Dental Implants

Dental Implants

Dental implants are a revolutionary solution for replacing missing teeth, offering a permanent and natural-looking alternative to dentures and bridges. If you've lost teeth due to injury, decay, or other factors, dental implants can restore your smile's function and appearance. If you're considering Dental Implants in Bellevue, WA, this guide will help you understand what they are, their benefits, and how a skilled dentist in Bellevue, WA, can help you achieve the smile you've always wanted.

What Are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root made from biocompatible materials, typically titanium, surgically placed into the jawbone. Once in place, the implant is fused with the bone through osseointegration, providing a stable foundation for a replacement tooth, also known as a crown. Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth or multiple teeth or even support full-mouth restorations. 

The implant serves as the root. Once it has integrated with the bone as the latter heals around it, an abutment is attached. The abutment is a small connector that allows the crown (the tooth's visible part) to be attached. The result is a replacement tooth that looks, feels, and functions naturally. 

The Benefits of Dental Implants

Choosing Dental Implants in Bellevue, WA, can provide a wide range of benefits that make them a superior option for tooth replacement. Here are some key benefits and advantages: 

Natural Look and Feel

One of the most appealing aspects of dental implants is their ability to mimic the look and function of natural teeth. Custom-made crowns are designed to blend seamlessly with your existing teeth, ensuring a natural appearance and a confident smile.

Long-Term Durability

Unlike traditional dentures or bridges that may need to be replaced after several years, dental implants are a long-term solution. Proper care can last a lifetime, making them a wise investment in oral health. 

Improved Oral Function

Dental implants restore full chewing power, allowing you to eat your favorite foods without discomfort. Unlike removable dentures, implants are anchored securely, so you don't have to worry about them slipping or affecting your speech.

Bone Preservation

When a tooth is lost, the underlying jawbone deteriorates due to a lack of stimulation. Dental implants stimulate the bone, preventing bone loss and maintaining the natural shape of your face. This helps preserve your jawbone structure, which is crucial for long-term oral health.

Better Oral Health

Dental implants do not require the alteration of adjacent teeth, as is the case with traditional bridges. This means your remaining teeth are left intact, which can improve overall oral health. Additionally, implants are easy to clean and care for, just like natural teeth. 

Enhanced Comfort

Unlike dentures that can be uncomfortable or cause irritation, dental implants feel like natural teeth. They do not require messy adhesives or special cleaning products, making them a hassle-free option for tooth replacement. 

Boosted Confidence

Missing teeth can damage self-esteem. Dental implants restore your smile and give you the confidence to speak, laugh, and socialize without feeling self-conscious about your teeth.

To get the perfect teeth, contact us at Complete Family Dentistry for the best dental implants. They will give you a better smile and improve your oral health.

The Dental Implant Procedure

The process of getting dental implants in Bellevue, WA involves multiple steps, but it is straightforward and highly effective. Here's what you can expect during the procedure: 

Initial Consultation

The first step is a consultation with a dentist in Bellevue, WA, specializing in dental implants. During this appointment, your dentist will conduct a comprehensive examination of your teeth, gums, and jawbone to determine if you are a suitable candidate for implants. This may involve taking X-rays or 3D scans to assess the bone density and identify the ideal placement for the implants.

If you are a good candidate, your dentist will develop a personalized treatment plan that outlines the steps involved in the procedure and the timeline for your implant placement and healing process.

Tooth Extraction (If Necessary)

If the tooth being replaced is still present, it will need to be extracted. In some cases, a tooth can be extracted and an implant placed on the same day. However, in other situations, your dentist may recommend allowing the area to heal before implant placement.

Implant Placement

The next step is the surgical placement of the dental implant. During this procedure, your dentist in Bellevue, WA, will make a small incision in the gum to expose the jawbone. A hole is then drilled into the bone, and the titanium implant is placed securely within it. The gum is then stitched closed, and the healing period begins. 

Osseointegration, the process of the jawbone fusing with the implant as the former heals, takes several months. This period is crucial, ensuring the implant becomes a permanent, stable part of your oral structure. 

Abutment Placement

Once the implant has been fully integrated with the jawbone, the next step is to attach the abutment. This is a minor procedure in which the dentist in Bellevue, WA, reopens the gum to expose the top of the implant and attach the abutment. The abutment is the connector that holds the crown securely in place. 

Crown Placement

Finally, a custom-made crown is attached to the abutment. The crown is designed to match your natural teeth's shape, size, and color, ensuring that it blends seamlessly with your smile. Once the crown is in place, the dental implant process is complete, and you can enjoy your new tooth's full function and appearance. 

Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Only certain people qualify for dental implants, but many people could qualify with the right preparation. Good candidates for dental implants in Bellevue, WA, should: 

  • Have one or more missing teeth.
  • Have healthy gums and sufficient jawbone to support the implant. If you do not have enough bone density, a bone graft may be performed to reinforce the area before an implant can be placed. 
  • Be in good general health. Chronic conditions such as diabetes or heart disease may affect the healing process, so discussing your medical history with your dentist is important.
  • Be committed to maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular dental checkups. 

Caring for Your Dental Implants

Caring for your dental implants is as important as caring for natural teeth. Here are a few tips to ensure the longevity of your dental implants in Bellevue, WA: 

  • Brush and floss regularly: Treat your implants like natural teeth by brushing twice daily and flossing daily to remove plaque and food particles.
  • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush: Soft bristles are gentle on your gums and implants, preventing irritation or damage.
  • Visit your dentist regularly: Schedule routine checkups in Bellevue, WA, to ensure your implants and surrounding teeth remain healthy. Regular cleanings and exams are essential for long-term success. 
  • Avoid hard or sticky foods: While dental implants are strong, avoiding excessively hard or sticky foods will reduce the risk of damaging the crown or implant.

Conclusion

Dental implants in Bellevue, WA, are a reliable and effective option if you want a permanent solution to missing teeth. With their natural appearance, long-lasting durability, and ability to preserve your jawbone, implants are one of the best ways to restore both your smile and oral health. By choosing our skilled and experienced dentist in Bellevue, WA, you can ensure a successful implant placement and enjoy the benefits of a beautiful, functional smile for years.

To schedule an appointment with us today, visit Complete Family Dentistry at 14715 Bel-Red Road, Suite #200, Bellevue, WA 98007. If you are an existing patient, call (425) 641-5432, and if you are a new patient, call (425) 642-1578 for bookings and consultations. Please visit our official website today to learn more about our various services.

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