Dental Implants in Hillsboro | East Wind Dental Care

Missing teeth can affect more than just your smile. They impact your ability to eat comfortably, speak clearly, and feel confident in social situations. At East Wind Dental Care in Hillsboro, Oregon, Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) and his experienced team offer advanced dental implant solutions that restore both function and aesthetics to your smile. Dental implants represent the gold standard in tooth replacement technology, providing a permanent solution that looks, feels, and functions just like your natural teeth.

Unlike traditional dentures or bridges that sit on top of your gums or rely on adjacent teeth for support, dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into your jawbone, creating a stable foundation for replacement teeth. This innovative approach not only replaces the visible portion of your tooth but also the root, helping to preserve your jawbone and maintain your facial structure. Whether you’re missing a single tooth, multiple teeth, or need full arch restoration, dental implants can transform your oral health and quality of life. Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) and the team at East Wind Dental Care utilize cutting-edge technology including 3D CBCT imaging and digital implant planning to ensure precise placement and optimal results for patients throughout Hillsboro, Beaverton, Aloha, Tanasbourne, and Orenco Station.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are sophisticated prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth at the root level. The implant itself is a small, screw-shaped post made from biocompatible titanium or titanium alloy that serves as an artificial tooth root. This post is surgically inserted into the jawbone where it integrates with the surrounding bone tissue through a natural process called osseointegration. Once the implant has fully fused with the bone, typically over a period of three to six months, it provides a rock-solid foundation for a custom-made dental crown, bridge, or denture.

The complete dental implant system consists of three main components. The first is the implant fixture, the titanium post that anchors into the jawbone. The second component is the abutment, a small connector piece that attaches to the top of the implant and protrudes through the gum tissue. Finally, the restoration, typically a custom-designed crown, bridge, or denture, is secured to the abutment to create the visible portion of your new tooth.

Modern dental implants are available in various sizes and designs to accommodate different anatomical situations and treatment needs. The most common type is the endosteal implant, which is placed directly into the jawbone. These implants typically range from 3.5mm to 6mm in diameter and 6mm to 18mm in length, with size selection based on the specific location in the mouth and available bone volume. For patients with insufficient bone height or density, zygomatic implants or subperiosteal implants may be considered, though these are less common and reserved for special circumstances.

The materials used in modern dental implants have been extensively tested and refined over decades of clinical use. Titanium remains the material of choice due to its exceptional biocompatibility, strength, and proven track record of successful osseointegration. The surface of titanium implants is often treated with special coatings or textures that enhance bone integration and reduce healing time. Some manufacturers also offer zirconia implants, which are ceramic-based and provide a metal-free alternative for patients with specific allergies or aesthetic concerns, particularly in the front of the mouth where gum tissue may be thin.

The development of dental implant technology has revolutionized modern dentistry since Dr. Per-Ingvar Branemark’s groundbreaking discovery of osseointegration in the 1960s. Today’s implants benefit from sophisticated computer-aided design and manufacturing processes, advanced surface treatments, and decades of clinical research demonstrating success rates of 95-98% when placed by experienced practitioners like Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) at East Wind Dental Care.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants offer a comprehensive range of benefits that extend far beyond simply filling the gap left by a missing tooth. Understanding these advantages helps explain why implants have become the preferred choice for tooth replacement among both dental professionals and patients seeking the highest quality solution.

From a functional standpoint, dental implants restore your ability to chew efficiently and comfortably. Unlike removable dentures that can slip or cause discomfort while eating, implants are firmly anchored in your jawbone, allowing you to bite with nearly the same force as natural teeth. This means you can confidently enjoy all your favorite foods, from crisp apples to tender steaks, without worrying about your replacement teeth shifting or causing embarrassment. The stable foundation provided by implants also eliminates the dietary restrictions often associated with traditional dentures, supporting better nutrition and overall health.

