Dental Implants – Olympia & Chehalis, WA

Implant Dentistry

Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. With the technology of implant placement, the patient regains the ability to eat virtually anything and smile with confidence, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. The implants themselves are small titanium structures that are placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing and function similar to a root of a natural tooth. During the healing process, the bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for the replacement teeth. In addition, implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing long term.

Dental implants are changing the way people live! With them, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh, and enjoy life. 

Our doctors have received extensive training in Implantology through their additional 3 year specialty training program in periodontology following their dental school education. Dr. Coppin lectures and participates in study clubs that cover many topics of implants including enhancing aesthetics of the implant teeth and maintaining the health of the implants for life. 

Evaluation

If, like many others, you feel implant dentistry is the choice for you, we ask that you undergo a dental/radiographic examination. We also have a CT scanner in our office that provides precise evaluation of your jaw allowing for safe and predictable placement of your implants. During these consultation visits, our doctor will address your specific needs and considerations. We will also discuss fees and insurance at this time. There are many types of insurance plans, and coverage for implants is varied. We will be happy to assist you in obtaining any benefits to which you may be entitled. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success. 

Procedures

Dental Implants

Dental implants are metal anchors that act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the bone of the jaw with generally minimal discomfort. Small posts connect the root portion of the implant to the replacement teeth crowns.

First, the titanium implants are placed within your the bone at the location of the missing tooth. Healing time following surgery varies from person to person and is based on a variety of factors that include hardness of bone. In some cases, implants may be restored immediately after they are placed.

For the first three to six months following surgery, the implants have small healing caps. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time. At the same time, your restorative dentist designs and makes the final bridgework or denture that will ultimately improve both function and aesthetics of your smile.

After the implant has bonded to the bone, your general dentist will be able to start making your new teeth. An impression must be taken. Then posts or attachments can be connected to the implant. The teeth replacements are then made over the posts or attachments. The entire procedure usually takes three to eight months. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life and consider the benefits of their new implant far outweigh the wait.