5 Things Dental Patients Should Understand When Considering Dental Implants

Dental implants have become a leading choice among patients and dentists when replacing missing teeth. At Kenner Dental Group, located in Burien, Washington, Dr. William Kenner and his skilled team are dedicated to helping patients make informed decisions about their oral health. If you’re considering dental implants, here are the top five things every patient should know before deciding.

1. Dental Implants Provide A Natural Look and Feel

A primary benefit of professional dental implants is their capability to function and look like natural teeth. The implant’s titanium post integrates with your jawbone, providing stability and durability similar to a natural tooth root. You can speak, chew, and smile with renewed confidence, knowing your implant won’t shift or feel out of place. Additionally, the custom-designed crown ensures the implant blends seamlessly with your natural teeth, enhancing your overall appearance.

2. The Process Takes Time

Dental implants aren’t a same-day procedure, unlike other tooth replacement options. The process involves several stages, including an initial consultation, surgical implant placement, a healing period for osseointegration, and final crown placement. During the healing period, which can take a few months, your jawbone grows around the implant, creating a stable foundation. While this timeline may seem lengthy, the results are long-lasting, making it a worthwhile investment in oral health.

3. A Strong, Healthy Jawbone Is Essential

Dental implants rely on the jawbone for support. If your jawbone has deteriorated due to tooth loss, gum disease, or other factors, you may need a bone graft to build the necessary support. Bone grafting is a routine procedure that helps ensure the implant’s stability and success. During your consultation, Dr. Kenner will evaluate your bone density and overall oral health and discuss any preparatory treatments that may be required.

4. Dental Implants Help Preserve Jawbone Health

When a tooth is lost, the jawbone in that area can weaken due to a lack of stimulation. Dental implants address this issue by simulating the function of a natural tooth root, which helps preserve the integrity of your jawbone. This not only supports your overall oral health but also helps maintain the shape and structure of your face. Without a healthy jawbone, facial sagging and premature aging can occur, which dental implants can help prevent.

5. Good Oral Hygiene Is Critical

Dental implants themselves can’t develop cavities. However, the surrounding gum tissue and bone must remain healthy to support the implant. Brushing regularly (twice daily), flossing daily, and using an antimicrobial mouth rinse can help protect your gums from infection. Regular dental check-ups are also essential to watch the health of your implant and attend to any potential issues early on. Dr. Kenner can recommend tools such as implant-friendly floss or interdental brushes to make at-home care easier.

Dental implants are a significant investment in oral health and quality of life. Understanding these key aspects can help you determine if they’re the right choice for you.

At Kenner Dental Group, we pride ourselves on providing compassionate, personalized care to our patients in Burien and the surrounding areas. If you’re ready to explore dental implants as a solution for your missing teeth, Dr. William Kenner and his team are here to guide you through every step. Call us today at (206) 248-1339 or visit our website at www.kennerdentalgroup.com to schedule your consultation!

Dr. William C. Kenner

Dr. William C. Kenner enjoys using his expertise and experience to help patients achieve optimum oral health.
Having obtained his Bachelor of Science in Cellular and Molecular Biology from the University of Washington, Dr. Kenner went on to earn his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of the Pacific and followed his Oral Surgical Internship at the UCLA Medical Center. Dr. Kenner holds Master Status in the American Dental Society of Anesthesiology and Fellow Status in the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. He is a member of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, Academy of General Dentistry, American Dental Association, Washington State Dental Association, Seattle-King County Dental Society, and several study clubs. He attends many continuing education courses to stay abreast of the latest developments in dentistry and contributes to research journals too.