The Dental Implants Procedure

Dental implants are a highly effective solution for restoring both the dental health and appearance of sufferers of some of the worst dental problems. While the procedure itself can take a few weeks due to healing time, obtaining implants does not need to be difficult or daunting. Implants have often been misunderstood by many patients with tooth loss who have typically imagined pain and suffering on the path toward making a substantial difference in the health of their teeth and appearance of their smile.

To help patients prepare for what is involved when restoring their smile and dental condition related to most levels of lost teeth, here is an outline of the process in just a few routine steps:

  • An important first step is to work with dentist Dr. Emerson in creating a personalized treatment plan for your individual situation. During the initial consultation, the goal is to discuss details of the process of dental implants including oral surgery and aesthetic elements, and to address questions or concerns that you have.
  • An unlikely optional step: The jaw bone is the foundation for dental implants and its structure must be sufficient for holding an implant anchor firmly in place. In the unlikely situation that the bone structure is insufficient (determined at the consultation), a patient may require a bone regeneration treatment, which involves supplementing the jaw with grafted bone. Depending on the extent of bone decline, this procedure may be done on the same day as the anchor placement.Dental Implants and artificial teeth
  • The next step is to place the titanium post to serve as an anchor for the dental implant. Through a process called osseointegration, the titanium post fuses to the jaw bone while the gum tissue heals. Healing typically takes three to six months, during which time patients proceed with daily life as usual. Dr. Emerson may be able to provide a temporary replacement tooth for instant aesthetic results. Patients may be required to opt for softer foods during this healing process.
  • The final step is to install a permanent replacement tooth in the form of a dental crown which is custom-designed to blend seamlessly with the color and structure of surrounding healthy teeth. Once the crown is complete, an abutment piece is placed onto the visible portion of the implant to permanently secure the crown in place and enable it to function and appear as if it is a healthy natural tooth.

Dental implants are a great way to restore not only your dental health but also your speaking and chewing abilities and comfort as well as the overall beauty of your smile. Upon completion of the process, you will also be able to smile with confidence once more!

If you have experienced the loss of one or more teeth and are ready to experience the difference of fine dentistry and reliable dental implants in the North Seattle-Kenmore area, contact us at North Seattle Restorative and Preventative Dentistry, 5701 NE Bothell Way, Suite 62, Kenmore, WA, 425 – 486 – 2715.