What are dental implants?
An implant is a small metal screw that replaces an entire tooth. In a brief surgical procedure, the dentist inserts an implant into the bone beneath your gums right in the spot where a tooth should be. The implant acts like a natural tooth root and is finished off with a restoration such as a dental crown to help it look and feel just like a real tooth.
Getting dental implants is a big deal. You think you might like an implant, but you aren’t sure what to expect. We explain everything here so that you can make an informed decision about your dental treatment.
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Why you might need dental implants
Your natural teeth support the height and shape of your smile, and allow you to eat and speak with comfort.
A gap in your smile can allow your remaining teeth to shift out of healthy, functional alignment, increasing the risk of oral health problems. Losing even one tooth can set off a chain of events that negatively affects your oral health, facial appearance, and overall quality of life.
Even if you avoid these effects of missing teeth, there is one issue you cannot escape, bone resorption, a natural process in which your body breaks down unused bone tissue and redistributes the minerals elsewhere.
When teeth are present in the jawbone, they place pressure on it, stimulating the production of new bone tissue. Once those teeth are gone, however, that bone tissue no longer serves a purpose and gradually breaks down. The result is a shortened jaw and chin, leading to wrinkles and a sunken appearance in the cheeks and lips.
Dental implants are the next best thing to natural teeth. Replacing missing teeth with implants can help prevent or correct the issues described above.
The Benefits of dental implants
Losing a tooth can be difficult to cope with. A missing tooth can leave you feeling self-conscious about your smile and may lead to a range of health problems. Gaps can make your bite feel uncomfortable, make it harder to eat the foods you love, and may lead to bone loss or shifting teeth.
- Restore your natural appearance
A dental implant looks and feels just like a natural tooth. It becomes a permanent, flawless addition to your smile, custom crafted to blend right in. Implants appear natural since they are sized, shaped, and coloured to match your bite and enamel tone. - Feel confident in your comfort
As a dental implant heals, your jawbone fuses directly with the titanium post. A crown or bridge can then be permanently attached to the post, or the implant can help anchor implant supported dentures, but either way, that implant stays firmly in place. Laugh, smile, and enjoy your favourite foods without shifting teeth or sudden pain crossing your mind. - Improve bone strength
When teeth are lost, the supporting bone can gradually weaken and break down over time. Dental implants encourage new bone growth around the implant site, helping preserve and strengthen the jaw structure.
Dental implants provide a long term fix that feels natural and can last decades with proper oral hygiene.
Dental implant restorations
A restoration is the “false tooth” placed over the implant. The implant itself stays hidden when you smile, while the restoration on top creates the look of a brand new tooth.
- Dental Crown – This is the most common implant restoration, covering a single tooth implant.
- Dental Bridge – A bridge fills the gap where multiple teeth in a row are missing. Several teeth can be replaced using just one or two implants to support the bridge. A full implant supported bridge replaces an entire arch of upper or lower teeth, secured by four or more implants.
- Implant Denture – Add extra stability to a removable denture by clipping it onto two small implants.
A new life with dental implants awaits!
Your smile will not be the same after getting a dental implant, it will be even better.
Dental implants are easy to maintain and care for. Gently brush and floss around your implant daily, and protect it from injury while playing sports. Visit us regularly for checkups so we can make sure your implant stays healthy.
In return, your dental implant can reward you with many years of strong, happy, and beautiful smiles!
Start today by booking a consultation
What to expect on your dental implant treatment journey
The actual implant placement process is far more comfortable than most people expect.
Assessment
First, you will have a dental implant consultation to determine if implants are the right fit for you. Your dentist will take x-rays and a 3D cone beam CT scan of your jaw to assess the bone tissue and plan your treatment. The dental team will also take a scan or impression of your teeth to help plan the precise angle of your implant.
Inserting the implant
We administer an anesthetic to ensure the surgical site is completely numb. Your dentist creates a small opening in the gums and bone of your mouth, then places the implant post into position. In some cases, sutures may be needed to close the gum tissue.
Finalizing the restoration
You will go home to allow your implant to heal over the next few months. Once healed, you will return to the practice, where your dental restoration will be ready. We will place the restoration, and you will leave with a brand new, fully functional tooth.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and soft tissues, as well as the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment, we want to understand the full picture of your oral health and smile aesthetics, and most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Cost of dental implants in Toronto
In Toronto, you can expect to pay approximately $3,000 to $6,000 or more for a single implant. Full mouth reconstructive dental implants can range anywhere from $6,000 to $60,000 and up. A full set of implant supported dentures averages around $30,000. Keep in mind that no dental practice can provide an accurate quote over the phone. The dental implant procedure is highly complex and depends on many factors that are unique to each individual.
How is the cost of dental implant surgery determined? Here are some key factors:
- The type and number of implants required.
- The materials and supplies used.
- The time and experience of the dental team supporting you at every step.
- The location and complexity of the surgery.
- Your recovery time, we will be here for you for as long as needed.
Every case is different, so it is important to speak with a dentist and undergo an oral exam, allowing us to evaluate your unique situation and present treatment options to consider. We are happy to provide you with a more accurate quote.
Are there other solutions for missing teeth?
Gaps caused by 1 to 3 missing teeth can sometimes be repaired with a dental bridge. More extensive tooth loss, on the top, bottom, or entire mouth, may be addressed with a dental prosthetic or removable dentures. When comparing the cost of dental implants to other tooth replacement options, it is worth weighing the pros and cons of each.
Dental implants may require a larger initial investment, but they are generally more secure and durable than bridges or dentures. Removable dental prosthetics require different care and maintenance, and may need adjusting or replacing over time. By contrast, a dental implant is cared for much like a natural tooth, with routine oral hygiene at home and regular dental checkups. With proper care, a dental implant can last a lifetime.
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