What Is An Implant?

One of the most revolutionary advances in the field of dentistry over the last 50 years has been the development and generalized use of dental implants. Dental implants are artificial devices that are implanted into the jaw bones to replace the roots of teeth. The dental implant is placed in the jawbone in a relatively simple procedure. In most cases, implants are placed while the individual is awake with the use of local anaesthetic (freezing). In many situations, having a dental implant placed is as simple as having a filling done.

Dental implants can be used in many wonderful ways. They can act as a replacement root for a lost tooth, and a crown can be placed on top to make the final restoration look like a real tooth. Several implants can be placed when several teeth are missing to provide support for a full arch of teeth.

In these situations teeth that are similar to dentures can be anchored to the implants providing great looking, comfortable teeth that function in a manner similar to natural teeth.

At Southview Dental, our services include both the placement of dental implants as well as the fabrication of the crowns, bridges or dentures that the dental implants will support. Patients are routinely amazed at how easy and virtually pain-free the procedures are, and are thrilled that there is no drilling of teeth.

If you think dental implants may be for you please call to arrange a consultation.

Dental Implants - Replacing Missing Teeth

If one or more of your teeth are missing, there are a number of ways to replace them. An alternative to bridges, partials or complete dentures may be dental implants. Implants are used to replace missing roots and support artificial replacement teeth. They are comfortable and look like natural teeth.

What are dental implants?

A dental implant is an artificial root made of titanium metal. It is inserted into the jawbone to replace the root of the natural tooth. An artificial replacement tooth is attached to the implant. The implant acts as an anchor to hold the replacement tooth in place.

Who does this procedure?

In most circumstances we are able to both place and restore dental implants in our facility. In clinical situations where the surgery is more difficult we will refer the patient to a specialist.

Who can get dental implants?

If you are in good general health, have healthy gums and have enough bone in the jaw to hold an implant, dental implants might be right for you. If your jawbone has shrunk or if it has not developed normally, you may be able to have a bone graft to build up the bone. A bone graft is a way of adding new bone to your jawbone. Your dentist or dental specialist will tell you if bone grafting can be done.

How dental implants are done

1. Your dentist or specialist will carefully examine your mouth and take x-rays of your head, jaw and teeth to find out if dental implants are right for you.
2. During the surgery, your dentist or specialist will put a dental implant into your jawbone. The gum tissue is then stitched back into place. As the tissue heals, the implant will bond with the bone and attach to the gum. It can take several weeks to heal.
3. Once the tissue is all healed, your dentist will attach a post to the implant. This post is called the abutment and it connects the replacement tooth to the implant..
4. An artificial replacement tooth is made by a dental laboratory and your dentist attaches it to the abutment.
5. When replacing several teeth or all of your teeth either a fixed bridge is anchored to your dental implants or a removable partial or full denture is made to snap into special attachments on the implants .

Caring for my dental implant(s)

Because dental implants are placed in the jawbone, artificial replacement teeth attached to implants look and act much like natural teeth. Like natural teeth, implants need to be kept clean using a toothbrush and floss. Your dentist will show you the proper cleaning procedure for your implant(s). Regular dental checkups are important so your dentist can make sure that your bite is right and that your implant(s) are not loose.

What else should I know?

Several visits to your dentist or dental specialist may be needed until the process is done. Checkups will be scheduled during the following year so your dentist can be sure your implants are working properly. You will need to take very good care of your implants.

Implants can cost more than other kinds of replacement teeth and might not be covered by your dental plan. But in most cases it is a one-time cost unlike other kinds of replacement teeth procedures. Although rare, possible complications due to dental implants include bleeding, infection, numbness or injury to nearby muscles or sinus cavity. In some cases, the implant may not be successful because it didn’t bond to the bone.