Dental Implants for Edmonds, WA

Understanding the makeup of a dental implant reveals why it is a superior choice for replacing missing teeth. As pictured, there are three parts to a dental implant:

• Crown—A custom-made, durable porcelain tooth is securely attached to the abutment and fills the space left by your missing tooth. Your crown will match your natural teeth to look and feel like a real tooth.
• Abutment—This titanium piece connects the implant root to the crown.
• Implant Root—A bio-compatible, titanium screw is placed on the jawbone, and with time, it fuses to become a permanent part of your bone. This process is known as osseointegration. This method provides long-lasting stability and prevents bone deterioration associated with tooth loss.

Although the process sounds frightening, in the hands of a skilled and gentle dental surgeon like Dr. Youssef, your dental implant procedure will not be painful. What can you expect?

• A local anesthetic is given (usually about the same amount as a filing), and a small incision is made into the gums where the implant will be placed.
• Once the implant is delivered, your gums will be sutured.
• You will be fitted with a temporary crown while your implant heals for roughly 2-4 months.
• After your dental implant heals, the abutment will be attached to the implant root. Your permanent restoration will be created based on an impression made of the abutment.

If you are anxious about the implant procedure, we offer sedation options to make you more comfortable.

The primary advantage of dental implants is the stability created as the implant root or screw fuses with your jawbone. Just like it takes time for a bone break to heal, it will take on average 2-4 months for your dental implant to become part of your jawbone. During the healing process, you will wear a temporary crown so you can eat and drink normally, and never have to go without a beautiful smile!

Most people think that dental implants are more expensive than alternative methods of tooth replacement, like bridges or dentures. Although dental implants can carry a higher initial cost in comparison to other solutions, a patient needs to consider the long-term cost benefits. Dental implants can save you from future expenses such as:

• Problems associated with jaw bone deterioration which causes gum shrinkage and a sunken-looking appearance.
• Decay that typically occurs to adjacent teeth securing a bridge. Since these healthy teeth need to be prepared to secure the bridge, they are more vulnerable to future decay, nerve damage, and root canals.
• Dental implants can last a lifetime without extensive future repairs, replacements, and procedures while bridges need replacing after 10 years.

The condition of your teeth, gums, and overall health will impact the cost of your dental implant procedure. If you have lost significant jawbone density or have been diagnosed with periodontal disease additional procedures may be necessary. Dr. Youssef can provide a cost estimate for your treatment after your free initial consultation.