105 E. 10th Ave., Post Falls, ID 83854
208-773-8388 
Missing teeth can affect the way you eat, speak and feel about your smile. Dental implants in Post Falls, Idaho, offer a long-term tooth-replacement option designed to restore chewing function, support your bite and provide a natural-looking smile. Whether you are missing one tooth, several teeth or an entire arch, dental implants may provide a stable foundation for restoring your smile.
At 7 Day Dental Smiles, our dentists evaluate your oral health, jawbone and treatment goals to determine whether dental implants are right for you. Using detailed imaging and personalized treatment planning, our team can help you understand your options for replacing missing teeth. Call 208-773-8388 to schedule a dental implant consultation.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small posts placed in the jawbone to replace the roots of missing teeth. After the surrounding bone has healed around the implant, it can support a custom restoration such as a dental crown, dental bridge or implant-supported denture.
Because dental implants are anchored in the jaw, they can provide a stable foundation for replacing one tooth, several teeth or many missing teeth.
Unlike traditional tooth-replacement options that rely on neighboring teeth or rest on the gums, dental implants provide support directly from the jawbone. This can help restore comfortable chewing, maintain space between teeth and support the surrounding bone.
Benefits of Dental Implants
For patients who qualify, dental implants may offer several advantages over other tooth-replacement options:
- Natural-looking results: Implant restorations are designed to complement the appearance of surrounding teeth.
- Stable tooth replacement: Dental implants provide a secure foundation for crowns, bridges or dentures.
- Improved chewing function: Replacing missing teeth can make eating more comfortable and efficient.
- Jawbone support: Implants stimulate the surrounding bone and may help reduce bone loss in the areas where they are placed.
- Preservation of neighboring teeth: A single implant can replace a missing tooth without requiring adjacent teeth to support a traditional bridge.
- Versatile treatment options: Implants can support restorations for one tooth, several teeth or an entire arch.
- Long-term function: With appropriate care, implants may remain functional for many years.
Results depend on your oral health, bone support, treatment plan and ongoing maintenance. Our dentists can explain the potential benefits and limitations during your consultation.
Who Is a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Many adults with one or more missing teeth may be candidates for dental implants. Your oral health, general health, gum condition and available jawbone all play a role in determining whether implant treatment is appropriate.
During your evaluation, our dentists may consider:
- The number and location of missing teeth
- Your gum health
- The amount and condition of supporting jawbone
- Your bite and neighboring teeth
- Your medical history
- Whether a damaged tooth needs to be removed first
- Your goals for appearance, function and long-term tooth replacement
Some patients may need additional treatment before implant placement. If there is not enough bone to support an implant, bone grafting or another preparatory procedure may be discussed.
A consultation and appropriate imaging allow our dentists to determine whether dental implants or another restorative dentistry option may better fit your needs.
Dental Implant Options for Missing Teeth
Dental implants can support different types of restorations depending on how many teeth are missing. Our team will help you understand which approach may be appropriate for your oral health and treatment goals.
Single-Tooth Dental Implants
A single dental implant can replace one missing tooth without requiring neighboring teeth to support a traditional bridge. Once the implant is ready for restoration, a custom dental crown is attached and designed to complement the surrounding teeth.
Single-tooth implants may be considered when a tooth has been lost because of injury, decay or another dental condition.
Multiple Dental Implants
When several teeth are missing, dental implants may be used to support multiple individual restorations or an implant-supported bridge.
An implant-supported bridge can replace several missing teeth while using implants for support rather than relying entirely on adjacent natural teeth.
The number and placement of implants needed will depend on the location of the missing teeth, available bone and the type of final restoration planned.
Full-Arch Dental Implants and Implant-Supported Dentures
Patients who are missing most or all of the teeth in an arch may benefit from dentures supported by dental implants.
Implant support may provide greater stability than a traditional removable denture and can help reduce unwanted movement while eating or speaking.
Depending on the treatment plan, the final restoration may be removable or fixed. Learn more about implant-supported dentures and how they work.
Patients considering non-implant tooth-replacement options can also explore our dentures and partials services.
Dental Implant Consultation
Your dental implant consultation focuses on determining whether implant treatment is a realistic fit for your oral health, needs and goals.
Our dentists will examine your mouth, review your medical and dental history and discuss how many teeth need to be replaced.
Your evaluation may include:
- Digital X-rays or advanced imaging
- An assessment of jawbone height and density
- A review of gum health
- An evaluation of your bite
- A discussion of whether tooth extraction or other preparation is needed
- Planning for the final crown, bridge or denture
- A review of treatment timing and healing
- A discussion of estimated treatment costs and available payment options
After gathering this information, our team can explain your tooth-replacement options and outline the steps involved in your proposed treatment.
