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Never go without teeth! Rebuilds your smile with same-day implants, time-saving services

The term “periodontal” is often associated with the gums, as “peri” and “odont” are derived from the Greek words for “around” and “tooth.” But the gums aren’t the only structures that play a crucial role in supporting and protecting your teeth. The supporting bone in your jaw deserves respect and demands TLC!

Keep or restore bone health

Tooth loss is also a leading cause of bone loss, a process known as “bone resorption.” Here at Abel, Phan & Associates, we partner with patients in and around Sterling, Virginia, to protect their teeth or to replace missing teeth promptly. Advanced bone grafting techniques, too, allow us to successfully treat patients who otherwise would not be good candidates for unique, modern forms of tooth replacement โ€“ notably, implants!

Why bone health matters

Dental implants function like tooth roots. The roots hold our teeth in place. However, conventional tooth replacement does not replicate this vital part of our natural teeth. Modern tooth replacement, supported by implants, replicates both the crown visible above the gum line and the root in the jawbone. Since the implant is positioned strategically in the jaw, the quality of the bone is critical.

As extraction sites heal, the natural height of the bone diminishes. This process results in a recessed, saddle shape. The width of the bone also erodes. The bone at the back of the mouth, where the premolars and molars reside, can deteriorate by as much as 50% of its original dimensions just 12 months after removing a tooth!

A healthy jawbone encourages healthy healing and integration of the implant to the surrounding hard tissues. This healing is crucial to the long-term success of the tooth that is connected to the implant later in the treatment process.

Bone grafting: What to expect

Following an evaluation of your mouth, Drs Abel or Phan may recommend bone grafting to rebuild the empty socket at the tooth extraction site and in preparation for procedures such as dental implants placement. In as few as eight weeks, 75% of the bone at the recipient site can be replenished. Factors that affect healing and recovery time depend partly on the extraction site’s depth and surface area.

Grafting itself is relatively straightforward:

  • Local anesthetic is applied for utmost comfort.
  • The recipient site is accessed via small incisions.
  • The graft or bone material is inserted.
  • Lastly, the area is cleansed and closed.

The graft may be taken from a part of your own body, such as the chin or hip bone, and grafted or relocated to the area needing augmentation. Bone may also be used from a human donor or synthetic and animal sources. To encourage optimal healing, we may discuss the introduction of aids such as PRGF. Platelet-rich growth factors stimulate the regeneration of bone, resulting in higher-density bone within a shorter timeframe.

Our practice has many options for patients who need to rebuild both hard and soft tissues. Call Abel, Phan & Associates at (571) 450-9848 to schedule a consultation and find out more about the process.

Dr. Anna Abel, a highly experienced dentist and best dentist in the area near me

Dr. Anna Abel

Dr. Anna Abel, a highly experienced dentist with over 20 years of expertise, is known for her patient-centered care and her dedication to volunteer work. She specializes in cosmetic dentistry, including veneers, bone grafts, and dental implants, and has been trained by influential figures like Dr. Peter Dawson. Her association with the American Academy of Implant Dentistry and her global outreach through Operation Smile and Hope for Tomorrow, where she offers essential dental services to underserved communities, further highlight her profound knowledge and commitment to her profession.
Dr. Chuong Phan is the baord ertified dentist near me

Dr. Chuong Phan

Dr. Chuong Phan, a Howard University College of Dentistry graduate, brings over 20 years of expertise to his practice. Specializing in orthodontic treatment and root canal therapy, Dr. Phan has advanced his skills through training with the American Orthodontic Society and the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. Dedicated to serving communities in need, Dr. Phan volunteers at Northern Virginia Dental Clinic and participates in global missions with Operation Smile and Hope for Tomorrow. His commitment to health education and community service reflects his compassionate, patient-centered approach to dental care.