Dental Implants

Although there is no perfect substitute for a natural tooth, implants have presented an option which is clearly the next best thing. It is a stand-alone restoration, which means that we do not have to touch the adjacent, healthy teeth.  

So what is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a post that is surgically embedded in the jaw. For patients who have lost a single tooth, an implant can serve as an anchor, or root replacement, for a new tooth. In cases where multiple teeth are missing, implants can be used to stabilize a removable denture or bridge. In the initial stage, a dental implant is placed in the healthy jaw typically grafting will need to be completed prior to this step, the implant "post" will need to heal for approximately 3 months after being placed. After the appropriate healing period, the implant is ready to receive an abutment and crown.  These are the components that are visible above the gum-line, what we consider to be the "functional" part of the tooth for chewing.  The implant tooth then acts as any other natural tooth and should be brushed and flossed regularly.  

If you are interested in learning more about dental implants, please don't hesitate to call our office at (360) 972-3330 option 3 and our surgical coordinator would be happy to answer any of your questions.