Learn All About Dental Implants

Did you know a dental implant is closest to a biological tooth? Dental implants are the gold standard in tooth replacement and are the best and most ideal option for restoring your smile’s function, aesthetics, durability and longevity after tooth loss. Tooth loss can occur for many reasons, such as trauma, gum disease and infection. Dental implants can also be used for “hypodontia” cases where some adult teeth do not form. 

What exactly is a dental implant? 

A dental implant consists of a titanium screw inserted into the bone, with a porcelain or ceramic dental crown connecting to the screw. The entire screw portion will be underneath the gum, and the crown will be exposed above the gums, looking and functioning like a natural tooth.

Dental implants can be used for a single missing tooth, several missing teeth and even an entire arch of missing teeth. They can be used to form bridges and also be used to support full arch dentures. Thus they are incredibly versatile. Occasionally, if bone loss has occurred or there is not enough bone support for the implant, a bone graft will be used to add stability to the area before the implant is placed. 

What is the dental implant procedure?

You will first consult your dentist or specialist to form a treatment plan. First, you will be given local anesthetic and sedation (if needed.) The implant(s) will be inserted into the bone. The healing process takes a few days, and you may be prescribed painkillers and antibiotics. The implant screws will then take about 3-6 months to stabilize in the bone before the crown can be placed. An x-ray will be used to confirm the placement and success of the implant before the crown is placed. Sometimes multiple implants can be placed at the same time, and sometimes it will be split into two or more appointments, depending on the location of the missing teeth.  

What are the benefits of a dental implant? 

• Maintain/improve functions such as biting and chewing 
• Improve aesthetics – implant crowns are customizable to fit the shade, shape and size of your natural teeth and provide you with your ideal smile 
• Improved confidence in speaking and smiling 
• Implants are fixed and permanent, not like a denture 
• Last a lifetime if properly cared for 
• You can’t get cavities like natural teeth 

If you have any questions about dental implants or believe you are a good candidate, we encourage you to book a consultation with us today.