Missing teeth can affect more than just your smile. It can impact how you eat, speak, and feel about yourself. However, your smile deserves to be seen, and dental implants offer a lasting solution that restores your confidence and oral health.
Dental implants are a strong, reliable option for replacing missing teeth, offering the feel and functionality of your natural ones. You can expect the entire process to take about 2 appointments to place both the implant and the crown.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are strong, permanent metal anchors that are placed in your jaw to replace missing roots. These anchors serve as a foundation for crowns (artificial teeth), bridges, or even dentures to restore your smile and help you chew and speak confidently. The implants are designed to look and feel natural, blending seamlessly with the rest of your teeth.
Who Qualifies for Dental Implants?
Not everyone may be immediately ready for dental implants, but you could be a good candidate if you:
- Have healthy gums free from conditions like untreated gum disease.
- Possess sufficient jawbone to support the implant securely. Bone grafts may be an option in some cases.
- Are in good overall health to recover easily from oral surgery.
Once the implant fuses to your jawbone, your dentist can attach a crown or bridge, giving you a smile that can last for years.
The Dental Implant Process
Dental implant surgery is a step-by-step process that can take months to complete. Despite the time investment, the outcome can be well worth the wait for those seeking a durable and natural replacement for missing teeth.
It all begins with a full oral health exam and imaging like X-rays or scans to confirm that implants are the correct route for you.
Here’s what you can expect:
Placing the Implant
During the first stage, we’ll carefully place the metal implant into your jawbone beneath the gum tissue. This area is then stitched up to allow the implant to heal and bond with the bone, which usually takes several weeks or months. We always prioritize your long-term outcome and comfort.
Preparing for Your Crown
After the healing period, a post called an abutment is secured to the implant. This acts as a connector to hold the crown or bridge. Depending on your situation, both the implant and abutment stages could be inserted as part of the same appointment.
Finally, a custom-designed artificial tooth is attached. This crown is designed to match the colour, shape, and size of your existing teeth. If you’re replacing several teeth, your dentist may use a bridge supported by two implants. This helps provide a natural finish while maintaining optimal functionality.
While the full process takes time, the result is a tooth replacement that feels strong and looks stunning.
Treating Your Implants with Care
Like any dental procedure, some discomfort is normal after surgery. You might experience swelling, minor bleeding, or tenderness around the implant. To support a smooth recovery and protect your new implant, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Rest and stick to soft foods for the first couple of days.
- Manage discomfort with recommended pain relief.
- Maintain daily care by brushing and flossing carefully around the implant site.
Your dental implant should perform just like a natural tooth. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional check-ups go a long way in preserving longevity.
A dental implant that’s well-maintained can last up to 20 years or more, giving you peace of mind and sparing you from replacing it too soon.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants aren’t just about aesthetics; they’re a long-term investment in your oral and overall quality of life. Here’s why they stand out from other tooth replacement options:
- Durability and stability: Implants provide a secure fit that feels natural.
- Bone preservation: They stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss in the area of the missing tooth.
- Improved functionality: Implants restore your ability to chew and speak clearly.
- High success rate: With proper care, dental implants can last for many years.
Whether you’re enjoying your favourite meals or confidently striking up a conversation, dental implants bring back the ease and fullness that missing a tooth can take away.
Step Into Your Best Smile at Country Hills Dental
A strong, healthy smile is one of the best investments you can make for yourself! If you’ve been living with missing teeth, dental implants could be the solution you’ve been waiting for.
At Country Hills Dental, we’re proud to offer expert care that’s been trusted by Calgary families for years. Our friendly team is here to guide you every step of the way, from planning your implant surgery to helping you leave with a smile you love.
Don’t wait to take the first step toward restoring your confidence and comfort. Book your appointment today and discover how dental implants can transform your quality of life.
