Dental Implants in Bethesda & Chevy Chase, MD

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Overview

To create long-lasting restorations for a missing tooth or teeth, experienced dentist Dr. Despina Markogiannakis is pleased to offer dental implants for her patients in Chevy Chase, MD. Dental implants are metal posts surgically placed into your gums and jawbone to simulate a natural tooth root. One or more posts can be attached to a crown, bridge, or denture for a restoration that looks beautiful and can be treated just like your natural teeth. If you have a missing tooth or teeth, schedule a consultation to learn more about dental implants at Smiles of Chevy Chase. You may be interested in dental implants if you are tired of loose restorations or removable dentures. Talk to Dr. Markogiannakis about your concerns and to decide if dental implants could be a good choice for you.

Best Candidates for Dental Implants

Dental implants can replace a missing tooth or teeth with an implant-supported crown, bridge, or denture. You may want to consider a dental implant if you currently have a regular dental restoration but are unhappy with the look and feel, or if you think an implant would be more suitable for you. Implants can be cleaned, like your natural teeth, with regular brushing and flossing. During your dental implant consultation, Dr. Markogiannakis will assess the health of your gums and jawbone in order to determine if a dental implant is the right option. If needed, a gum or bone graft may be completed before the implant is placed to ensure you have a strong enough foundation to support the post. You may not be a candidate for dental implants if you are pregnant, use tobacco products, or are currently being treated for an oral condition, like gum disease.

What To Expect

Before the dental implant is placed, you may need to have damaged teeth extracted, gum grafts, or bone grafts. Once your mouth is ready for the dental implant, the treatment area will be numbed with a local anesthetic. Sedation can be given to you as well to help you feel more comfortable during the procedure. Dr. Markogiannakis will make an incision in your gum and place the titanium post in the jawbone. The incision will be closed with part of the post visible above the gumline. This process will be repeated if multiple posts are required for your situation. As the implant integrates with the bone and gum over the next few months, a temporary crown or cover will be used to protect the post. Once Dr. Markogiannakis has determined that the dental implant is strong enough, the restoration (crown, bridge, or denture) will be attached to the post and adjusted for a good fit.

Recovery

You may have some temporary swelling in your gums and face, as well as bruising, discomfort, and some minor bleeding following your dental implant surgery. Dr. Markogiannakis will let you know what's to be expected, and she will tell you if or when it is pertinent to contact our office. She may also prescribe pain medication and antibiotics to aid with the healing process. Once your implants have healed and your custom restoration has been attached, you should follow a good home oral care routine, like brushing, flossing, and mouthwash. You should continue to schedule an annual exam and bi-annual cleanings at Smiles of Chevy Chase so that Dr. Markogiannakis can assess your oral health. She will let you know if your implants or restorations need to be adjusted or replaced.

Insurance Coverage

Depending on your dental insurance and specific coverage, some of the cost of your dental implant and restoration may be covered. Our office will contact your insurance to determine your benefits and calculate your costs. During your consultation with Dr. Markogiannakis, she can help estimate your costs and tell you about payment methods accepted by our office, including medical financing.

Dental Implants

Dental implants can be a great choice if you wish to attain a natural-looking replacement for a missing tooth or teeth that both are easy to maintain and lasts for a long time. Dr. Markogiannakis can walk you through the process, including a discussion of the surgical process to place the implants and your options regarding the final restorations. If you would like to learn more about dental implants, schedule an appointment for a consultation at our dental office, Smiles of Chevy Chase.

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*Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary from person to person. Images may contain models.