What Does the Dental Implant Process Involve?
Dental implant treatment is usually completed in stages rather than during a single appointment. The exact sequence and timeline depend on your oral health and treatment plan.
Treatment may include:
- Consultation and planning: Your mouth is evaluated and imaging is used to assess the implant site and supporting bone.
- Preparation: Any necessary tooth extraction, gum treatment or bone grafting may be completed before implant placement.
- Implant placement: The dental implant is positioned in the jawbone.
- Healing: The surrounding bone is given time to integrate with the implant and create a stable foundation.
- Dental implant restoration: A crown, bridge or denture is attached once the implant is ready to support the final restoration.
- Ongoing maintenance: Routine exams, professional cleanings and daily oral hygiene help maintain the implant and surrounding tissues.
Some cases may follow a different sequence. Our dentists will explain your individual treatment plan and what to expect at each stage.
How Long Does Dental Implant Treatment Take?
Dental implant treatment often takes several months because the jawbone needs time to heal around the implant. The total timeline depends on factors such as the number of implants, the condition of the bone and gums, healing and whether preparatory treatment is needed.
Your dentists will provide a more individualized timeline after evaluating your mouth and developing your treatment plan.
What If I Need a Tooth Removed First?
A damaged or infected tooth may need to be removed before an implant can be placed. In some situations, implant placement may be planned around the time of extraction. In others, the area may need time to heal first.
Our team will review the condition of the tooth and explain whether a tooth extraction, bone grafting or another step is recommended.
If severe pain, infection or a damaged tooth requires prompt attention, contact our team or learn more about our emergency dentistry services.
What If I Have Lost Bone?
Jawbone can change after tooth loss. If there is not enough bone to support an implant in the desired location, bone grafting or another preparatory procedure may be discussed.
Not every patient with bone loss needs the same treatment. Imaging allows our dentists to evaluate the area and discuss the options that may be appropriate.
Dental Implant Placement vs. Dental Implant Restoration
Dental implant treatment involves two related components: the implant placed in the jawbone and the restoration attached to it.
Dental implant placement involves positioning the implant in the jawbone so it can serve as an artificial tooth root.
Dental implant restoration involves attaching a custom crown, bridge or denture to replace the visible missing tooth or teeth.
Both components are important for restoring function and appearance. Treatment planning considers how the final restoration will fit your bite and complement the surrounding teeth.
If you already have a dental implant and need to complete treatment or replace a worn, loose or damaged crown, bridge or denture, visit our dental implant restoration page to learn more about those services.
Are Dental Implants Painful?
The treatment area is numbed during implant placement, and our team will explain what you can expect before, during and after the procedure. Temporary tenderness, swelling or soreness may occur during the early healing period.
Our dentists will provide instructions for caring for the implant site and managing discomfort during recovery.
Patients who feel anxious about dental treatment can also ask whether sedation dentistry may be appropriate.
What to Expect During Dental Implant Recovery
Recovery varies depending on the number of implants placed, whether additional procedures were performed and your individual healing response.
You may be advised to:
- Eat softer foods during early healing
- Avoid chewing directly over the treatment area
- Keep the implant site clean as directed
- Follow instructions for managing temporary soreness or swelling
- Avoid habits that could interfere with healing
- Contact our office if you experience unexpected symptoms
Your team will provide instructions specific to your treatment.
Dental Implants vs. Dentures and Bridges
Dental implants, dentures and dental bridges can all replace missing teeth, but they differ in how they are supported and maintained.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are anchored in the jawbone and may support a crown, bridge or implant-supported denture. They require implant placement and an appropriate healing period before the final restoration is completed.
Traditional Dentures
Traditional dentures replace multiple missing teeth and are generally removable. They rest on the gums without requiring implant placement and may be appropriate for patients who prefer a removable option or are not candidates for implants.
Traditional Dental Bridges
A traditional dental bridge replaces missing teeth by using neighboring teeth for support. It does not require implant placement but may involve preparing the supporting natural teeth.
There is no single tooth-replacement option that is right for every patient. Our dentists can compare these treatments based on your oral health, preferences, treatment timeline and budget.
Dental Implant Cost and Financing
The cost of dental implant treatment varies because each treatment plan is individualized. An accurate estimate requires an evaluation of your mouth and the treatment needed to replace your missing teeth.
Factors that may affect the cost of dental implants include:
- The number of missing teeth being replaced
- The number of implants needed
- The type of implant restoration
- Whether a tooth needs to be extracted
- Whether bone grafting or other preparatory treatment is needed
- The complexity of the treatment
- Any additional procedures included in your treatment plan
After your consultation, our team can review your recommended treatment and associated fees with you.
