Dental Implants at Smile Studios in Redmond

Dental implants have several advantages over a bridge. First, they are more permanent than bridges, and may likely be cheaper in the long-run than having to replace a bridge or dentures in the future. Secondly, they do not rely on the strength of the surrounding teeth for support like dentures or bridges. Consequently, they have longer longevity. 

We encourage you to have a consultation in our Redmond office with Dr. Tina to discuss whether a dental implant is right for you. She will review the X-rays you may have (and if you have not gotten them, we may get them). She will review the best options for you. Once you decide to go with the implant, depending on each situation, you may need a graft material placed in the area of the missing tooth. The graft allows for bone to grow to allow for the implant to hold. You will have to wait for 3-4 months to allow for the graft to mature. After the bone graft matures, we place the dental implant post. The implant post is made out of titanium steel and surgically embedded securely into the jawbone. The dental implant is allowed to integrate into the surrounding bone for a few months. The final step is the placement of the crown onto the dental implant. While this may take several months, a dental implant has increased strength and longevity compared to a bridge.

Patients regain their confidence with their smile with implants. Patients often comment implants feel like their natural teeth and allow them to lead a normal life like they had prior when they had all their natural teeth.

The best candidates for dental implants are people missing one or more teeth who have sufficient jawbone density and healthy gums to anchor the implant. Maintaining good oral hygiene and overall health is crucial in ensuring a successful outcome and proper healing. A dental evaluation and imaging will help determine if implants are the right option for you.

The process typically takes several months from start to finish. After the implant is placed, a 3—to 6-month healing period is needed for it to fuse with the bone—a process called osseointegration. Once healed, a custom crown or restoration is attached for a complete, functional smile.

Most patients report only mild discomfort during and after the procedure. Local anesthesia is used during placement, and over-the-counter or prescribed pain relievers are usually sufficient for post-operative care. Any soreness typically subsides within a few days, and the long-term benefits often outweigh the temporary discomfort.

Dental implants are more stable, comfortable, and longer-lasting than traditional dentures or bridges. Unlike dentures, implants are fixed in place and do not shift or require adhesives. They also preserve jawbone density and do not rely on neighboring teeth for support, making them a more conservative option. Implants help maintain facial structure and prevent the sunken appearance that can occur with bone loss. Unlike bridges, they don't require grinding down adjacent healthy teeth. For many patients, implants offer improved speech, easier eating, and better oral health, making them a preferred solution for replacing missing teeth.

Dental implants can endure for 20 years or more, and with the right maintenance, they can last a lifetime. Good oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and avoiding smoking or teeth grinding habits can help ensure longevity. While the crown or bridge may need replacement over time, the implant post is designed to be permanent.

Caring for implants is similar to caring for natural teeth. Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush, floss daily, and use non-abrasive toothpaste. Routine dental cleanings and exams are important to monitor the health of your implant and the surrounding tissue. Avoiding hard or sticky foods can also help protect the restoration.