While this surgical procedure is very popular, we always get the question, “How do dental implants work?”. We at Orangeville Smiles Dentistry are here to take you through a comprehensive, yet easy-to-understand, guide about dental implants. With our extensive experience and expertise in dental implant procedures, we assure you that your smile is in capable hands.

What Are They and How Do Dental Implants Work?

To put it simply, dental implants are tooth root replacements that provide a strong foundation for removable or fixed artificial teeth. They’re typically made of titanium, a material well-accepted by the human body and known for its durability. There are different types of dental implants available, but the most common ones are endosteal implants, placed directly in the jawbone, and subperiosteal implants, placed under the gum tissue but rest on top of the jaw bone.

This artificial root becomes the foundation for a replacement tooth, or a set of dentures if you are opting for the all-on-4 procedure. This procedure involves placing a complete or partial denture on your implants, rather than a singular tooth. Dental crowns or dentures are placed on top of your titanium implants so as to fit perfectly with adjacent teeth.

Why Should You Choose Dental Implants?

Dental implants have several advantages over other dental restoration options. They look, feel, and function like real teeth. Since they fuse with your bone, they provide stable support for a replacement tooth, ensuring comfort and convenience while eating and speaking. Moreover, they help maintain facial structure, preventing bone loss that occurs when teeth are missing. We’ve had countless patients at Orangeville Smiles Dentistry who have experienced the transformation that dental implants can bring—not only to their smiles, but also to their overall quality of life!

How Do Dental Implants Work?

Here’s a simplified rundown of the typical dental implant surgery:

1. Pre-procedure consultation and examination: Before we start the dental implant process, we must perform a comprehensive examination. This can include X-rays and 3D images, and a review of your medical history. The exam helps us determine if dental implants are suitable for you. If implants are a good option for you, we move on to the procedure.

1. Dental Implant placement: Under local anesthesia, a small titanium post (the implant post) is surgically placed into the bone socket of the missing tooth. Although the placement process might be quick, bonding takes quite some time. So, the waiting game begins.

1. Bone Healing process: As you heal over the next few weeks or months, the implanted metal post gradually fuses with your jawbone, creating a strong base for your new tooth. Once, you are done healing, the process can continue.

1. Abutment placement: Once you’re all healed up, the implant has become a solid part of your jaw bone. The next thing to do is to attach a small piece called an abutment. This will hold your new tooth in place.

1. Artificial tooth placement: Finally, we carefully craft a crown to match your natural teeth. In the end, this crown, which looks just like your real teeth, is attached to the abutment.

The timeframe for this process varies for each patient. Several factors can affect how long the process takes. These include the number of implants and whether or not additional procedures are needed.

What to Expect During and After the Procedure

Dental implant surgery is performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel any pain during the procedure. After the local anesthetic wears off, you may feel some discomfort, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.

Post-procedure, you might experience minor bleeding, swelling of your gums and face, bruising of your skin and gums, pain at the implant site, and slight discomfort in your natural teeth. These symptoms are normal and should go away within a few days. Your oral surgeon will provide you with after-care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.

Once fully healed, your new dental implant will feel just like a natural tooth! Just remember to maintain good oral hygiene and regular dental visits to keep your implants in tip-top shape.

Cost of Dental Implants

Dental implant cost depend on a lot of factors. It depends on how many implants you need, what kind of implants the dentist uses, and if you need any extra treatments. Even though dental implants might cost more at first compared to other methods of replacing teeth, they last a lot longer. This means they can actually save you money over time.

Everyone deserves a brighter, healthier smile. So let’s see what we can do to help you get yours. Come in for a free dental implant consultation to discuss the procedure and your financing options.

Why Choose Orangeville Smiles Dentistry for Dental Implants?

At Orangeville Smiles Dentistry, we pride ourselves on our highly skilled and experienced dental team. We utilize state-of-the-art technology and uphold the highest standards of patient care. But beyond our technical expertise, we are committed to providing a compassionate, empathetic, and comfortable environment for all our patients.

Dental implants are a remarkable solution for tooth loss, providing long-lasting and near-natural results. The process may seem complex, but with our expertise at Orangeville Smiles Dentistry, you can rest assured that we’ll be with you every step of the way.

Ready to restore your smile? Schedule a consultation with Orangeville Smiles Dentistry today or call us at (519) 941-1919! We look forward to being your partners in achieving a healthier, more confident smile.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Are Dental Implants?

On average, dental implants cost between $2000 and $3000. But, the cost of dental implants depends on several factors. These include how many implants you need, the type of implants, and whether you need any extra treatments. It might seem like a lot at first, but remember, dental implants are a long-term solution. So, while the price tag is hefty, the value of a confident, healthy smile is priceless!

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

You’ll be thrilled to hear that they’re built to stand the test of time! With proper care and regular check-ups, they can often last a lifetime. That’s right, your brand new smile could stay with you for decades! But, just like real teeth, you must remember to brush, floss, and visit your dentist regularly to keep your dental implants shining bright and sturdy.

Are Dental Implants Tax Deductible in Canada?

Good news! According to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), you can often subtract medical expenses from your taxes—and that includes dental services like dental implants, as long as they’re not just for looks.

But here’s a heads up: the rules can sometimes change. So, make sure to stay in the loop by reading the CRA’s official guidelines on medical expenses or chatting with an accountant or a tax professional. Don’t forget to hang on to all your dental receipts. You will probably need them when tax time rolls around!