Speech quality is another significant functional benefit. Missing teeth, especially front teeth, can cause whistling sounds or slurred speech. Traditional dentures can slip within the mouth, leading to mumbling or clicking noises during conversation. Dental implants remain securely in place, allowing you to speak naturally and clearly without the self-consciousness that often accompanies removable prosthetics. This improved speech clarity can boost confidence in professional and social situations.

The aesthetic advantages of dental implants are remarkable. Each crown is custom-designed and color-matched to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, creating a beautiful, natural-looking smile. Because implants emerge from the gum line just like natural teeth, they avoid the artificial appearance sometimes associated with traditional bridges or dentures. The preservation of jawbone that occurs with implants also maintains your facial contours, preventing the sunken, aged appearance that often develops after tooth loss. This facial support is particularly important for multiple missing teeth or full arch replacements.

Health benefits extend beyond the immediate restoration. When a tooth is lost, the jawbone in that area begins to deteriorate due to lack of stimulation from the tooth root. This bone resorption can compromise the stability of adjacent teeth and alter facial structure over time. Dental implants stimulate the jawbone through normal chewing forces, just as natural tooth roots do, effectively halting bone loss and preserving your jaw’s structural integrity. This bone preservation is perhaps the most significant long-term health advantage of choosing implants over other tooth replacement options.

Dental implants also protect your remaining natural teeth. Traditional tooth-supported bridges require grinding down adjacent healthy teeth to serve as anchors, permanently altering these teeth and making them more vulnerable to decay and other problems. Implants are self-supporting and do not rely on neighboring teeth, preserving your natural tooth structure. This conservative approach to treatment helps maintain optimal oral health for the long term.

The convenience and lifestyle benefits of dental implants cannot be overstated. Unlike removable dentures that require special cleaning procedures, messy adhesives, and nightly removal, dental implants are cared for just like natural teeth with regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings. There are no embarrassing moments of removing dentures or worrying about them slipping at inopportune times. Implants become a permanent part of your mouth, allowing you to live your life without thinking about your teeth.

Durability and longevity make dental implants an excellent investment. While the initial cost may be higher than other options, implants can last 20 to 30 years or even a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. Traditional bridges typically need replacement every 10-15 years, and dentures require frequent adjustments and eventual replacement. When you calculate the long-term costs and consider the superior quality of life, dental implants often prove to be the most cost-effective solution over time.

Understanding the procedure helps patients feel more confident and prepared.

Here’s what you can expect during your treatment journey:

The Dental Implant Process at East Wind Dental Care

Understanding the dental implant process helps patients feel more comfortable and prepared for their treatment journey. At East Wind Dental Care, Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) follows a systematic, patient-centered approach that combines advanced technology with careful attention to detail at every stage.

The process begins with a comprehensive consultation and examination. During this initial visit, Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) will discuss your concerns, evaluate your oral health, and review your medical history to ensure you’re a good candidate for implants. This assessment includes a thorough clinical examination of your teeth, gums, and bite, as well as advanced 3D CBCT cone beam computed tomography imaging. This specialized X-ray technology creates detailed three-dimensional images of your jaw, allowing Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) to precisely assess bone density, volume, and quality, as well as identify the exact location of critical structures like nerves and sinuses. This level of detailed imaging is essential for safe, accurate implant placement.

Based on the examination and imaging results, Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) will develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Using sophisticated digital implant planning software, he can virtually place the implants in the optimal positions before surgery even begins. This digital planning process allows for precise determination of implant size, position, and angulation, ensuring the best possible functional and aesthetic outcomes. During this planning phase, you’ll also discuss the timeline, costs, and any preparatory procedures that may be needed, such as tooth extraction or bone grafting.

If bone grafting is necessary, this procedure is typically performed several months before implant placement to allow adequate healing time. Bone grafting involves adding bone material to areas where the existing bone is insufficient to support an implant. This may be needed if you’ve experienced significant bone loss due to periodontal disease, prolonged tooth absence, or trauma. Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) uses high-quality bone graft materials that encourage natural bone regeneration, creating a solid foundation for your future implant. While this adds time to the overall treatment, it’s essential for long-term implant success.

