What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a long-lasting solution for replacing one or more missing teeth. It consists of a small titanium screw that is surgically placed into the jaw bone, acting as an artificial tooth root. A custom-made crown or denture is then attached, creating a natural-looking and fully functional replacement tooth.
Dental implants can help improve your ability to chew and speak clearly, prevent surrounding teeth from shifting, and help maintain proper bite alignment. Implants also support the structure of your face by preventing bone loss, which can occur when teeth are missing.
Whether you’re missing a single tooth or several, our South Delta dental team will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs and goals.
Why Replacing Missing Teeth Matters for Jaw Health
Your teeth play an important role in keeping your jaw bone strong. The constant pressure from everyday actions like biting and chewing helps maintain bone density. When a tooth is lost and not replaced, that part of the jaw no longer gets the pressure it needs to remain healthy, which can lead to gradual bone loss over time.
The Dental Implant Process
The dental implant process involves placing a dental implant, which consists of a screw and an abutment, followed by the attachment of a tooth replacement.
Your dentist will begin by surgically placing the implant into your jaw bone below the gum tissue. As the tissue heals, the implant integrates with the bone.
Once the healing is complete, usually three to six months after surgery, patients return to our office to finish the process.
At this stage, your dentist will create a custom tooth replacement, such as a dental crown, bridge, or dentures, to replicate the look and function of a natural tooth. This will be attached to the dental implant to produce the final result.
Dental Implant FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions about dental implants at My Tsawwassen Dentist.
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How long does a dental implant last?
With proper care, a dental implant can last a lifetime. This means maintaining good oral hygiene at home – brushing and flossing daily – along with regular cleanings and checkups at your dental office.
The long-term success of your implant can also be influenced by factors like your overall health, nutrition, genetics, and the presence of any dental conditions.
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How do I care for my dental implants?
Taking care of your dental implant can be quite simple and should fit right into your normal daily routine. Essentially, you just need to take care of your dental implant the same way that you would care for your natural teeth.
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings, along with a consistent brushing and flossing routine at home, can help prevent diseases from developing in the surrounding teeth and gums, which can negatively affect your dental implants.
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Does getting a dental implant hurt?
During dental implant surgery, your dentist will administer anesthesia to make you comfortable so you won't feel pain during the procedure.
Following the procedure, discomfort is usually minimal. Most patients find they can control any pain with over-the-counter medication for a few days afterward.
You should try to stick to a soft food diet for the first couple of weeks after the implant procedure to prevent pain or irritation.
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How long does the dental implant process take?
The entire dental implant process typically takes between three and six months to complete. The specific number of appointments and overall time needed depend on your individual treatment plan.
Your dentist can provide you with a more specific timeline based on your particular case.
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Will my insurance cover dental implants?
Some insurance companies cover the cost of dental implants, while others cover only a portion of the cost, and still others do not cover any part of it.
To determine what part, if any, of your dental implant treatment will be covered by your insurance, contact your insurance provider.