistry and is dedicated to helping you understand your options and make informed decisions about your oral health.
A dental implant is a small, titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. It provides a strong foundation for a replacement tooth or bridge that is designed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth.
Dental implants are designed to be a permanent solution to missing teeth. With proper care and maintenance, they can last for many years or even a lifetime.
Most people who are missing one or more teeth and have good oral health are good candidates for dental implants. However, some factors, such as gum disease, smoking, or certain medical conditions, may affect your eligibility for the procedure. Dr. Mustafa Al-Karagholi, DDS, can evaluate your specific situation to determine if dental implants are right for you.
The process for getting a dental implant typically involves several steps. First, Dr. Mustafa Al-Karagholi, DDS, will assess your oral health and develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Then, the implant will be surgically placed into your jawbone. After some time, the implant will fuse with the bone through a process called osseointegration. Finally, a replacement tooth or bridge will be attached to the implant, completing the restoration.
Most patients experience little to no discomfort during the dental implant procedure. Dr. Mustafa Al-Karagholi, DDS, will use local anesthesia to numb the area around the implant site, and any discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Caring for dental implants is similar to caring for natural teeth. You should brush and floss regularly and visit Merrifield Smiles for regular check-ups and cleanings. It is also important to avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods and to quit smoking, as these habits can damage or loosen the implant.
We hope this information is helpful! If you have any further questions or would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Mustafa Al-Karagholi, DDS, please contact Merrifield Smiles in Falls Church, VA.