What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into your jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. Unlike dentures or bridges, implants fuse with your bone through a process called osseointegration, creating a secure foundation for replacement teeth. This integration gives implants their strength and durability, allowing them to function just like your remaining teeth. The implant itself consists of three main segments:- The titanium post that anchors into your jawbone
- An abutment that connects to the post
- A custom-made crown that looks and feels like a real tooth
Benefits of Choosing Dental Implants
Dental implants offer advantages that other tooth replacement options simply cannot match. They look, feel, and function like your real teeth, allowing you to eat your favorite meals without worry. You won’t need to remove them for cleaning or soak them overnight; you simply brush and floss as you normally would.
The permanence of dental implants means you can speak confidently without fear of slipping dentures or clicking sounds. They won’t shift when you laugh, eat, or talk, giving you the freedom to enjoy social situations without self-consciousness. This stability also makes implants more comfortable than traditional dentures, which can cause irritation and require frequent adjustments.
From a health perspective, dental implants protect your remaining teeth. Unlike traditional bridges, which require grinding down adjacent healthy teeth for support, implants stand independently. This contributes to better long-term oral health.
The Dental Implant Process at Lumin8 Dentistry
Your dental implant procedure starts with a consultation, during which Dr. Carrington evaluates your oral health and discusses your goals. Using our state-of-the-art digital imaging technology, we create a detailed plan tailored to your specific conditions. We’ll explain each step of the process and answer all your questions, ensuring you feel comfortable and prepared before we begin.Implant Placement
The first surgical phase involves placing the titanium implant post into your jawbone. We perform this procedure in our comfortable Lakewood office, and most patients report minimal discomfort. After placement, the implant needs sufficient time to fuse with your bone; a process that typically takes several months. During this healing period, we may provide you with a temporary restoration to help you maintain your appearance and function.Abutment Placement
Once osseointegration is complete, we attach the abutment to your implant. This small connector piece serves as the anchor for your final restoration. After your gums heal around the abutment, we take impressions to create your custom crown.Crown Placement
The final step involves placing your permanent crown to complete your new smile. Throughout the entire process, our team delivers clear instructions for care and remains available to address any concerns.Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Most adults who have lost at least one tooth make good candidates for dental implants.Sufficient Bone Density
Ideal candidates have ample jawbone density to support the implant, healthy gums, and good overall health. If you’ve been missing teeth for some time, you may have experienced bone loss, but that doesn’t automatically disqualify you. At Lumin8 Dentistry, we offer bone grafting procedures to rebuild your jawbone and make dental implants possible.Overall Health
Your overall health plays an influential role in determining candidacy. Certain conditions, like active gum disease or uncontrolled diabetes, may require management before we proceed with implant placement. If you smoke, we’ll discuss how tobacco use affects healing and long-term implant success. However, even patients with these conditions often become suitable candidates once their health concerns are addressed.Age
Age is rarely a barrier to dental implants. Whether you’re in your thirties or your eighties, if you have good health and adequate bone structure, you may benefit from implants.Restore Your Smile with Dental Implants at Lumin8 Dentistry
Dental implants are more than just a tooth replacement option; they’re an investment in your quality of life, your health, and your confidence. At Lumin8 Dentistry, Dr. Carrington’s advanced training and commitment to patient-centered care ensure you receive exceptional results in a comfortable, welcoming environment. Our practice combines cutting-edge technology with genuine compassion, creating an experience designed around your needs. Located in the heart of Lakewood, WA, we make quality dental care accessible and convenient. We work with most insurance providers and offer flexible financing to help make your dental implants affordable. Don’t let missing teeth hold you back from living your best life. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and discover how dental implants can transform your smile.FAQs About Dental Implants
How much do dental implants cost in Lakewood, WA?
The cost of dental implants varies depending on factors such as the need for bone grafting, the number of implants placed, and your specific treatment plan. At Lumin8 Dentistry, we work with many dental insurance plans and offer financing through Cherry to help make implants more affordable. Dr. Jun Carrington provides a detailed cost estimate during your consultation so there are no surprises. Contact our office to learn more about pricing for your individual case.How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are designed to be a long-term solution for missing teeth and can last 25 years or more with proper care. The titanium post that fuses with your jawbone through osseointegration is built to last a lifetime in most cases, while the crown on top may need replacement after 10 to 15 years due to normal wear. Maintaining good oral hygiene, attending regular checkups at our Lakewood office, and avoiding habits like grinding or chewing on hard objects all help extend the lifespan of your implants.Does getting a dental implant hurt?
Most patients at Lumin8 Dentistry report that dental implant placement is more comfortable than they expected. Dr. Carrington uses local anesthesia to numb the treatment area completely, and sedation dentistry options are available for patients who experience dental anxiety. After the procedure, mild soreness and swelling are normal and typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. Most patients return to their regular activities within a day or two following implant placement.Am I too old for dental implants?
Age is rarely a barrier to dental implant treatment. Whether you are in your 30s or your 80s, the key factors for candidacy are adequate jawbone density, healthy gums, and good overall health. At Lumin8 Dentistry in Lakewood, WA, Dr. Carrington evaluates each patient individually using advanced digital imaging to determine if implants are the right option. If bone loss has occurred, bone grafting procedures can often rebuild the jawbone and make implants possible.What is the difference between dental implants and dentures?
Dental implants are permanently anchored into your jawbone and function like natural teeth, while dentures are removable appliances that sit on top of your gums. Implants prevent the bone loss that occurs after tooth loss, preserve your facial structure, and eliminate concerns about slipping or clicking during meals and conversations. Dentures are a more affordable initial option but may require frequent adjustments and adhesives. Dr. Carrington can help you decide which option best fits your needs and lifestyle during a consultation at our Lakewood office.How long does the dental implant process take from start to finish?
The complete dental implant process at Lumin8 Dentistry typically takes three to six months from initial placement to final crown restoration. After the titanium post is surgically placed into your jawbone, a healing period of several months is needed for osseointegration to occur. During this time, a temporary restoration maintains your appearance and function. Once the implant has fully fused with the bone, the abutment and permanent custom crown are placed to complete your new smile.Affiliations & Education
