Dental Implants in Skagit County

What are dental implants?

Dental implant-supported dental restorations mimic the structure and function of your natural teeth. The root of the tooth is replaced by an implant resembling a screw or post to support the visible portion of the replacement tooth, which may be a dental crown or prosthetic. The dental implant is made of either titanium or ceramic, which are biocompatible and commonly used in joint replacement surgery. Dental restorations may be ceramic, porcelain, or metal.

Dental implants are the only permanent, stable solution for missing teeth. Dr. Bal surgically implants the titanium or ceramic post in the jawbone during a procedure that can take anywhere from 30 minutes to three hours, depending on how many teeth are being replaced, the type of restoration, and the complexity of the surgery. Time is needed for the jawbone to heal and fuse with the implant. This bond creates a stable foundation for the restoration(s).

Once the area is sufficiently healed, an abutment (support post) is attached to the top of the implant, and a dental restoration or crown is placed on the abutment. Depending on how many teeth are missing and your chosen restoration option, we can attach a temporary restoration until the jawbone is healed.

Who is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

If you are in good health and have one or more missing teeth, you may be a good candidate for dental implants. However, if you have current issues such as cavities or periodontal disease, you must address them before surgery. Your gums and teeth must be healthy to prevent complications such as infection. Once you have addressed any issues, you should be ready to replace your missing teeth.

Most adults can get dental implants as long as their oral cavity, teeth, and soft tissues are fully developed. Age is not a consideration – patients have received dental implants when they are in their 80s and 90s with great success.

If you are a smoker or consume a lot of alcohol, we will evaluate you individually. Excessive smoking and alcohol can cause the disintegration of the jawbone and interfere with proper healing. If you are a smoker or heavy drinker, it is best to stop both for several months before your initial consultation with Dr. Bal to increase the chance of getting implants.

You may not be eligible for implants if you have certain medical conditions. Uncontrolled diabetes, cancer, radiation treatments, certain autoimmune disorders, and hemophilia or other bleeding disorders may disqualify you because they interfere with the healing process and could lead to infection or excessive bleeding.

A consultation with Dr. Bal is the best way to determine which type of dental implant will give you the greatest chance of success and the desired results.