Dental Implants
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is permanent and stable solution to missing teeth. If you've lost a tooth, your dentist may recommend replacing it with an implant, which is comprised of a small titanium screw and a tooth replacement.
Once the implant has been surgically implanted into your jaw and you've healed, your dentist can place an artificial tooth over it to cover it and to complete the look.
Made to last a lifetime, implants can be used to replace a single tooth or many missing teeth.
Why Replace Missing Teeth?
If a tooth is missing, the surrounding teeth will shift out of place, causing misalignment issues. The jaw bone around the area may also deteriorate, resulting in facial collapse and impacting how you eat and talk.
The Dental Implant Process
When you and your dentist decide a dental implant is right for you, the process will begin with a small titanium screw. This screw is the implant.
Your dentist will surgically place this screw into your jawbone below the gum tissue. Over the next three to six months, your gum tissue and jaw will bond with the implant as they heal.
Once you're healed, your dentist will attach a tooth replacement, such as a dental crown or implant-supported dentures, over your implant so that it looks and functions like a natural tooth. This crown can be customized to match the rest of your smile.
Dental Implant FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions about dental implants at Westmount Dental Centre.
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How long does a dental implant last?
If cared for properly, a dental implant can last a lifetime.
Proper dental implant care includes twice-daily brushing and once-daily flossing at home and attending routine hygiene appointments at our dental office.
Other factors, such as nutrition, genetics, and the development of any dental diseases, can affect the longevity of your dental implant.
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How do I care for my dental implants?
You should care for a dental implant just like you care for your natural teeth.
Visiting your dentist for routine hygiene appointments and maintaining a proper brushing and flossing routine at home can help prevent decay or diseases from developing in the surrounding teeth and gums, which can negatively affect your dental implants.
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Does getting a dental implant hurt?
During dental implant surgery, your dentist will administer anesthesia to make you comfortable so you won't feel pain during the procedure.
Following the procedure, there is not usually much discomfort. Most patients can manage any pain with an over-the-counter pain medication for a few days after the procedure.
You will also need to eat a soft diet for the first couple of weeks after the implant procedure to avoid pain or irritation.
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How long does the dental implant process take?
The entire dental implant process usually takes about three to six months to complete, depending on your treatment plan.
Your dentist can provide you with a more specific timeline based on your particular case.
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Will my insurance cover dental implants?
Some insurance companies cover the cost of dental implants, while others pay only a portion of the cost.
There are others who won't pay for dental implants at all.
Check with your insurance provider to determine what part, if any, of your dental implant treatment will be covered.