At Everglow Dental in Aloha, Oregon, we believe that everyone deserves a smile that not only looks beautiful but feels confident and fully functional.
Dental implants offer a permanent solution to missing teeth, and our team, led by the highly skilled Dr. Kristy Lin, is here to guide you through every step of the process. Understanding what dental implants are, who can benefit from them, and the comprehensive treatment process is crucial in making an informed decision. Let’s explore how dental implants can transform your smile and why Everglow Dental is your ideal partner in achieving oral health excellence.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are titanium posts surgically inserted into the jawbone, serving as a stable foundation for replacement teeth. They are designed to mimic the root of a natural tooth, ensuring that the artificial teeth feel, look, and function like your own. Unlike dentures or bridges, implants provide a permanent solution to tooth loss, offering unmatched stability and durability. The titanium material is biocompatible, meaning it naturally fuses with your jawbone through a process called osseointegration, creating a strong and lasting foundation for your new teeth.
Who Is a Candidate for Dental Implants?
The ideal candidate for dental implants is anyone missing one or more teeth and seeking a long-lasting solution. Good candidates typically have sufficient bone density to support the implant, healthy gums free from periodontal disease, and are generally in good overall health. Age is rarely a limiting factor, as both young adults and seniors can benefit from implant treatment. However, certain conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, heavy smoking, or recent radiation therapy to the head and neck area may affect candidacy. During your consultation at Everglow Dental, Dr. Lin will conduct a thorough evaluation, including digital imaging and a comprehensive oral health assessment, to determine if dental implants are the best option for your unique situation.
The Remarkable Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer numerous life-changing benefits that make them the gold standard for tooth replacement. They provide a completely natural appearance that seamlessly blends with your existing teeth, restoring your confident smile. Unlike removable dentures, implants restore full chewing capability, allowing you to enjoy all your favorite foods without restriction. One of the most significant advantages is that implants don’t require the alteration of adjacent healthy teeth, as is necessary with traditional bridges, preserving your natural tooth structure.
Additionally, implants are designed to last a lifetime with proper care, making them a cost-effective long-term investment in your oral health. Most importantly, they help preserve the jawbone and maintain facial structure, preventing the bone loss and facial collapse that often occurs with missing teeth. This preservation of bone density also maintains the support for your remaining natural teeth and facial muscles.
The Comprehensive Implant Treatment Process
The journey to a restored smile with dental implants involves several carefully planned steps, all carried out with precision and care at Everglow Dental. Initially, Dr. Lin will develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs, using advanced 3D imaging technology to ensure optimal implant placement.
The process begins with the surgical placement of the titanium implant into the jawbone under local anesthesia. This is followed by a healing period of 3-6 months that allows the implant to integrate with the bone through osseointegration. During this time, you may receive a temporary restoration to maintain your appearance and function.
Once the implant has fully integrated, an abutment (connector piece) is attached to the implant, serving as a base for your new tooth. Finally, a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is placed onto the abutment, completing your new smile. Throughout the entire process, our team at Everglow Dental ensures your comfort and provides detailed aftercare instructions to promote optimal healing.
Weighing the Pros and Cons of Dental Implants
Advantages:
Permanent, stable tooth replacement that feels and functions like natural teeth
Preserves jawbone and prevents facial structure changes
No impact on adjacent healthy teeth
Easy maintenance with regular brushing and flossing
Improved speech and confidence
Long-term cost-effectiveness
Considerations:
Requires surgical procedure and healing time
Treatment process spans several months
Higher upfront investment compared to removable options
Requires adequate bone density (though bone grafting can address deficiencies)
Success depends on good oral hygiene and regular dental care
At Everglow Dental, we believe in transparent communication and will thoroughly discuss all your options, including flexible financing solutions, to ensure dental implants are a viable and beneficial solution for your specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
How long do dental implants last?
With proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups at Everglow Dental, dental implants can last a lifetime. The crown portion may need replacement after 10-15 years due to normal wear, but the implant itself is designed to be permanent.
Are dental implants painful?
Thanks to modern dental techniques and effective anesthesia, most patients experience minimal discomfort during the implant procedure. Post-operative pain is typically manageable with over-the-counter medications and subsides within a few days.
Can dental implants fail?
While implant failure is rare (success rates exceed 95%), it can occur due to infection, insufficient bone integration, or inadequate oral care. Dr. Lin's thorough planning, precise surgical technique, and comprehensive follow-up care minimize these risks significantly.
How much do dental implants cost?
The cost of dental implants varies based on individual needs, number of implants required, and any additional procedures. At Everglow Dental, we provide transparent pricing and offer various financing options to make treatment accessible.
Is everyone eligible for dental implants?
Most adults in good general health with sufficient jawbone density are excellent candidates for implants. Even if you have some bone loss, procedures like bone grafting can often make implants possible. A detailed evaluation by Dr. Lin will determine your specific suitability.
How do I care for my dental implants?
Care for dental implants just as you would your natural teeth: with daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups at Everglow Dental. Good oral hygiene and professional cleanings are essential for long-term implant success.
Can I get implants if I have gum disease?
Active gum disease must be treated and controlled before implant placement. Our team will work with you to achieve optimal gum health, ensuring the best possible environment for successful implant integration.
At Everglow Dental, serving Aloha and the surrounding communities of Beaverton, Hillsboro, and Tigard, we’re dedicated to providing personalized, comprehensive dental care. Our female-led team, under the experienced guidance of Dr. Kristy Lin, prioritizes your comfort and well-being above all else. For those considering dental implants, we invite you to experience the Everglow difference. Contact us at 503-334-0930 to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards a brighter, more confident smile.