Everyone has either lost at least one tooth or is worried about tooth loss at some point in their lives. And rightly so, your smile is one of your best features and you would not want to let the quality of your smile get impacted. 

So what are dental implants and how can they help you with a missing tooth or two? Dental implants are a great way to replace missing or broken teeth. The procedure for this is very fast and convenient, and the solution is a permanent one. However, with every surgical procedure, there may be many questions and concerns that arise in one’s mind when considering treatment. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants

In this post, we answer the most important questions asked by patients considering dental implants in Canada and what you should know before the procedure, so you can decide if this is the right option for you. 

What Are Dental Implants? 

Dental implants are artificial replacements that provide a solution for missing or broken teeth. In this process, a dentist places a titanium screw into your jaw, replacing the root of your tooth. Then, they will place a covering over the implant and add a restoration element like a dental crown. This ensures that you have a permanent, secure replacement to your tooth that holds up in appearance and functionality. 

Who Is A Good Candidate For Implants? 

Dental implants are ideal for adults whose jawbones cannot grow after surgery, people with healthy mouth tissue, and individuals who do not have issues with their jawbones and have good overall health, oral and otherwise. You may not be the ideal candidate for dental implants if you have certain conditions, are pregnant, are undergoing radiation treatment, are a smoker, or are a heavy alcohol user. 

Can You Replace Any Tooth With Implants? 

Yes, you can replace any tooth with implants, if you fit the requisites mentioned above. You can also opt for full-mouth dental implants if you need to replace your entire set of teeth. These tend to be much more effective in terms of comfort and function. Full arch implants only need as few as four implants to replace your entire lower jaw teeth. Even this procedure can be performed in a day. 

Can Implants Enhance My Appearance? 

Implants are often opted for cosmetic reasons as well, and not only for functionality. They can provide a significant improvement in a person’s appearance when dealing with tooth loss. Most patients are completely satisfied with their smile and appearance after they get the implants. When you compare it to dentures, they do provide a more natural look and are more sturdy as well allowing a person to speak without stuttering. Unlike dentures, they’re permanent and fixed, so you don’t have to worry about your teeth falling out again in public. 

Is the Procedure for Dental Implants Painful? 

The procedure will not be painful as the dentist will use local anesthesia during your surgery. You may feel some pressure or minor discomfort, which you may feel once the anesthesia wears off as well. You will however be prescribed pain medication to deal with any discomfort until your implants have fully healed. You can also ask your doctor if they offer sedation for patients who experience anxiety. 

What Is The Duration of Recovery? 

Like most surgeries, your implants will take at least three weeks to heal, but you can resume eating solid foods within two weeks. If you have a condition that prolongs your healing time, your recovery duration might be as long as a month or two for it to fully heal. Once they have healed, your dentist will attach the tooth cap. 

Will Implants Benefit Overall Oral Health? 

Dental Implants do have many benefits for your overall oral health as well. Broken or missing teeth are uncomfortable and can be risky to your health. They allow bacteria to infect your gums and enter the bloodstream, leaving you open to inflammation and infection. Removing these risks with implants can help you also prevent oral bone loss. The bone around a missing tooth can be damaged when chewing or applying pressure to other teeth. This can cause the bone to recede over time, but replacing the missing tooth helps you avoid this and ensures your bone stays strong and healthy. This also helps maintain the shape of your face. 

Are Dental Implants Expensive? 

The cost of dental implants varies depending on various factors like how many you’ll need, where the missing tooth is located, how much pre-surgery work you may need, and more. 

It also depends on how much your insurance covers, and which country you’re located in. 

How Long Do They Last? 

Dental implants, as we mentioned, are pretty permanent. They can last a very long time, depending on how well you take care of them. You can take care of them just like a normal tooth with brushing twice a day, flossing, regular dental exams, and cleanings to rid the tooth of plaque, and so on. 

Is Any Dentist Qualified To Place Implants? 

If you’re looking for dental implants, know that not all dentists are qualified to place implants. Look out for dentists who specialize in dental implant care. Treating broken or unsightly teeth requires much more technical knowledge and professional know-how, along with a lot of experience. This is why, ensure that you research your dentist, look at reviews and ask them the right questions, including how many years they have practiced this specific procedure. 

Dental implants are a permanent and amazing solution to restore your missing tooth and give you that million-dollar smile. They are highly comfortable to wear as they don’t move around like other replacement options. They will stay anchored to the bone, which means you won’t have to worry about food getting stuck or problems while speaking. Dental implants can seriously improve your daily life!

Now that you’re more informed about what they are, the procedure, and more, feel free to contact us to learn more about this procedure.