Dental Implants

Dental implants have been able to change the way people live. Designed to lay out the groundwork for replacement teeth, they allow those replacement teeth not only to appear like ordinary teeth, but to feel and work like them as well. The patient who has lost some of their teeth is able to regain their capacity to eat just about anything and has the peace of mind that their teeth will look real, and the contours of their face will be unaltered. Dental implants give our patients confidence in their smile.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are essentially small titanium posts which are placed within the jawbone. They are used when two teeth are missing and require a surgical procedure to be implanted. They function as artificial roots for replacement teeth. The bone is able to bond effectively with the titanium which builds a strong base for replacement teeth. The post will actually poke out of the gums and will then be attached to the implant, they serve as the anchor for the teeth to the jawbone. Dental implants will also help maintain the patient’s facial structure by preventing the bone loss and deterioration that accompanies missing teeth.

Implants also help preserve facial structure, preventing bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.

The surgical procedure

For the vast majority of patients placing dental implants will require two surgical procedures. The first procedure involves planting the implants in the jawbone of the patient. For the next six months after the surgery the implants will be beneath the gums slowly forming a strong bond with the jaw bone. At this point the patient will be able to wear a temporary denture to maintain the ability to bite and chew effectively, however a soft food diet is required. During this time the dentist will be making the new replacement teeth.

The second procedure takes place after the implants have effectively bonded with the jawbone. The implants are uncovered by our doctors and small posts are then attached. They will poke out of the gums and will function as anchors for the replacement teeth. After the replacement teeth are put in place these posts will no longer be visible. Both procedures take a combined time of roughly six to eight months to be fully completed. The majority of patients do not experience any significant disturbance in their day to day lives.

Surgical advances

Due to new advances in dentistry and dental implants our doctors are now capable of placing single-stage implants. This means that there is no need for a second procedure to expose the implants. However six months are required for healing before the replacement teeth are implanted. It is even possible in some instances to place implants at the same time as a tooth extraction, which means even fewer surgeries.

Placing dental implants requires coordination and teamwork between a restorative dentist and an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. The restorative dentist will make and fit the permanent prosthesis as well as any temporary ones that may be required. Our doctors will perform the implant surgery itself, as well as the original tooth extractions and any necessary bone grafting.

What types of prostheses are available?

A crown or single prosthesis is chosen when only one tooth must be replaced. Each crown is attached to its own implant. A fixed bridge otherwise known as a partial prosthesis is used when two or more teeth must be replaced. It may only require two or three implants based on its size. A fixed bridge may also refer to a complete dental prosthesis which replaces all teeth on the upper or lower jaw. The number of implants needed will differ based on whether it is removable or fixed. An overdenture or removable prosthesis will attach to a ball in socket attachment or bar. A fixed prosthesis will only be able to be removed by a dental professional.

We complete our implant surgeries in office in a hospital-style operating room. This ensures sterility and a clean environment. Only some patients will have to stay in the hospital. Generally only those who require comprehensive bone grafting from the hip, tibia or jaw.

Why choose dental implants?

Dental Implants will help bring your life back to normal after tooth loss. Regardless if the tooth loss is a new issue or an older one you are unlikely to ever become fully acclimated to missing such a functional part of your body. Dental implants restore not just the function of your mouth but its aesthetics as well.

Dental implants can be your gateway to renewed peace of mind and renewed self-confidence.

Dental implants were developed over 35 years ago by Swedish orthopedic surgeon and scientist Dr Perlingvar Branemark. This groundbreaking new procedure has helped millions by restoring their teeth and their smiles.

Are dental implants better than other types of restorations?

There is no need to sacrifice the strong structure of neighbouring healthy teeth to fill a space. Removing a denture every night can be very cumbersome. They can also slip which can be very awkward and uncomfortable.

Dental implants also aren’t susceptible to tooth decay (like your natural teeth), which means that things like cavities and root canals won’t occur within the prosthetic implant tooth.  You do still need to brush and floss as normal though.

How do you know if you are a candidate for dental implants?

If you are currently thinking about getting dental implants your mouth needs to be examined and your dental and medical history must be considered. If it is determined that dental implants are not for you then other options like bone graft may be considered.

What type of anesthesia is used?

Most dental implants and bone graft procedures are completed in our own office and utilize local anesthesia and may or may not require general anesthesia.

Do dental implants require any special care?

When the implants are placed they will last many years if they are cared for correctly. This means keeping your mouth healthy with regular brushing and flossing. Maintaining strong oral hygiene is vital as well as regular dental appointments to ensure that everything is in order.