Dental Implants
A dental implant is a screw like anchor that serves as an artificial replacement for missing teeth. Made of biocompatible materials such as titanium and zirconia, implants have been used safely and effectively for decades, providing a strong and stable foundation for artificial crowns, bridges and dentures.
Dental implants are considered the gold standard for replacing missing teeth as they look and feel the most natural of all the restorations currently available. Treatment generally takes several months to complete and follows a series of steps or phases. Once placement of the dental implant is completed, the recovery process is usually straightforward, with most people back to normal function within a few days. Some minor pain or discomfort can be expected in the 1st few days and painkillers may be required during this initial healing period. The gums will heal over the implant site quickly but it can take 3 to 6 months for the implant to be stable enough for final restoration. Once we are satisfied that everything has integrated, an abutment/post and crown is attached to the implant to replicate the natural shape of the tooth.
Implants have many advantages including the prevention of further bone loss, avoiding the appearance of sunken cheeks, comfort, restoring lost function and aesthetics and implants do not involve using or cutting the surround teeth for support. If cared for correctly, your dental implant should last a very long time, if not a lifetime. The attached artificial crown, bridge or denture does however, have a finite lifespan, with most lasting between 5 and 15 years before needing replacement.
Even though dental implants replace missing teeth, it must be remembered that an implant is not a tooth. Realistic expectations on how they perform and are used in the mouth are important to understand. We can sit down with you to discuss the benefits as well as any limitations. As with all procedures, a thorough assessment including a detailed medical history, examinations including periodontal assessment and x-rays to determine the bone levels, bone and gum quality will determine whether an implant is suitable for you.
It is important to understand that all procedures come with associated risks including infection, injury to adjacent teeth and their roots, nerve and blood vessel bruising or damage as well as sinus complications if in the upper jaw. By far, the number one reason for implant failure is poor oral hygiene. We cannot stress enough the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene practices as well as regular dental visits. Professional cleaning of your teeth and dental implants will help prevent gum disease around the implant called peri-implantitis. With a team approach for oral care, we aim to keep your teeth, gums and implants healthy so you can enjoy them for many years to come.
