Dental Implants
Ferndale, WA
Dental Implants provided by Kelsey Ullsmith, DMD in Ferndale, WA at Dentistry with Smiles
When facing tooth loss or after having experienced a long period where you are missing one or more teeth it can have a real draining effect on your life. Tooth loss directly affects your quality of life in ways that people who have not experienced tooth loss take for granted. At Dentistry with Smiles, we take tooth loss seriously and want our patients to have permanent solutions that they can count on. Dental implants offer a permanent tooth replacement that can restore every facet of a natural tooth to the patient.What Dental Implants Are
Dental implants are permanent, surgically inserted, tooth replacements that have the ability to support single missing teeth, several missing teeth in a row, and even a full arch of missing teeth. They restore missing teeth in every way. Not only do they look and feel like real teeth, but they also allow you to chew food the same way you would with your natural teeth and they even promote a healthy jaw and oral tissues.
Parts Of A Dental Implant
Dental implants are made up of three main parts – post, abutment, and crown. The post is made of titanium because titanium is a biocompatible metal. When something is said to be “biocompatible” that means that the bone and tissue structures of the body readily accept and integrate (grown around) them.
The second part of the implant is the abutment, which screws into the top of the post and is held there with permanent dental cement. The abutments role is to provide adequate surface area for us to attach the crown permanently.
The crown is the final part of the implant and is made to look just like your natural tooth. The crown can be made from a variety of materials including:
| • | Porcelain |
| • | Porcelain fused to metal |
| • | Ceramic |
| • | Ceramic fused to metal |
| • | Zirconia |
Dental Implant Placement Procedure
The first step in any procedure done at our office is to ensure you are comfortable. We will apply topical anesthetics and a numbing agent to make sure that you feel no pain.
The post is surgically inserted into the bone in your jaw and allowed to heal. During the healing period the bone in your jaw will grow around the titanium post in a process known as osseointegration. Once it has had some time to heal (sometimes several months), you will return to our office so that we can place the abutment and the crown. Both the abutment and crown will be held in place using permanent dental cement once we find the spot at which they fit perfectly into your bite.
Dental Implants Can Support Full Dentures
More specifically we can place permanent, full arch, tooth replacements on several dental implants and give you back your ability to eat and speak as you did before you lost your teeth. This allows you a tremendous amount of freedom that you wouldn't get with dentures that must be taken out to eat or sleep.
FAQs
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium that provide a permanent base for fixed or removable replacement teeth. They are designed to blend in with your natural teeth and offer a long-term solution for missing teeth.
Why might I need dental implants?
You might need dental implants if you have missing teeth and want a durable, natural-looking replacement. Implants help maintain jawbone density, improve oral health, and provide better function and aesthetics compared to other tooth replacement options.
What is the process for getting dental implants?
The process for getting dental implants involves several steps: initial consultation and planning, placement of the implant into the jawbone, a healing period for osseointegration (where the implant fuses with the bone), and finally, attaching the abutment and the crown or prosthetic tooth.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants can last many years, often over 25 years, with proper care and maintenance. Their longevity depends on factors such as oral hygiene, lifestyle habits, and regular dental check-ups.
Are dental implants painful?
The dental implant procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, so patients do not feel pain during the surgery. Some discomfort and swelling may occur after the procedure, but it can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.
How should I care for my dental implants?
Caring for dental implants involves maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Avoiding hard or sticky foods and not using your teeth as tools can help prolong the life of your implants.
Are there any risks or complications with dental implants?
Risks or complications with dental implants can include infection, nerve damage, sinus problems, and implant failure. However, these issues are rare and can usually be managed with proper planning and care by your dental professional.
Can anyone get dental implants?
Most people are candidates for dental implants, but ideal candidates are those with healthy gums and sufficient jawbone density to support the implants. Your dentist will evaluate your oral health and medical history to determine if implants are the right option for you.
Please call us today at (360) 647-1715 to schedule your dental implants appointment with Dr. Ullsmith.