Dental Implants – Burien, WA
The Root-to-Crown Tooth Replacement Solution
At Seahurst Smiles of Burien, Dr. Lam is fully trained to replace missing teeth using dental implants in one convenient dental office location. Instead of relying on traditional tooth replacement prosthetics that don’t provide the same benefits, we offer this superior alternative that allows for a better quality of life. We’ll remain by your side the entire time, making sure your questions and concerns are answered and addressed. If you think you might benefit from dental implants in Burien, call us to schedule a consultation.
Why Choose Seahurst Smiles of Burien for Dental Implants?
- Start-to-Finish Dental Implant Placement and Restoration
- CT/Cone Beam Scanner Used for Improved Treatment Planning
- Financing Available to Ensure Affordability
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are titanium posts that look like screws and mimic teeth roots. They are surgically implanted into the jawbone and fuse over time to create a solid foundation for the customized restoration (i.e., crown, bridge, denture) when placed. Offering optimal stability and functionality, they are known to last 30 years or longer with proper maintenance, and they look completely natural, blending in with your existing smile.
The 4-Step Dental Implant Process
There are four steps every patient must follow during dental implant placement: initial consultation, dental implant surgery, osseointegration, and final delivery of the restoration. Although no two patients are alike, each phase must be completed to ensure optimal results. Here’s what you can expect.
Initial Dental Implant Consultation
The first step when getting dental implants is attending a consultation. During this time, Dr. Lam will use a 3D scan to determine your candidacy and if you need preliminary treatment. This could include gum disease treatment, bone grafting, or other treatments. Once your jaw and gums are in good shape, we can move onto planning the rest of your treatment.
Dental Implant Surgery
Getting dental implants requires a surgical procedure. First, the area is numbed with a local anesthetic. Next, an incision is made into the gum tissue. Then, Dr. Lam will surgically place your implant(s) along the jawbone. The gums are then closed up, and protective caps are placed over the ends of the implants to keep them safe over the next few months.
Dental Implant Osseointegration & Abutment
You’ll spend 3-6 months recovering. During this time, the “osseointegration” process takes place. This is when the implants fuse to your jawbone, essentially becoming a part of your mouth. This is what makes dental implants so stable, comfortable, and long-lasting. Once they have healed, you will need to undergo another minor procedure in which abutments will be attached to the ends of your implants. Impressions are also taken and sent to the dental lab so your final restoration can be made.
Delivery of Dental Implant Restorations
Once your restoration is complete, we will let you know so you can return to our office. Your crown, bridge, or denture will be secured into place. If everything looks and feels great, you will be able to leave the practice showing off your new and improved smile!
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer endless benefits for patients seeking tooth replacement. Some of these include:
- Greater jawbone stimulation
- Improved appearance and boosted confidence
- Reduced risk for systemic issues caused by tooth loss
- Ability to eat without fear of prosthetic slippage
- Longer-lasting implants that can remain in place for 30+ years
- Cost-effective and can save you money in the long run
Who Dental Implants Can Help
Most adults dealing with tooth loss can receive dental implants. However, you must undergo an initial consultation with Dr. Lam. During your discussion, he will not only determine if you require preliminary treatments, but he’ll also go over the versatility of these prosthetics and how they can replace all types of tooth loss, including:
Missing Single Tooth
A single dental implant can be inserted into the gap and topped with a metal abutment. Once your customized crown is created, it can be bonded into place to restore the entire root-to-crown structure. This allows for greater functionality when chewing, speaking, and smiling.
Missing Multiple Teeth
We can place two dental implant posts into the exterior sockets and attach a customized dental bridge over the tops of the implants. This allows for a stable and durable prosthetic that eliminates the need to alter healthy teeth (unlike dental bridges).
Missing All of Your Teeth
Instead of resorting to traditional dentures, we can insert between four and eight dental implant posts along the jawbone before placing a custom-made denture on top. This improves functionality and durability for a longer-lasting smile, and it continues to stimulate the jawbone, minimizing facial sagging.
Understanding the Cost of Dental Implants
The cost of dental implants in Burien is not the same for everyone. Placing a single post is much less expensive than receiving an implant denture. No matter your situation, our team at Seahurst Smiles of Burien is here to ensure your treatment remains affordable. We’ll discuss the cost of care during your initial consultation and file a claim with your insurance company. You can also enroll in flexible financing to stay within your budget.