(425) 348-8484Dental Implants in Everett
Missing even a single tooth affects more than just your smile’s appearance. Gaps in your teeth make eating difficult, speaking clearly challenging, and can cause your remaining teeth to shift out of position. The jawbone beneath the missing tooth begins to deteriorate without the stimulation that tooth roots normally provide, which can eventually change your facial structure.
Harbour Pointe Family Dentistry has been helping patients in Mukilteo and the surrounding Everett area restore their smiles since 1990. Dr. Kris Johnson brings over 35 years of experience to every case, combining modern dental technology with a patient-centered approach. Our practice focuses on building trusting relationships and creating treatment plans that align with each patient’s unique needs and comfort level. For patients considering permanent tooth replacement options, our comprehensive family dentistry services include advanced restorative solutions that rebuild both function and aesthetics.
How Dental Implants Work
Dental implants replace missing teeth by mimicking the structure of your natural teeth from root to crown. The implant itself is a small titanium post that’s surgically placed into your jawbone. Over several months, this post fuses with your bone through a process called osseointegration, creating a stable foundation. An abutment connects to the top of the implant, and finally, a custom crown is attached to complete the restoration.
This three-part system provides exceptional stability compared to other tooth replacement options. Because the implant is anchored directly into your jawbone, it functions just like your natural tooth root. You can eat, speak, and smile with the same confidence you had with your original teeth.
The materials used in dental implants are biocompatible, meaning your body accepts them without rejection. Titanium has been used successfully in dental and medical implants for decades. According to research published by the National Institutes of Health, dental implants show cumulative survival rates of 98.9% at three years and 96.8% at ten years, demonstrating their reliability as a long-term solution.
Benefits of Choosing Dental Implants
Dental implants preserve your jawbone density in ways that other tooth replacement options cannot. When you lose a tooth, the bone that once supported it begins to deteriorate. Implants stimulate the jawbone just like natural roots, preventing bone loss and maintaining your facial structure over time.
The stability of implants eliminates many concerns associated with dentures. You won’t experience slipping, clicking, or the need for adhesives. This secure fit allows you to eat whatever foods you enjoy without worry. Many patients report that they forget which teeth are implants because they feel so natural.
Implants also protect your remaining natural teeth. Traditional dental bridges require grinding down adjacent healthy teeth to serve as anchors. Implants stand independently, preserving the structure of surrounding teeth. This conservative approach supports your overall oral health for years to come.
The Dental Implant Procedure
Your implant journey begins with a comprehensive evaluation at our Mukilteo office. We examine your oral health, take detailed X-rays or scans, and review your medical history. This assessment helps us determine whether you’re a candidate for implants and create a personalized treatment plan.
We partner with experienced oral surgeons who place the titanium post into your jawbone. The surgical procedure is typically performed with local anesthesia, and most patients experience minimal discomfort. After placement, the implant needs time to integrate with your bone, which usually takes several months.
During the healing period, we may provide a temporary restoration to maintain your appearance. Once osseointegration is complete, you return to our office for the restorative phase. We attach the abutment and take impressions for your custom crown. After your crown is fabricated, we secure it to complete your new tooth.
Caring for Your Implants
Maintaining dental implants requires the same basic hygiene practices as natural teeth. Brush twice daily, floss around the implant crown carefully, and keep up with regular dental checkups. These simple habits protect both your implant and the surrounding gum tissue.
During your routine hygiene appointments, we monitor your implant’s condition and check the health of surrounding tissues. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar that can accumulate around implants. Early detection of any issues allows for prompt treatment.
With proper care, dental implants can last for decades. Many patients enjoy their implants for life. The key to longevity is consistent home care combined with professional monitoring at our office.
Who Makes a Good Candidate
Ideal candidates for dental implants have healthy gums and sufficient bone density to support the implant. Your overall health plays a role in the success of treatment. Certain conditions, like uncontrolled diabetes or heavy smoking, can affect healing, but we work with patients to optimize their health before proceeding.
Age is rarely a barrier to dental implants. As long as your jaw has finished growing and you’re in reasonably good health, you may be a candidate. We’ve successfully helped patients of various ages restore their smiles with this proven treatment.
If you’ve experienced bone loss, additional procedures like bone grafting may be necessary before implant placement. We evaluate each case individually and discuss all options during your consultation.
5-Star Treatment
- Margaret M. 5-Star Google Review
Experience That Makes a Difference at Harbour Point Family
Dr. Johnson has practiced in Mukilteo since 1990, establishing a reputation for quality care and patient comfort in the community. Our practice philosophy centers on listening to patients, understanding what matters most to them, and creating treatment plans at a pace that works for their lifestyle. We’ve helped countless families achieve healthy smiles across multiple generations.
If you’re ready to explore dental implants as a solution for missing teeth, contact our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kris Johnson. We’ll answer your questions and help you take the first step toward restoring your complete smile.
