Dental Implants
Restore Functionality & Appearance
At LifeSmiles Dental, we understand the importance of maintaining good oral health. That's why we offer dental implants to help restore your smile and improve your physical and mental well-being.
Missing teeth can have an impact on our overall health. The gaps left by missing teeth can cause neighbouring teeth to shift and become misaligned, which can further contribute to dental problems such as tooth decay and gum disease.
Teeth also play an essential role in how we articulate sound. A missing tooth, or teeth, can impact our speech. This can result in difficulties communicating, which, in turn, can result in reduced confidence in professional and social settings.
With dental implants, you can regain the functionality and appearance of your natural smile. They are a long-lasting solution that can improve your ability to chew and speak properly. Additionally, dental implants can prevent bone loss in the jaw and help maintain the overall structure of your face.
Schedule a consultation with our dentists today to discuss how dental implants can benefit you and enhance your quality of life.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed into the jawbone. They provide a stable foundation for a tooth restoration, such as a crown. Once healed, the implant should work and feel just like a natural tooth.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
The dental implant process typically has three steps.
- Your dentist will evaluate your oral health to see if you are a good candidate for implants.
- Your dentist will surgically insert the dental implant (a titanium screw) beneath the gum tissue into your jawbone. The implant will bond with your bone and attach to your gums as the tissue heals.
- You will return to our office to complete the process once the healing is complete, which is typically three to six months after surgery. At this final appointment, your dentist will attach a tooth replacement to the implant, such as a dental crown, bridge, or denture, to mimic the appearance and function of a natural tooth.
Dental Implant FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions about dental implants at LifeSmiles Dental.
-
How long does a dental implant last?
Just as natural teeth require proper care and hygiene to remain healthy, the life span of dental implants also depends upon the quality of care they receive at home and at the dental office. With oral hygiene and a competent dental practitioner, your new implants could last for the rest of your life.
-
How do I care for my dental implants?
Implants do not require any special care beyond what is recommended for natural teeth. If you brush and floss regularly and return for regular checkups your implants should provide many years of service.
-
Does getting a dental implant hurt?
During dental implant surgery, your dentist may administer anesthesia to make you comfortable, so you won't feel pain during the procedure. Following the procedure, there is not usually much discomfort. Most patients can manage any pain with an over-the-counter pain medication for a few days after the procedure.
You will also need to eat a soft diet for the first couple of weeks after the implant procedure to avoid pain or irritation.
-
How long does the dental implant process take?
The entire dental implant process usually takes about three to six months to complete, depending on your treatment plan. Your dentist can provide you with a more specific timeline based on your particular case.
-
Will my insurance cover dental implants?
While some dental insurance plans provide complete coverage for dental implant procedures, others pay nothing, and some pay only a portion of the cost. Please check with your insurance provider to see if dental implants are covered by your plan.