Will getting dental implants hurt?

No, it will not. We will perform your procedure under local anesthesia, so you shouldn't feel any pain during the surgery. You may experience some discomfort or swelling afterward, but this can be managed with over-the-counter medicine.

I have gum disease. Will I be able to get dental implants?

Any signs of gum disease should be treated before a dental implant placement. If you have gum disease, Dr. Kirk can work with you to improve your oral health before proceeding.

How long will my procedure take?

While actual surgery to place the implant is relatively short, it takes time for your implant to fuse with the jawbone before your final restoration can be placed. As a result, your procedure will take several months to complete.

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Love Your Smile Again

More and more of our patients are discovering the life-changing benefits of dental implants. Dental implants are designed to mimic the structure and function of natural teeth, providing a strong, durable, and aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional tooth replacement options like dentures and bridges. It’s a smile that not only feels and looks completely natural but it eliminates the worry of slipping and other discomfort!

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Why Dental Implants Are Superior

Dental Implants are considered the gold standard for replacing missing teeth:

Improved function: Implants restore chewing ability and speech clarity more effectively than dentures or bridges.
Enhanced aesthetics: Implants look and feel like natural teeth, providing a more natural appearance.
Durability: Implants are highly durable and can last for many years with proper care.

What To Expect During Your Visit

Your journey starts with a comprehensive consultation where Dr. Kirk will assess your oral health and discuss your smile goals. Once she has decided if you’re a suitable candidate, we will move forward to your next appointment for the procedure.
During your procedure, the implant, which is a titanium screw, will be carefully placed into your jawbone.
After the implant is placed, a process called osseointegration occurs, which is where the implant gradually fuses with your jawbone to create a sturdy foundation.
Once it has fully integrated after several months, you will visit our office again to have an abutment attached, followed by the placement of your custom-made crown.

Who’s a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Most people with good oral health and adequate bone density in their jaws are suitable candidates for dental implants! You do, however, also need healthy gums and teeth free from gum disease or tooth decay. Since smoking can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of implant failure, Dr. Kirk encourages all patients to quit smoking, at least for the procedure and recovery.

The Three Parts of a Dental Implant

The implant: This is a titanium screw-like post that is surgically placed into the jawbone to act as the root of the missing tooth.
The abutment: This is a small connector that attaches to the implant and extends through the gums.
The crown: This is the artificial tooth that is placed on top of the abutment, restoring the appearance and function of the missing tooth.

Your Recovery Process

The recovery process after dental implant surgery is generally smooth, with minimal discomfort. Here are some tips for a successful recovery:

Follow the post-operative instructions given to you by Dr. Kirk.
Use over-the-counter pain relievers to help manage any discomfort.
Brush and floss gently around the implant site, but avoid the area of the surgery.
Do not smoke, as it will negatively impact your healing.
Attend your dental checkups for Dr. Kirk to monitor the health of your implants.

Alternative Tooth-Loss Treatments for Dental Implants

Dentures: Removable appliances that replace a full or partial set of teeth. Dentures can be uncomfortable, affect speech, and may not be as aesthetically pleasing as implants.

Bridges: Fixed restorations that replace missing teeth by spanning the gap between two adjacent teeth. Bridges require the grinding down of healthy teeth to support the restoration.

Partial dentures: Removable appliances that replace multiple missing teeth. Partial dentures can be uncomfortable, affect speech, and may not be as stable as implants.