Dr. Walter Mazzella has placed dental implants since 2013 with fantastic results. A dental implant is the closest replacement to natural teeth in terms of aesthetic and functional quality. Single dental implants consist of a metal post, an abutment that screws into place, and a tooth-colored crown connected to the abutment. Dr. Walter Mazzella provides complete dental implant treatment and services for patients in Woodstock, MD. He has extensive experience in implant treatment. In 2014, Dr. Mazzella earned a Fellowship from the International Dental Implant Association (IDIA). He also completed advanced training from the IDIA in dental implants and bone grafting. Dr. Mazzella takes a complete approach to implant treatment, ensuring patients are the best candidates for restorative dental care.
An Introduction to Dental Implants from ZimVie on Vimeo.
Single Implants
Patients with a single missing tooth benefit from a dental implant. We surgically place the implant in the bone beneath the gums. The titanium implant post is biocompatible, meaning it will not harm the living tissue. In fact, the post fuses with the bone over time to create a stable foundation for a tooth crown, dental bridge, or denture.
Depending on bone quality, the implant can take weeks or months to heal. Dr. Mazzella will place a temporary cap until the implant is ready for the dental restoration. Then, he will add an abutment that attaches the crown to the implant.
Multiple Implant Restorations
Whether patients have several missing teeth or full arches of lost teeth, we can customize treatment to help them restore their smiles. Patients with two missing teeth benefit from a dental bridge. If patients have multiple missing teeth in different areas of their mouth, they may benefit from partial dentures. Complete or full dentures help patients with upper and/or lower arches of missing teeth.
After we take x-rays of the smile, we plan the exact placement of the implant posts. Sometimes, we place implants at an angle to maximize available bone. After the implants heal, we attach restorations with dental cement or screws. Implant-supported dental bridges and dentures offer more stability than removable dental options. Additionally, during treatment, we provide oral sedation as needed for patient comfort.
Am I An Implant Candidate?
For the implant to succeed, the implant placement requires a healthy bone level and time to integrate and get strong enough to support the implant, abutment, and crown. Patients who do not have enough healthy bone tissue will require bone grafting. Bone grafting helps add healthy bone tissue where it is needed in the mouth.
Additionally, implant patients must be in good oral health. Before implant treatment, we will treat any outstanding dental conditions, including cavities or gum disease. Once patients are healthy and have enough healthy bone to support implants, we will begin treatment.
Dental Implants FAQs
Dental implants are a common solution for replacing missing teeth. Many of our patients inquire about how they work and what the process is like. It is vital to understand how they work before making the decision to get an implant-supported dental restoration. Read through the most frequently asked questions about dental implants to learn more and see if this is the right tooth replacement solution for you.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are basically replacement teeth roots. Dr. Mazzella will use them to support dental crowns, bridges, or dentures. We will insert between 1-8 of them into the jawbone, where they fuse with the bone over time. Once they fuse to the bone, the implants will remain stable and secure. Teeth implants provide a permanent solution for replacing missing teeth, restoring both function and appearance.
How long do dental implants last?
If you remain diligent with your oral care routine, your implant-supported restoration will last a lifetime. You will need to see your dentist two times a year and care for your teeth and gums. These two things play a crucial role in keeping your implants operating properly for your lifetime.
It is painful to get dental implants?
Most patients report little to no pain during the placement of the implants. We use a local anesthetic to minimize pain. However, post-surgery discomfort is normal. This should fade within a few days. You can manage this pain with over-the-counter pain medication. You should also expect some swelling and bruising around the implant site. This is also temporary and will slowly fade over the weeks. Be sure to follow all of your dentist’s aftercare instructions, such as using ice packs and eating soft foods. These instructions will help assist with a smooth recovery.
How long does the dental implant process take?
The entire process, from consultation to placing your dental restoration, will take several months. This timeline includes healing periods after each surgical step. Your dentist will assess your oral health and then develop a treatment plan. After placing the implants, you will let them heal for about three to six months. When they are ready, Dr. Mazzella will secure abutments to the implants. It will only take a few weeks to heal from this surgery. The final steps involve placing the custom-made dental restoration.
Can my dental implants fail?
Dental implants have a high success rate, however it is possible for them to fail. The most common causes of implant failure is bad oral hygiene, smoking, and having certain medical problems.
Regular dental visits help ensure implant health. The sooner your dentist can detect a potential issue, the sooner we can intervene. Implant failure can occur if the bone does not integrate properly or if an infection develops. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and following your dentist’s recommendations will minimize risks.
How do I care for my dental implants?
Caring for dental implants involves brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and using mouthwash. You must attend your regular dental check-ups to maintain implant health. Dr. Mazzella may suggest that you use special tools like interdental brushes to clean around the implant.
Try to avoid hard foods and never use your teeth as tools. These habits will prevent damage. Good oral hygiene practices will keep the surrounding gum tissue healthy and prevent peri-implantitis, a condition similar to gum disease.
Can I eat normally with dental implants?
Yes, you can enjoy most of your favorite foods with dental implants. They provide a strong, stable bite, allowing you to eat without worry. Unlike dentures, implants do not slip or cause discomfort while chewing. You can bite into apples, nuts, and other hard foods with confidence. Right after surgery, you may need to stick to softer foods during the healing period, but once fully healed, your diet can return to normal.
How do dental implants compare to dentures?
Dental implants offer a natural, permanent solution to tooth loss. Dentures, on the other hand, are false teeth that you will need to remove daily, stick to eating restrictions, and deal with slippage.
Unlike dentures, an implant-supported denture will not slip or require denture adhesive. An implant-supported denture offers better chewing abilities and will not cause mouth irritation. They also help preserve the jawbone, preventing the bone loss that often occurs with dentures. While dentures need periodic adjustments and replacements, implants offer a long-term solution with proper care.
Replace Missing Teeth Today
Do you have gaps in your smile from missing teeth? Are missing teeth making it difficult for you to bite and chew comfortably? Restore your smile with dental implants. Call (410) 559-9951 or request a dental consultation with Dr. Mazzella online.