What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium screw that operates like the root of a natural tooth. They could be used to replace one lost tooth or a handful of missing teeth.
The implant is surgically placed into the bone of your jaw and then bonds with the natural bone to act as an anchor for a tooth replacement.
Dental implants could help keep the surrounding teeth from shifting, resolve jaw joint pain or bite issues, and help restore facial tissues and appearance.
Why Replace Missing Teeth
If you have a missing tooth, the teeth surrounding the gap could start shifting out of place, resulting in misalignment problems. The jaw bone around the area could also begin deteriorating causing facial collapse or negatively affecting your ability to talk and chew.
The Dental Implant Procedure
The dental implant procedure needs a dental implant (titanium screw) as well as a tooth replacement.
Your dentist will start the process by surgically applying the implant into your jawbone beneath the gum tissue. While the tissue is healing, the implant will bond with the bone and attach to the gum.
After the healing is finished, approximately 3 to 6 months after the surgery, patients come back to our office to have the procedure completed.
At this last visit, your dentist will attach a tooth replacement, such as a dental crown, bridge, or denture, to the implant to provide the function and appearance of a natural tooth.
Dental Implant FAQs
Here we share the answers to some of our most frequently asked questions about dental implants we offer at Major Mackenzie Dental.
- How long does a dental implant last?
Your implant could last a lifetime if you take care of it properly. This consists of brushing and flossing properly at home, as well as visiting your dentist regularly for regular hygiene cleanings and exams.
The longevity of a dental implant could also depend on other elements such as genetics, nutrition, or the development of any dental diseases.
- How do I care for my dental implants?
You should care for a dental implant the same way you care for your natural teeth.
Attending regular hygiene appointments at your dental office and maintaining a proper brushing and flossing routine at home could help prevent the development of decay or diseases in the neighbouring teeth and gums, which could negatively impact your dental implants.
- Does getting a dental implant hurt?
As part of your dental implant surgery, your dentist will administer anesthesia to help make you more comfortable so you won't experience any pain throughout the procedure.
There usually isn't much discomfort after the procedure. Most patients are able to manage any pain with over-the-counter pain medication for a few days after the procedure.
You will also have to eat a soft diet for the first couple of weeks after the implant procedure to avoid pain or irritation.
- How long does the dental implant process take?
It generally takes approximately two to nine months to complete the entire dental implant procedure depending on your treatment plan.
Your dentist will be able to provide you with a more specific timeline based on your individual case.
- Will my insurance cover dental implants?
Some insurances companies will cover the cost of dental implants, while some will only pay for a portion of the cost, and others won't pay for any part of it.
To determine what part, if any, of your dental implant treatment will be covered by your insurance, check with your insurance provider.
