What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are the most advanced tooth replacement option available today. They consist of three main components:

1. The Implant Post (Artificial Tooth Root) A small titanium post is surgically placed into your jawbone where your natural tooth root once was. Titanium is biocompatible, meaning your body accepts it and your bone naturally fuses to it through a process called osseointegration.

2. The Abutment (Connector) Once the implant has integrated with your bone, an abutment is attached to the implant post. This connector piece serves as the foundation for your replacement tooth.

3. The Crown (Visible Tooth) A custom-designed crown is attached to the abutment, creating a restoration that looks, feels, and functions like your natural tooth. We carefully match the color, shape, and size to blend seamlessly with your existing teeth.

The result? A tooth replacement that’s so natural, you’ll forget it’s not your original tooth.

Types of Dental Implants We Offer

Single Tooth Implants

Lost one tooth? A single dental implant is the ideal solution. Unlike a traditional bridge that requires grinding down adjacent healthy teeth, a dental implant:

• Replaces only the missing tooth
• Preserves neighboring teeth
• Prevents bone loss in the gap
• Provides independent function
• Lasts 25+ years with proper care

The procedure is straightforward: we place one implant post, allow it to heal and integrate with your bone, then attach a custom crown. Within a few months, you’ll have a fully functional, natural-looking tooth.

Multiple Tooth Implants

Missing several teeth? You don’t need an implant for every missing tooth. Depending on your situation, we can use:

Implant-Supported Bridge: Two or more implants support a bridge that replaces multiple adjacent missing teeth. This approach:

• Eliminates the need for a removable partial denture
• Doesn’t rely on adjacent natural teeth for support
• Provides stable, permanent restoration
• Functions like natural teeth for eating and speaking

Individual Implants: For non-adjacent missing teeth, individual implants may be the best option, giving each replacement tooth independent support.

Full-Arch Replacement (All-On-4)

For patients missing all or most teeth in an arch, All-On-4 dental implants provide a revolutionary solution. Using just four strategically placed implants, we can support an entire arch of replacement teeth.

Benefits of All-On-4:

• Fixed, non-removable restoration
• Full function restored in one day
• No denture slippage or adhesives
• Preserves facial structure
• More affordable than individual implants for each tooth

Learn more about our life-changing All-On-4 treatment and see patient success stories.

Implant-Supported Dentures

Traditional dentures sit on your gums and often slip, click, or cause discomfort. Implant-supported dentures attach to 2-6 implants, providing:

Overdentures (Removable):

• Snap onto implants for stability
• Can be removed for cleaning
• More affordable than fixed restorations
• Significantly more stable than traditional dentures

Fixed Dentures (Permanent):

• Permanently attached to implants
• Cannot be removed by the patient
• Function like natural teeth
• Brushed and cared for like regular teeth

We’ll help you determine which option best fits your needs, lifestyle, and budget.

Why Choose Dental Implants?

Look and Feel Natural

Modern dental implants are virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth. We carefully design each restoration to match:

• The color of your existing teeth
• The shape and contour of natural teeth
• Your facial features and smile line
• Your bite and jaw alignment

Most people won’t know you have implants unless you tell them!

Restore Full Function

Unlike dentures that reduce your chewing power by up to 70%, dental implants restore nearly 100% of your natural bite force. This means:

• Eat all your favorite foods without worry
• No dietary restrictions
• Bite into apples, steak, corn on the cob
• Speak clearly without slipping dentures
• Laugh and smile with confidence

Prevent Bone Loss

When you lose a tooth, you also lose the bone stimulation that root provides. Without stimulation, your jawbone begins to deteriorate—a process called resorption. This causes:

• Sunken facial appearance (premature aging)
• Shifting of remaining teeth
• Difficulty fitting dentures over time
• Weakening of the jaw

Dental implants stimulate your jawbone just like natural tooth roots, preventing bone loss and preserving your facial structure.

