What Are Dental Implants?
An implant is a compact metal screw that serves as a complete tooth replacement. During a concise surgical procedure, the dentist carefully places the implant beneath your gumline, precisely where a natural tooth would normally reside. This implant effectively mimics the role of a natural tooth root and is then meticulously finalized with a restoration, such as a dental crown, ensuring it closely resembles and feels like an authentic tooth.
Considering dental implants is a significant decision. If you’re contemplating the possibility of getting an implant but are uncertain about what to anticipate, we’re here to provide you with a comprehensive explanation. Our goal is to equip you with all the information you need to make a well-informed decision regarding your dental treatment.
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You Might Need Dental Implants?
Your natural teeth play a crucial role in maintaining the height and contour of your smile, as well as facilitating comfortable eating and speaking.
However, the absence of a tooth in your smile can lead to the misalignment of neighboring teeth, increasing the risk of oral health problems. Even the loss of a single tooth can set off a series of consequences in your oral health, affecting not only your appearance but also your overall well-being.
Beyond these visible effects of missing teeth, there’s one unavoidable issue: bone resorption. This is a natural process where your body breaks down surplus bone tissue to utilize minerals elsewhere.
When your jawbone has teeth, they exert pressure on it, promoting the production of new bone tissue. However, when teeth are missing, the bone loses its function and gradually diminishes. The outcome? A shortened jaw and chin, resulting in wrinkles and a sunken appearance of your cheeks and lips.
Dental implants offer the closest resemblance to natural teeth and provide an effective solution to prevent or address the issues mentioned above caused by tooth loss.
What To Expect On Your Dental Implant Treatment Journey
The process of placing the implant is far more comfortable than you might expect.
Assessment
Initially, you’ll undergo a dental implant consultation to determine if implants are a suitable option for your needs. During this consultation, your dentist will conduct X-rays and a 3D cone-beam CT scan of your jaw to assess the condition of your bone tissue and formulate your treatment plan. Additionally, the dental team will capture a scan or impression of your teeth to assist in planning the precise angulation of your implant.
Putting The Implant In
We provide anesthesia to ensure complete numbness at the surgical site. The dentist then carefully makes a small incision in both the gums and the jawbone. Subsequently, the implant post is gently inserted into the prepared site. In some cases (though not always), sutures may be required to close the gum tissue.
Finalizing The Process
After the implant procedure, you return home to allow your implant to heal over the following several months. Upon your return to our practice, we will have your dental restoration prepared and ready. The restoration will be placed, and you will depart with a brand-new and fully functional tooth.
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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.
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The Cost Of An Implant In Markham
In Markham, the cost of a single dental implant typically ranges from approximately $3,000 to $6,000 or more. For full-mouth reconstructive dental implants, the expenses can vary significantly, ranging from $6,000 to $60,000 and beyond. The average cost for a complete set of implant-supported dentures is approximately $30,000. It’s important to note that providing an accurate quote for dental implant procedures over the phone is challenging, as the process is intricate and varies depending on individual factors.
Several key factors influence the cost of dental implant surgery, including:
- The type and quantity of implants required.
- The materials and supplies utilized.
- The level of expertise and experience of the dental team involved.
- The location and complexity of the surgical procedure.
- The duration of your recovery period, with our commitment to supporting you throughout.
Since each case is unique, it’s essential to consult with a dentist and undergo an oral examination. This allows us to assess your specific situation and present you with various treatment options, along with a more precise cost estimate.
Wondering about alternative solutions for missing teeth?
For individuals with 1 to 3 missing teeth, dental bridges may offer a suitable solution. Extensive tooth loss on the upper or lower arch or throughout the entire mouth can often be addressed with dental prosthetics or removable dentures. When comparing the cost of dental implants to other tooth-replacement options, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons.
While dental implants may involve a higher initial investment, they offer superior stability and durability compared to bridges or dentures. Removable dental prosthetics require distinct care and maintenance and may necessitate periodic adjustments or replacements as you age. Conversely, dental implants require routine at-home oral care and regular dental check-ups, much like natural teeth. With proper care, a dental implant can last a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely no one ever has to know that your implants are not your natural teeth. Dental implants are made of metal screws, but these are hidden beneath your gums and covered with lifelike restorations that blend in naturally with the rest of your smile.
Dentures and implants are not the same thing and they function in very different ways. Dentures rest on top of your gums and press down on the underlying bone tissue. Implants strengthen your bite because they are fixed well below your gums. Both tooth replacement options have unique pros and cons. We recommend that you visit us in person to find out which treatment is best for you.
For patients who are not good candidates for dental implants, dental bridges and full or partial dentures may be the best option for replacing missing teeth. The best way to find out what solutions exist for your specific needs is to call and book an appointment. We would be happy to discuss all your options and answer any specific questions you may have.
To get an implant you must be an adult and have good general oral health. Your jawbone must be strong enough to support a new implant and other supporting tissues, like your gums, must be healthy to reduce the risk of complications. If you’re concerned that you might not be a viable candidate, give us a call to find out for sure. There are usually treatment options available to restore your oral health with the ultimate goal of getting a dental implant and there are often alternative solutions to replacing missing teeth.
Yes! Your dental implant may be topped by a crown, a bridge or implant-supported dentures that will always be custom made to make you feel comfortable. That means your custom-made teeth are shaped and coloured to match your existing teeth and bite. Patients often have difficulty distinguishing their natural teeth from their beautiful new dental implants.
The science of dental implants has evolved so rapidly from its early days that it is now a very predictable and relatively pain-free procedure. The dental implant procedure is completed with such care and precision you’ll experience as little discomfort as possible. With proper aftercare, you can expect minimal swelling and almost no bleeding. Your physical and emotional health are both important to us. If you feel anxious about visiting us for any reason, please let us know.
In most cases, you can return to work the day after your implant surgery. Once we know exactly what your treatment will entail, we can give you a much more accurate time estimate and can let you know in advance if you should clear your schedule for longer. We always discuss all post-operative care instructions with you.
The success of your implants will depend greatly on how well you maintain them. They need to be professionally cleaned and examined routinely, just like your natural teeth. We usually recommend a check-up approximately every 6 months but may recommend check-ups more or less often depending on your specific requirements.
Care for your dental implants like a natural tooth. Regular brushing & flossing, cleanings and checkups and letting your doctor know if you have any problems.
No, implants do not need to be routinely replaced. Once you get a dental implant, it is meant to stay with you for a very long time.
