We are dental implant specialists in Hamilton
There are many reasons a person might want dental implants but the most common reason is simply the amount of teeth a person has lost throughout their lifetime, regardless of age. With dental implants you could once again eat the many foods you used to enjoy before you lost a few important teeth. In addition, you can smily freely without worry once you have dental implants.
Dental implants are small posts made of titanium that go where missing teeth reside in the jawbone. These posts will bond with your jawbone and create a secure foundation for your new artificial teeth. When you lose teeth due to age or neglect, you put yourself at risk for your bone deteriorating. Dental implants can help prevent this from happening.
If you believe that dental implants are the best choice for your situation then weāll gladly schedule a time to meet with you. During this visit we will perform a radiographic/dental exam in addition to going over your health history. The purpose of this consultation (and any future ones) is simply to understand what you want and what is ideal for your existing dental needs. If you have questions about anything itās best to ask during these consultations.
The dental implant procedure
As mentioned previously, dental implants act as anchors and are placed into your jawbone. The small titanium posts are attached to this implant that emerges through your gums. This stabilization is important for your new artificial teeth.
The procedure typically consists of two different surgical procedures for most patients but we will let you know for sure during your consultation. The first surgical procedure is when the implants are put into your jawbone. At this point in time you will be given temporary dentures in which you will need to alter your diet to soft foods, from the first 3 up to as many as 6 months after your surgery.
This is to ensure the implants have ample time to bond with your jawbone. During this time your final denture or bridgework is designed by our restorative dentist. The second phase then begins once the implant has securely bonded to your jawbone.
The oral surgeon first attaches a small healing collar to the implant after uncovering it. Our own doctors can then start working on your new teeth. We first take an impression of your teeth before we begin connecting attachments (or posts) to your implants. The replacement teeth can then be made over these attachments or posts.
You can expect your entire dental implant procedure to take anywhere from 6-8 months. This is the average time for the procedure. In addition, the majority of our patients have reported little to no disruption in their lives when undergoing a dental implant procedure.
If you have more questions or want to schedule a consultation just give us a call. We would be happy to help you and schedule a visit.
Taking care of your dental implants
Caring for and maintaining dental implants is essential for their longevity and your overall oral health. To ensure your implants remain in excellent condition, practice good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Don’t forget to clean around the implant using an interdental brush or floss, as plaque buildup can lead to gum inflammation and infection.
In addition to proper home care, schedule regular dental checkups and professional cleanings, ideally every six months, so your dentist can monitor the implant’s stability and the health of surrounding tissues. If you grind your teeth at night, consider wearing a night guard to protect your implants from excessive force. Lastly, avoid using your teeth as tools, and steer clear of hard, sticky, or crunchy foods that may cause damage to your implants. By following these steps, you can help ensure your dental implants remain strong and healthy for years to come.