Suppose you’ve lost adult teeth due to disease, tooth decay, bad oral hygiene, plaque or tartar buildup. In that case, you may be curious whether dental implants are your answer.
Unaddressed tooth loss can cause a domino effect of shifting teeth. Over time, this can change your bite and hamper your ability to chew. And they aren’t just for function! Implants can dramatically improve the overall beauty aspect of your teeth.
What are dental implants?
In essence, a dental implant is an artificial root made of titanium metal. It’s inserted into the jawbone to replace the natural tooth’s root. Dental implants become the foundation and structure of a new, replacement tooth.
What’s involved in the dental implant process?
It begins with a thorough exam and evaluation by a qualified dental professional, also known as a periodontist. If the patient is a good candidate, the procedure can begin.
It may be necessary to extract decayed, abscessed or fractured teeth. In some cases, a bone graft or sinus lift is needed to prepare the jaw before the ‘root’ is installed. Natural-looking implant restorations can be attached once the implant site has healed.
Who does this procedure and how long does it take?
Your dentist may refer you to a periodontist or oral maxillofacial surgeon. The entire process can take *up to six months* depending on the patient’s jaw anatomy. Certain medical conditions can also make implants wrong for some people.
What does it cost?
Due to the critical steps and phases involved, surgical implants can be the most costly tooth replacement. On average, a tooth implant in Ontario costs around $2900, but if other procedures like a CT Scan, Sinus Lift, Tissue Graft or a Surgical Guide are necessary, the cost can rise significantly. Your dental plan may not cover implants, but unlike other kinds of tooth replacement procedures, this is a one-time cost in most cases.
What are alternatives to dental implant?
There are a few options to address the problem of missing teeth. For instance, bridges, crowns and dentures can address the cosmetic problem of missing teeth more economically.
Do you have implant-related questions? We’re here to help.
In Brampton, call 905-791-3867 or book an appointment online. You’ll be glad you did!
