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Dental Implants

Are you looking for a reliable, natural-looking solution for missing teeth? Look no further than Thornton Dental Associates, P.C., in Washington, DC, where we create beautiful smiles using dental implants. Learn why implants paired with our lifelike tooth restorations are the closest thing to having your natural teeth back ...

What Is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is the next best thing to having your original tooth back. The implant itself is a small titanium post that is surgically placed into the jaw, where it functions as a tooth root. Once the post has fused with the bone the dentists at Thornton Dental Associates, P.C., in Washington, DC, can attach a restoration that recreates the missing tooth, from root to crown.

A complete restoration includes the implant; the abutment, a connector that allows the restoration to attach to the implant; and the restoration, such as a tooth-shaped dental crown. A single implant can be used to replace a lone tooth or several implants can support everything from a dental bridge to a full denture.

Take a Closer Look at Dental Implants

The titanium post, otherwise known as the implant, is only part of the entire restoration. The abutment connects the restoration to the implant, providing a sturdy surface for the crown to sit on. The implant provides structure, the crown provides function, and the abutment connects the two. All three parts are needed to restore a patient's oral health fully. 

Illustration of Crown, Abutment, and Implant
These three parts make up the entire restoration and will each contribute to the end cost of the procedure. 

Why Titanium?

Biocompatible 

Titanium has biocompatible capabilities, meaning it is not harmful to living tissue. During a process known as osseointegration, the titanium bonds with the surrounding bone tissue to provide sturdy support for the restoration that will sit on top of the implant. 

Hypoallergenic

Titanium is also unlikely to cause an allergic reaction in patients. According to a dental implant study, researchers estimated that only 0.6% of patients are allergic to titanium. The possibility of having an allergic response to titanium is much lower than that of non-hypoallergenic metals. 

What Does a Dental Implant Cost? Call for a Consultation

You can scour the internet all day to gather cost estimates for dental implants, but the reality is that you need a consultation to get an accurate quote. There are too many factors that can influence the price of implants, from the current health of your mouth to how many implants you need.

But we can help. With more than 35 years of experience, our dentists Will Thornton and Nathan Van der Linden at Thornton Dental Associates in Washington, DC, are experts in dental restoration. They can assess your mouth and offer the guidance you need to make an informed choice.

Take the first step to restoring your smile and protecting your future dental health by requesting a consultation today. You'll get a reliable quote you can act on.

We can also determine how much your insurance will cover. We accept multiple insurance providers and our knowledgeable team can help ensure you get all the insurance benefits you deserve.

(202) 293-5805

"Seamless Experience" More 5-Star Reviews From Washington, DC, Patients

"Seamless experience! Highly recommend Dr. Thornton and his entire practice!!" Allison Bondanza, 2020

Benefits of Dental Implants

Prevents Bone Atrophy in the Jaw

Dental implants are the only way to prevent jawbone atrophy after losing a tooth. By replacing your tooth roots, dental implants provide crucial stimulation to your jaw that prevents bone recession. Jawbone recession can lead to more missing teeth, which means more costly treatment expenses. 

Lifetime Solution

With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. While the restorations that sit on top of your implants, like crowns, dental bridges, and dentures, will eventually need to be replaced, with proper care your implants can last for decades.

Reliable Stability

Dental implants provide unmatched support for your smile. While dentures may shift or slip as you speak and eat, dental implants feel like your natural teeth and won't move position as you go about your day.

Confidence Boost

Missing teeth and poor oral health can take a serious toll on your confidence, making you hesitant to share your smile. Dental implants can restore your self-image and help you feel like yourself again.

Better Function

Missing teeth can hinder your ability to speak clearly and chew your favorite foods. It can also lead to other dental health problems, like a TMJ disorder caused by uneven bite pressure. Dental implants restore the full function of your smile.

Do You Qualify for Dental Implants? Request a Consultation

Dental implants are one of the best investments you can make in your oral health.

Our practice has over 20 years of experience crafting smiles that restore function and look great. Preparatory procedures, like bone grafting and clearing periodontal disease, may be necessary to place the implant, but the process is worth the extra effort.

To see if you qualify for dental implants and if any preparatory procedures are necessary, call to request a consultation at our Washington, DC, office:

(202) 293-5805

Dentists Will Thornton and Nathan Van der Linden
Drs. Will Thornton, Nathan Van der Linden, and the staff at our practice are here to help you meet your smile goals.

