Find Your Best and Healthiest Smile
During your consultation appointment at our friendly Oral Surgery Specialists of Idaho office in Blackfoot, ID you and your oral surgeon will determine the best tooth replacement solution to restore your smile. If you choose a dental implant for your tooth restoration, you will receive a lifelike, healthy, and permanent tooth replacement that consists of three parts: a titanium post that is surgically inserted into the jaw bone, an abutment piece that connects the implant to a permanent crown, and the crown itself, which is custom designed to match your existing teeth. Drs. Baker and Jepsen are experts at restoring missing or failing teeth with dental implants and other implant-supported solutions such as fixed bridges or dentures.
Learn more by checking out our Dental implants FAQ.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a three-part tooth replacement solution: a small post, most often made of titanium, that replaces the root of your missing tooth, a connector piece called an abutment that is placed on the top of the dental implant to anchor the final piece of the restoration, and a crown that is custom-made to match your natural teeth.
Dental implants are, by far, the most popular tooth replacement solution we provide at our Blackfoot, ID practice. Dental implants can permanently replace a single tooth or even an entire arch of teeth and look, feel, and function like natural teeth, allowing you to eat the foods you love and smile with confidence.
What Are The Benefits Of Dental Implants?
Unlike traditional dentures and tooth-supported bridges, dental implants are a complete tooth replacement, restoring the root of your tooth as well. Like healthy natural teeth, dental implants are anchored in your jaw for a stable, and permanent solution to tooth loss.
Because dental implants replace the tooth’s root, they help stimulate your jaw bone to keep the bone atrophy that can happen when teeth are missing for a long time, at bay. While dentures and bridges only last a short time before they require replacement, dental implants have the ability to last a lifetime when you practice good oral hygiene and take care of them just as you would your healthy, natural teeth. In addition, it is not necessary to damage your existing teeth to place implants.
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Dental implants offer these benefits and more:
Benefits
Because dental implants fuse with the bone in the jaw, patients enjoy a long-lasting and lifelike tooth replacement. With good oral care, dental implants can last a lifetime!
You can clean your dental implants just as you would your natural teeth. It’s as simple as that!
It is very difficult to tell the difference between a dental implant and a natural tooth — implants truly look, feel, and function like natural teeth.
Confidence in their new smile is common with our dental implant patients. Patients love smiling knowing that their tooth replacement looks and functions just like a real tooth.
Imagine being able to comfortably and confidently enjoy the foods you love again! You won’t have to worry about your replacement tooth slipping around when you chew, and because implants work just like natural teeth, you may even forget that you have had a restoration!
Dental implants replace the entire tooth, including the root. Because of this, they stimulate the bone under your gums to prevent bone atrophy the way natural teeth do. A healthy jaw bone structure means a more youthful facial appearance.
Dental implants have the versatility to replace one or multiple missing teeth or even an entire arch of teeth. They can also be used to secure lifelike and comfortable implant-supported fixed bridges and dentures.
Drs. Baker and Jepsen are experts at bone grafting techniques to allow almost anyone to receive a successful, stable implant placement. If you are healthy enough to have a standard tooth extraction, dental implants are most likely an option for you at our practice.
We offer the full scope of oral surgery and dental implant restoration options at our Blackfoot, ID practice and pride ourselves on the safety and quality of our work restoring the smiles of our patients. If you are interested in learning more about dental implants, check out our Dental Implant FAQ, or contact our office to schedule your consultation with one of our trusted oral surgeons. We look forward to offering you the best in compassionate and comfortable oral surgery care.
Types of Dental Implants
As you contemplate the best tooth restoration option for your needs, you may be interested in exploring the variety of solutions available. Drs. Baker and Jepsen offer a range of treatments for restoring missing or failing teeth, from durable and natural-looking dental implants to solutions like fixed bridges and dentures that can replace entire upper and/or lower dental arches.
At our practice, we are committed to tailoring tooth replacement solutions to meet each patient’s specific desires and conditions, enhancing both oral health and overall well-being. Every patient is unique, so during your consultation, your oral surgeon will collaborate closely with you to develop a treatment plan that best suits your smile. Your doctor will also discuss anesthesia options, such as in-office intravenous (IV) sedation. Some of the most commonly recommended tooth replacement options include:
- Dental Implants. Dental implants are highly favored for their ability to serve as a complete replacement, including the root structure. Patients regain the ability to eat, smile, and speak confidently with teeth that look, feel, and function just like natural teeth. Visit our Dental Implant page and Dental Implant FAQ for more details.
