At Dental Distinction, we want to ensure our patients receive the best dental restoration to replace their missing teeth. While there are multiple options for tooth replacement, we recommend getting dental implants in Main Line, PA whenever possible. Our office is located in Chester Springs, but we’re dedicated to providing the surrounding communities with the best dental care possible. Dr. Jason Petkevis serves Bryn Mawr, Malvern, Paoli, Wayne, Berwyn, and Downingtown.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants consist of three separate parts that come together. The first part is a small titanium post that is placed directly into your jawbone. Over time, the post bonds with the surrounding bone in a process called osseointegration. This is what gives implants their strength and stability.
The second part is the abutment, a small connector piece that links the post to the final restoration. The third part is the restoration itself, which is most often a custom dental crown designed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth. Implants can also be used to support a fixed bridge or a full implant-supported denture.
Why Choose Dr. Jason Petkevis for Implant Dentistry?
Not all dentists approach implant care the same way. Dr. Petkevis has devoted years of postgraduate training to mastering complex dental cases, including patients with missing teeth, worn teeth, and full-mouth concerns. He is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, a credential that reflects a high level of clinical experience and knowledge in implant dentistry.
Dr. Petkevis trained at the Dawson Academy, one of the most respected post-graduate dental institutions in the country. Through this training, he practices what is known as Complete Dentistry. This means he does not just focus on replacing the missing tooth. He looks at how your bite functions, how your jaw is positioned, and how your overall oral health may be affected. This whole-mouth approach leads to better outcomes and longer-lasting restorations.
Am I Eligible For Dental Implants?
Unfortunately, not everyone is a good candidate for dental implants in Main Line, PA. First, you have to be in good overall oral health. If you have gum disease or need a tooth pulled, these things will have to be taken care of and healed before you can get dental implants.
Second, you’ll have to have enough healthy bone structure to support the implant. The reason why implants work so well is that they fuse with your jawbone to give you better support. If you don’t have enough healthy bone, this process won’t happen. Bone grafts may be able to be performed to help you with bone structure.
Lastly, the biggest downside of dental implants is the cost. But they’re more expensive upfront because they won’t need to be replaced or readjusted in the future. They’re also considered the gold standard of tooth replacement options, making them well worth their price tag.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer many benefits over traditional tooth replacement methods. To start, they’re the only solution that replaces the tooth root as well as the crown. This stops your jawbone from deteriorating further and actually helps to spur on jawbone regrowth as the implant post fuses with your jaw.
Because of this fusing process, dental implants are also the only solution that gives you back 100% of your bite function. You don’t have to worry about your restoration slipping or falling out when you eat or speak. And you don’t have to worry about changing up your diet either. Dental implants are up to handle anything you want to eat.
You don’t have to take on any extra maintenance with dental implants. Solutions like dentures require special soaks, adhesive, and taking them out to clean them properly. With dental implants, you simply have to follow a normal oral healthcare routine. Brush, floss, and visit your dentist regularly, and implants should last a lifetime.
And we mean a lifetime. With other solutions, the jawbone continues to deteriorate, changing the fit of your restoration over time. Dentures often need to be relined or completely replaced multiple times throughout the years. You don’t have this problem with dental implants.
What Does the Implant Process Look Like?
Many patients are surprised by how straightforward the implant process is once it is broken down step by step.
- Step 1: Consultation and Planning. Dr. Petkevis will examine your mouth, review imaging, and develop a personalized treatment plan. This is where your questions get answered and your goals are discussed.
- Step 2: Implant Placement. The titanium post is placed into the jawbone during a minor surgical procedure. Local anesthesia is used throughout to keep you comfortable.
- Step 3: Healing and Integration. Over the next several months, the implant bonds with your jawbone. This healing period is what makes the implant so stable. Most patients find this phase much easier than they expected.
- Step 4: Crown Placement. Once the implant has fully integrated, Dr. Petkevis places your custom crown. The crown is matched to the color and shape of your surrounding teeth for a completely natural look.
Can I get an implant if I have been missing a tooth for years?
Possibly, yes. Long-term tooth loss often leads to some bone deterioration, but a bone graft can rebuild the area in many cases. Dr. Petkevis will evaluate your bone levels during your consultation and let you know your options.
Getting Dental Implants in Main Line, Pennsylvania
Do you think dental implants are the best choice to replace your missing teeth? Dr. Jason Petkevis is here to help. Call us at 610-904-9274 or schedule an appointment online! We’re also proud to serve patients from Glenmoore, Exton, and Chester Springs.