The implant placement surgery is typically performed in the comfortable setting of East Wind Dental Care’s modern office. Using local anesthesia to ensure your comfort, Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) makes a small incision in the gum tissue to expose the underlying bone. Using the precise measurements and positioning determined during the digital planning phase, he carefully prepares the implant site by creating a precisely sized channel in the bone. The titanium implant is then inserted into this prepared site at the exact depth and angle specified in the treatment plan. In many cases, the gum tissue is sutured closed over the implant, allowing it to heal undisturbed, though in some situations, a healing abutment may be placed immediately. The entire surgical procedure for a single implant typically takes 60-90 minutes and is generally well-tolerated by patients.

Following implant placement, the critical healing phase begins. During the next three to six months, osseointegration occurs as bone cells grow around and bond with the titanium implant surface, creating a permanent anchor. This biological process is what makes dental implants so stable and long-lasting. During this healing period, you’ll be provided with a temporary restoration if needed, especially for visible areas, ensuring you can smile confidently while your implant integrates. Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) will provide detailed post-operative instructions and schedule follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress.

Once osseointegration is complete, confirmed through clinical examination and X-rays, you’ll return to East Wind Dental Care for the abutment placement. This minor procedure involves reopening the gum tissue if necessary and attaching the abutment to the implant. The abutment serves as the connection point between the implant and the final crown. After the abutment is placed, your gums are allowed to heal around it for a couple of weeks, shaping naturally to create an aesthetic emergence profile.

The final phase involves creating and placing your custom crown. Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) takes precise impressions of your teeth and the implant site, which are sent to a skilled dental laboratory where technicians craft a crown specifically designed for your mouth. Using advanced materials like porcelain or zirconia, the crown is meticulously shaped and colored to match your natural teeth perfectly. In some cases, East Wind Dental Care’s CEREC technology allows for same-day crown fabrication. When your crown is ready, it’s carefully attached to the abutment, completing your implant restoration. Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) ensures proper fit, bite alignment, and aesthetics before you leave with your new permanent tooth.

Throughout the entire process, which typically spans four to eight months from start to finish, the team at East Wind Dental Care provides comprehensive support, clear communication, and expert care. While the timeline may seem lengthy, each phase is essential for creating a durable, functional, and beautiful result that can last decades.

Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Dental implants offer an excellent solution for many people with missing teeth, but determining candidacy requires careful evaluation of several important factors. At East Wind Dental Care, Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) conducts thorough assessments to ensure each patient is well-suited for implant treatment and likely to achieve successful, long-lasting results.

The most fundamental requirement for dental implant candidacy is adequate jawbone density and volume. Because implants are anchored directly into the jawbone, sufficient bone is needed to support and stabilize them. The 3D CBCT imaging performed at East Wind Dental Care allows Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) to precisely measure bone dimensions and assess bone quality throughout your jaw. Ideally, the bone should be at least 10mm in height and have adequate width to accommodate the implant. If your bone has deteriorated due to long-term tooth loss, periodontal disease, or trauma, bone grafting procedures can often build up the necessary structure, making implants possible even in cases where bone loss has occurred.

Overall health status plays a significant role in implant candidacy. Successful osseointegration and healing require a healthy immune system and good circulation. Certain medical conditions can complicate the implant process or reduce success rates. Uncontrolled diabetes, for example, can impair healing and increase infection risk, though patients with well-managed diabetes are often excellent candidates. Autoimmune disorders, active cancer treatment, and certain medications, particularly bisphosphonates used for osteoporosis, may require special consideration or treatment modifications. During your consultation, Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) will review your complete medical history to identify any factors that might affect treatment.