Protect Your Other Teeth

Traditional bridges require grinding down healthy adjacent teeth to serve as supports. This permanently damages those teeth and makes them more vulnerable to decay and breakage.

Dental implants:

• Stand independently
• Don’t affect neighboring teeth
• Actually help support adjacent teeth by preventing shifting
• Maintain the integrity of your entire smile

Exceptional Longevity

With proper care, dental implants can last 25+ years or even a lifetime. Compare this to:

• Traditional bridges: 5-15 years
• Dentures: 5-7 years before needing replacement
• Partial dentures: 5-8 years

While dental implants cost more upfront, their longevity makes them more economical over time. When you calculate cost-per-year, implants are often the most affordable option.

Improved Oral Health

Dental implants support overall oral health by:

• Making oral hygiene easier (brush and floss normally)
• Preventing food trapping between teeth
• Eliminating spaces where bacteria accumulate
• Maintaining proper bite alignment
• Supporting comprehensive oral health

Boost Your Confidence

The psychological impact of tooth loss is significant. Missing teeth can make you feel:

• Self-conscious about smiling
• Embarrassed in social situations
• Older than your years
• Less attractive

Dental implants restore not just your teeth, but your confidence, allowing you to:

• Smile freely without covering your mouth
• Make positive first impressions
• Feel younger and more vibrant
• Enjoy social interactions without worry

The Dental Implant Process: Step by Step

Understanding what to expect can help you feel confident and prepared for your implant journey.

Step 1: Complimentary Consultation

Your implant journey begins with a comprehensive consultation where we’ll:

Evaluate Your Oral Health:

• Examine your teeth, gums, and bite
• Take digital X-rays to assess bone density
• Use 3D cone beam CT imaging for precise planning
• Check for any issues that need addressing first

Discuss Your Goals:

• What teeth need replacement?
• What are your aesthetic expectations?
• What’s your budget and timeline?
• Do you have any concerns or questions?

Review Your Options:

• Single implants vs. multiple implants
• Immediate placement vs. delayed placement
• Bone grafting needs (if any)
• Sedation preferences

Create a Treatment Plan:

• Detailed timeline
• Step-by-step procedure explanation
• Transparent cost breakdown
• Financing options

No Pressure: This consultation is about education and exploration. We want you to feel informed and comfortable with your decision.

Ready to explore dental implants? [LINK TO: Contact Us page] Schedule your free consultation today by calling (503) 668-1300.

Step 2: Preparatory Treatments (If Needed)

Some patients need preparatory work before implant placement:

Tooth Extraction: If the damaged tooth is still present, we’ll perform a gentle extraction. In many cases, we can place the implant immediately after extraction, reducing overall treatment time.

Bone Grafting: If you’ve had missing teeth for a while, you may have experienced bone loss. Bone grafting rebuilds the foundation needed to support implants. The process involves:

• Placing bone graft material where bone has deteriorated
• Allowing 3-6 months for new bone to form
• Creating adequate bone density for stable implant placement

Gum Treatment: Gum disease must be treated before implant placement to ensure successful integration and long-term health.

Step 3: Implant Placement Surgery

The day of your implant surgery, here’s what happens:

Comfort First:

• Local anesthesia ensures complete numbness
• Sedation options available for relaxation
• Most patients report minimal discomfort

Surgical Procedure:

• Small incision in the gum tissue
• Precise hole created in the bone using special drills
• Titanium implant post carefully placed
• Gum tissue sutured closed
• Temporary restoration provided if needed

Time: Single implant placement typically takes 1-2 hours. Multiple implants may require longer appointments.

After Surgery: You’ll receive detailed post-operative instructions. Most patients manage well with over-the-counter pain medication and experience minimal disruption to their routine.

Step 4: Osseointegration (Healing Period)

Over the next 3-6 months, osseointegration occurs—your bone grows around and fuses to the implant post. This creates an incredibly strong foundation for your new tooth.

