testimonials

Questions About Dental Implants

Serving Portland, Lake Oswego, & West Linn, Oregon

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are artificial tooth replacements. They can be inserted into the upper or lower jaw to permanently restore missing teeth. By replacing both the tooth and the root, dental implants are much stronger and more durable than bridges and partial dentures, and are quickly becoming a popular alternative to these procedures.

What can dental implants do?

Reduce irritation to the gum tissue associated with dentures
Support and stabilize dentures or fixed bridge work
Reduce movement of dentures, bridges, and/or partial dentures
Anchor crowns to replace missing teeth
Replace dentures and bridges with individual porcelain crowns

What is the procedure like?

Oregon Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Wendling will design the artificial tooth, but will send you to a recommended oral surgeon or periodontist to have the implant placed. However, Dr. Wendling will place the crown herself.

The titanium implant is placed in the jawbone. To allow bone tissue to grow closely around it, and integrate it into your jawbone, several months must pass before the next step. This will make the implant very sturdy and acts as your new tooth root.
A small piece, called an abutment, is added to the top of the implant. It is partly above and below the gum tissue and will hold the new tooth. This step takes only a couple of weeks to recover from as the gums heal around the abutment.
A porcelain tooth that matches the shade and shape of your other teeth is attached to the abutment, and will look as natural as your other teeth.

Am I a candidate for dental implants?

Candidates for dental implants must be in good general and oral health. Candidates must also have adequate bone in the jaw so that the implant is able to be held. Dr. Wendling will evaluate your oral and jaw health to insure that you are a good candidate, before beginning the procedure. If you are not a good candidate for implant dentistry, Dr. Wendling will recommend another form of treatment.

What are the benefits of dental implants over dentures and bridges?

Confidence — Denture wearers often complain about having to deal with glues and pastes that cause a mess. Dental implants are much more secure than dentures, and you will be able to speak and eat in comfort and confidence.
Aesthetic — The attached porcelain teeth look and feel like your own teeth. Because the implant integrates into the structure of your jawbone, they prevent the gum recession and bone loss that results from a missing tooth root. Your jawline and facial structure will be maintained.
Reliable — Dental implants have a high success rate and are an excellent option for tooth replacement.
Tooth-saving — Dental implants leave more of your own teeth untouched, which add to the overall quality of your oral health. A bridge requires enamel to be removed from healthy teeth, so they can support the bridge, and may contribute to gradual loss of tooth health.

If you would like to know more about how dental implants can improve your oral health, and are in the Portland, Lake Oswego, or West Linn, Oregon area, please contact our Cosmetic Dentistry Office serving Portland to set up an initial dental implant consultation with Portland Cosmetic Dentist Dr. Wendling.

(503)636-4069
340 Oswego Pointe Dr, Ste 208
Lake Oswego, OR 97034