Dental Implants in Roanoke, VA: What You Need to Know

Missing teeth can affect more than just your smile — they can impact your confidence, oral health, and overall quality of life. At We Care Dental Care in Roanoke, VA, Dr. Benjamin Burkitt offers advanced dental implant solutions designed to look natural, function comfortably, and last for years to come.

This guide answers the most common questions our Roanoke patients ask about dental implants and explains how we deliver safe, predictable results.

What Is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a permanent solution for replacing missing teeth. It is designed to replicate both the root and crown of a natural tooth, making it one of the most reliable tooth replacement options available today.

Dental implants are placed directly into the jawbone, where they fuse with the bone over time. This creates a strong foundation for a replacement tooth that looks, feels, and functions like a natural one.

Patients searching for dental implants in Roanoke, VA often choose implants because of their durability and natural appearance.

What Are the Parts of a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is made up of three key components:

1. Implant Post (Fixture)

  • Surgically placed into the jawbone
  • Acts as the artificial tooth root

2. Abutment

  • Connects the implant post to the crown
  • Supports the visible portion of the tooth

3. Dental Crown

  • Custom-made to match your natural teeth
  • Restores chewing function and aesthetics

Together, these components create a complete and stable tooth replacement.

Is a Dental Implant Better Than a Bridge?

In many cases, a dental implant is a better option than a traditional bridge, especially for replacing a single missing tooth.

Advantages of Dental Implants

  • Do not require altering nearby healthy teeth
  • Help prevent jawbone loss
  • Long-lasting and highly durable
  • Easier to clean and maintain

Dental Bridges

  • Depend on neighboring teeth for support
  • Do not stop bone loss
  • Typically need replacement over time

During your consultation at We Care Dental Care, Dr. Burkitt will help you determine which option is best for your specific needs.

Do You Need an Implant for Each Missing Tooth?

Not necessarily.

While one implant can replace one missing tooth, dental implants can also support:

  • Implant-supported bridges
  • Full-arch implant dentures

In some cases, just a few implants can support an entire arch of teeth. Dr. Burkitt carefully evaluates bone structure, bite alignment, and long-term goals to create a customized treatment plan.

How Long Does It Take to Get a New Tooth?

The timeline for dental implants varies by patient, but most cases follow this general process:

  1. Implant Placement: One surgical visit
  2. Healing and Bone Integration: About 3–6 months
  3. Final Crown Placement: Once healing is complete

Some patients may qualify for same-day or immediate implants, depending on bone health and overall oral condition.

Guided vs. Non-Guided Dental Implants

At We Care Dental Care, we often use guided implant surgery to improve precision and outcomes.

Guided Dental Implants

  • Use advanced 3D imaging and digital planning
  • Allow for highly accurate placement
  • Reduce surgical risks and healing time

Non-Guided Implants

  • Rely on manual placement
  • Can be effective but are less precise

Guided technology helps Dr. Burkitt place implants safely and predictably.

Why Do Dental Implants Fail — and How Often?

Dental implants have a success rate of over 95%, but failures can occur in rare cases.

Common Reasons for Implant Failure

  • Infection around the implant
  • Poor bone quality or insufficient bone volume
  • Smoking or tobacco use
  • Uncontrolled diabetes
  • Excessive grinding or bite pressure

Most failures occur early in the healing process and can often be corrected.

What Happens If a Dental Implant Fails?

If an implant fails, Dr. Burkitt will first identify the cause. Treatment may include:

  • Removing the implant
  • Treating infection or inflammation
  • Bone grafting if necessary
  • Replacing the implant after healing

A failed implant does not mean you can’t have implants in the future.

Why Dr. Burkitt Uses BioHorizons® Dental Implants

At We Care Dental Care, we use BioHorizons® dental implants because they offer:

  • Excellent long-term clinical success
  • Advanced surface technology for faster bone integration
  • High-quality titanium materials
  • Strong research and clinical backing

Using premium implant systems is one way we ensure predictable, long-lasting results for our Roanoke patients.

Does Insurance Cover Dental Implants?

Dental insurance coverage for implants varies by plan.

Some plans may cover:

  • Implant crowns
  • Tooth extractions
  • Bone grafting

Our knowledgeable team at We Care Dental Care will verify your benefits, explain your coverage clearly, and help you explore financing options if needed.

How Do You Avoid Complications With Dental Implants?

Preventing complications begins with proper planning and continues with ongoing care.

How We Reduce Implant Risks

  • Comprehensive exams and 3D imaging
  • Guided implant placement
  • High-quality materials
  • Strict sterilization protocols

How Patients Help Ensure Success

  • Practice excellent oral hygiene
  • Attend regular dental visits
  • Avoid smoking
  • Wear a nightguard if recommended

With proper care, dental implants can last for decades.

Does It Hurt to Get a Dental Implant?

One of the most common concerns we hear at We Care Dental Care is whether getting a dental implant is painful. The good news is that most patients report far less discomfort than they expected.

During the implant procedure, Dr. Benjamin Burkitt uses local anesthesia to fully numb the area. You should not feel pain during placement — only light pressure or vibration. For patients with dental anxiety, sedation options may also be available.

What About After the Procedure?

After implant placement, it’s normal to experience:

  • Mild soreness or tenderness
  • Minor swelling
  • Light bruising

These symptoms are typically manageable with over-the-counter pain medication and usually resolve within a few days.

Many patients compare dental implant recovery to having a tooth extracted and often say implants are easier than they expected.

How We Minimize Discomfort

At We Care Dental Care, we take several steps to ensure a comfortable experience:

  • Guided implant surgery for precise placement
  • Gentle surgical techniques
  • Detailed post-operative instructions
  • Close follow-up care

By carefully planning each implant case and using advanced technology, Dr. Burkitt helps minimize discomfort and promote smooth healing.

Why Is It Better to Have One Dentist Place and Restore Your Dental Implant?

When considering dental implants, many patients don’t realize that treatment can involve two different providers: one to place the implant and another to restore it with the crown.

At We Care Dental Care, Dr. Benjamin Burkitt both places and restores dental implants, allowing for better communication, precision, and long-term success.

Better Planning From the Very Beginning

  • Ideal positioning for appearance and bite alignment
  • Proper spacing for flossing and hygiene
  • A crown that looks and functions like a natural tooth

Fewer Complications and Better Fit

  • Implant and crown designed to work together
  • Immediate adjustments if needed
  • More precise final restoration

This integrated approach reduces delays, frustration, and the risk of remakes.

Improved Comfort and Continuity of Care

  • Fewer referrals and appointments
  • Consistent clinical philosophy
  • Clear accountability for outcomes

Better Long-Term Results

  • Easier monitoring of healing and bone integration
  • Better evaluation of bite forces over time
  • Early intervention if issues arise

A Streamlined Implant Experience in Roanoke, VA

At We Care Dental Care, Dr. Benjamin Burkitt’s comprehensive approach means your dental implant is carefully planned, precisely placed, and beautifully restored — all under one roof.

If you’re considering dental implants in Roanoke, VA, choosing one dentist for both placement and restoration can make the process smoother, safer, and more predictable.

Looking for Honest, Friendly Dental Care for you or Your Child?

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