Oral health is another crucial consideration. Active periodontal disease must be treated and controlled before implant placement, as the bacteria and inflammation associated with gum disease can jeopardize implant success. Similarly, untreated tooth decay or oral infections need to be resolved first. The good news is that these issues can typically be addressed through preliminary dental treatments, allowing you to proceed with implants once your oral health is optimized. Good oral hygiene habits are essential, as maintaining implants requires the same conscientious brushing and flossing needed for natural teeth.

Lifestyle factors also influence candidacy. Smoking significantly increases the risk of implant failure by impairing blood flow and healing capacity. While smokers can receive implants, success rates are notably lower, and Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) strongly recommends smoking cessation before and after implant surgery to maximize the chances of successful integration. Heavy alcohol consumption can similarly affect healing and is best moderated during the treatment process.

Age considerations are generally favorable for implants. While implants are not recommended for children and teenagers whose jawbones are still developing, adults of any age can be candidates if they meet the health criteria. In fact, many seniors find dental implants particularly life-changing, as they provide far superior function and comfort compared to traditional dentures. The key is overall health rather than chronological age.

Commitment to the treatment process is an often-overlooked aspect of candidacy. Dental implant treatment requires multiple appointments over several months, diligent home care during healing, and regular follow-up visits. Patients must be willing to invest the time and effort needed for successful outcomes. Additionally, while financing options are available, implants represent a financial investment that patients should be prepared to make.

If you’re missing one or more teeth and desire a permanent, natural-looking solution that preserves your oral health, you’re likely a candidate for dental implants. The best way to determine your specific candidacy is through a personal consultation with Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) at East Wind Dental Care. Call (503) 614-0198 to schedule your comprehensive evaluation and take the first step toward restoring your smile with confidence.

Types of Dental Implants and Restoration Options

Dental implant treatment is not a one-size-fits-all solution. At East Wind Dental Care, Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) offers several types of implant restorations designed to meet different needs, from replacing a single missing tooth to restoring an entire arch of teeth. Understanding these options helps you make informed decisions about the best treatment for your situation.

Single tooth implants represent the most common application of implant technology. When you’ve lost one tooth due to decay, trauma, or other reasons, a single implant provides an ideal replacement. The implant is placed in the exact location of the missing tooth root, and after osseointegration, a custom crown is attached to restore both function and appearance. This approach is superior to a traditional bridge because it doesn’t require altering adjacent healthy teeth. Single implants look completely natural, function like your original tooth, and help preserve the underlying jawbone. They’re perfect for patients who have lost individual teeth but maintain good oral health otherwise.

Multiple tooth implants using an implant-supported bridge offer an efficient solution when several consecutive teeth are missing. Rather than placing an implant for each missing tooth, Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) can strategically position two or more implants to support a multi-tooth bridge. For example, if you’re missing three adjacent teeth, two implants can be placed at either end of the gap, and a three-unit bridge can span between them. This approach reduces the number of surgical sites while still providing exceptional stability and preserving bone in the implant areas. Implant-supported bridges feel more natural and secure than traditional tooth-supported bridges and don’t place stress on neighboring natural teeth.

For patients missing most or all teeth in one or both arches, full arch restoration provides a transformative solution. All-on-4 is an innovative approach that uses just four strategically placed implants to support a complete arch of prosthetic teeth. The posterior implants are angled to maximize contact with available bone and avoid anatomical structures like sinuses, eliminating the need for bone grafting in many cases. This technique offers several advantages, including reduced treatment time, fewer surgical sites, and lower overall cost compared to placing individual implants for each missing tooth. The result is a fixed, non-removable set of teeth that looks natural and functions remarkably well.

For patients who prefer or require more extensive implant support, full arch restorations can also be accomplished using six to eight implants per arch. This approach, sometimes called All-on-6 or All-on-8, provides additional stability and force distribution, which can be beneficial for patients with strong bite forces or specific anatomical considerations. The prosthetic arch in these cases can be fixed permanently or designed as a removable overdenture that snaps onto the implants, offering excellent retention while allowing for easier cleaning.

