Dental Implants in Beaverlodge, AB
Dental implants give your smile a second chance! These revolutionary restorations act as anchors that go into your jawbone, just like natural tooth roots. We then use them to place a crown on top that looks and feels just like a real tooth. Plus, they help keep your jawbone strong and healthy. Whether you’re missing one tooth or several, implants can give you back that confident smile you deserve.
Did you know? Approximately 30 million people live with no natural teeth in one or both jaws! But more and more dental patients are choosing implants to restore their teeth.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer several advantages over traditional tooth replacement options. For example, because they are anchored in the jawbone, they offer a level of stability and security that is unmatched by other options. They also help to preserve the integrity of the jawbone, preventing bone loss that can occur after tooth loss. Additionally, dental implants look and function just like natural teeth, allowing patients to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
What Can I Expect During The Implant Procedure?
Before Your Procedure
Before getting dental implants, our Beaverlodge dentist will conduct a thorough examination of your mouth to determine if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure. This may include taking X-rays and making models of your teeth and jaw.
If you have any underlying dental issues, such as gum disease or tooth decay, these will need to be addressed before proceeding with the implant surgery. Dr. Woods and Dr. Ruether may also recommend a bone graft if you have insufficient jawbone to support the implants.
Once you have been cleared for the procedure, we will create a personalized treatment plan that outlines the number of implants needed and any additional procedures that may be required. This should include a breakdown of the costs involved, which will help you budget accordingly. If you require finance, our treatment coordinator will discuss your finance options for dental implants and help you apply.
It’s important to discuss any concerns or questions you may have with our dentists before the procedure to ensure you are fully informed and comfortable with moving forward.
During Your Procedure
Dental implant surgery can be performed under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on your level of comfort and the complexity of the procedure.
The first step in the procedure is to make an incision in the gum tissue to expose the jawbone. Dr. Woods or Dr. Ruether will then drill a small hole into the bone and insert the implant, which is typically made of titanium. Once the implant is in place, the gums are stitched back together and left to heal.
This process may be repeated for multiple implants, depending on your treatment plan. The entire procedure can take anywhere from 1-2 hours per implant.
During Your Recovery
After the surgery, it’s normal to experience some discomfort and swelling in the treated area. Our dentists in Beaverlodge will provide you with post-operative instructions and may prescribe pain medication or antibiotics if necessary.
It’s important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper healing of the implant site. You may also be advised to stick to a soft food diet and avoid strenuous activity for a few days after surgery.
Over the next few months, the implant will fuse with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration. This creates a strong foundation for your replacement tooth to be attached to.
Once the implant has fully healed, your dentist will then place an abutment onto the implant, which acts as a connector between the implant and the replacement tooth. Finally, a custom-made crown will be placed on top of the abutment to complete your new smile.
What Are the Different Types of Dental Implants?
If you’re missing a single tooth…
A single-tooth dental implant is the best solution if you’re missing just one tooth. This type of implant consists of three parts: the implant itself, which is inserted into the jawbone, an abutment that connects the implant to the replacement tooth, and the crown, which is the replacement tooth made to match your natural teeth. This ensures a seamless fit in your mouth, and not only does it look and feel like a natural tooth, but it also functions like one, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
If you’re missing multiple teeth…
If you’re missing multiple teeth, you have a couple of options when it comes to dental implants. A popular choice is to get individual implants for each missing tooth, similar to the single-tooth implant solution. This provides a very natural look and feel, with each replacement tooth having its own implant for support.
Alternatively, if you’re missing several teeth in a row, you might be a candidate for an implant-supported bridge. Unlike traditional bridges that rely on natural teeth for support, implant-supported bridges use two or more dental implants as anchors. This type of implant is beneficial as it does not put a strain on surrounding teeth and helps maintain the health and structure of your jawbone.
In some cases, when all teeth are missing, an implant-supported denture might be the most suitable solution. Multiple dental implants secure these dentures and offer a more stable and comfortable fit than traditional dentures.
To determine which type of implant is right for you, consult with Dr. Woods or Dr. Ruether. They will assess your oral health, the quantity and quality of your jawbone, and your specific needs and preferences to make the best recommendation. Remember, the ultimate goal is to restore your smile and improve your oral health, so it’s important to discuss all available options and their pros and cons with your dentist.
Are You Ready to Restore Your Smile?
Dental implants are a safe and effective solution for those looking to replace missing or damaged teeth. We offer high-quality dental implant services to help our patients achieve a beautiful, functional smile. With our state-of-the-art technology and techniques, we ensure that our patients receive the best possible care. If you are looking for dental implants in Beaverlodge, Alberta, CA, don’t hesitate to contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how dental implants can benefit you. With our professional guidance and care, you can achieve a beautiful, functional, and long-lasting smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dental implants right for me?
You may qualify for dental implants if you have missing, broken, or severely decayed teeth and are in relatively good overall health. The only way of determining your eligibility for implants is to consult with an oral care provider to identify whether you have adequate bone support and healthy gums that will support the new tooth structure.
What should I expect if my dentist and I decide dental implants are right for me?
The placement of dental implants is a multi-step process that typically takes between 6 and 9 months to complete. It begins with a surgical procedure during which a titanium rod is placed where a previous natural tooth root once was. The gums are sutured shut over the implant, where is will stay for several months while it heals and begins fusing with the surrounding bone. Due to the nature of implant placement and its average procedure time of between 1 and 2 hours, you’ll be sedated and/or anesthetized for the duration of the treatment. At the conclusion of the healing period, you’ll return to be fitted for permanent crowns and have them placed.
What type of post-treatment care will I require?
It is normal to experience some discomfort, including bruising and swelling, following a dental implant procedure. However, inflammation and pain may be managed with over-the-counter medications. You may be asked to eat only soft foods for approximately two weeks until the surgical site heals.
I already have dentures; can I get dental implants?
If you’re already wearing dentures, you might be wondering if dental implants are still an option for you. The answer is yes. Many denture wearers opt for implant-supported dentures for increased stability and comfort. With implant-supported dentures, your prosthetic teeth are anchored into place with dental implants, significantly reducing the risk of slippage and providing a more natural feel.
Are dental implants safe?
Yes, dental implants are very safe and have a high success rate when performed by an experienced dental professional. They are made from biocompatible materials like titanium, which are readily accepted by the body, reducing the risk of adverse reactions.
However, as with any surgical procedure, dental implants do carry some risk of complications, such as infection, nerve damage, or sinus problems. It’s important to discuss these risks with your dentist in Beaverlodge prior to the procedure. Regular check-ups and good oral hygiene can further ensure the longevity and health of your dental implants. Keep in mind that individual experiences can vary, and what works best for one person may not be the best solution for everyone. Therefore, a comprehensive evaluation by a dental professional is crucial in determining your suitability for dental implants.