Are missing teeth or uncomfortable, ill-fitting dentures taking the joy out of the everyday things you love? Throw out those messy adhesives and let dental implants change your life! Our skilled, Tacoma dentist, Dr. Kwansoo Lee, has extensive experience in both the surgical placement and the cosmetic restoration of dental implants. You can receive all of your implant care right here at Pacific NW Dental Center instead of commuting around town to multiple dentists!
Dental implants are small titanium posts that serve as replacements for the root portions of missing natural teeth. Because of the biocompatible properties of titanium, dental implants fuse with the surrounding bone to become solid anchors for the crown, bridge, or denture that goes on top of it (called a dental implant restoration). Implants are a popular tooth replacement method with a wide range of benefits, including:
Dental implants can be used in a variety of restorative procedures, from single tooth replacements to full mouth reconstructions. Whether you’re missing one tooth or many teeth, there’s an implant option for you.
A single dental implant can replace a missing tooth without having to use the surrounding teeth for support. It has three parts: the titanium implant post, the abutment that is attached to the top of the post, and the crown that connects to the abutment.
An implant-supported bridge is an excellent way to replace three or more missing teeth. Bridges can usually be attached to one or two implants, depending on the size and location of the bridge.
An overdenture is a special type of denture designed to fit over existing teeth or connect to an implant. In the case of an implant-supported overdenture, the prosthetic is held in place by implants rather than resting directly on the gums.
Any person can get dental implants as long as there is enough bone available in which to place the implants. However, implants are usually more successful in adults and older teens whose bones have finished developing. Dr. Lee will consult with you about your medical history and oral health habits to help you decide if implants are right for you. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
After your implant surgery, you should stick to a soft, non-chewing diet for about two weeks while your gum tissue heals. Patients who stick to a soft food diet at the beginning of their recovery, generally feel less discomfort while they heal. Some recommended food and drinks are:
Thanks to advances in modern technology, dental implants (and the tooth restoration on top) are meant to resemble and function similarly to your natural teeth. However, since implants are a foreign object, you have to give your mouth a chance to get used to their presence. Once your mouth gets accustomed to the implants and restorations, you may even forget they’re there!
On average, an implant takes around four to six months to completely fuse with your jawbone. However, the healing time after the implant procedure varies from person to person. Once your procedure is complete, we’ll send you home with a detailed list of aftercare instructions to ensure you have a smooth, comfortable recovery period. If you have any questions about implants, please reach out to our office, and we’d be more than happy to speak with you.
Are you ready to embark on your dental implant journey? If it’s your first time visiting us, we’d like to say thanks for choosing our practice for your tooth replacement needs, and encourage you to take advantage of our new patient offer!
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Dental implants are often considered to be one of the most effective teeth replacement options. They offer numerous benefits that are missing in the case of other choices such as dentures, bridges, etc. But, people often remain confused about this particular option as implants are relatively new and expensive in the field of modern dentistry. […]
Going through this blog will let you know about the price to be paid for getting implants. Though implants are considered to be one of the best teeth replacement options, people often hesitate to get them due to their price. It is due to this reason that Pacific NW Dental Center decided to break all […]