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Dental Implants in Toronto
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a tiny titanium screw that is designed to act as a base for a tooth replacement. It can be used to replace a single missing tooth or multiple missing teeth.
The implant is surgically placed into the jaw bone, where it fuses with the bone to provide a strong foundation for your new tooth or teeth.
Besides filling the gap, dental implants help prevent nearby teeth from shifting, can improve bite problems or jaw pain, and even support your facial structure to help you maintain your natural appearance.
Replacing missing teeth can also do wonders for your self-esteem, allowing you to eat, chew, and smile with confidence!
Why Replace Missing Teeth?
When a tooth is missing, the neighbouring teeth can start to shift into the empty space, which may lead to misalignment. Additionally, the bone in that area can begin to break down, reducing support for the surrounding teeth and increasing the risk of losing more teeth over time.
The Dental Implant Process
The dental implant process involves placing a titanium screw into your jaw bone, followed by attaching a replacement tooth.
First, your dentist will start by surgically inserting the implant beneath the gum tissue and into the jaw bone. Over the next six to nine months, as the area heals, the implant will fuse with the bone.
Once you've healed, you’ll come back to the office to finish the treatment.
At this point, your dentist will attach your custom-made replacement tooth, whether it’s a crown, bridge, or denture, to the implant. This replacement is made to look and function like a natural tooth, and blend in with the rest of your smile.
Dental Implant FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions about dental implants at Portrait Dental.
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How long does a dental implant last?
With proper care, a dental implant can last a lifetime. This means brushing and flossing regularly at home, as well as maintaining routine dental cleanings and check-ups.
However, how long your implant lasts can also be influenced by other factors like your overall health, nutrition, genetics, and whether any dental diseases develop over time.
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How do I care for my dental implants?
Caring for a dental implant is pretty much the same as caring for your natural teeth.
Keeping up with regular dental hygiene visits and sticking to a consistent brushing and flossing routine at home can help prevent any issues from developing in the surrounding teeth and gums that could impact the health and longevity of your implant.
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Does getting a dental implant hurt?
During dental implant surgery, your dentist will use anesthesia to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure.
After the surgery, most people experience only mild discomfort, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
To help with healing and prevent irritating the surgical site, it’s best to stick to a soft diet for the first couple of weeks following implant placement.
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How long does the dental implant process take?
The entire dental implant process typically takes anywhere from three to nine months to complete, depending on your individual treatment plan and the time required for healing.
Your dentist will be able to give you a more accurate timeline tailored to your specific needs.
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Will my insurance cover dental implants?
Insurance coverage for dental implants can vary; some providers cover the full cost, others cover only part of it, and some may not cover it at all.
To determine exactly what your insurance will cover, it’s best to check directly with your provider before starting treatment.