“What I love about dental implants is the elegance of the solution we provide. Patients come to us wanting to feel whole again, to eat, smile, and move through life without thinking about their teeth. Our job is to bring together the right techniques, technology, and judgment to make that happen as gracefully as possible. I take a lot of pride in creating a result that feels natural, beautifully planned, and deeply personal to each patient.”
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small posts made from titanium, ceramic or zirconia that are placed into the jaw to replace missing tooth roots. Once they fuse with the bone, they create a strong foundation for crowns, bridges, or full-arch restorations.
For many patients, implants are the most predictable solution for restoring comfort, function, and confidence. They prevent bone loss, protect neighboring teeth, and provide the stability needed for eating and speaking with confidence.
Whether you are missing a single tooth or need a full arch restored, implants can be tailored to your needs as part of a customized treatment plan that supports long-term oral health.
In this video, Dr. Epstein explains the basics of dental implants, including the three parts that make up an implant (the titanium post, the abutment, and the crown). He shares why implant surgery is often easier and less painful than patients expect, how advanced technology improves precision, and why replacing missing teeth promptly helps preserve bone and overall oral health.
Our Approach to Dental Implants
Our board-certified oral surgeons, Dr. Epstein and Dr. Kim, use advanced technology and gentle techniques to create results that look natural, feel secure, and last for years to come. They have built a reputation for making dental implants efficient, precise, and patient-centered.
Advanced Technology for Precise Results
Every step of implant treatment is guided by a digital workflow designed for accuracy, efficiency, and comfort.
- X-Nav Dynamic Navigation: Provides real-time tracking for precise control of depth, angulation, and position during surgery. This results in smaller incisions, faster recovery, and ideal implant placement.
- Versah® Osseodensification Burs: Reshape and densify bone instead of removing it, improving stability and reducing the need for grafting.
- Photogrammetry: Captures implant positions with micron-level accuracy, eliminating distortion from traditional impressions and ensuring restorations fit perfectly the first time.
- 3D Printing: Allows for same-day temporary restorations, so patients leave with a natural-looking tooth or full-arch prosthesis immediately after surgery.
Together, these tools create a seamless digital workflow that improves precision, comfort, and long-term results.
“Technology is only valuable when it improves outcomes for patients. We have built our workflow around accuracy, efficiency, and comfort, so every step feels seamless.”
Comfort and Safety First
Your comfort and safety are always at the forefront. We offer a full range of sedation options, from nitrous oxide to IV sedation and general anesthesia. Our surgeons also use newer, safer medications not commonly available elsewhere.
For recovery, we provide Exparel, a long-lasting anesthetic that reduces the need for narcotics, and platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) to support natural healing and decrease swelling.
Expertise in Complex Cases
Our team is highly experienced in immediate implants, where consultation, extraction, bone grafting, and implant placement can often be completed in a single visit.
For patients that require full-arch replacement teeth, we work alongside our in-house prosthodontist to deliver same-day temporary solutions.
A Focus on Natural, Lasting Results
Dental implants are designed to look, feel, and function like real teeth. By combining premium materials with advanced surgical planning, we create results that restore comfort, stability, and confidence.
Our goal is to give patients the lasting peace of mind that comes from a healthy, complete smile and improved oral health.
Implant Options at a Glance
Dental implants can be tailored to different needs, whether you are missing one tooth or an entire arch. Here are some of the most common options we provide:
| Option | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Single Implant | One missing tooth | Preserves bone and protects neighboring teeth. |
| Implant-Supported Bridge | Several missing teeth in a row | Avoids reshaping healthy teeth for a traditional bridge. |
| All-on-4® / Full Arch | Replacing a full arch of teeth | Stable, permanent teeth with a same-day temporary prosthesis. |
| Implant-Supported Dentures | Patients missing most or all teeth | Provides a secure, removable option that is more stable than traditional dentures. |
| Implant-Retained Dentures | Patients missing most or all teeth | Offers a fixed solution that feels closer to natural teeth and does not shift during eating or speaking. |
The Dental Implant Process
Understanding the process can make treatment feel less overwhelming. Here is what you can expect when having dental implant surgery at Green Lake Oral & Facial Surgery and JAWNT Oral Surgery.
