Why choose a dental implant?

If you’ve lost a tooth because of gum disease, decay, a fracture or an infection, a dental implant is one of the most natural-looking ways to replace it. Unlike a bridge or a denture, which sit on top of the gums, an implant is placed in the jawbone, where it works like a natural tooth root. Once it has healed, it looks, feels and functions much like your own tooth.

Implants need very little special care. You brush and floss them like natural teeth, and with good home care and regular checkups, they can last for many years.

An implant may also be a good option if your dentist has recommended a bridge, but the teeth on either side of the gap aren’t strong enough to support it.

Are you a candidate?

 

Before recommending an implant, we’ll review your medical history, examine your mouth, and take X-rays or a 3D scan of your jaw. This shows whether you have enough healthy bone and gum tissue to support an implant.

An implant may not be the right choice right away if you have:
• Active gum disease or untreated tooth decay
• Not enough jawbone in the area (bone grafting may help)
• Certain uncontrolled medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes
• Heavy smoking habits, which can slow healing

If an implant isn’t suitable, we’ll explain other options, such as a bridge or a denture.

 

 The three parts of a dental implant

 

1. The implant post
A small titanium post that’s placed in the jawbone. Over a few months, it bonds with the bone, a process called osseointegration, creating a strong foundation for your new tooth.

2. The abutment
A small connector attached to the top of the implant post. It links the post to your new tooth.

3. The crown
The visible tooth, custom-made to match the shape and colour of your natural teeth. It’s fixed securely to the abutment.

 

 The implant process, step by step

 

1. Consultation and planning: we examine your teeth, take X-rays, and create a treatment plan with a written cost estimate.
2. Preparing the area: if part of the old tooth remains, or you need a bone graft, we take care of that first.
3. Placing the implant: the implant post is placed in the jawbone under local anesthetic. Sedation is available if you feel anxious.
4. Healing: over about 3 to 6 months, the implant bonds with the bone. We may give you a temporary tooth in the meantime.
5. Your new tooth: we attach the abutment and your custom crown, and check your bite.

 

Call to action

Ready to replace your missing tooth? Book your implant consultation today. Call (416) 322-5156, or fill in the form below.