Dental Implants

What is a dental implant restoration?

A dental implant restoration is used to replace missing or broken teeth that are beyond restoring. Whether you’ve lost a tooth through an injury, periodontal disease, or for another reason, the hole it leaves behind can have more than just an aesthetic impact. When you lose a tooth, the bone underneath that tooth, which reaches down into your jawbone, begins to erode, which can result in a sunken appearance and hamper the overall function of your teeth.

As a result, an implant is far more than a cosmetic fix. Implants adhere to your natural bone structure, mimicking your natural teeth perfectly, allowing you full use of your mouth.

How do dental implants work?

Dr. Barron at Brilliant Smiles Bellevue performs a dental implant restoration procedure using the following steps:

Fixture

The fixture is essentially the new tooth root system. The device resembles a screw or cylinder, and Dr. Barron places it directly into your jawbone, where it will be left for 3-6 months to give it time to fuse to your bone. This step is critical in ensuring that the anchor for your new artificial tooth is secure.

Abutment

After fusion occurs, Dr. Barron places a metal post called an abutment on the fixture. The abutment acts as an extension and is the foundation on which your new tooth is placed. During this visit, the doctor takes an impression so that your dental crown can be fabricated.

Dental Crown

This is the final step where Dr. Barron attaches the replacement tooth to the abutment. After attaching the crown, he ensures that your bite is correct and that everything looks good.

With the final crown in place, it won’t take long before your ability to smile, chew food, and speak are completely restored.

How long do dental implants last?

If you take care of your implant properly, it can last a lifetime. And your new tooth doesn’t require any special care—you treat it as you do your other teeth with:

• Regular brushing
• Flossing
• Rinsing