- Implant-Supported Dentures and Bridges. For patients seeking a permanent solution to replace multiple missing teeth in one or both dental arches, implant-supported bridges or dentures offer new, customized, and lifelike teeth. It’s even possible to restore all teeth in both arches using implant-supported dentures. Explore further on our Implant-Supported Dentures and Bridges page.
- Tooth-Supported Bridges. This common tooth replacement method addresses one or more adjacent missing teeth in the dental arch by bridging the gap. Fixed securely in place, tooth-supported bridges are non-removable but may require replacement every few years as they are cemented using adjacent teeth that are reshaped to anchor the bridge.
- Full or Partial Dentures. Recognized as a well-established solution for missing teeth, full or partial dentures are completely removable and typically more affordable. Over time, they may need adjustments or replacements due to wear. While many find them satisfactory, some may experience discomfort or self-consciousness about stability during chewing or speaking.
To explore your tooth replacement options further and determine the best choice for your needs, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of our trusted oral and maxillofacial surgeons. We are dedicated to providing superior care as we assist you in enhancing your oral health.
The Value of Dental Implants
Dental implants are truly transformative. Beyond mere discomfort, tooth loss can profoundly impact self-esteem. When patients replace failing or missing teeth with dental implants, they regain the appearance, sensation, and functionality of natural teeth, greatly enhancing their satisfaction with the investment. Dental implants also promote long-term jaw and facial health and, with proper oral care, can endure a lifetime.
While traditional tooth replacements may seem cost-effective initially, they can incur greater expenses over time. Dental implants and implant-supported dentures and bridges are the only restorations that replicate natural teeth, safeguard oral health, and ensure enduring efficacy.
Here are several reasons why many patients opt for dental implants at our Blackfoot, ID oral surgery practice:
- Lifelong solution. Dental implants are permanent, sparing patients the inconvenience and costs of ongoing tooth replacement treatments. With diligent oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, implants can last indefinitely, a primary reason for their preference over bridges and dentures.
- Protective effect. Through osseointegration, dental implants fuse with the jawbone, mimicking natural teeth by stimulating bone during chewing, thus mitigating further bone loss. A healthy jaw and well-aligned teeth reduce the likelihood of future costly dental procedures.
- Priceless benefits. The ability to comfortably enjoy favorite foods and speak and smile confidently is invaluable, fostering overall happiness and well-being.
If you reside in the Blackfoot, ID vicinity and are considering dental implants, we encourage you to contact Oral Surgery Specialists of Idaho today. Our friendly team is ready to schedule a consultation with Dr. Baker or Dr. Jepsen to explore whether this transformative dental restoration is right for you.
What Happens During Dental Implant Surgery?
Your oral surgeon will meticulously review every aspect of your dental implant procedure, including anesthesia options, pre- and post-operative guidelines, and anticipated recovery duration. Your surgery will be conducted under intravenous (IV) sedation in the comfort and safety of our practice, with continuous monitoring by our skilled clinical team.
The anesthesia chosen during your consultation ensures a pain-free procedure. During surgery, your surgeon will create a small incision in your gum tissue, insert the implant post into your jawbone, and close the site with stitches. Following the procedure, you'll have ample time to recuperate before your designated driver escorts you home.
The duration of a single implant placement typically ranges from 30 to 60 minutes, while multiple implants may take two to three hours, tailored to your specific treatment plan.
What if there is not enough bone in my jaw for secure implant placement?
Long-term tooth loss can lead to jawbone deterioration, complicating secure dental implant placement. Yet, even patients with extensive bone loss can potentially receive implants successfully through bone grafting. This procedure restores lost bone in preparation for stable implant support, conducted in the comfort of our practice by our skilled oral surgeons.
How do I care for my new dental implant?
Once your oral surgeon confirms sufficient healing, caring for your implant is straightforward—simply brush and floss it as you would your natural teeth. Maintaining oral health with regular dental visits ensures your implant's potential longevity.
Anesthesia Options
Oral Surgery Specialists of Idaho offers the following types of in-office anesthesia and sedation.
Dental Implants in Blackfoot, ID
It is our privilege to offer you premium oral surgery care, so please feel free to contact us today at one of our two convenient locations in Pocatello and Blackfoot. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is here to guide you. Drs. Baker and Jepsen are experts in the full scope of oral surgery procedures and are available to meet with you for a consultation to discuss if dental implants are the right choice for your unique case.