During Healing:

• Temporary restoration provided for visible teeth
• Regular checkups to monitor healing
• Maintain good oral hygiene
• Avoid excessive pressure on the implant site

Don’t worry—this healing happens naturally without any intervention needed from you!

Step 5: Abutment Placement

Once osseointegration is complete, we’ll:

• Make a small incision to expose the implant
• Attach the abutment (connector piece)
• Allow gums to heal around the abutment (2-3 weeks)

This is a minor procedure typically done with just local anesthesia.

Step 6: Custom Crown Creation

The final step is creating your permanent restoration:

Impressions/Digital Scans: We take precise impressions or digital scans of your mouth to design a crown that perfectly matches your bite and aesthetics.

Custom Fabrication: A dental laboratory crafts your crown using high-quality materials, carefully matching the color and shape to your natural teeth.

Crown Placement: Your custom crown is securely attached to the abutment, completing your dental implant restoration.

Final Adjustments: We make any necessary refinements to ensure perfect fit, comfort, and appearance.

Celebration! You now have a complete, functional, beautiful smile!

Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Most patients are good candidates for dental implants, even those previously told they couldn’t have them. Modern techniques and materials have made implants possible for more people than ever before.

Ideal Candidates Have:

• One or more missing teeth
• Good overall health
• Adequate bone density (or willingness to undergo bone grafting)
• Healthy gums or commitment to treating gum disease
• Non-smoker or willing to quit for the procedure
• Realistic expectations about the process and results

Special Considerations:

Age: There’s no upper age limit for implants. If you’re healthy enough for a tooth extraction, you’re likely healthy enough for an implant. However, young patients should wait until jaw growth is complete (usually late teens).

Bone Loss: Even significant bone loss doesn’t necessarily disqualify you. Bone grafting and advanced techniques like All-On-4 (which uses angled implants to avoid low-bone areas) can make implants possible.

Chronic Conditions: Diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic conditions don’t automatically rule out implants, but they require careful management. We’ll work with your physician to ensure your safety.

Smoking: Smoking reduces implant success rates, but many successful implant patients are former smokers who quit for the procedure.

Teeth Grinding: If you grind your teeth, we’ll provide a custom nightguard to protect your implants.

The only way to know for certain if dental implants are right for you is through a comprehensive evaluation. Schedule your free consultation to find out if dental implants can restore your smile.

Dental Implants vs. Other Tooth Replacement Options

How do dental implants compare to traditional alternatives?

Dental Implants vs. Dentures

Bottom Line: Implants provide superior function, comfort, and longevity, though they cost more initially.

Dental Implants vs. Bridges

Bottom Line: Implants preserve your natural teeth and provide longer-lasting results.

Caring for Your Dental Implants

One of the great advantages of dental implants is their easy maintenance. Care for them just like natural teeth:

Daily Care

Brushing:

• Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Use non-abrasive toothpaste
• Pay special attention to where the crown meets the gums

Flossing:

• Floss daily around your implant crowns
• Use floss threaders if needed for implant-supported bridges

Rinsing:

• Use antibacterial mouthwash
• Rinse after meals when possible

Regular Dental Visits

Continue your regular dental checkups and cleanings every six months. During these visits, we’ll:

• Clean around your implants professionally
• Check the stability and health of your implants
• Take X-rays periodically to monitor bone levels
• Adjust your bite if needed
• Address any concerns early

Protect Your Investment

Avoid:

• Chewing extremely hard foods (ice, hard candy, bones)
• Using teeth as tools
• Smoking (significantly reduces implant longevity)

Use Protection:

• Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth
• Use a sports mouthguard during athletic activities

Maintain Health:

• Keep up excellent oral hygiene
• Manage chronic health conditions
• Attend all recommended dental appointments

With proper care, your dental implants can last a lifetime!

Dental Implant Cost and Financing

We understand that dental implants represent a significant investment in your health and quality of life. While we can’t provide exact pricing without evaluating your specific needs, we can help you understand the factors that influence cost and how to make implants affordable.

