If you’ve ever lost a tooth or two, you’ve probably felt self-conscious and concerned about the potential health problems that may arise in the future. Dental implants at Portland Smile Design are a great solution to these issues and can significantly improve your quality of life. Not only do they look and feel like natural teeth, but they also provide long-lasting benefits to your dental health.
If you’re considering implants, we’ll help you explore the procedure, its benefits, and why they are worth the investment.
Improves Your Appearance: Losing teeth can affect the structure of your face, making you appear older than you are. Dental implants are designed to blend in with your natural teeth, making your smile look natural and more youthful. Implants are custom-made to match the color and shape of your existing teeth.
Prevents Bone Loss: When you lose teeth, your jawbone begins to deteriorate, causing facial structure issues and making it difficult for denture wearers to eat, talk, and even smile. Implants fuse with your jawbone, providing the stimulation necessary to keep it alive and healthy. This implant can prevent bone loss and maintain facial structure over time.
Provides Durability: Dental implants are made of titanium, a durable and long-lasting material that can withstand daily wear and tear. Unlike bridges or dentures, which may need to be replaced every few years, implants can last decades with proper care, saving you money in the long run.
Restores Functionality: Missing teeth can make eating, talking, and even laughing challenging—dental implants function like natural teeth, allowing for complete and improved speech, eating, and comfort. Unlike dentures, implants do not need to be removed at night, allowing for a comfortable and natural routine.
Boosts Self-Confidence: Missing teeth can impact your self-esteem and confidence. Dental implants can give you a reason to smile again and feel confident in your appearance. By filling in gaps in your teeth, implants can help you feel satisfied and proud of your appearance.
The Steps Involved in Getting Dental Implants
Though the procedure can vary depending on your needs, these steps typically involve getting dental implants.
Step One: Consultation – During your first visit, Dr. Nathan Dustin or Dr. Dillon Moya will evaluate your mouth to determine if dental implants are the right option. They’ll assess your overall health, the strength of your jawbone, and the number of teeth needing replacement. They may also take X-rays and impressions of your teeth to help create a treatment plan customized to your specific situation.
Step Two: Surgery – The next step is the surgery itself. Dr. Dustin or Dr. Moya will make a small incision in your gums to access your jawbone. They’ll then place a titanium implant into the bone. This implant acts as the anchor for your new tooth or teeth. After placing the implant, your dentist will close the incision with stitches and allow the area to heal.
Step Three: Healing – Once we insert the implant into your jaw, your bone must grow around it for several weeks. Your dentist may provide you with a temporary tooth or bridge to wear during this time. You must also follow specific oral hygiene instructions to ensure your implant heals correctly.
Step Four: Abutment Placement – Once your bone has fused with the implant, you’ll return to your dentist for an abutment. This is a small attachment that connects the implant to your replacement teeth. Your dentist will make another small incision in your gums to access the implant and then attach the abutment. After this step, you’ll need to wait a few weeks for your gums to heal.
Step Five: Final Restoration – It’s time to place your permanent replacement teeth. Depending on your specific needs, this is typically done with a dental crown, bridge, or dentures. Your dentist will remove your temporary teeth and cement your new teeth in place.
Quality Dental Implants in Portland, Oregon
Dental implants are an excellent option for those who have lost teeth and are concerned about the impacts on their appearance and overall health. They provide long-lasting benefits that include improved appearance, prevention of bone loss, durability, restorative functionality, and improved self-confidence.
Portland Smile Design provides professional and expert dental implant services to help you regain your smile and confidence. Investing in dental implants may seem expensive initially, but it provides long-term benefits that are well worth the cost. Dental implants can last for decades with proper care, improving your overall health and quality of life.