If you are anxious about receiving dental implant treatment to restore your tooth or teeth, that is perfectly normal. It may help you feel more relaxed to hear some personal stories from our dental implant patients.
Hear From Dental Implant Patients
These patients can tell you about their firsthand experience undergoing dental implant treatment at our office.
Reviews From Our Dental Implant Patients
"Hi, I'm Tony. I'm from American Falls. I came to Oral Surgery Specialists of Idaho for a dental implant. When I walked into this practice, the staff here treated me very professionally. I've come to know Dr. Baker. I felt very comfortable and I knew I was in good hands. My procedure from the dental implants went amazingly well. They've healed up properly and very solid. It's been so amazing to have my teeth back. I will be forever grateful for what Dr. Baker has done for me. I would highly recommend Oral Surgery Specialists of Idaho."
"Hello, my name is Frank and I live in Pocatello, Idaho. I came to see Dr. Jepsen for a dental implant. From the minute I walk in the front door, I know I ’m in the right place. I’m greeted with a smile. My wait time is very little. The staff is just remarkable. Dr. Jepsen’s just great because he’ll come to you and he’ll tell you everything that’s going to be happening during your procedure. My dental implant procedure went very well, so I have to say overall 100% patient satisfaction. For my friends and family here in Pocatello and in Blackfoot, I highly recommend Oral Surgery Specialists of Idaho. "
"My first name is Alan. I came in for a <a title="Dental implant placement in Pocatello, ID" href="/procedure/dental-implants-pocatello-id/">dental implant in Pocatello, Idaho</a>. The staff was wonderful. They took very good care of me; they were very kind, very helpful — take care of every need and every question that you may have. It was a very easy surgery on my part. Dr. Baker's been very good, very detail-oriented. I've been extremely happy with the implant that he placed. I would give Dr. Baker five stars. Very happy with his work and with his ability to do the things he does. For my friends and family from Soda Springs and Logan area, I would definitely recommend the Oral Surgery Specialists of Idaho. They've got a great staff, wonderful doctors — put you at ease, and make sure that you're comfortable with the work that you're having done."
"My name is Bardie, I live in American Falls, and I came to see Dr. Baker for a bone graft and dental implant. Their staff is very knowledgeable. They’re very accommodating in everything that they do. We like the atmosphere here because they’re very welcoming and they answer any questions that the patients may have. They make you feel comfortable. They schedule so that you’re not waiting very long. I’ve always had a good experience here in this office. The doctors are both really good at what they do. For all of my friends in American Falls and in Blackfoot, I would highly recommend Oral Surgery Specialists of Idaho."
"Hi, my name is Robert. I’m from Pocatello, Idaho. I’ve had an extraction and a couple of implants performed by Dr. Jepsen. To describe their office, it’s just a comfortable feeling. You come in, you don’t wait very long. The staff here is very friendly. Dr. Jepsen has been very professional and very thorough, and his bedside manner has been great. My implant surgeries have all been great, and they all feel like natural teeth. For all my friends and family in Idaho Falls and Pocatello, I highly recommend Oral Surgery Specialists of Idaho."
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can a general dentist place my dental implant?
To ensure optimal results, dental implants should be placed by an experienced oral surgeon like those at Oral Surgery Specialists of Idaho, equipped with specialized skills and training for these precise surgical procedures.
2. How long is the dental implant process?
The timeline varies based on individual circumstances, ranging from several months to over a year for more complex cases. Your personalized treatment plan will outline the estimated duration based on factors such as medical history and bone health.
3. Is the dental implant procedure painful?
While discomfort may occur post-surgery, our surgeons prioritize patient comfort with advanced anesthesia techniques and precise procedures to minimize downtime.
4. What is recovery like after dental implant placement?
Most patients resume normal activities within a few days after implant placement, with dietary restrictions initially to aid healing. Detailed post-surgical instructions and pain management medications are provided to ensure a smooth recovery process.
5. What is the cost of dental implants in Blackfoot, ID?
Treatment costs vary based on individual needs, including the number of implants required, the need for bone grafting, and any necessary tooth extractions. Insurance coverage and flexible payment options are available to make treatment accessible.
Southeastern Idaho’s Premier Oral Surgery Destination
When you visit Oral Surgery Specialists of Idaho, you’ll access quality oral health care delivered with compassion and respect. We adhere to the highest standards of care and prioritize your well-being. By leveraging decades of experience and advanced technology, we provide a comprehensive suite of services designed to address your unique needs. Discover premier oral surgery services by scheduling a consultation at our practice. We can’t wait to be a partner in your journey to better oral health.