Implant-supported dentures represent another option for patients missing all teeth in an arch who want improved stability without the commitment of a fixed restoration. In this approach, two to four implants are placed in the jaw, and special attachments are incorporated into both the implants and the denture. The denture snaps firmly onto the implants, providing dramatically better retention and stability than traditional dentures while still allowing removal for cleaning. This option is particularly popular for lower arch restoration, where traditional dentures often perform poorly due to limited ridge support.

Mini dental implants offer a solution for certain situations where standard implants may not be feasible due to limited space or bone volume. These narrower-diameter implants can be used to stabilize lower dentures or replace small teeth like lower incisors. While not suitable for all applications, mini implants can be placed with less invasive surgery and sometimes allow for immediate loading of the prosthetic component.

During your consultation at East Wind Dental Care, Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) will evaluate your specific situation, including the number and location of missing teeth, bone quality and volume, budget considerations, and personal preferences, to recommend the most appropriate implant solution. The goal is always to provide optimal function, aesthetics, and long-term success while respecting your individual circumstances and treatment goals. Whether you need to replace a single tooth or restore your entire smile, modern implant dentistry offers proven solutions that can dramatically improve your quality of life.

How Does the Process Work?

Now that you understand the benefits, let’s explore how the process works.

Step 1: Consultation
Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation where we discuss your concerns, evaluate your oral health, and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Step 2: Treatment Planning
Using advanced diagnostic technology, we create a detailed plan tailored to your specific needs and goals.

Step 3: Treatment
Our experienced team performs your procedure with precision and care, ensuring your comfort throughout the process.

Step 4: Follow-up
We monitor your progress and provide ongoing support to ensure optimal results and long-term success.

Let’s discuss the financial aspects of your treatment.

Understanding the investment in your dental health is an important part of your decision.

Cost and Financing Options for Dental Implants

Understanding the investment involved in dental implant treatment is an important part of the decision-making process. At East Wind Dental Care, Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) and his team believe in transparent pricing and offering flexible payment solutions to make this life-changing treatment accessible to patients throughout Hillsboro and the surrounding communities.

The cost of dental implants varies based on several factors, including the number of implants needed, the complexity of the case, and whether additional procedures like bone grafting or tooth extraction are required. For a single tooth implant, including the implant placement, abutment, and custom crown, patients can typically expect an investment in the range of $3,000 to $5,000. This comprehensive fee covers the surgical procedure, healing components, final restoration, and associated appointments throughout the treatment process.

Multiple tooth replacements and full arch restorations have different cost structures. An implant-supported bridge to replace three or four teeth might range from $6,000 to $12,000, while full arch solutions like All-on-4 typically range from $20,000 to $30,000 per arch. While these numbers may seem substantial, it’s important to consider the longevity and quality of life improvements that implants provide compared to traditional alternatives that require periodic replacement and ongoing maintenance costs.

Additional procedures that may be necessary can affect the total investment. Bone grafting, when needed to build adequate bone volume, typically adds $300 to $3,000 depending on the extent of grafting required. Tooth extraction, if a failing tooth needs removal before implant placement, adds $150 to $500 per tooth. Sinus lift procedures for upper posterior implants may add $1,500 to $3,000. During your consultation, Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) will provide a detailed treatment plan with complete cost breakdown, so you’ll know exactly what to expect with no surprises.

Dental insurance coverage for implants varies significantly between plans. While many traditional dental insurance policies have historically categorized implants as cosmetic or elective procedures with limited or no coverage, this is changing as implants become recognized as the standard of care for tooth replacement. Some modern dental plans now provide partial coverage for implants, typically covering a portion of the crown or a percentage of the total treatment, similar to how they would cover a bridge. Medical insurance may sometimes contribute to implant costs when tooth loss resulted from accident or medical condition. The knowledgeable team at East Wind Dental Care will work with your insurance provider to maximize any available benefits and provide documentation to support your claim.

