Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants

The dentists of Burloak Centre Dentistry of Oakville, Ontario, believe in providing patients with the most reliable options for replacing missing teeth. Many patients who speak to our team may be excited to learn about reliable solutions such as dental implants. There is a lot to know about these restorations, which is why we regularly work with patients to answer questions and assist them in better understanding this highly desirable restoration.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are artificial replacement tooth roots. They provide a sturdy, stable foundation for permanent replacements made to match the natural teeth.

What are the Benefits of Dental Implants?

Dental implants offer many benefits, including:

• Improved appearance. Dental implants both look and feel like natural, adult teeth. Due to the fact that implants fuse with the bone, they become permanent in their place.
• Improved speech. With ill-fitting dentures, full dentures can slip around, causing you to find it difficult to speak clearly. Dental implants help you speak without worrying that teeth might slip.
• Improved comfort. Because dental implants essentially become part of you, they eliminate the discomfort usually seen with removable dentures.
• Maintenance of the natural bone. Dental implants are put in place during a surgical procedure into the jawbone to fuse with the bone to support artificial teeth. This helps preserve the natural bone, preventing deterioration of the jawbone.

What is the Process for Getting Dental Implants?

Getting dental implants usually takes several months and involves multiple steps. These steps may include:

• Initial consultation and examination.The dentist will fully examine your smile during your first visit and take X-rays to determine if dental implants are right for you. Your dentist will also ask about your medical history and perform a physical examination to make sure you’re healthy enough to undergo surgery.
• Planning and preparation.If your dental team determines that implants are right for you, they will refer you to a periodontist or experienced local oral surgeon for implant placement. This specialist will develop a treatment plan specifically for you.
• Surgery.The dental surgeon places the implant into your jawbone through a small incision in your gum. As the implant heals, it bonds with the bone to support artificial teeth. This process can typically take about six to eight weeks.
• Placement of the artificial tooth.Once the implant has bonded with the bone, your dentist will place a small connector post — called an abutment — into the implant. A new artificial tooth (crown) is then attached to the abutment. Alternatively, patients who need to replace several teeth or all the teeth in the dental arch may use the implant to hold a bridge or denture.

How Do I Know if Dental Implants are a Good Fit for Me?

During a consultation visit, our team at Burloak Centre Dentistry will evaluate you to determine if you are a good fit for dental implants. Most patients should have enough bone structure to ensure the implant will fuse in place and have the best possible foundation for strength and durability.

How Can I Find Out More About Dental Implants?

If you reside in the area of Oakville, Ontario, we urge you to connect with our dentists to find out more about implants and determine if you are a good candidate. Call (905) 581-4436 to request an appointment at our practice, conveniently located at 3513 Wyecroft Road, Unit H4.