"You Will Not Be Disappointed" 5-Star Reviews From Washington, DC, Patients

"I am just in awe of the dentist office and will recommend everyone try them out. You will not be disappointed." Chantel, 2020

Why Are Dental Implants Better For Replacing Missing Teeth?

Perhaps the most important part of an implant-supported tooth restoration is the part you don't see: the dental implant itself. This titanium post doesn't just support the tooth. It also acts as a messenger that signals the jaw to regrow bone lost to daily wear and tear. Without these messages, the bone in the tooth socket and jaw deteriorates.

No other tooth restoration method restores both the tooth and the root. This flaw opens the door to bone atrophy and future dental problems as the jawbone erodes.

Why Choose Us?

High Vacuum Air Purifiers & Infection Control

CareCredit® Flexible Financing

Quality Dentistry at a Reasonable Cost

Advanced Options Like the All-on-4 Technique

See What Dental Implants Can Do For You Request a Consultation

Ready to start your journey toward better oral health and a more aesthetic smile? Our dentists have the knowledge and experience to help you realize your smile dreams. Our practice is run by some of the best doctors in the area. Our dentists are affiliated with professional organizations such as the District of Columbia Dental Society.

When you want the best dental care in the DC area, our office is here to help. Call to request a consultation at our Washington, DC, office:

(202) 293-5805

More 5-Star Reviews From Washington, DC, Patients

"Great people, giving good care." James Lytle, 2020

Start Your Implant Journey

1, Initial consultation. 2, in depth assessment. 3, placement surgery. 4, healing period. 5, attachment of restoration.
The journey to a better smile all starts with a dental implant consultation. 

Dental Implant Treatment Timeline

The dentists at Thornton Dental Associates, P.C. use quality dental materials and a trusted team to give patients teeth that are both beautiful and functional. While dental implants take longer than traditional restoration methods and typically cost a bit more, patients consider the investment in their looks and dental health well worth it. While each case is unique, this is what a typical timeline looks like:

Dental implants are created out of biocompatible materials like titanium, which is durable and sturdy enough to withstand decades of use.
Dental implants are created out of biocompatible materials like titanium, which is durable and sturdy enough to withstand decades of use.

Consultation

Dr. Thornton or Dr. Van der Linden will perform a preliminary examination and go over your goals with you to determine if you are a good candidate for implant-supported tooth restoration. If you are, we will recommend one of Washington's trusted oral surgeons or periodontists to place the implant.

Preparatory Procedures

Dental implants require sufficient bone in the jaw and a healthy mouth. If necessary, we will recommend treatment for gum disease or bone grafting before the implant procedure.

Implant Placement

Modern dentistry techniques make implant placement surgery possible with little discomfort. The implant surgeon will thoroughly numb the treatment area for virtually painless treatment. A small incision will be made in the gums to allow for placement of the implants into the jawbone.

Healing Period

It typically takes between three and six months for the implants to fuse with the jawbone, a process called osseointegration. In many cases, you can be provided with a temporary restoration during this time.

Abutment Placement

If the abutment connector piece was not attached earlier, it will be added to the implant once osseointegration is complete. This is a simple process in which incisions are made in the gums so that the abutment can be attached to the implant. It takes about two weeks for the gums to heal around the abutment.

Impressions

Once the abutment is in place and the gums have healed, you'll return to our practice so that your dentist can take an impression of the treatment area. We use a sophisticated iTero scanner to capture a 3D image of your oral structures. This highly detailed image will be used to guide the creation of a natural-looking and comfortable restoration. Once we have designed the restoration, the information will be sent to our trusted off-site lab, where skilled ceramicists will craft a lifelike crown, bridge, or denture.

Restoration Placement

When the restoration is ready and you return to the practice, your dentist will check the fit to ensure your restoration is comfortable and visually blends in with your teeth. Once you and the dentist are pleased with the results, he will secure the restoration in place.

Can We Answer Any Questions?

5-Star Reviews From Washington, DC, Patients

"Most professional and skilled team I've ever been to" Caleb McClean, 2018
Dr. Will Thornton and Dr. Nathan Van der Linden

Thornton Dental Associates, P.C.

The friendly team of professionals at Thornton Dental Associates, P.C. provides comprehensive dental care to patients throughout Washington, DC. Dr. Will Thornton and Dr. Nathan Van der Linden are affiliated with prestigious organizations, including the:

- American Dental Association
- District of Columbia Dental Society

To request an appointment at our Washington, DC, dental office,
contact us online or call (202) 293-5805.

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