What is a dental implant?

Dental implants are the gold standard for the tooth replacement options and are the most like your natural teeth. Implants consist of a titanium metal post that gets anchored into the jawbone and a dental crown that perfectly matches the other natural teeth in your mouth.

Dental implants can do all of the following:

• Replace one or more missing teeth anywhere in the mouth. Whether you have congenitally missing teeth or have lost teeth due to an accident, decay or periodontal disease, you may be a candidate for dental implants.
• Give support to a full denture making it more secure and comfortable.
• Replace a section of missing teeth with an implant-supported bridge.
• Prevent issues that stem from having missing teeth such as jaw pain and difficulty with speaking and eating.

Why choose a dental implant?

• A dental implant feels and acts like a natural tooth. They blend in seamlessly with your other teeth, and you may even forget which one is the implant!
• Highest patient satisfaction as compared to other options such as dental bridges or dentures.
• No damage is done to the surrounding teeth unlike with a dental bridge where the surrounding teeth must have crowns placed.
• Easy to clean and take care of, just brush and floss as you would your natural teeth.
• Eat anything you wish. Some foods can difficult to eat with regular dentures.

How are dental implants done?

• First, an assessment must be done to make sure there is enough room and bone support for the implant. Sometimes, additional procedures such as bone grafting or a sinus lift are needed before the implant can be placed.
• The metal implant post is placed into the jawbone, and then the area is left to heal. The healing time can vary but is usually between three to six months. During this time, the jawbone begins to mold to the metal post, which will hold it securely in place.
• A healing cap will then be attached to the top of the implant post, which will then extend the implant above the gums. In some cases, the healing cap is placed at the same time as the initial implant surgery.
• When the gums are all healed around the cap, a dental crown can be made and fastened to the implant. Done!

Implants can help to restore your smile and self-confidence. If you have missing teeth and want to discuss your options, call us today!