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Dr. Steven Lind, DMD
PH. 503-566-7000
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Implant Dentist Portland, Oregon
Dental implants offer many advantages over other methods of tooth replacement, and should be considered by anyone looking for a permanent solution for missing teeth. Dental implants are a restorative dentistry technique that provides a more natural fit and appearance than other options, and can be used to replace one or more missing natural teeth. Another advantage is that dental implants do not require that the body of adjacent teeth be reduced as bridges do. By preserving these nearby teeth, other potential dental problems can be avoided. Dental implants also preserve bone in the area surrounding the missing tooth or teeth. Other methods of tooth replacement do not stimulate the bone or prevent it from being lost. If you are interested in dental implants, contact our Portland-area office. Dr. Steven Lind will discuss your implant dentistry options.
- The Dental Implants Procedure
- What Can Be Done with Dental Implants?
- Dental Implant-supported Dentures
- Are Dental Implants for Me?
Cosmetic Dentistry Implant Procedure
First, a small titanium post is precisely anchored into the patient’s jawbone. The post acts as the tooth’s root. Another titanium piece, called an “abutment,” is then attached to this artificial root. After the implanted anchor has completely healed, a porcelain crown is then cemented atop the abutment. Only the crown is visible, as the implant looks, feels, and functions as a natural tooth.
Advantages of Dental Implants
The advantagesof dental implants are so great, that most cosmetic dentists recommend implants over any of the other, more traditional treatments. As long as you have a sufficient healthy jawbone structure surrounding the missing tooth, you are most likely an ideal candidate for implants. Here are a few of their many advantages:
- Implants vs. dentures — Dentures can be clumsy, cause pain, and often need replacing. Implants are permanent and require the same care and maintenance that natural teeth do. Furthermore, dentures do nothing to preserve the health of your existing jawbone structure. Implants help maintain your healthy jawbone, preventing tooth shifting and tooth loss.
- Implants vs. bridges — A typical dental bridge requires the shaving down of adjacent healthy teeth. Implants do not require any preparation of adjacent teeth. Bridges also do little to preserve surrounding jawbone tissue, which will eventually lead to further dental complications. Nearly all bridges will need replacement eventually. This requires a minimum of two crown replacements and multiple dental visits. While the initial cost of implants may seem high, you will be better off choosing implants to avoid the high costs of crown replacement.
- Bridges also complicate the normal brushing and flossing routine. Bridges require a “threader” be used when flossing. Since the bridge itself prevents floss from reaching where it needs to go, the floss must be threaded underneath the bridge in order to floss around the gum line. Implants can be cared for just like a natural tooth, with the added advantage of not being susceptible to decay.
A consultation with our qualified, experienced cosmetic dentist will be necessary to determine if dental implants are right for you. Implants are often done in conjunction with other treatments, which may include bridges if multiple teeth are missing.
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What Can Be Done with Dental Implants?
At our Portland office we use implant dentistry to restore complete smiles for patients with missing teeth. Dental implants look beautiful and feel natural, allowing the mouth and jaw to function naturally so that you can speak and chew with confidence. Dental implants can help repair almost anyone’s smile, whether natural teeth have been lost due to injury or disease.
Implants can replace:
- A single tooth – If you are missing a single tooth, a dental implant and porcelain restoration can replace it.
- Several teeth – Dental implant-supported bridges can replace several missing teeth. In this type of implant dentistry, all of your missing teeth will be replaced along with some of the roots for stability and support.
- All of your teeth – If you are missing all of your teeth, implant-supported dentures can replace them. Using a few titanium implants, full dentures can be snapped into place, giving you a full secure smile.
Dental Implant-supported Dentures
Dental implant-supported dentures can be an ideal solution for current denture-wearers. Dental implants can anchor full or partial removable dentures into place, providing greater security, retention, and comfort. Dental implant-supported dentures put less strain on surrounding teeth than do partial dentures. Partials are typically affixed to adjacent teeth with metal clasps. The stress inflicted onto the natural teeth by these attachments can lead to tooth decay or even tooth loss. Using dental implants to anchor partial dentures greatly reduces strain on the other teeth. In addition, patients do not have to deal with unsightly attachment clasps.
Traditional full dentures cause their own set of difficulties. Over time, denture-wearers suffer bone loss and a decrease in salivary flow. Both of these factors can undermine the integrity of the denture's shape and function. Dental implants can provide denture support and prevent bone loss.
Learn more about our Dental Implant proceedure »
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Are Dental Implants Right for Me?
Implant dentistry has become one of the most common oral surgeries offered. Safe and proven to be successful, there are several factors used to determine whether the procedure is right for you. Patients considering dental implants should:
- Be in good overall health
- Have a strong jawbone
- Have healthy gums
- Remain committed to maintaining good oral hygiene
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Dental Implants by Art of Smile Making
We encourage you to contact our Portland-area practice if you are interested in exploring how implant dentistry can give you a full, healthy smile. Dental implants are a safe and secure alternative to traditional methods of tooth replacement and our skilled dentists can help you determine whether you are a candidate. Arrange an implant dentistry consultation today to learn more.
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