Dental Implants in Bellevue, WA

Why They're A Smart Choice

• Better appearance: Implants fuse with your jawbone to create a permanent solution.
• Improved speech: Improperly fitting dentures can lead to loose or broken teeth.
• Durability: Implants can last many years.
• Greater comfort: Dental Implants become part of your body. This eliminates discomfort from wearing removable dentures and/or missing one or multiple teeth.
• Easier dining: Implants work exactly like natural teeth.
• Improve self-esteem: Dental implants can improve your smile and help you feel more confident.
• Convenience: Dental implants eliminate the embarrassment and need for messy adhesives to keep dentures in place.

Who Should Consider Them?

A patient must have strong gums and enough bone to support the implant. Patients should also commit to good oral hygiene practices and regular visits to the dentist. Patients who smoke, have heart disease or chronic conditions such as diabetes and/or have had radiation treatment to the head/neck will need to schedule a consultation with our dentist to determine if dental implant treatment is possible.

Evaluation

During the evaluation, our dentist in Bellevue will conduct a thorough dental/radiographic examination and health history before recommending the procedure as the best solution. During your consultations, Dr. Stahl or a recommended Oral and Maxillofacial surgeon in our referral list will sit with you to determine your problem and discuss your needs. Our dedicated team will make the necessary efforts to work more closely with you to ensure your implant surgery is a success.

Procedure

Step 1: Initial Consultation and Planning

Your journey begins with a comprehensive examination during your initial consultation. This step is crucial as it helps us understand your specific needs and evaluate the health of your jawbone and gums. Using advanced imaging techniques, we'll map out a detailed treatment plan. This is also the perfect time for you to ask questions and express any concerns.

Step 2: Preparing Your Mouth

In some cases, preparatory procedures such as tooth extraction or bone grafting may be necessary to create a solid foundation for the implants. If your jawbone isn’t thick enough or is too soft, a bone graft can provide a more stable base for the implant. These steps are essential for ensuring the long-term success of your dental implants.

Step 3: Implant Placement

The placement of the dental implant is a surgical procedure that involves inserting a small titanium post into the jawbone, where the missing tooth once sat. This post serves as a substitute for the tooth root and is designed to integrate with your bone over time - a process known as osseointegration. Local anesthesia is used to ensure your comfort during this procedure, making it a painless experience.

Step 4: Healing and Bone Integration

After the implant is placed, a period of healing is necessary to allow for osseointegration, where the jawbone grows around the implanted metal post, anchoring it securely in the jaw. This phase is crucial and can vary in length from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the individual's healing capacity and the quality of the jawbone.

Step 5: Abutment Placement

Once your implant has fused with your jawbone, the next step is to attach an abutment, which serves as a connector piece to hold your new tooth. To place the abutment, a minor surgery is often required to expose the implant and fit the abutment. After the abutment is placed, a short healing period follows to allow your gums time to heal.

Step 6: Crafting and Fitting the New Tooth

After your gums heal, we'll take impressions of your mouth and remaining teeth to create a custom artificial tooth, called a crown. This crown is designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth in color, shape, and size. Once ready, the crown is attached to the abutment, completing the restoration of your tooth.

Step 7: Follow-Up and Care

After your new tooth is in place, regular dental visits are essential to ensure the health and longevity of your implant. With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. We’ll guide you through the best practices for taking care of your implant, including brushing, flossing, and regular check-ups.