Your Maple Ridge Invisalign® Provider
To replace a missing tooth and leave you with a natural-looking smile, our dentists at Alouette Dental Centre may place a dental implant.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium screw that works similar to a natural tooth root. They can be used to replace a single lost tooth or multiple missing teeth.
The implant is surgically placed into the jaw bone, where it bonds with the natural bone to act as an anchor for a tooth replacement.
Dental implants can help to resolve bite issues or jaw joint pain, restore facial tissues and appearance and prevent surrounding teeth from shifting.
Why Replace Missing Teeth
If you are missing a tooth, the teeth surrounding the remaining cap may start to shift out of place and cause misalignment issues. The jaw bone around the area may also begin to break down, resulting in facial collapse or negatively impacting your ability to speak and chew.The Dental Implant Procedure
To perform a dental implant procedure, your dentist uses a dental implant (titanium screw) and a tooth replacement.
The dentist will start by surgically placing the implant into your jaw bone, underneath the gum tissue. As the tissue heals, this implant will bond with the bone and attach to the gum.
Once healing has occurred, generally 3 to 6 months after surgery, patients return to our office to have the procedure completed.
During this final appointment, your dentist will attach a tooth replacement, such as dental bridge, crown or denture, to the implant to create the look and feel of a natural tooth.
Dental Implant FAQs
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about dental implants at Alouette Dental Centre.
- How long does a dental implant last?
Implants that are properly cared for can last a lifetime. This includes proper brushing and flossing at home, in addition to regular hygiene cleanings and exams at your dental office.
The longevity of your dental implant may also depend on other factors including genetics, nutrition or the development of any dental diseases.
- How do I care for my dental implants?
A dental implant should be cared for just like your natural teeth.
Seeing your dentist for regular hygiene appointments and maintaining a proper brushing and flossing routine at home can help prevent disease or decay from developing in the surrounding teeth and gums, which can negatively impact your dental implants.
- Does getting a dental implant hurt?
During dental implant surgery, your dentist will administer anesthesia to help you feel comfortable so you won't feel pain during the procedure.
After the procedure, patients do not usually feel much discomfort. Most patients can manage pain with over-the-counter pain medication for a few days following the procedure.
You'll also need to consume a soft diet for the first couple of weeks after the implant procedure to avoid any irritation or pain.
- How long does the dental implant process take?
Typically, the entire dental implant procedure will take between two and nine months to complete, depending on your treatment plan.
Your dentist will be able to provide a more specific timeline based on your specific case.
- Will my insurance cover dental implants?
While some insurance companies will cover the cost of dental implants, others will only pay a part of the cost and others will not pay for any portion of it.
Check with your insurance provider to determine how much, if any, of your dental treatment will be covered by your insurance.