Dental Implants

When you lose a tooth, you may find yourself smiling less or avoiding certain foods because it hurts to chew. Depending on the location of the missing tooth, you may not be able to speak clearly. This all adds up to frustration, discomfort, and a reduced quality of life.

At North Seattle Smiles, we are pleased to offer dental implants, the healthiest option to replace missing teeth. With an implanted tooth, you can speak, chew, and smile comfortably and confidently. 

Why Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a long-term tooth replacement that includes an artificial tooth root placed in your jawbone. Removable dentures sit on top of your gums, so they’re prone to shifting and moving. A dental bridge fills the space left by a missing tooth, but it’s necessary to alter adjacent teeth to anchor it in place.

Offers Support for Bridges and Dentures

Dental implants are the ideal solution because they are supported by the bone in your jaw. When we pair dental implants with dentures, you'll experience the best of both worlds—the comfort and function of a complete set of natural teeth and confidence knowing your dentures aren’t going to move unexpectedly.

Prevents Jawbone Loss

When you lose a tooth, you lose the root that once stabilized neighboring teeth and stimulated the jawbone to stay strong and healthy. Gradually, the bone starts to break down, and surrounding teeth start to shift into the missing tooth space. 

Without teeth to support your lips and cheeks, your face can look aged or sunken, and if bone loss continues, you may even lose more teeth. However, a dental implant placed in your acts like a natural tooth root, preventing bone loss and stabilizing remaining teeth. 

Steps to Getting a Dental Implant

Initial Consultation

We will schedule a consultation for you with our Seattle implant dentist, Dr. Julian Nguyen, so he can perform an exam and see if you're a good candidate for the procedure. This will involve taking x-rays to assess your general oral health and bone density in your jaw.

Placing Your Dental Implant

A titanium implant acts as an artificial tooth root and is placed surgically in your jaw. We thoroughly numb the area first so you can have a comfortable, pain-free procedure.  

Implant Healing

Over the next 3–6 months, a process called osseointegration occurs, where the implant heals and fuses with the bone and tissue around it. This provides a sturdy, stable foundation for the replacement tooth or teeth we attach to it.

Placing Your Tooth Restoration

After the implant integrates fully, we attach a piece called an abutment to connect the implant post to your new restoration. Depending on how many teeth we are replacing, your restoration may be a dental crown, implant bridge, or implant denture. 

Is a Dental Implant the Right Tooth Replacement for You?

Choosing dental implants is a big decision, and we’re here to answer all your questions! Please call North Seattle Smiles at (206) 362-6116 to schedule a consultation appointment with our Seattle, WA, dentist to get started. We proudly serve all surrounding neighborhoods, including Bitterlake, Broadview, Northgate, Greenwood, and beyond.