Cobb Dentistry

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Dental Implants

Replacing broken and missing teeth can give you more than just a pretty smile - it can improve your quality of life. Whether you are missing teeth as a result of trauma, congenital defect, from periodontal disease or decay, dental implants may provide a permanent and natural looking solution for missing teeth.

"Proper diagnosis and treatment planning," says Dr. Cobb, "are at the heart of a successful dental implant procedure."

Dr. Cobb works with the leading oral surgeons and periodontists in the Washington D.C. area to ensure the best results for his patients. Dr. Cobb treats the patient from start to finish, bringing in specialist and surgeons for key aspects of the procedure. Their expertise in placing implants means that the patient will receive the highest level of care.

Dental Implant Process

The first step is a consultation and comprehensive examination with Dr. Cobb. Using the latest technology including digital radiographs and 3D bone scans, Dr. Cobb is able to get a precise look at what is going on inside the mouth and bone. Next, Dr. Cobb works up a specific treatment plan that involves an oral surgeon or other specialist, who will place the dental implant and dental laboratory who will fabricate the surgical guides (if used) and final restoration. Using digital imaging, computer modeling and wax models, Dr. Cobb is able to illustrate for the patient how the proposed treatment will look and function.

The patient will then be seen by the oral surgeon or periodontist who will remove the tooth or teeth, evaluate the bone and then place the dental implant. The dental implant is usually composed of titanium and will fuse with the living bone, this process takes about three to four months. In some cases, the patient may be eligible to remove an immediate provisional (temporary) tooth. Certain patients may receive their permanent restoration that same day. The final restoration either a dental crown or a prosthetic tooth (or teeth) is placed by Dr. Cobb in his office.

Dental implants are particularly strong and natural looking and are an excellent choice for replacing teeth missing in the smile zone. Made using the latest in tooth colored, tooth like material, dental implants are a long lasting and permanent solution for many patients.

Building Better Smiles

What sets Dr. Cobb apart from other dentists is his experience and approach. A senior faculty member at The Dawson Academy, Dr. Cobb teaches some of the nation's leading dentists. Dedicated to his own post graduate training, Dr. Cobb logs many hours of continuing dental education each year. In addition, Dr. Cobb is a sustaining member of The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), the first step towards accreditation with the AACD. What says the most about Dr. Cobb, though, are his patient's testimonials and the results he has been able to achieve with them. Dr. Cobb was also voted one of Washington D.C.'s top dentists in Washingtonian magazine.

Featured Technology: Cone Beam CT (CBCT)

Computed tomography (CT) imaging uses rotating x-ray equipment combined with a digital computer to obtain images of the body. CT imaging displays a cross sectional image including images with amazing clarity of soft tissue, bone, muscle and blood vessels. CBCT is a compact, faster and safer version of the regular CT. CBCT is generally used in a dental setting. A full scan is typically completed in less than one minute and the radiation dosage is up to a hundred times less than that of a regular CT scanner.

CBCT is especially useful during the diagnosis and treatment planning of dental implants. Dr. Cobb uses CBCT to get a precise 3-D image of the patients head, jaw and mouth. It is important to determine how all of the components of the entire masticatory system are functioning to ensure long term comfort, health and beauty. If you are considering dental implants, contact our office for a consultation and comprehensive evaluation with Dr. Cobb.

Dr. Cobb’s Professional Affiliations

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