Recognizing that dental implants represent a significant investment, East Wind Dental Care offers several financing options to help make treatment more manageable. CareCredit is accepted at the practice, providing healthcare-specific credit with promotional financing options that can include interest-free periods when minimum payments are made. This allows you to break the cost into affordable monthly payments that fit your budget.

In-house payment plans are also available for qualified patients, allowing you to arrange a payment schedule directly with the practice without involving third-party financing companies. These flexible arrangements can be customized based on your treatment timeline and financial situation, making it easier to proceed with the care you need without delay.

When evaluating the cost of dental implants, it’s valuable to consider the long-term perspective. While implants require a higher initial investment compared to bridges or dentures, their durability and longevity often make them more cost-effective over time. A properly maintained dental implant can last 20 to 30 years or even a lifetime, whereas bridges typically need replacement every 10-15 years, and dentures require regular adjustments, relining, and eventual replacement. When you factor in the superior function, preservation of oral health, and improved quality of life that implants provide, many patients find them to be invaluable.

To learn more about the specific costs for your situation and explore financing options, contact East Wind Dental Care at (503) 614-0198 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O). The team will provide a transparent cost estimate and work with you to develop a financial plan that makes your dental implant treatment achievable.

Your choice of dentist significantly impacts your results and experience.

Your choice of dentist significantly impacts your results and experience.

Why Choose East Wind Dental Care for Your Dental Implants

Selecting the right dental practice and provider for your implant treatment is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in the process. The expertise of your dentist, the technology available, and the overall quality of care significantly influence both the immediate success and long-term outcomes of your implants. East Wind Dental Care in Hillsboro offers compelling advantages that set the practice apart as a premier destination for dental implant treatment.

Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) brings extensive training, experience, and dedication to excellence in implant dentistry. Known affectionately as Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O), he has invested countless hours in advanced education specifically focused on implant placement and restoration, going well beyond the basic dental school curriculum. This specialized training enables him to handle complex cases with confidence and precision, from straightforward single tooth replacements to challenging full arch rehabilitations. Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O)’s meticulous approach to treatment planning, combined with his surgical skill and artistic eye for aesthetics, consistently delivers results that exceed patient expectations.

The technology available at East Wind Dental Care represents a significant advantage for implant patients. The practice is equipped with 3D CBCT cone beam imaging, which provides detailed three-dimensional views of your jaw anatomy that conventional X-rays cannot match. This advanced imaging allows Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) to assess bone quality and quantity with precision, identify the exact location of critical anatomical structures, and plan implant placement with millimeter accuracy. This level of detailed planning translates directly to safer procedures, better positioning, and superior long-term results.

Digital implant planning software takes this technological advantage even further. Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) uses sophisticated computer programs to virtually place your implants before surgery, determining the optimal size, position, and angulation for each implant based on your unique anatomy and restorative goals. This digital workflow ensures that implants are positioned not just for successful osseointegration, but also for ideal aesthetics and proper load distribution during function. The precision achieved through digital planning minimizes surgical time, enhances predictability, and improves outcomes.

CEREC technology available in the practice enables same-day crown fabrication for certain cases, streamlining the restorative process and reducing the number of appointments needed. This advanced CAD/CAM system allows the team to design and mill high-quality ceramic restorations right in the office, offering convenience and efficiency that traditional laboratory-based workflows cannot match.

The comprehensive nature of care at East Wind Dental Care means that your entire implant treatment, from initial consultation through final restoration, can be coordinated within one familiar, comfortable practice. There’s no need to be referred to multiple specialists in different locations. This continuity of care ensures better communication, more cohesive treatment planning, and a more convenient, less stressful experience for you as a patient.

Patient comfort and care are central priorities at East Wind Dental Care. The team understands that dental procedures, particularly surgical ones, can cause anxiety for many patients. From the moment you enter the welcoming office at 7546 NE Shaleen St in Hillsboro, you’ll experience a culture of compassion, respect, and genuine concern for your wellbeing. Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) and his staff take time to thoroughly explain procedures, answer all your questions, and ensure you feel informed and comfortable at every stage. Modern anesthesia techniques and a gentle chairside manner make even surgical procedures surprisingly manageable for most patients.

