5775 Willow Ln., Lake Oswego, OR 97035 
503-699-6699 You do not have to be ashamed of your missing tooth or teeth anymore. Dr. Patrick Morrissey, our experienced dentist, can help you to smile, eat, and talk comfortably with dental implants in Lake Oswego, OR.
What Is a Dental Implant?
Dental implants in Lake Oswego, OR, are used to replace missing teeth, or a tooth that is broken, cracked or decayed beyond repair. Implants are nonremovable once integrated.
There are three parts to a dental implant:
- A titanium post, which is placed into the bone socket of the missing tooth
- An abutment, which is placed on top of the post
- The implant restoration, which is attached to the abutment to replace the visible portions of the tooth or teeth
What Is the Dental Implant Procedure?
If you go to Dr. Morrissey because you are missing a tooth or you have a tooth that is damaged and needs to be removed, he will begin by giving you a thorough exam. This will include an X-ray of your teeth and jaw to make sure your jawbone is strong enough to support an implant and to identify the exact location of the roots of the adjacent teeth.
If Dr. Morrissey decides that a dental implant in Lake Oswego, Oregon, is the right choice for you, he will make a mold of your jaw to help him determine the spacing of the gum and tissue. We will develop a treatment plan using this mold, your X-rays and the results of your exam.
Our Lake Oswego dentist will then numb the area to receive the implant with a local anesthetic, and he will then surgically implant the titanium post into the bone socket of the missing tooth. It will take six to 12 weeks for the post to fuse to the bone. This may seem like a long time, but this is an important part of the procedure; when the post and the bone are tightly fused together, it ensures that the implant will work as well as a natural tooth and that the gums and surrounding teeth will stay healthy. We will provide you with post-op instructions to help you recover following your implant placement.
Dr. Morrissey will also make an impression of your mouth. This impression will be sent to a lab, where they will make the artificial tooth. Once the post and the jawbone fuse, he will place the artificial tooth. This final implant restoration could be a single crown, a bridge or a denture, depending on your individual needs and the number of teeth you are replacing.
Are There Dental Implant Problems I Should Know About?
The majority of patients who have gotten dental implants from Dr. Morrissey have no problems with them at all.
Implants are much more convenient than other restorations. For example, removable restorations such as dentures require a lot of care and cleaning, and some patients find them very uncomfortable.
And getting an implant in Lake Oswego, OR, is much better than not replacing a lost or damaged tooth at all. A missing tooth can mean many problems for the remaining teeth, the gums and even the jawbone. And, of course, a missing tooth can make it difficult to eat, talk and smile.
What Are the Benefits to Dental Implants?
Dental implants look and feel like real teeth! It is difficult to even tell that an implant patient has an artificial tooth. They are also easy to take care of. All you have to do is brush, floss and visit Dr. Morrissey twice a year for top-quality dental care.
Aside from lasting a lifetime and looking, feeling and functioning just like your natural teeth, implants in Lake Oswego, OR, also promote your long-term oral health and wellbeing. Unlike other tooth replacement options, implants replace the roots of your teeth as well as the crowns. This means that they perform the same functions as your natural teeth, stimulating your supporting bone to keep it strong and healthy and ensuring that your smile has a stable foundation.
How Much Does a Dental Implant Cost?
The cost of a dental implant can depend on many different factors, and our Lake Oswego, dentist and team will provide you with an estimate of your treatment cost before providing your care. You can always call our dental office for information about the possible costs involved and payment options.
You should also check with your insurance provider to see if they will help you with the cost of implants. The team at Boones Ferry Dental can give you the information you need to talk to your insurance company.
Schedule Your Consultation!
If you have a missing tooth, do not wait any longer to do something about it! Call Boones Ferry Dental at 503-699-6699 to make an appointment today! Dr. Morrissey and his team are experts at dental implant restorations in Lake Oswego, Oregon, and they can help!
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
What are dental implants and how do they work?
Dental implants are titanium posts placed in the jaw to replace missing tooth roots. They support custom restorations like crowns or bridges. Over time, the bone bonds with the implant, creating a stable foundation for long-term oral function and aesthetics. Our dentist ensures precise placement and personalized care.
Are dental implants safe and reliable?
Yes, dental implants are a safe and proven method for replacing missing teeth. With proper placement and care, they have a high success rate. Our dentist and team use advanced technology to minimize risks and ensure accurate outcomes, providing patients with dependable, long-lasting solutions for tooth replacement.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants can last for decades or even a lifetime with good oral hygiene and routine dental visits. Their durability makes them a preferred choice for tooth replacement. Our dentist will help patients maintain their implants with regular checkups and provide tips for daily oral care at home.
Am I a candidate for dental implants?
Most patients with good general and oral health are candidates for dental implants. Healthy gums and adequate bone density are key factors. Our dentist will perform a thorough exam and take digital imaging to determine your eligibility and create a customized treatment plan for the best results.
What is the recovery process like after getting dental implants?
Recovery varies, but most patients experience minor swelling or discomfort for a few days. Healing typically takes a few months as the implant bonds with the jawbone. Our dentist and team provide clear aftercare instructions and follow up closely to ensure comfort and proper healing throughout the process.
How do I care for my dental implants long-term?
Caring for implants is similar to caring for natural teeth. Daily brushing, flossing and routine dental visits are essential. Avoiding tobacco and maintaining a balanced diet also help extend implant life. We offer ongoing support and guidance to help patients protect their implants and maintain oral health.
What areas do you serve?
Dr. Morrissey provides implant dentistry in Lake Oswego, Oregon, and the surrounding areas. Call today to schedule your personal consultation and learn if you are a candidate for dental implants!