What Are Dental Implants?
Huntington Family Dental - What is a dental implant?
Huntington Family Dental - Does Huntington Dental provide dental implants?
A dental implant is a small metal post that replaces a missing tooth. In a simple surgical procedure, the dentist places the implant into the jawbone, precisely where the tooth was. It then acts as a stable foundation, similar to a natural tooth root, and is topped with a restoration, such as a dental crown, to look and feel like your original tooth.
Considering dental implants is an important decision. If you’re thinking about getting one but feel unsure about the process, we’ve provided all the details here to help you make an informed choice regarding your dental care.
Why You Might Need Dental Implants
Your natural teeth shape your smile and make eating and talking easy.
Gaps from missing teeth can cause remaining teeth to shift, increasing the risk of oral health issues. Just one missing tooth can change your mouth’s health and facial appearance.
A big concern with missing teeth is bone loss. Teeth keep the jawbone healthy by stimulating bone growth. Without them, the jawbone weakens, leading to a changed face shape and wrinkles.
Dental implants are the second best option to having healthy, natural teeth. By getting them, you can tackle the problems caused by lost teeth.
The Advantages Of Dental Implants
Losing a tooth can have a profound impact. The absence of a tooth can affect our confidence in our smile and potentially give rise to health issues. Gaps might result in an uneven bite, challenges in enjoying our favourite foods, and could contribute to bone deterioration or teeth moving out of place.
- Get your smile back – Dental implants are like a type of fake teeth that look and feel just like your real ones. They’re made specially for you, so they fit right into your smile.
- Stay comfy and carefree – Once the implant is in, it becomes a part of your jaw. So whether it has a crown, a bridge, or holds dentures, it won’t budge. This means you can laugh, smile, and eat all your favourite snacks without any worry.
- Keep your jaw strong – Losing a tooth can make the bone in your jaw weaker. But these implants are kind of like magic – they help the bone grow stronger around them.
Dental implants offer a lasting solution that feels just like your real teeth and can last for many years with the right dental care.
Dental Implant Restorations
The “restoration” is the artificial tooth that sits on top of the implant. While the implant stays hidden, the restoration gives the appearance of a brand-new tooth when you smile.
- Dental Crown – A popular choice for implant coverings, it goes over a single-tooth implant.
- Dental Bridge – Useful when several teeth are missing in a sequence. A couple of implants can support a bridge that replaces multiple teeth. A full bridge, covering an entire upper or lower set of teeth, connects to four or more implants.
- Implant Denture – Enhance a removable denture’s steadiness by attaching it to two mini implants.
What to Expect During Your Dental Implant Process
The dental implant procedure is generally more comfortable than you may expect.
Consultation and Examination
The process begins with a consultation to determine if dental implants are the right solution for you. Your dentist will use X-rays and a 3D scan to assess the condition of your jawbone and plan the procedure. They will also take detailed images or impressions of your teeth to ensure the implant is placed precisely.
Inserting the implant
Local anaesthetic is administered to ensure you experience no pain during the procedure. The dentist will create a small opening in your gums and jawbone, then insert the implant (which resembles a tiny screw) into the space. In some cases, a few stitches may be needed to help your gums heal properly.
Completing the procedure
Once the implant is placed, you’ll head home and allow time for the implant to heal over the next few months. When you return to our clinic, we’ll have your dental restoration ready. It will be securely placed, and you’ll leave with a fully functional, natural-looking tooth.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
The Cost of Dental Implants in Calgary
In Calgary, a single dental implant usually costs between $3,000 and $6,000. Full-mouth implant restorations range from $6,000 to over $60,000, while a complete set of implant-supported dentures averages around $30,000. Exact pricing varies based on individual needs, so a personal consultation is necessary.
What Factors Influence the Price of Dental Implants?
- Number and type of implants needed
- Materials used
- Expertise of the dental team
- Complexity and location of the surgery
- Recovery time, with full support from our team
A dentist consultation allows us to assess your needs and provide a more accurate cost estimate.
Are There Other Ways to Replace Missing Teeth?
If missing 1 to 3 teeth, a dental bridge may be suitable. For more extensive tooth loss, prosthetics or dentures are options. Weighing the pros and cons of each solution is key to making an informed decision.
While dental implants may cost more initially, they last longer and are more durable than bridges or dentures. Dentures require more care and might need adjustments or replacements over time. Dental implants, however, are cared for like natural teeth and can last a lifetime with proper maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
To qualify for dental implants, you need to be an adult in good overall oral health. Your jawbone must be strong enough to support the implant, and your gums should be healthy to prevent any complications. If you’re unsure whether you’re a good candidate, don’t hesitate to contact us. There are often ways to improve oral health before proceeding with an implant, and we also offer alternative options for replacing missing teeth.
Advancements in dental implant technology have made the procedure more reliable and almost pain-free. Our team ensures the process is as comfortable as possible. Afterward, you may experience minimal swelling and very little bleeding. Your physical and emotional comfort is a top priority for us. If you have any concerns or feel nervous, please feel free to share them with us.
If dental implants aren’t suitable for you, alternatives like dental bridges or full/partial dentures may be viable options. The best way to determine what works for you is to schedule an appointment with us. We’re happy to explore all the available solutions and address any questions you may have.
No one will be able to tell your implants aren’t natural teeth. While the implants include metal screws, they are hidden beneath your gums, with realistic replacements that seamlessly match your smile.
No, dental implants are designed to be long-lasting and do not require regular replacement. Once placed, your implant is meant to stay in place for many years.
Care for your dental implants just like your natural teeth. This includes regular brushing, flossing, attending routine cleanings and check-ups, and notifying your dentist if you notice any issues.
The longevity of your implants depends largely on how well you care for them. Just like natural teeth, they require regular professional cleanings and check-ups. We typically recommend a visit every 6 months, though this may vary depending on your specific needs.