The practice’s commitment to serving the broader community is evident in its accessibility to patients throughout Hillsboro, Beaverton, Aloha, Tanasbourne, and Orenco Station. Convenient scheduling, including early morning and evening appointments when available, helps accommodate busy lifestyles. The friendly administrative team assists with insurance claims and financing arrangements, removing obstacles that might otherwise delay needed treatment.

When you choose East Wind Dental Care for your dental implant treatment, you’re choosing a practice that combines clinical excellence, advanced technology, comprehensive services, and genuine patient-centered care. Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) and his team are committed to helping you achieve a healthy, functional, beautiful smile that enhances your quality of life for years to come.

We understand you may have questions about your treatment. Here are answers to the most common concerns:

We understand you may have questions about your treatment. Here are answers to the most common concerns:

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants

How long do dental implants last?

Dental implants are designed to be a permanent tooth replacement solution. With proper care and maintenance, including good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, implants can last 20 to 30 years or even a lifetime. The titanium implant post itself, once successfully integrated with the bone, rarely fails. The crown attached to the implant may eventually need replacement due to normal wear, typically after 10-15 years, but this is a simple procedure that doesn’t affect the implant itself. Studies show success rates of 95-98% for properly placed and maintained implants, making them the most durable tooth replacement option available.

Is the dental implant procedure painful?

Most patients are pleasantly surprised by how comfortable the implant procedure is. During the surgery, local anesthesia completely numbs the treatment area, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure itself. Many patients report feeling only pressure and vibration. After the anesthesia wears off, some discomfort, swelling, and minor bruising are normal and typically managed well with over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen. Most patients describe the discomfort as less severe than a tooth extraction and return to normal activities within a few days. Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) provides detailed post-operative instructions and remains available to address any concerns during your recovery period.

How long does the entire implant process take?

The complete dental implant process typically takes four to eight months from initial consultation to final crown placement. This timeline includes the consultation and planning phase (1-2 weeks), the implant placement surgery, the osseointegration healing period (3-6 months), abutment placement (1 visit), gum healing around the abutment (2 weeks), and crown fabrication and placement (2-3 weeks). If bone grafting is needed, add an additional 3-6 months before implant placement. While this may seem lengthy, each phase is essential for creating a strong, lasting result. For patients seeking faster solutions, certain cases may qualify for immediate load protocols where a temporary crown is placed the same day as the implant.

Can I get dental implants if I have gum disease?

Active periodontal disease must be treated and brought under control before implant placement. The bacteria and inflammation associated with gum disease can prevent proper osseointegration and significantly increase the risk of implant failure. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t get implants. Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) can provide periodontal treatment to eliminate the infection and restore gum health, after which implant treatment can proceed safely. Once your implants are placed, maintaining excellent oral hygiene and regular professional cleanings is essential to prevent peri-implantitis, a condition similar to gum disease that affects implants.

What is the success rate for dental implants?

Modern dental implants have an excellent track record with success rates of 95-98% when placed by experienced practitioners like Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O). Success rates vary slightly based on the location in the mouth, with lower jaw implants typically showing slightly higher success rates than upper jaw implants due to denser bone. Factors that influence success include overall health, oral hygiene, smoking status, and bone quality. Patients who follow post-operative instructions, maintain good oral care, attend regular checkups, and avoid smoking achieve the highest success rates.

Am I too old for dental implants?

Age alone is rarely a disqualifying factor for dental implants. What matters is your overall health and bone quality rather than your chronological age. Many patients in their 70s, 80s, and even 90s successfully receive implants and enjoy the improved quality of life they provide. In fact, older patients often benefit most dramatically from implants, as they eliminate the frustrations of poorly fitting dentures. As long as you’re healthy enough to undergo a routine dental extraction, you’re likely healthy enough for implant placement. Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) will evaluate your specific situation during your consultation to determine if implants are appropriate for you.

