Single-Stage Implant Surgery in Lakewood, WA

For many patients in Lakewood and Tacoma, the goal of dental restoration is to achieve a beautiful, functional smile with as few surgical steps as possible. At the office of Dr. Kevin Kim, DDS, we often utilize Single-Stage Implant Surgery for patients who have strong, healthy jawbone density. Unlike the traditional two-stage method that requires the implant to be buried under the gums for several months, the single-stage approach allows Dr. Kim to place the implant and leave the “healing abutment” or a temporary crown exposed during the healing phase. This eliminates the need for a second surgical procedure later on, streamlining your journey toward a complete smile.

The primary advantage of the single-stage technique is the reduction in total treatment time and surgical intervention. Because the gum tissue is allowed to heal around the implant and the abutment simultaneously, your soft tissue (gums) can be shaped perfectly for your final tooth from day one. As a Dental Implant Periodontist, Dr. Kevin Kim uses CBCT 3D Imaging to ensure that your bone quality is sufficient to support this method safely. This approach is highly popular among our active patients near JBLM and Steilacoom who appreciate the convenience of fewer appointments and a faster transition to their permanent Zirconia or Porcelain Crown.

While the implant is visible during the healing period, it is important to remember that it is still undergoing Osseointegration, the process where your bone fuses to the titanium post. Even though we aren’t “hiding” the implant under the gums, it still needs time to become rock-solid. Dr. Kim uses Computer-Guided Implant Surgery to place the implant with maximum precision, ensuring it stays stable while your body does the work of healing. This method is excellent for non-aesthetic areas, like back molars, or for front teeth when an immediate temporary crown can be placed to maintain your appearance at the Lakewood Towne Center.

Choosing the right surgical path is a decision Dr. Kevin Kim makes with you during your Dental Implant Consultation. We look at your medical history, bone volume, and aesthetic goals to see if you are a candidate for this streamlined process. To understand more about how single-stage surgery can lead to excellent long-term results, you can research the latest findings at the American Academy of Periodontology or read the Mayo Clinic’s overview of modern implant techniques. Dr. Kim and the team at Dental Health Associates are committed to providing you with the most efficient care possible without ever compromising on safety or quality.