Planting Implants
People love to plant. We plant trees and flowers, fruits and vegetables. We even plant our feet when we firmly wish to stand our ground. Planting yields life and vitality. At East Portland Dentistry, implants are an advanced dental technique that essentially “plant” teeth. Dental implants restore the natural beauty of a full set of teeth and preserve oral health. If you’re looking for a dentist in Portland dedicated to cultivating beautiful, strong, and healthy teeth, look no further than East Portland.
Implants are titanium posts that dentists surgically place in the upper or lower jaw. The posts, like roots, anchor replacement teeth by fusing with the jawbone. Dental implants eliminate slipping and shifting of single teeth, bridges, and dentures. Many patients choose implants because they are self-conscious about missing teeth, concerned about how missing teeth affects speaking or chewing, or they find dentures uncomfortable or awkward. Implants provide the foundation for replacement teeth, providing stability, security, and a natural feel.
At East Portland Dentistry, we offer single tooth implants and implant-supported bridges and dentures. A single tooth implant is a minor surgical procedure that simply replaces the missing tooth’s roots and does not involve treating surrounding teeth. A certified oral surgeon surgically inserts the post into the jawbone. You would then return to our office to have a custom-made crown (replacement tooth) attached to the post. The crown is specially crafted to blend with other teeth in terms of size, shape, and color. Should several teeth be missing, East Portland dentists use a bridge to re-root some of the teeth. Like a single tooth implant, a bridge implant does not require support from adjacent teeth. When patients are missing all of their teeth, we can provide an implant-supported denture to restore chewing function. All procedures leave patients with rooted teeth that, with proper care, may last a lifetime.
The length of time required for treatment varies depending on the patient’s oral health and healing capacity. Implants are highly effective because the bone actually grows around the implant, holding it securely in place. This process is called osseointegration, which means “combines with the bone.” Some patients might need to wait several months until the implant is completely integrated before the dentist attaches the replacement tooth or teeth. Other patients, however, can have the replacement tooth inserted the same day. Should a waiting period be required, we may be able to provide temporary crowns. Your East Portland dentist will discuss anticipated length of treatment prior to recommending implants.
The benefits of dental implants are extensive. Cosmetically, implants restore natural tooth appearance, helping patients feel less self-conscious about their smiles. Functionally, implants eliminate the need for dental adhesives, provide increased comfort, improve speech, and heighten chewing function and taste. Medically, implants ensure tooth stability, eliminate bone loss, and preserve the structure of surrounding teeth. Dental experts highly recommend dental implants for qualifying patients and we would love to talk to you to determine if you’re a candidate.
An exceptional dentist in Portland is hard to come by, but that’s what you’ll find at East Portland Dentistry. We invite you to plant your trust in our esteemed dentists. Our practice grows and thrives upon patient satisfaction. Long established in the Portland community, East Portland Dentistry will serve all of your dental implant needs.