Can dental implants fail, and what happens if they do?

While dental implants have high success rates, failure can occasionally occur, most commonly during the osseointegration phase if the bone doesn’t properly bond with the implant. Early failure may result from infection, insufficient bone quality, smoking, or compromised healing. Late failure, occurring years after successful integration, is usually related to peri-implantitis caused by bacterial infection due to inadequate oral hygiene. If an implant fails, it typically needs to be removed. The good news is that in most cases, after a healing period, a new implant can be placed, often with bone grafting to enhance the site. Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O)’s careful planning, precise surgical technique, and thorough patient education minimize the risk of failure.

How do I care for my dental implants?

Caring for dental implants is remarkably similar to caring for natural teeth. Brush at least twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush, paying attention to all surfaces of the crown and the area where it meets the gum. Floss daily using regular dental floss or specialized implant floss to remove plaque from around the implant. Interdental brushes or water flossers can be helpful additions to your routine. Avoid using your implant teeth to open packages or bite hard objects like ice. Schedule regular dental checkups and professional cleanings at East Wind Dental Care, typically every six months, so Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) can monitor your implant and address any issues early. With proper care, your implants should serve you well for decades.

Will my dental insurance cover implants?

Dental insurance coverage for implants varies widely among plans. Traditional policies often provided limited or no coverage, categorizing implants as elective. However, as implants have become the recognized standard of care, more plans are including them with partial coverage, typically covering 50% of the crown or a percentage of the total treatment similar to bridge coverage. Some plans have waiting periods or annual maximum limitations that apply. Medical insurance may contribute in cases where tooth loss resulted from accident or medical condition. The team at East Wind Dental Care will review your specific policy, submit pre-authorization requests, and work to maximize your benefits. Even without insurance coverage, financing options make implants accessible.

Can I get all my teeth replaced with implants in one day?

For certain full arch restoration cases, immediate load protocols like All-on-4 can provide you with a full set of temporary teeth on the same day as implant placement. During a single surgical appointment, Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) places four to six strategically positioned implants in your jaw and attaches a temporary prosthetic arch that allows immediate function. While these temporary teeth will be replaced with permanent restorations after complete healing and osseointegration, you leave the office with functional teeth rather than going without. Not all patients qualify for same-day teeth, as this approach requires adequate bone density and specific anatomical conditions. Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) will evaluate whether you’re a candidate for this accelerated treatment during your consultation.

Take the First Step Toward Your New Smile

If you’re living with missing teeth and ready to explore the life-changing benefits of dental implants, East Wind Dental Care is here to help. Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) and his experienced team have helped countless patients throughout Hillsboro, Beaverton, Aloha, Tanasbourne, and Orenco Station restore their smiles with beautiful, functional dental implants that stand the test of time.

Your journey to a complete, confident smile begins with a comprehensive consultation where Dr. Merat Ostovar (Dr. O) will evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals, and develop a personalized treatment plan designed specifically for you. Using advanced 3D imaging and digital planning technology, we’ll show you exactly how dental implants can transform your smile and quality of life.

Don’t let missing teeth hold you back any longer. Contact East Wind Dental Care today at (503) 614-0198 to schedule your dental implant consultation. Our office is conveniently located at 7546 NE Shaleen St, Hillsboro, OR 97124. We look forward to welcoming you to our dental family and helping you achieve the healthy, beautiful smile you deserve.

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East Wind Dental Care

Related Services

Explore our other dental services that may be of interest:

• All-on-4 Dental Implants
• Dental Crowns & Bridges
• Dentures
• Sedation Dentistry
• Cosmetic Dentistry

7546 NE Shaleen St, Hillsboro, OR 97124 Phone: (503) 614-0198

Proudly serving Hillsboro, Beaverton, Aloha, Tanasbourne, Orenco Station, and surrounding communities with advanced dental implant solutions.