When one or more teeth are missing, everyday things can start to feel different. You may find yourself chewing on one side, avoiding certain foods, feeling unsure about your smile, or getting frustrated with a denture that does not feel as secure as you would like.
Dental implants can be used in different ways depending on your needs. For some, this means replacing a single missing tooth, but implants can also be used to help support dentures so they feel more stable and secure. The implant itself matters, but so does the shape of the restoration, the way your teeth come together, the health of your gums, and the long-term stability of your bite. That kind of planning is a big part of what Dr. Kim does.
Dr. Kim is a prosthodontist, which means he chose to continue his education after dental school with 3 to 4 additional years of training focused on restoring and replacing teeth. He completed his prosthodontic training at the University of Washington School of Dentistry, with an emphasis on complex oral rehabilitation, ceramic restorations, and dental implants.
For patients, that training can be especially helpful when a case involves more than replacing a single tooth. Some people need several teeth restored. Others have worn, damaged, or missing teeth, bite concerns, older dental work, or a history of being told their case is complicated. Dr. Kim is trained to see how all of those details work together before recommending a path forward.
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Only about 2% of dentists are prosthodontists, and fewer than half of prosthodontists are board-certified. Dr. Kim is a Board-Certified Prosthodontist. This distinction requires additional testing, review, and a continued commitment to the specialty.
For patients considering implants, that extra training can make a difference in how carefully each part of treatment is planned. Implant dentistry focuses on rebuilding comfort, function, and appearance in a way that makes sense for your mouth.
If a missing tooth, loose denture, or older dental work is making everyday life harder, we would be happy to help you take a closer look at your options. Schedule a consultation with Pacific Modern Dentistry to discuss with Dr. Kim whether dental implants are a good fit for your mouth and long-term comfort.