What is a Dental Implant?
Dental implants are tiny titanium posts that are surgically implanted into the jawbone where missing teeth should be.
These titanium posts act as artificial tooth roots, and typically support a dental crown. Together, the implant and crown act as a permanent replacement for a missing tooth.
Dental implant restorations function and look much like natural teeth do. Since they are fixed, they cannot be removed like dentures.
With proper care and good oral hygiene, dental implants can last a lifetime.
Mini Implants
Mini-implants are a way to secure dentures with ultra-small diameter titanium alloy implant screws. The screws are so small that they can be inserted directly through the overlying gum tissue and into the bone underneath.
Options For Replacing Missing Teeth
At Deer Valley Dental Care, we offer two options for replacing missing teeth: non-removable and removable. Our team will work with you to determine the type that better suits your needs.
Non-Removable
A prosthetic option for replacing missing teeth is the non-removable or fixed dental implant. Here, we replace and reconstruct missing or soon-to-be lost teeth with prosthetic teeth that cannot be removed by a patient.
Removable
Removable tooth replacements, including full dentures, are made to attach to the supporting dental implants in various ways. Dentists may use rubber ring attachments, small clips, magnets or other customized precision type attachment devices.
These types of replacement teeth can be removed by a patient at home for daily cleaning.
FAQS
Check out answers to our most commonly asked questions about dental implants.
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How do you know if you are a good candidate for dental implants?
Generally, patients with good oral health are able to receive dental implants. A dentist will conduct an exam to see if implants are suitable based on your dental history. Other dental procedures can be implemented if you are not an ideal candidate for dental implants. For instance, bone grafting replaces missing bone in your jaw to support dental implants. If implants are not an option, other tooth replacements like dentures or bridges may be used instead.
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What are the benefits of dental implants?
Once a dental implant is placed, your dentist can proceed with replacing missing teeth. Once teeth are replaced, patients may enjoy more freedom and flexibility by regaining their ability to eat many of the foods they have had to avoid. Teeth appear natural and facial contours are preserved.
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What type of anesthesia is used?
The majority of dental implants and bone grafts can be performed in our dental clinic in Calgary under local anesthesia. Dental sedation is available for nervous patients.
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Can dental implants be placed after extraction?
It is possible to place a dental implant on the same day that a tooth is extracted. However, it usually takes three to six months of healing after an extraction before you are ready for an implant to be placed.
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What should I do after dental implants?
Your dentist will provide you with instructions on what to do after an implant has been placed. Generally, you should wait to rinse your mouth until 48 hours after the procedure, and then begin to gently rinse at least five to six times a day (morning, after each meal and before bed) for about two weeks.
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Do implants need special care?
Take care of your implants and teeth and keep your mouth healthy. This means taking the time for good oral hygiene (brushing and flossing). Make sure to keep your regular hygiene and maintenance appointments.
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What foods should I avoid after dental implant surgery?
Your dentist will provide you with instructions on which foods and drinks to avoid after an implant has been placed. Generally, it is recommended that you stick to a diet of soft foods for the first week or two after the procedure. After this healing period, you can return to your normal diet.
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How much do dental implants cost?
When considering dental implant treatment, there are options that fit everyone’s budget. The number of teeth needing to be replaced, the replacement teeth that you choose, and any necessary bone grafting will determine the overall cost of your implant treatment.