Implants

When you lose teeth, it doesn't just change how you look; it can also change how you talk, eat, and interact with other people. If you lose one or more teeth, whether it's because of gum disease, an injury, or a birth defect, your bones will keep losing more teeth, your teeth will move, and even your face will fall apart if you don't do anything about it.

This is why implant dentistry is now the best way to fix teeth's shape and function and keep them stable for a long time. A dental implants spokane WA that is put in the right place is more than just a cosmetic fix; it is a biological and mechanical solution that will help keep your mouth healthy for years to come.

Why Implants Are Important

The alveolar bone around a missing tooth stops getting the mechanical stimulus it needs to stay healthy. This causes resorption, which makes bone shrink. This leads to:

  • Changes in facial structure
  • Movement of nearby teeth into the empty space
  • Difficulty in daily cleaning
  • Bite misalignment

Traditional bridges or dentures help, but they rely on other teeth or soft tissue and often do not stop bone loss. Dental implants are attached directly to the jawbone, acting like natural roots and preventing further deterioration.

What Makes Dental Implants Different

Dental implants work because of a biological process called osseointegration, where the implant surface bonds with the bone.

  • They can support crowns, bridges, or full prostheses
  • Look and function like natural teeth
  • Are customized using advanced materials like zirconia and lithium disilicate
  • Use CBCT scans and digital planning for precise placement

Choosing the Right Method

Implants can replace a single tooth or support more complex treatments such as:

  • Single-tooth replacement
  • Implant-supported bridges
  • Full-arch restorations (All-on-4®) – often possible without bone grafting

Implant-supported restorations offer better chewing, speaking, and long-term health compared to removable prostheses or fixed bridges.

Things to Think About Before You Proceed

Although implants offer major benefits, they are not always the right choice. Important factors include:

  • Adequate bone volume (grafting may be needed)
  • Systemic conditions like diabetes or smoking
  • Active periodontal disease (must be treated first)
  • Long-term risks like peri-implantitis

A prosthodontic specialist evaluates medical history, anatomy, and functional goals to create a predictable, safe implant plan.

Long-Term Help

Dental implants require proper maintenance, similar to natural teeth:

  • Brush twice daily with a soft-bristle brush
  • Use fluoride toothpaste (stannous fluoride is preferred)
  • Clean between teeth and implants daily
  • Attend regular professional checkups

With proper care, implant success rates exceed 90% over ten years or more.

In Short

Dental implants do more than fill gaps—they restore balance, confidence, and long-term oral health. When placed correctly by prosthodontic specialists, they are one of the most successful modern dental treatments.

To make an appointment and learn more about whether implants are right for you, call (509) 796-0885.