DENTAL IMPLANTS
Dental Implants: A Permanent Solution for Missing Teeth
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Dental implants are a popular and effective way to replace missing teeth. They are a permanent solution that looks and feels like natural teeth. An implant is an artificial root made of titanium metal that is inserted into the jawbone to replace the root of the natural tooth. An artificial replacement tooth is attached to the implant, which acts as an anchor to hold the replacement tooth in place. Dental implants are comfortable, durable, and long-lasting. They are an excellent alternative to bridges, partials, or complete dentures.
If you are interested in dental implants, you can book a free consultation with one of our dentists.
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What are the benefits of dental implants?
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Dental implants offer a wide range of benefits over other tooth replacement options. Here are some of the benefits of dental implants:
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Durability: Dental implants are generally very durable and closely replicate the look and feel of a natural tooth when covered with a crown. They can last longer than alternatives and have a success rate above 97% for 10 years.
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Prevents bone loss: Dental implants may help prevent bone loss that occurs after you lose a tooth. When you lose a tooth, your jawbone is no longer stressed in that part of your mouth. Over time, your body breaks down and reabsorbs some of the bone tissue. Numerous studies have found that 30% of the alveolar ridge is lost after tooth loss. Your alveolar ridge is the part of your jawbone that contains your tooth socket. Most bone loss occurs in the first 6 months. In a 2016 review of studies, researchers found evidence that implants seem to have a noticeable effect on alveolar ridge preservation by lowering the rate of bone resorption.
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Natural look and feel: A dental implant acts as an artificial root for your tooth. Dentists can put a crown on the top of the implant that helps mimic the look and feel of a natural tooth and may feel more comfortable than alternative treatments such as dentures 1.
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Keeps adjacent teeth stable: When you’re missing a tooth, the surrounding teeth can migrate toward the gap and cause problems with your bite and ability to chew. Dental implants can help keep your adjacent teeth stable.
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How long does it take to get a dental implant?
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The time it takes to get a dental implant can vary depending on the individual case. According to the Canadian Dental Association, the process can take several months to complete. Here is a general timeline of the dental implant process:
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Initial consultation and examination: This stage usually takes 1-2 visits.
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Implant surgery: During this stage, your dentist or specialist will put a dental implant into your jawbone beneath the gum tissue. 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. This stage usually takes 1 visit.
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Abutment and crown placement: Once the tissue is healed, your dentist or specialist will attach an abutment to the implant. An abutment is a post that connects the replacement tooth to the implant. In some cases, the first and second stage of implant surgery may be done in one single stage. An artificial replacement tooth is made and your dentist or specialist attaches it to the abutment. It may take several appointments to properly fit the replacement tooth to the abutment. This stage usually takes 2-3 visits.
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