Your Edmonton Invisalign® Provider
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that your dentist surgically places into your jaw bone to support a tooth replacement, such as a dental crown, dental bridge, or dentures.
Together, a dental implant and a tooth replacement look and act very much like a natural tooth.
A dental implant is made up of two parts: a titanium rod that is inserted into the jaw bone and acts as the tooth's root, and an abutment that screws into the rod and eventually supports the artificial tooth replacement.
The Dental Implant Procedure
It is sometimes possible to place dental implants on the same day that the teeth are extracted, but it usually takes three to six months of healing before the implant can be placed. Based on your needs and treatment plan, your dentist will be able to provide a more specific timeline.
Typically, the procedure will require two appointments. During the first visit, the dentist will begin the implant procedure by surgically inserting the titanium rod beneath the gum tissue into your jaw bone. They will then sew the gum tissue back into place.
The implant will bond with the bone and attach to the gum as the tissue heals. The healing process may take several months.
At the second appointment, your dentist will attach the abutment to the rod once your gum tissue has healed. Finally, a tooth replacement will be attached to the abutment.
This procedure will produce an artificial tooth that looks and functions nearly identically to a natural tooth.
If there is insufficient jaw bone volume to support an implant, bone graft surgery may be required so that implants can be placed later.
Many patients are concerned about how painful the dental implant procedure will be. While every patient's pain threshold is different, most are unlikely to experience significant discomfort during and after the procedure. You will be able to discuss anesthesia options with your dentist and plan your procedure around your preferences.
Typically, dental implant placement is completed using local anesthesia.
Why use a dental implant?
If you're missing one or more teeth, dental implants can be used to address several issues and protect your oral health.
You can prevent surrounding teeth from shifting by using a dental implant and a tooth replacement such as a dental bridge, dental crown, or dentures, and you can even improve chewing, speech, and digestion by using a dental implant and a tooth replacement such as a dental bridge, dental crown, or dentures. This procedure can also help to avoid the appearance of a sunken face,' which is common with missing teeth.
Are you concerned about your ability to chew normally? Chewing has been shown to improve following treatment in most cases. After a brief period of acclimating to your new implants, most patients' chewing efficiency is comparable to that of natural teeth.
How long will my dental implant last?
A dental implant can last for many years if properly cared for. It will be critical to practising proper at-home oral care, such as brushing and flossing, as well as schedule regular dental exams and cleanings with your dentist. Nutrition, genetics, and the development of any dental disease are all factors that can affect the longevity of dental implants.