Consultation and Imaging
Your first visit is dedicated to evaluation and education. A 3D CBCT scan shows us the details of your bone, nerves, and surrounding teeth. Together, we will discuss whether implants are right for you and review your options, including sedation, material choices, and whether bone grafting is needed.
Day of Surgery
When you arrive, our team makes sure you are comfortable and cared for before treatment begins. After your chosen sedation takes effect, your surgeon will precisely place the implants using X-guide technology.
Recovery and Follow-Up
Exparel and PRF help reduce discomfort and speed recovery. Most patients return to daily activities within just a few days. You will leave with clear instructions and receive a same-day follow-up call from our team. We remain available to answer questions throughout your healing process.
Leah’s Dental Implant Story
We’re Here to Support You
We welcome referrals, second opinions, and patients who want implant treatment from experienced surgeons who combine precision with compassion.
Our practice is in network with Delta Dental, Cigna, Premera, Regence, Aetna, GEHA, and LifeWise. For other dental insurance plans, we are happy to file claims on your behalf to help you receive the maximum reimbursement available.
We also offer convenient financing options through CareCredit, Cherry, and Proceed Finance. From consultation through recovery, our administrative team is here to make every step clear and stress-free.
FAQs
Why should I choose dental implants?
Dental implants are the most natural-feeling and reliable solution for tooth loss. They preserve bone, protect surrounding teeth, and provide stable replacement teeth that look and function like your own.
What is the success rate of implants?
With today’s techniques and technology, dental implants have a 95% success rate. When properly placed and cared for, they can last for decades or even a lifetime.
How much do dental implants cost?
The cost varies depending on how many implants you need and whether additional procedures like bone grafting or extractions are required. At your consultation, we will provide a detailed treatment plan with a clear estimate and review financing options.
How many teeth can I replace?
Dental implants can replace a single tooth, multiple teeth with a bridge, or a full arch with solutions like All-on-4 or implant-supported dentures.
Can my general dentist place dental implants?
Some general dentists place implants, but oral surgeons are the most qualified specialists for this procedure. Our board-certified oral surgeons have advanced surgical training, hospital experience, and access to a full range of sedation options for both routine and complex cases.
Am I a candidate for dental implants?
Most patients are candidates for dental implants. Even if other doctors have told you that you do not qualify for implants, Dr. Epstein’s advanced surgical training allows him to perform procedures that fall outside the scope of other specialists. We can determine your candidacy after a comprehensive evaluation at our office.
What if I don’t have enough bone to support implants?
Bone loss is a natural consequence of losing teeth. We specialize in advanced bone grafting techniques to restore the proper foundation for dental implants. In cases where bone is insufficient in the upper jaw, Dr. Epstein can place zygomatic implants, which secure to the zygoma (cheek) bones instead.
Does implant surgery hurt?
With our sophisticated technology, surgical skill, and custom sedation options, the chances of a painful surgery at our office are virtually zero. We are careful to ensure your treatment is comfortable from beginning to end.
Where will my implant surgery take place?
All implant procedures are performed at our offices in Seattle or Shoreline. Both locations are equipped with advanced technology and designed for your safety and comfort.
Can I have a tooth removed and an implant placed the same day?
Yes, in many cases. Our surgeons are highly experienced in immediate implants, which means we can extract a tooth, place the implant, and even provide a temporary crown in one visit.
What if I experience complications?
Complications with implants are rare, but if they do occur, we are here to help. Our surgeons have the expertise to manage issues quickly and safely to protect your health and your investment.
What if I currently have an implant that’s failing?
We can evaluate your existing implant, determine the cause of the problem, and provide options to restore stability and function.
Who restores my dental implants?
While we do not provide the final restoration, we will partner with your dentist to ensure a seamless treatment process from consultation to final restoration.
How do I care for my dental implants?
Dental implants are cared for much like natural teeth. While they will not stain or decay, they are susceptible to bacteria that accumulates without proper brushing and flossing. Be sure to maintain healthy oral hygiene habits and visit your general dentist regularly to keep both your natural teeth and your implants safe.
Where can I get dental implants near me?
At Green Lake Oral & Facial Surgery in Seattle and JAWNT Surgery in Shoreline, we provide a full range of dental implant options. Whether you need a single implant or a full arch restoration, our surgeons use advanced technology and a patient-centered approach to deliver predictable, comfortable results.
