Dental Implants in Harrisonburg

Dentist explaining Dental Implants in Harrisonburg, VAMissing teeth can significantly impact your quality of life, making eating, speaking, and interacting with others challenging. At Rocktown Family Dental Care in Harrisonburg, VA, Dr. Joan Anderson is proud to offer dental implants, a long-lasting solution to tooth loss.

How Do Dental Implants Work?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of biocompatible titanium and surgically placed into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. They consist of three parts:

  • Implant — A screw-like post that fuses with the jawbone.
  • Abutment — An attachment that connects the implant to the crown.
  • Implant crown — A custom-made replacement tooth that restores function and appearance.

Because the implant replaces the missing tooth root, it creates a strong foundation for a long-lasting tooth replacement. This would be a crown for a single missing tooth or an implant bridge or denture for multiple missing teeth.

Dental Implants and Osseointegration

The key to dental implant stability is a process called osseointegration. Once the implant is placed into the jawbone, the bone gradually grows around and bonds with the titanium post.

This process takes several months and ensures that the implant is firmly anchored in place, providing a level of stability other tooth replacements cannot.

Health Benefits of Dental Implants

There are many advantages to choosing implants to improve function, but they also offer numerous oral health benefits:

  • Prevent bone loss — Tooth loss can lead to jawbone loss, which can result in a sunken facial appearance and further dental issues. An implant stimulates the jawbone to maintain its density and prevent bone loss.
  • Stabilize surrounding teeth — Dental implants prevent neighboring teeth from shifting, which can lead to bite problems and the potential for additional tooth loss.
  • Maintain a healthy jawbone — Dental implants support overall jaw health by preserving the jawbone and preventing resorption and further tooth loss.
  • Preserve healthy tooth structure  — Dental implants don't require altering adjacent teeth, as bridges do.

The Process for Getting a Dental Implant in Harrisonburg

Dentist with panoramic Xray for Dental Implants in Harrisonburg, VAInitial Consultation

During your initial consultation with Dr. Anderson, she will assess your oral health, review your dental and medical history, and discuss your specific goals and concerns.

Implant Surgery

We work with top specialists in our area who we trust to expertly place your implant. This minor surgical procedure is performed under local anesthesia to ensure a comfortable experience.

Healing Period: Osseointegration

After implant surgery in Harrisonburg, the process of osseointegration takes place over 3–6 months as the implant fuses with your jawbone, creating a strong foundation for the artificial tooth.

Restoring Your Implant

After healing, Dr. Anderson will design a custom replacement tooth or teeth so you can eat, speak, smile, and chew confidently again.

How Implants Compare to Dentures

If you currently wear removable dentures and wonder how dental implants compare, here are a few of the benefits to consider:  

  • Increased comfort — Dental implants don't slip or shift as removable dentures do, providing increased comfort and stability
  • Improved chewing ability — Removable dentures restore only a fraction of your chewing ability, while dental implants function like natural teeth, allowing you to enjoy your favorite foods without worry or discomfort.
  • Improved speech — Unlike ill-fitting dentures that can slip and cause speech difficulties, dental implants stay firmly in place so that you can speak clearly.
  • Longer-lasting solution  — With proper care, dental implants outlast other tooth replacement options and can provide 25 years or a lifetime of use.

How to Care for Your Dental Implant

Women Dental Implants in Harrisonburg, VADental implants are long-term tooth replacements that can last 25 years or even a lifetime when cared for properly.

  • Brush and floss daily to keep your dental implants and surrounding tissues clean and plaque-free.
  • Visit Dr. Anderson's office for regular checkups and professional cleanings to maintain oral health.
  • Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as they can negatively impact your dental implant's success and longevity.
  • Wear a mouthguard during sports activities or while sleeping if you grind your teeth to protect your dental implants and natural teeth from damage.

Schedule with Us to Learn More about Dental Implants

A dental implant is a long-lasting solution that offers numerous benefits compared to other tooth replacements. Dr. Anderson and her Rocktown Family Dental Care team have given many of our patients a new reason to smile with dental implants. If you would like to see if you are a good implant candidate, please call our Harrisonburg, VA, dental office to schedule a convenient appointment.