A dental implant is a titanium post or frame surgically placed into the jawbone beneath the gums. Once in place, the implant acts as a replacement root for a missing tooth. Over time, the bone fuses with the implant in a process called osseointegration, creating a stable foundation for a replacement tooth, bridge, or denture. Dental implants are designed to look, feel, and function just like natural teeth.
Unlike traditional dental bridges or dentures, dental implants are permanent and do not require adjustments or the removal of surrounding teeth. They also offer greater comfort and stability, making them a preferred option for many patients looking for a reliable solution to missing teeth.
There are several reasons why dental implants are considered the gold standard in tooth replacement. Some of the key benefits of dental implants include:
Dental implants are designed to mimic the appearance of natural teeth, both in color and shape. The custom crown, bridge, or denture placed on the implant is crafted to blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth, giving you a beautiful, natural-looking smile. Because implants are securely anchored in your jaw, they feel and function just like your natural teeth, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
One of the main advantages of dental implants is their durability. With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last for many years, often a lifetime. Unlike traditional bridges or dentures, which may need to be replaced every few years, dental implants offer a permanent, low-maintenance solution to tooth loss.
Traditional dentures or bridges can sometimes slip or cause discomfort, but dental implants remain securely in place. This stability allows you to chew and speak more comfortably without worrying about your prosthetic shifting. Implants also help preserve the natural structure of your jawbone, preventing bone loss and maintaining the integrity of your facial appearance.
When you lose a tooth, the bone in the area where the tooth was located can begin to deteriorate due to lack of stimulation. Dental implants help prevent bone loss by stimulating the jawbone in the same way a natural tooth root would. This helps maintain your facial structure and ensures your remaining teeth stay in their proper positions.
Unlike dental bridges, which require reshaping the surrounding teeth, dental implants do not affect your healthy teeth. The implant is placed directly into the jawbone, and a custom crown is attached to the implant post. This allows you to keep your other teeth intact while restoring function to the missing tooth.
The process of getting dental implants typically takes several months and involves multiple steps to ensure the best possible results. Here’s an overview of the typical dental implant process at Pacific Woods Dental:
The process begins with a comprehensive consultation at Pacific Woods Dental. During this appointment, our experienced team will evaluate your oral health, take X-rays, and discuss your treatment goals. We will also assess the condition of your jawbone to ensure that it is strong enough to support a dental implant. If there is insufficient bone, we may recommend a bone graft procedure to rebuild the bone before proceeding with the implant.
Once the treatment plan is established, the next step is the surgical placement of the implant. This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia to ensure comfort. During surgery, a small incision is made in the gum tissue, and a hole is drilled into the jawbone. The titanium implant is then carefully placed into the bone. After the implant is positioned, the gums are stitched closed, and you will begin the healing process.
After the implant is placed, the healing process begins. Over the course of several months, the bone fuses with the titanium post in a process known as osseointegration. This ensures that the implant is securely anchored in place and will be able to support a crown, bridge, or denture. During this time, you may be given a temporary restoration to protect the implant site and allow you to continue normal daily activities.
Once the implant has fully integrated with the bone, the next step is to attach an abutment to the implant. The abutment is a small connector piece that protrudes above the gum line and serves as the foundation for the final restoration. This procedure is typically performed in our office under local anesthesia and involves a small incision to expose the implant. The abutment is then placed on top of the implant, and the gums are stitched back around it.
After the abutment is placed and your gums have healed, your final restoration (a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture) will be created. Using impressions of your mouth, our team will design a prosthetic tooth that matches the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth. Once the restoration is ready, it will be securely attached to the abutment, completing the dental implant process. Contact us to learn more.
At Pacific Woods Dental, we offer a variety of implant options to meet your needs. The most common types of dental implants include:
For patients who are missing a single tooth, a single tooth implant is the ideal solution. A custom crown is placed on the implant, restoring both function and aesthetics.
If you are missing multiple teeth, an implant-supported bridge may be a good option. Instead of placing individual implants for each missing tooth, a bridge can be anchored to two or more implants, providing a stable and natural-looking solution.
For patients who have lost most or all of their teeth, implant-supported dentures offer a secure and comfortable solution. These dentures are attached to dental implants, providing greater stability and preventing the need for messy adhesives.
Proper care is essential to the longevity of your dental implants. Here are some aftercare tips to ensure your implants stay healthy:
Dental implants are a reliable, long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring your smile. Offering numerous benefits, including improved function, comfort, and aesthetics, dental implants provide a permanent solution that enhances both your oral health and overall quality of life. At Pacific Woods Dental in Portland, OR, we specialize in providing high-quality dental implants that are tailored to meet your needs. If you’re considering dental implants, contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile.
To learn more about the dental services at Pacific Woods Dental, call 503-292-5483, and schedule an appointment now!
MON - WED 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
THU - THU 7:00 am - 4:00 pm
FRI - SUN Closed
