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Dental Implants in Winnipeg
At All Smiles Dental Centre our Winnipeg dentists may place a dental implant as part of the process to replace a missing tooth and leave you with a natural-looking smile.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a tiny titanium screw that replaces the root of a missing tooth. Implants are surgically placed into the jaw bone and may be used to replace a single lost tooth or many missing teeth.
After the implant is placed, it bonds with the natural bone to act as an anchor for a tooth replacement such as a bridge or crown.
Dental implants can treat a number of oral health concerns, including returning ability to chew and speak, alleviating jaw joint pains, resolving bite issues, restoring structure to facial tissue, and preventing surrounding teeth from moving.
Why replace missing teeth?
If a tooth is missing, the teeth surrounding the gap may cause misalignment issues if they shift out of place. You may also notice the jaw bone around the area start to deteriorate, which can negatively impact your ability to eat and talk and cause facial collapse.
The Dental Implant Procedure
Your dentist uses a dental implant (titanium screw) and a tooth replacement such as a dental crown, bridge, or denture to replace a natural tooth.
To begin, the dentist will surgically place the implant into your jaw bone, underneath the gum tissue. As the tissue heals, the implant bonds with the bone and attaches to the gum.
Once healing has occurred (generally 3 to 6 months after surgery), you'll return to our office to complete the procedure.
At this last appointment, a tooth replacement will be attached to the implant to create the look and function of your natural tooth.
Dental Implant FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions about dental implants at All Smiles Dental Centre.
- How long does a dental implant last?
Your dental implant can last a lifetime if cared for properly. Ensure you follow a proper brushing and flossing routine at home. You should also see your dentist for regular hygiene cleanings and exams.
The longevity of a dental implant may also depend on other factors including nutrition, genetics, or the development of any dental diseases.
- How do I care for my dental implants?
A dental implant should be cared for just like your natural teeth.
Visiting your dentist regularly for hygiene appointments, as well as proper brushing and flossing at home, can help prevent the development of disease or decay in the surrounding teeth and gums, which can negatively impact your dental implant.
- Does getting a dental implant hurt?
Your dentist will administer anesthesia during dental implant surgery to ensure you feel comfortable and that you won't feel any pain during the procedure.
After the procedure, patients do not usually notice much discomfort. Most patients can manage any pain with an over-the-counter pain medication for a few days following the procedure.
After the implant procedure you will also need to eat a soft diet to avoid any irritation or pain.
- How long does the dental implant process take?
Depending on your treatment plan, the entire dental implant procedure typically takes between two and nine months to complete.
Your dentist can provide you with a more precise timeline, based on your particular case and requirements.
- Will my insurance cover dental implants?
Though some insurance companies pay for the cost of dental implants, some will cover only part of the cost, while others won't pay for any part of it.
To determine how much, if any of, your dental implant treatment will be covered by your insurance, check with your insurance provider.