Dental Implant

Dental implants have revolutionized restorative dentistry, offering a permanent solution for individuals with missing teeth. Unlike dentures or bridges, dental implants provide a durable, natural-looking option that can significantly enhance both oral function and aesthetics.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as artificial tooth roots. Once integrated with the bone, these implants provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth, crowns, or dentures. They are used to restore a single tooth, multiple teeth, or even entire arches, improving chewing ability and speech while maintaining facial structure.

Dental implants are primarily used for:

•	Replacing Missing Teeth: They offer a permanent solution for one or more lost teeth, improving appearance and functionality.
•	Preventing Bone Loss: Implants stimulate the jawbone, helping to prevent bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are lost.
•	Improving Oral Health: Unlike traditional bridges, implants do not require altering adjacent healthy teeth, preserving their integrity.

How Are Dental Implants Placed?

The dental implant procedure typically involves several stages:

•	Initial Consultation: The process begins with a thorough examination, including X-rays and possibly a CT scan, to assess the jawbone and determine the appropriate treatment plan.
•	Implant Placement: Under local anesthesia, Our doctors will place the titanium implant into the jawbone. This may require minor surgery, and the site is then closed with stitches. Over the next few months, the implant fuses with the bone in a process called osseointegration.
•	Abutment Placement: Once the implant is securely integrated, a small connector called an abutment is attached to the implant. This serves as the base for the artificial tooth.
•	Crown Placement: After the gums heal, a custom-made crown is attached to the abutment, completing the restoration. The crown is designed to match the shape and color of your natural teeth.

Recovery Period

Patients may experience mild swelling and discomfort, which are usually manageable with prescribed pain relievers and ice packs. The osseointegration process can take several months. During this time, it's important to follow our post-operative care instructions, including dietary restrictions and oral hygiene practices.

Most individuals can return to normal activities within a few days, although complete healing may take several months, depending on individual circumstances.

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

With proper care, dental implants can last many years, often for a lifetime. Studies indicate that the success rate for dental implants is around 95 percent. However, factors such as oral hygiene, lifestyle habits (like smoking), and regular dental check-ups can influence their longevity.

Maintaining Dental Implants

Maintaining dental implants is crucial for their longevity and includes the following steps:

•	Regular Dental Visits: Schedule check-ups and cleanings every six months to monitor the health of the implants and surrounding tissues.
•	Good Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily and floss regularly to keep the implant and surrounding gums healthy. Special implant-friendly toothbrushes and floss can help.
•	Avoid Hard Foods: While implants are durable, avoid biting down on hard substances that could damage the crown.
•	Quit Smoking: If you smoke, consider quitting, as smoking can adversely affect healing and implant success.

Dental implants are a reliable and effective solution for individuals facing tooth loss. By understanding the procedure, recovery process, and maintenance requirements, patients can make informed decisions about their oral health. Investing in dental implants not only restores functionality and aesthetics but also enhances overall quality of life. With proper care, they can provide a lasting solution for a beautiful, healthy smile.

To see if you qualify for dental implant surgery, contact Lakeview Dental Center by calling (971) 374-5600
to set up a consultation.

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(971) 374-5600

Address

2601 25th St SE Suite 430,
Salem, OR 97302

(971) 374-5600

Office Hours

Monday-Wednesday: 8:00am-5:00pm
Thursday: 8:00am-4:00pm
Friday, Saturday, Sunday Closed.

Lakeview Dental Center, 2601 25th St SE Suite 430, Salem, OR 97302 ^ (971) 374-5600 ^ dentistinsalem.com ^ 1/14/2025 ^ Page Keywords: dentist Salem OR ^