Dental Implants
Restore Your Oral Health
Gaps left by missing teeth often lead to trouble speaking and chewing normally, and may even cause other teeth to become loose and shift out of place, leaving patients feeling self-conscious about their smile.
Further issues can arise as the bone around the gap begins to deteriorate, leaving the jaw weaker and possibly leading to changes in facial appearance, such as facial collapse.
For many adults with missing teeth, dental implants provide an ideal solution. These small titanium screws are placed into the jaw where the tooth once was, and function like the root of a natural tooth, helping to hold surrounding teeth in place and prevent bone deterioration.
When topped with a crown, bridge or denture, dental implants provide patients with a full, natural-looking smile that allows them to speak clearly and eat efficiently.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium screw that is surgically placed into the jaw, under the gumline. The implant gradually bonds with the surrounding bone and gum tissue, providing a stable base upon which an artificial tooth or teeth can be attached. Dental implants offer many of our patients a natural looking way to improve the appearance and function of their smiles.
The Dental Implant Process
The dental implant process is a multi-step procedure that takes a number of months to complete, and requires a dental implant (titanium screw) and a tooth replacement.
To begin, your dentist will surgically place the implant into your jaw bone below the gum tissue. As the tissue heals, the implant will gradually bond with the surrounding bone and attach to the gums.
At this stage, you will need to remain patient and simply care for your mouth as instructed while the implant site heals. This healing stage can take anywhere from about three to nine months, but it's important not to rush.
Once the implant site has completely healed, it will be time to return to our Calgary dental clinic for the final step of the process.
At last the big day has arrived. This is when your dentist will finally attach the artificial tooth or teeth that will complete your smile. Depending on the number of implants placed, a crown, bridge or denture may be added to finish off the restoration.
During the final appointment of your dental implant process, your dentist will provide you with instructions on how to care for your dental implants to help your new, healthier smile last a lifetime.
Dental Implant FAQs
For many people, dental implants can be an ideal way to replace missing teeth and restore optimal oral health, but dental implants aren't for everyone.
If you are considering dental implants to replace your missing teeth, but still have questions, you may find the answers below. Please take a minute to read through the answers to our most frequently asked questions about dental implants at Canyon Creek Dental Clinic.
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How long does a dental implant last?
With proper care, your implant can last a lifetime.
To help keep your dental implant in pristine condition, a regular and thorough oral hygiene routine is essential. Proper at-home brushing and flossing, as well as attending regular hygiene cleanings and exams at your dental office are as important for your dental implant as they are for your natural teeth.
The longevity of your dental implant will also be impacted by other factors such as nutrition, genetics, or the development of any dental diseases.
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How do I care for my dental implants?
Caring for your dental implants is as easy as caring for your natural teeth!
Attending regular hygiene appointments with your dentist and maintaining a proper brushing and flossing routine at home can help prevent decay or diseases from developing in the surrounding teeth and gums, which can negatively affect your dental implants.
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Does getting a dental implant hurt?
During your dental implant surgery, the dentist will administer anesthesia to ensure you are comfortable and won't feel pain during the procedure.
After the procedure, there is not usually much discomfort. Most patients can manage any pain with an over-the-counter pain medication for a few days after the procedure.
A diet of soft food will be necessary for the first couple of weeks after the implant procedure to avoid pain or irritation.
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How long does the dental implant process take?
From start to finish the dental implant process can take anywhere from about three months to nine months. Factors such as your overall health and the severity of any existing oral health issues will impact the time it will take to complete the dental implant process.
Your dentist will provide you with a more specific timeline based on your particular case.
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Will my insurance cover dental implants?
Every insurance policy is different. 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.