Dental Implants

A single implant can be placed simultaneously when a tooth is extracted, thus preserving the surrounding jaw bone. This is the most conservative tooth replacement treatment, as there is no compromise to the surrounding dentition. When restored by the experienced team at East Portland Dentistry, it is often difficult to tell an implant from a natural tooth.

An implant-supported bridge can restore chewing function and esthetics when multiple teeth are missing. Two implants can be utilized to replace three teeth. In this way, costs are minimized, but strength is preserved. Implant bridges look and feel like natural teeth and prevent the jaw bone from resorption in that area. Restorations can be done in phases over time, unlike dentures and hybrid restorations.

Many people have dentures that don’t stay in place. One of the most cost-effective ways to stabilize a denture is with implants. A qualified oral surgeon can place 2 or 4 anchoring implants into the jaw bone. After a healing period, Dr. Arend can place snap-like attachments that anchor the denture, stopping lifting and movement of the teeth.  Because the jaw bone deteriorates after tooth loss, implants can be a healthy way to slow down jaw bone loss.

If losing many teeth in the arch becomes necessary, a fixed implant hybrid prosthesis is a great option. Instead of replacing an arch of 14 teeth with 14 implants, often our ASIRD team can make a prosthesis that anchors to the jaw bone.  This is a safe and effective way to give back your whole arch of teeth, fixed in place, with only six implants. It is not only cost-effective but looks and feels a lot like your natural teeth (without cavities or periodontal disease!)

For patients missing one or more natural teeth, dental implants offer several advantages that include:

• Implants act like natural teeth. Once fitted with a dental crown, implants fully restore your eating ability with minimal problems and discomfort. Most of Dr. Arend’s patients can’t tell the difference between their natural teeth and a dental implant. 
• Implants prevent bone loss. Without the presence of a tooth, the jawbone begins to deteriorate due to a lack of stimulation. If no implant replaces the missing tooth, that area of the jaw will lose 25% of its bone mass within the first year. That bone loss may continue year after year until the foundation of your oral health is in jeopardy. 
• Implants keep teeth stable. When a hole opens in your smile, teeth that neighbor that hole will attempt to slowly shift into the vacant spot. This creates a cascading effect that can lead to future permanent tooth loss. An implant's placement helps maintain the integrity of your smile and can prevent other teeth from wandering. 
• Implants prevent premature aging. Tooth loss can cause your face to sag and appear hollow-looking. Collapse of the lower third of the face slowly reduces the distance between the tip of your nose and the point of your chin. This effect can make patients appear far older than their actual age.
• Implants reduce your risk of gum disease. Food particles and bacteria can easily accumulate in areas of the mouth missing teeth, thereby increasing your risk of gum disease.