Dental Implants in Yakima, WA

Dental implants are changing the way people live. They are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth which look, feel and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything, knowing that their teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. Patients with dental implants can smile with confidence.

What are Dental Implants?

The implants themselves are tiny titanium screws, which are inserted into the jawbone where teeth are missing. These metal anchors act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jawbone. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. Small posts are then attached to the implant, which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.

Implants also help preserve facial structure, preventing bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.

The Surgical Procedure

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within your jawbone. For three to six months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums gradually bonding with the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures or a flipper (prosthetic tooth) and eat a soft diet during this time. While this process is occurring, your dentist is forming new replacement teeth.

After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. Dr. Tew will uncover the implants and attach the small posts, which will act as anchors for the artificial teeth. These posts protrude through the gums. When the artificial teeth are placed, these posts will not be seen.

The entire procedure usually takes six to eight months. Most patients experience minimal disruption in their daily life. Once the implants are in place, they will serve you well for many years if you take care of them and keep your mouth healthy. This means taking the time for good oral hygiene (brushing and flossing) and keeping regular appointments with your dental specialists.

Who actually performs the implant placement?

Implants are a team effort between an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon and a Restorative Dentist. Dr. Tew performs any necessary tooth extractions or bone grafting as well as the actual implant surgery, while the restorative dentist (your dentist) fits and makes the permanent prosthesis. Your dentist will also make any temporary prosthesis needed during the implant process.

Dr. Tew performs in-office implant surgery in a hospital-style operating suite.  In-patient hospital implant surgery is available for patients who have special medical or anesthetic needs or for those who need extensive bone grafting from the jaw, hip or tibia. The majority of dental implant and bone grafting procedures can be performed in the office under local anesthesia, with or without general anesthesia.

What types of prostheses are available?

A single prosthesis (crown) is used to replace one missing tooth – each prosthetic tooth attaches to its own implant. A partial prosthesis (fixed bridge) can replace two or more teeth.  The number of implants for a fixed bridge depends on the number of implants needed to provide proper stability.  Recently, implants have become popular as anchors for removable prosthetics (over dentures) as well.  One or two implants can be placed on each side of a denture and fitted with a ball or bar which locks into a sockets on the prosthesis.  These implants hold the denture in place and reduce slipping or rubbing.  The dentures can still be removed easily by the patient when desired.

Why would you select dental implants over more traditional types of restorations?

Dental Implants can greatly improve your quality of life. When you lose several teeth – whether it’s a new situation or something you have lived with for years – chances are you have never fully adjusted to losing such a vital part of yourself. Dental implants can be your doorway to renewed self-confidence and peace of mind.

1. Dental implants are convenient because they function the same as real teeth. They do not need to be removed for meals or cleaning and they do not slip or shift uncomfortably like normal dentures.
2. Dental implants preserve the facial contours and prevent bone loss. Without something to preserve the socket, bone will continue to erode and eventually alter the bone structure in the face.
3. Dental implants protect the structure of surrounding teeth. Dental implants help remaining teeth stay in position and increase their stability.
4. Like natural teeth, dental implants will last for many years with proper oral hygiene.

Are you a candidate for implants?

If you are considering implants, contact our office for a thorough dental examination and review of your medical and dental history. Dr. Tew will work with you to determine how to make implants work for you.