Visit our financial options page to learn more about available ways to pay for dental care.
Patients without dental insurance may also ask our team about the dental membership plan and whether its benefits apply to eligible treatment.
How to Care for Dental Implants
Dental implants cannot develop cavities, but the gums and bone surrounding them still need regular care. Plaque buildup and inflammation can affect the tissues that support an implant.
To care for your dental implants:
- Brush your teeth twice a day
- Clean carefully around the implant restoration
- Use floss, interdental brushes or other cleaning aids as recommended
- Avoid smoking and tobacco use
- Wear a night guard if recommended for grinding or clenching
- Attend regular dental cleanings and exams
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants are intended to provide a long-term option for replacing missing teeth, but no dental treatment can be guaranteed to last for a specific amount of time.
The longevity of an implant may be affected by gum health, bone support, oral hygiene, bite forces, tobacco use, general health and regular professional care.
The implant and the restoration attached to it may also have different lifespans. A dental crown, bridge or denture may eventually require repair or replacement even if the implant remains stable.
Why Choose Our Team for Dental Implant Care?
At 7 Day Dental Smiles, we take an individualized approach to replacing missing teeth. Your treatment recommendations are based on your oral health, goals and the type of tooth replacement that may best meet your needs.
Our approach includes:
- Individualized dental implant consultations
- Detailed imaging and treatment planning
- Clear explanations of implant and non-implant tooth-replacement options
- Coordination of restorative treatment
- Sedation options for qualifying patients
- Ongoing follow-up and preventive care
Contact our team today at 208-773-8388 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Rheanna Burnham, Dr. Scott Lake, Dr. Wade Dinse, Dr. Stephen Gloudeman or Dr. Nora Svihl.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are small posts placed in the jawbone to replace the roots of missing teeth. Once ready for restoration, an implant can support a dental crown, bridge or implant-supported denture.
Who is a candidate for dental implants?
Many adults with missing teeth may be candidates for dental implants. Healthy gums, suitable overall health and adequate bone support are important considerations. Our dentists will examine your mouth and review appropriate imaging to determine whether implants may be right for you.
How long does dental implant treatment take?
Dental implant treatment often takes several months because the implant and surrounding bone need time to heal before the final restoration is completed. Your timeline will depend on your oral health, the number of implants and whether additional treatment is needed.
Are dental implants painful?
The treatment area is numbed during implant placement. Some temporary tenderness, swelling or soreness may occur afterward. Our team will explain what to expect and provide instructions for managing your recovery.
How much do dental implants cost?
The cost of dental implant treatment varies based on the number of implants, type of restoration, condition of the supporting bone and whether additional procedures are necessary. After your consultation, our team can provide information about your recommended treatment, fees and available financial options.
Can dental implants replace multiple teeth?
Yes. Dental implants may be used to replace one tooth, several teeth or support a restoration that replaces many missing teeth. Depending on your needs, implants may support individual crowns, an implant-supported bridge or an implant-supported denture.
Can implants support dentures?
Yes. Dental implants may be used to support certain dentures and provide additional stability compared with a traditional removable denture. Our dentists can determine whether an implant-supported denture may be appropriate for your needs.
What is the difference between implants and dentures?
Dental implants are anchored in the jaw and can support crowns, bridges or dentures. Traditional dentures are generally removable and rest on the gums without dental implants. The right option depends on your oral health, goals and treatment preferences.
Do dental implants help prevent jawbone loss?
Dental implants stimulate the jawbone in the areas where they are placed and may help maintain bone support after tooth loss. The amount of bone preservation varies based on implant placement, oral health and other individual factors.
Can I get dental implants if I have been missing teeth for years?
Possibly. Patients who have been missing teeth for an extended period may still qualify for dental implants. Because jawbone changes can occur after tooth loss, imaging is needed to evaluate whether adequate bone is available or additional treatment may be necessary.
Do you offer dental implant consultations?
Yes. 7 Day Dental Smiles offers dental implant consultations in Post Falls, Idaho. Our dentists can evaluate your oral health, review appropriate imaging and discuss dental implants and other tooth-replacement options. Call 208-773-8388 to schedule.
Schedule a Dental Implant Consultation
If you are missing one or more teeth, dental implants in Post Falls, Idaho, may provide a long-term option for restoring your smile. Our dentists can evaluate your oral health, explain the dental implant process and help you compare available tooth-replacement options.
Contact 7 Day Dental Smiles or call 208-773-8388 to schedule your dental implant consultation.
