Dental Implants

Dental implants represent most advanced long-term solution for missing teeth. They are screw shaped posts of various sizes and lengths, that have a continuous thread that goes around them in screw-like pattern.

Single implant acts like a replacement for one tooth, while multiple implants can replace a segment or even a whole dental array. Other than teeth replacement in prosthodontics purposes, they can also be used as anchor points in orthodontics dentistry.

Their size depends on the amount of bone in designated placement region and their intended function.

Before actual procedure is done, it needs some careful planning. There can be situations where implant placement cannot be performed at first, because some work needs to be done prior to make it possible for placing an actual implant. Those procedures are making sure that not only placement is achieved, but other than restoring a tooth, bone and gums around it are restored as well. They include sinus lift and bone augmentation.

Bone augmentation is a surgical procedure of adding artificial bone onto the remaining jaw in purpose of making enough amount of jaw bone for implant to be placed successfully.

Sinus lift has the same outcome as bone augmentation does. The difference being that artificial bone now is added under maxillary sinus in order to physically lift up the sinus floor thus providing enough amount of bone for implant to be planted.

Procedure of implant placement is practically painless. Under direct eye supervision, implant is “screwed” carefully into designated place and it’s left to heal for some months. Healing time usually takes about 3 to 6 months, and during that time bone cells will form closely to implant, and clasp it in position. After healing time has passed, implant can be loaded. Dental laboratory provides with crown/bridge which are cemented or screwed, restoring missing tooth/teeth.

Implants as a solution for missing teeth operates in a way that one implant can replace single tooth, while 2 implants can replace more than 2 teeth in a form of bridge, depending on the layout. It is important to emphasize that bridge cannot be combined between implants and natural teeth.

Mini dental implants, as the name says, are smaller sized implants used for stabilization of dentures. They are used in patients with reduced amount of jaw bone that are not susceptible for jaw bone augmentation. Their placement is just under the gums or few millimeters into bone. Mini implants are utilized in orthopedic dentistry as well, as anchor points for applying forces on teeth.

Implants are very beneficial for oral and general health as they provide restoring effect as close to natural teeth as it gets. They don’t anchor and overload adjacent teeth like bridges do. Very easy to clean and maintain, with great longevity and aesthetic, making them the best solution in prosthetics dentistry.

Implants are designed to replace the root of a missing tooth and can be used to support crowns, bridges, or dentures.
A dental implant is made of titanium, and looks like a screw. It is placed in the jawbone, where it osseointegrates (fuses with the natural tissue surrounding it). After a healing period, the implant will be ready for an abutment, a connector that links implants and restorations. Once in place, your implant will successfully pair with crowns, bridges, partials, or dentures. If the missing space is not filled, the teeth surrounding the space often drift, and the opposing teeth in the other arch will erupt further into the oral cavity (hypereruption) which can change your bite, lead to possible bone erosion in the area, and even affect your speech.

Are you a good candidate for Dental Implants?

Certain aspects of your health must qualify for dental implant placement. Your dentist will help you reach the necessary level of health with preparatory treatments if needed.

• Bone density – In order for implants to successfully integrate with your bone, there must be enough bone remaining at the site. If your bone requires enhancement, a bone graft procedure might be needed before placing the dental implant.
• Oral health – Your teeth must be cavity-free and your gums clear of periodontal disease.
• General health – Since the implant placement is surgical, it is important to ensure that your level of general health will see you through the procedure and allow for proper healing.

Dental implants require the same care as real teeth, including brushing, flossing, rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash, and regular dental check-ups.

The root-form implant is the most common type and basically consists of three main components:

1. Implant screw – This part of the implant is made of titanium and is surgically placed in the bone. Titanium is accepted by the body extremely well and fuses with the bone (called osseointegration) during the healing process.
2. Abutment – This is a metal collar that attaches to the top of the implant screw and is the base for a crown, bridge, or denture.
3. Crown - The crown is the manufactured tooth that fits on top of the abutment. Bridges and dentures can also be secured to the abutment. The placement of the crown, bridge, or denture is the final step of the implant process.

What are the advantages of Dental Implants?

Dental Implants are a popular choice for replacing missing teeth, mainly because of a few advantages they have, including:

• Dental implants look and feel like your own teeth. And because they are designed to fuse with bone, they become permanent.
• Dental implants allow you to speak without the worry that teeth might slip.
• Dental implants function like your own teeth, allowing you to eat your favorite foods with confidence and without pain.
• Dental implants can give you back your smile and help you feel better about yourself.
• Because nearby teeth are not altered to support the implant, more of your own teeth are left intact, improving long-term oral health. Individual implants also allow easier access between teeth, improving oral hygiene.
• Implants are very durable and will last many years. With good care, many implants last a lifetime.

Commonly asked questions about Dental Implants

What will happen without replacing your missing tooth?

Your jawbone begins to shrink from lack of stimulation. Losing your teeth will affect your smile and change the shape of your face, causing you to look prematurely aged. Teeth next to the missing tooth can also become loose over time.

Who is a dental implants candidate?

Dental implants can be placed in most healthy adults. Your dentist will be able to tell you after a checkup if dental implants are right for you.

Is implant placement painful?

No, dental implants are typically placed under local anesthesia. Most treatments can be completed in your dentist's office.

How soon can I return to work after treatment?

Most people return to work the next day unless otherwise advised by the dentist. You may be prescribed medication to alleviate any minor discomfort you may have.

How does the long-term value of implants compare to other treatment options?

Dental implants are low maintenance and provide stability and confidence in your smile. Therefore, the long-term value of dental implants far exceeds conventional treatment options. They are also more comfortable as they are permanent as don't move as you eat or talk.

Please book an appointment with our dentists to see if dental implants are the right option for you. Fairview Family Dental provides excellent dental implant services to our patients in Brantford.