Dental Implants
Dental Implants offered in Chesapeake, VA
Missing teeth can affect more than just your smile; they can impact how you eat, speak, and feel day to day. Dental implants offer a long-term solution that feels, functions, and looks like your natural teeth. You can rely on Chesapeake Family and Implant Dentistry: Harry W. Squire, DDS, for the team’s expertise in dental implants that restore both function and appearance while delivering a stable, natural-looking result. Book a consultation by calling the friendly office or booking online today.
Dental Implants FAQ's
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are one of the most beneficial ways to replace a missing tooth. Unlike removable options, an implant becomes a permanent part of your smile, giving you the strength and stability of a natural tooth root. It supports a custom crown, so the result blends in with your other teeth.
Beyond the cosmetic benefit, implants also help protect your jawbone. When a tooth is missing, the bone underneath can begin to shrink over time. An implant helps preserve that bone structure, supporting your overall oral health for years to come.
If you're missing one tooth or several, Dr. Squire can help determine whether implants are the right fit for your smile.
Am I a candidate for dental implants?
Most healthy adults with missing teeth are good candidates, but a few factors matter most. Dr. Squire looks at:
- How much healthy jawbone you have to support the implant
- Your gum health
- Your overall health
- Habits like smoking, which can affect success rates
- Whether you need bone grafting beforehand to build up support
If your jawbone has thinned over time, Dr. Squire may recommend prep work first. He walks you through your options during a consultation.
What can I expect during the dental implant process?
The process happens in a few stages. Dr. Squire starts by placing the titanium post into your jawbone in a straightforward in-office procedure. Most patients describe the recovery as manageable, with some mild soreness for a few days.
From there, the post takes a few months to fuse with your jawbone, giving the implant its strength and staying power.
Once you've healed, Dr. Squire attaches the abutment and places your custom crown, shaped and shaded to match the surrounding teeth.
Dr. Squire tracks your progress periodically to make sure your healing is on schedule.
How long do dental implants last?
With good care, dental implants can last decades. Many patients keep theirs for life.
The post fuses directly with your jawbone, so the implants tend to hold up better over time than other tooth-replacement options. Brushing, flossing, and regular checkups go a long way toward keeping yours in great shape.
If you're ready to talk about how implants might benefit you, reach out to the friendly staff to book an appointment. Call or book your consultation online today.