Tooth loss is not an uncommon occurrence. In fact, the American College of Prosthodontists estimates that over 35 million people in the United States do not have any teeth, and 178 million Americans are missing at least one tooth. The importance of replacing missing teeth cannot be underestimated, not only from the standpoint of restoring oral health, but also to maintain physical and emotional health, too. Dr. L. Blaine Kennington has received special training in implant dentistry. With dental implants, Castle Rock, WA, and surrounding area residents can smile, chew and speak with confidence.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small titanium posts that Dr. Kennington strategically places in the jawbone to replace both the root and crown of a missing tooth. Titanium is a biocompatible metal, so as you heal from this minor oral surgery the implant fuses with the surrounding bone tissue to create a strong and stable foundation for the tooth restoration that Dr. Kennington will eventually attach to the implant. Whether you need a porcelain crown for a single tooth replacement or an implant-retained denture that substitutes for several missing teeth or an entire arch, your new smile can look and function much like your natural teeth again.
Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Generally speaking, most people are qualified to have dental implants. There are, however, a few important considerations. First, adequate bone density is necessary in order for the implant to take proper hold within your jawbone. For patients who do not have enough bone, a bone graft procedure may be performed.
Also, patients who smoke, chew tobacco or who have diabetes may not heal as well after oral surgery. Dr. Kennington also wants to be sure that his dental implant patients are fully committed to having excellent oral health that includes daily brushing and flossing and regular dental checkups at Cowlitz River Dental. With proper care, dental implants can last for many decades.
Dental Implants with Dr. Kennington
Dr. Kennington is eminently qualified to restore your smile with dental implants. He is a Certified Associate Fellow of the American Association of Implants Dentists and completed the American Academy of Implant Dentistry’s MaxiCourse in Atlanta, GA in 2008. In addition, Dr. Kennington is a founding member of Advanced Dental Implant Studies (ADIS), a group of some 70 dentists nationwide who are dedicated to furthering clinical implant dentistry. He and his ADIS colleagues meet quarterly in Atlanta to develop, discuss, and evaluate new implant treatment techniques.
Call Our Office Today
If you would like more information about dental implants, then contact the office of Cowlitz River Dental in Castle Rock, WA, dentist Dr. L. Blaine Kennington.