Dental Implants
Restore Your Smile With Dental Implants
A dental implant is a small titanium screw placed into the jawbone to support a dental prosthesis, such as a crown, bridge or denture. It serves as an artificial tooth root, providing a stable foundation for replacement teeth that look and function just like real ones.
Dental implants can help you feel more confident in your appearance by restoring your smile to its former appearance. They also help reduce the onset of facial sagging.
Dental implants provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth, as they are a good option to help you speak and chew normally again.
The Importance of Replacing Missing Teeth
If a tooth is missing, the teeth surrounding the gap may begin to shift out of place and cause misalignment issues. The jawbone around the area may also begin to deteriorate, resulting in facial collapse and difficulties eating and talking.
The Dental Implant Process
1. Initial Consultation With the Dentist: During this consultation, our dentist will evaluate your oral health and determine if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants. If you are, they will discuss the treatment plan and answer any questions or concerns you may have.
2. Surgical Placement of the Implant: This procedure is typically done under local anesthesia and involves inserting a titanium post into the bone to serve as a foundation for the artificial tooth.
3. Healing Process & Placement of the Restoration: Following the surgical placement, a healing period is necessary to allow the implant to fuse with the jawbone. This generally lasts between three and six months. Once healing is complete, a crown, bridge or denture will be fitted on top of the implant to complete the restoration. Note, that the fitting process may add some time, as it may take several sessions to get it just right.
Dental Implant FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions about dental implants at Dentistry On Sheppard.
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How long does a dental implant last?
If you care for your implant properly, it can last a lifetime. This includes proper brushing and flossing at home, as well as attending regular hygiene cleanings and exams at your dental office.
The longevity of a dental implant may also depend on other factors, including nutrition, genetics or the development of any dental diseases.
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What are dental implants made of?
Dental implants are typically made of titanium, a biocompatible material that integrates well with the jawbone. This allows for a strong foundation for artificial teeth to be attached.
Dental restorations are typically made out porcelain, ceramic or metal alloys. These materials are chosen for their durability, aesthetics and compatibility with the surrounding teeth and tissues in the mouth.
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Does getting a dental implant hurt?
Your dentist will administer anesthesia to make you comfortable so you won't feel pain during the procedure.
Following the surgery, there is not usually much discomfort. Most patients can manage any pain with an over-the-counter pain medication for a few days afterwards. However, you will need to eat a soft diet for the first couple of weeks to avoid pain or irritation.
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How long does the dental implant process take?
The entire dental implant process usually takes about three to six months to complete, depending on your treatment plan.
The fitting process for the prosthetic teeth, after your healing period is complete, may add some time, as it may take several sessions to get the fit just right.
Your dentist can provide you with a more specific timeline based on your particular case.
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Will my insurance cover dental implants?
Some insurance companies will cover the cost of dental implants, while some will only pay for a portion of the cost and others won't pay for any part of it.
To determine what part, if any, of your dental implant treatment will be covered by your insurance, check with your insurance provider.