Restore Your Smile with Dental Implants | Yakima Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Yakima, WA

At Yakima Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, we specialize in providing advanced dental implant solutions to replace missing or failing teeth. Dental implants are the modern standard of care for tooth replacement, offering a durable, natural-looking, and long-lasting alternative to traditional bridges and dentures. Led by Dr. Isaac Kim, our team is committed to restoring your ability to eat, speak, and smile with complete confidence.

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How Do Dental Implants Work?

A natural tooth consists of two main parts: the crown, which is the visible portion, and the root, which anchors the tooth securely in the jawbone. When a tooth is lost, both the crown and the root are gone, which can lead to problems like bone loss and shifting of adjacent teeth.

A dental implant is designed to replicate this entire structure. The process involves three key components:

• The Implant: A small, screw-like post made of biocompatible titanium that is surgically placed into the jawbone, where it functions as a new tooth root.
• The Abutment: A connector piece that is attached to the top of the implant after it has fused with the bone.
• The Crown: A custom-made, natural-looking artificial tooth that is secured to the abutment, completing your smile.

Over a period of a few months, a process called osseointegration occurs, where the jawbone grows around and fuses with the titanium implant, creating a firm and stable foundation. This integration is what allows implants to feel and function just like natural teeth.

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The Key Benefits of Choosing Dental Implants

Dental implants offer numerous advantages over other tooth replacement options, making them an excellent long-term investment in your oral health and quality of life. The primary benefits include:

• Durability and Stability: Because they are anchored in the jawbone, implants do not slip or shift, allowing you to eat all your favorite foods without worry.
• Jawbone Preservation: Implants stimulate the jawbone just like natural tooth roots, preventing the bone loss that typically occurs when teeth are missing. This helps maintain your facial structure and appearance.
• A Natural Look and Feel: Custom-crafted crowns are designed to match your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and beautiful result.
• Protection for Adjacent Teeth: Unlike dental bridges, implants do not require the alteration or grinding down of healthy neighboring teeth for support.
• A Proven, Long-Term Solution: With proper care and regular dental check-ups, dental implants can last a lifetime.

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The Dental Implant Process

The journey to a new smile with dental implants is a carefully planned process that occurs in several phases.

• Initial Consultation: Your treatment begins with a comprehensive evaluation with Dr. Kim, including 3D imaging to assess your jawbone health and create a precise surgical plan.
• Implant Placement: During a minor surgical procedure, the titanium implant is placed into the jawbone. This is performed with local anesthesia, and sedation options are available for your comfort.
• Healing and Osseointegration: You will enter a healing period of several months, during which the implant fuses with your jawbone. A temporary tooth replacement can often be worn during this time.
• Abutment Placement: Once healing is complete, the abutment is attached to the implant.
• Final Restoration: Your general dentist will take impressions to create your custom crown, which is then permanently secured to the abutment, completing the restoration.

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Advanced Technology for Precise and Safe Treatment

Our practice is equipped with modern technology to enhance the safety and precision of your implant surgery. 3D Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) provides detailed, three-dimensional views of your jaw, nerves, and sinuses, allowing Dr. Kim to plan the ideal implant position with incredible accuracy. This advanced imaging minimizes risks and often leads to shorter procedure times and smoother recoveries.

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A Collaborative Team Approach

Successful implant treatment involves a collaborative effort between your oral surgeon and your general dentist. Dr. Kim, as the surgical specialist, will handle the implant placement and any necessary bone grafting. Your general dentist will then design and place the final custom crown. We work closely with your dentist throughout the process to ensure a seamless experience and an exceptional final result.

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Meet Your Surgeon: Dr. Isaac Kim

Dr. Isaac Kim, D.D.S., is the dedicated oral surgeon at Yakima Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery. He helps patients in Yakima, WA, with a wide range of health conditions, including the placement of dental implants to restore smiles. His expertise ensures your procedure is handled with the highest standards of safety and precision.

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Insurance and Financing Options

We are committed to making dental implant treatment accessible. We accept numerous insurance plans, including Delta Dental, MetLife, Regence, and Aetna, and offer flexible financing options like CareCredit to help you fit your care into your budget.