A small, sturdy metal post—usually made of titanium that is surgically placed into the jawbone. This acts like the root of your missing tooth. Once it’s in place and your jaw has healed around it, a custom-made crown is attached on top. Voila! You’ve got yourself what is pretty much the next best thing to a natural tooth.
To begin the dental implant process, you’ll first need to come to our office for a consultation. During this consultation, your doctor will check the health of your teeth and jaw to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. We use X-rays and imaging to plan the correct placement of the implants. Then your doctor will go over the timeline with you, letting you know what to expect from each step.
The doctor will begin your dental implant placement by numbing your mouth with a local anesthetic to make sure you won’t feel a thing during surgery. Next, they’ll create a small hole in the site where the implant will go and, using a surgical guide, place the implant in the bone. The tissue is then closed over the top of the implant. Healing of the soft gum tissue at the surgical site usually takes only a couple of weeks. You shouldn’t feel any discomfort beyond a week after the placement.
Following the replacement, you’ll need to allow a few months for the jawbone to heal and fuse with the implant. This process is not painful, but it is necessary before placing your permanent crown. Once the bone has fused to the implant, your doctor will schedule an appointment to fit you for your new crown or bridge that matches the exact shape and color of your natural teeth. The doctor will attach an abutment to the implant, and then your new crown will be seated on the abutment. The day you have your new crown placed, you can start eating with it and brushing and flossing it, just as you would with a natural tooth!
In Mississauga, a single implant will cost approximately $3,000 – $6,000+. A full-mouth reconstruction using dental implants can vary widely, ranging from $6,000 to $60,000 and up. A full set of implant-supported dentures (upper and lower) is approximately $30,000. Keep in mind that this is an investment for life and for your health. We’ll make sure you know how to properly care for your implants so that you can preserve and enjoy your investment.
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.
