What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium screw designed to act as a base for a tooth replacement, such as a dental crown or a denture.
These implants are surgically placed into the jaw bone, and as the jaw heals from surgery, the implant integrates into the natural bone.
If you are missing a tooth, it is important to have it replaced to maintain your oral health. Dental implants provide a permanent and stable solution to missing teeth.
Why Replace Missing Teeth?
If a tooth is missing, the teeth surrounding the gap may begin to shift out of place and lead to misalignment issues, and problems eating and speaking. The jaw bone in the area may also begin to deteriorate, resulting in facial collapse and loss of support for the adjacent teeth, which can lead to further tooth loss.
The Dental Implant Process
The dental implant process consists of the dental implant itself, which is a titanium screw, and a tooth replacement such as a dental crown or denture.
If you and your dentist have decided that a dental implant is the right option to replace your missing teeth, they will begin the process by surgically inserting the implant into your jaw bone below the gum tissue.
Over the next three to six months, your jaw bone will heal and the implant will integrate with the bone and gum tissue. Once you've healed, you'll come back to our office to complete the next step.
At this stage, your dentist will attach a custom tooth replacement which will look and function just like a natural tooth.
Dental Implant FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions about dental implants at Airport Heights Dental Health Centre.
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How long does a dental implant last?
A dental implant can last a lifetime if cared for properly. Proper care includes brushing and flossing at home, as well as regular hygiene cleanings and exams at Airport Heights Dental Health Centre.
Other factors, such as medical conditions, nutrition, genetics, or the development of any dental diseases, can also affect the longevity of a dental implant.
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How do I care for my dental implants?
Caring for a dental implant is much like caring for your natural teeth. Maintain a good at-home oral hygiene routine consisting of twice daily brushing and flossing and regularly visit Airport Heights Dental Health Centre for cleanings and exams, and your implant should be fine.
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Does getting a dental implant hurt?
During dental implant surgery, your dentist will administer anesthesia to keep you comfortable, so you shouldn't feel pain.
Following the procedure, there is not usually much discomfort. Most patients can manage any pain with an over-the-counter pain medication for a few days after the procedure.
You may also need to eat a soft diet for the first couple of weeks after the implant procedure to avoid irritating the surgery site.
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How long does the dental implant process take?
The entire dental implant process usually takes about three to nine months to complete, depending on your treatment plan.
Your dentist can provide you with a more specific timeline based on your particular case.
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Will my insurance cover dental implants?
Every insurance plan is different, so it's not guaranteed that your implant will be covered.
To determine what part, if any, of your dental implant treatment will be covered by your insurance, check with your insurance provider.