Factors Affecting Cost

Number of Implants: Single tooth replacement costs less than multiple implants or full-arch restoration.

Preparatory Procedures:

• Tooth extractions
• Bone grafting
• Gum disease treatment
• Sinus lifts

Type of Restoration:

• Individual crowns vs. bridges
• Removable vs. fixed dentures
• Material quality (zirconia, porcelain, etc.)

Sedation Options: If you choose sedation for comfort, this adds to the cost but provides significant value for anxious patients.

Why Dental Implants Are Worth the Investment

Long-Term Value: When you calculate cost-per-year:

• Implants (25+ years): Often most economical
• Bridges (10-15 years): Moderate cost over time
• Dentures (5-7 years): Seem cheaper but require frequent replacement

Health Benefits:

• Prevents bone loss (avoiding future costly procedures)
• Protects remaining teeth from shifting
• Eliminates need to damage adjacent teeth for bridges
• Reduces long-term dental expenses

Quality of Life: Can you put a price on:

• Eating your favorite foods confidently?
• Smiling without embarrassment?
• Looking and feeling younger?
• Improved overall health and wellbeing?

Making Dental Implants Affordable

Insurance Coverage: While many insurance plans consider implants “cosmetic,” some provide partial coverage, especially if tooth loss resulted from accident or disease. Our knowledgeable team will:

• Verify your dental insurance benefits
• Maximize your coverage
• Help you understand what’s covered
• Submit claims on your behalf

Flexible Financing: We partner with leading dental financing companies:

CareCredit:

• Special promotional periods (often 0% interest for qualified patients)
• Flexible payment plans
• Quick approval process

Cherry Financing:

• Competitive rates
• Easy online application
• Payment plans tailored to your budget

Proceed Finance:

• Options for various credit profiles
• Fast approval
• Manageable monthly payments

In-House Savings Plan: For patients without insurance, our savings plan provides:

• Discounted rates on procedures
• Annual membership fee
• Significant savings on preventive and restorative care

Payment Plans: We can create custom payment arrangements that work with your budget.

Don’t Let Cost Prevent You from Getting the Smile You Deserve

During your consultation, we’ll provide a detailed, transparent cost estimate with no hidden fees. We’ll also discuss all your financing options to find a solution that fits your budget.

Schedule your free consultation to get a personalized cost estimate and learn about our financing options.

Why Choose Blue Bird Dentistry for Dental Implants?

Experienced Implant Dentist

Dr. Russell Bird has placed and restored hundreds of dental implants, developing the expertise necessary for successful outcomes. His advanced training in oral surgery and implant dentistry ensures you’re in skilled, capable hands.

Comprehensive Care Under One Roof

From your initial consultation through final restoration, we handle every aspect of your implant treatment right here in our Sandy office. No referrals to multiple specialists—just consistent, coordinated care from a team you trust.

Advanced Technology

We invest in the latest implant technology:

• 3D cone beam CT imaging for precise planning
• Computer-guided implant placement
• Digital impressions (no messy molds)
• Same-day crowns with CEREC technology when appropriate

This technology improves accuracy, reduces treatment time, and enhances your final results.

Patient Comfort Priority

We know dental procedures can cause anxiety. That’s why we offer:

• Multiple sedation options
• Gentle, patient-focused approach
• Clear communication throughout your treatment
• Comfortable office environment

Family-Owned Practice

As a family-owned practice, we treat every patient like family. You’re not just a number—you’re a valued member of our Blue Bird Dentistry community. We take time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and ensure you feel comfortable every step of the way.

Commitment to Excellence

We’re committed to:

• Using the highest quality implant materials
• Staying current with the latest techniques
• Providing honest, ethical treatment recommendations
• Standing behind our work with follow-up care

Proven Results

Our patient testimonials speak for themselves. Read real stories from patients who’ve regained their smiles and their confidence with dental implants at Blue Bird Dentistry.