A dental implant is an artificial tooth root made of titanium or zirconia that is surgically placed into the jawbone to support a crown, bridge, or denture. It acts like a natural tooth root, providing a strong and permanent foundation for replacement teeth.
Dental implants replace missing teeth with a permanent, natural-looking solution. Your dentist surgically inserts a titanium or zirconia post into your jawbone, where it functions like a real tooth root. The implant supports a crown, bridge, or denture and restores both aesthetics and function.
At our Washington, DC-based office, Dr. Rastogi places implants to rebuild your smile and improve oral health. He guides each patient through the process – from diagnosis and surgical placement to final crown delivery.
Benefits of Dental Implants
| Type | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Permanent & long-lasting | Can last 15+ years or even a lifetime with proper care |
| Natural look & feel | Mimics real tooth structure and function |
| Preserves bone | Stimulates bone growth and prevents jawbone loss |
| Protects nearby teeth | Leaves adjacent teeth intact (unlike traditional bridges) |
| Improves chewing & speech | Restores full function for eating and speaking |
| Stable & comfortable | Eliminates slippage; feels secure and natural |
Parts of a Dental Implant
- Implant Fixture
– The titanium screw embedded in the jawbone - Abutment
– The connector between the implant and crown - Crown/Prosthesis
– The visible, tooth-like restoration placed on top
Dental Implant Procedure (Step-by-Step)
- Consultation & Evaluation
– X-rays and/or 3D scans of the jawbone
– Health assessment to determine suitability - Implant Placement Surgery
– An implant is placed into the jawbone under local anesthesia
– Healing time: 3–6 months (for osseointegration — bone bonding) - Abutment Placement
– After healing, a small connector (abutment) is attached to the implant - Crown or Prosthesis Placement
– A custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is placed on top
Dental Implants Frequently Asked Questions
Learn the answers to frequently asked questions about dental implants and implant treatment:
Am I a good candidate for dental implants?
The ideal candidate for dental implants is in good general and oral health. The implant requires adequate bone in your jaw for support as well as healthy gums. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Rastogi to see if you are a candidate for implants.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime. With good oral hygiene and regular dental care, your implant will remain in place and support any attached dental restorations for years to come. Dr. Rastogi will monitor the condition of your dental implant or implants during routine dental visits.
He can also recommend replacements for dental crowns, bridges, or dentures if you have older restorations. He aims to ensure that your teeth and gums are comfortable and functional. The body widely accepts the materials we use to make dental implants; thus, there are very few instances where they fail.
What is a failed dental implant?
Certain dental problems can cause one or more dental implants to fail. Dr. Rastogi emphasizes the ongoing importance of good oral hygiene and routine dental care visits to avoid tooth implant failure. Poor oral hygiene, injury, or tooth decay are some of the most common reasons for tooth implant failure.
Signs that your tooth implant is failing can include:
— Pain or increasing sensitivity around the tooth implant or gum line
– Redness or swelling around the tooth implant
– A loose dental crown or denture
Is dental implant treatment painful?
We provide comfortable treatment using anesthesia to help patients feel relaxed. Implant surgery is also minimally invasive. Patients may feel sensitivity following the initial implantation, but we provide all of our patients with post-op instructions that include pain medication. IV sedation is also available for those anxious about the dental implant procedure. Our dental team’s priority is patient comfort,
Visit Us For a Dental Exam & Consultation Today!
If you want to restore your smile with dental implant treatment, request a consultation with Dr. Rastogi online or call our dental office at 202-543-2020. Dental implants can be used alone to replace a single missing tooth or to secure dental bridges and dentures.