Dental Implants by Natural Smiles in Salem, OR

Despite improvements in periodontology and dental care, many people suffer from tooth decay and loss. At Natural Smiles of Salem, OR, we take the preventative oral care of our patients seriously, however, tooth decay can occur when bacteria in the mouth create acids that destroy the enamel, cementum, and dentin. The breakdown of these hard tissues causes cavities or holes in the teeth and depending on the extent of the problem, one may experience pain, tooth loss or infection. Some of the major causes of tooth decay include:
•    Irregular brushing and flossing
•    Eating foods that are rich in carbohydrates and sugars
•    Insufficient fluoride intake
•    Insufficient production of saliva
•    Diabetes
•    Using spit tobacco and smoking
•    Not seeing a dentist for cleaning and checkups

Depending on how advanced the problem is, our Salem dentists may opt to apply fluoride to the affected areas, fill the hole with filling, perform a root canal treatment, or do a tooth extraction if the tooth is too damaged. The dentist performs a simple tooth extraction when the tooth is visible in the mouth and a surgical extraction when the tooth is not visible due to excessive breakage. Depending on the circumstances, teeth implants are becoming the treatment of choice for missing teeth. Other options for replacing missing teeth include dentures, fixed bridge, and drifting.

Dental Implants in Salem, OR

Tooth implants provide a strong foundation for permanent or removable teeth. A dentist screws the implant into the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. Salem dental implants are a tried-and-tested, safe, and well-established treatment that can last a lifetime. Benefits of tooth implants include:
•    Improved appearance of the teeth
•    Improved comfort
•    Improved speech
•    Comfortable and painless eating
•    Improved oral health
•    Improved self-esteem
•    Durability
•    Convenience

Like any other type of surgical procedure, dental implant surgery poses a few health risks. Some of these risks include infection, injury to surrounding structures, nerve damage, and sinus problems. However, such risks are very rare and easily treated.

Salem Dental Implants Procedure

The teeth implant surgery is typically an outpatient procedure performed in stages, and the entire process may take several months; however, there is same day dental implants or immediate implants. Whether one has had implant surgery in a single or multiple stages, one may experience some normal discomforts associated with other types of dental surgery, such as minor bleeding, swelling of the gums, pain and bruising. Most teeth implant procedures are successful; however, actions such as smoking can cause implant complications and failure. Therefore, it is important to practice good oral hygiene, visit the dentist regularly and avoid damaging habits.

Patients who are healthy enough to go through oral surgery can undergo a dental implant. However, it is important for patients to have enough bone to hold the implant and healthy gums. People who are suffering from heart disease or diabetes and those who are heavy smokers should go through an evaluation before surgery.

In general, dental insurance does not cover dental implants; however, in most cases, the cost of implants is only slightly higher than that of conventional private treatment with bridges and crowns.

Visit or call Natural Smiles today in Salem, OR for a consultation to discuss what solution best fits your situation: