A quick guide to dental implants

Oct 2, 2023 | Dental implants, Dental services

Missing teeth can take a toll on your self-esteem as they change the way you look. More importantly, they can cause you a variety of health issues such as jaw bone loss and jaw joint problems. Overall, they can affect your quality of life. But don’t worry, dental implants can help resolve these issues and enhance your smile.

At Annex Dentistry, we provide dental implants that are safe for you and that function just like your natural teeth. Here’s everything you should know about these implants. 

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are metal posts fixed into your jawbone or above it through surgical placement. These titanium posts replace the roots of your missing teeth. Dental implants form a secure and long-lasting bond that holds your artificial tooth in place and helps improve chewing function. 

What do dental implants look like?

Dental implants consist of a small titanium screw and an abutment. The screw serves as a metal post in your jawbone replacing the roots of your natural teeth. An artificial tooth is then attached to your implant through the abutment providing a natural-looking replacement of your real teeth. 

What is the dental implant procedure like? 

Our implant process is very straightforward. Our dental professionals at Annex Dentistry will begin by evaluating your jaw and teeth through comprehensive dental exams. They will also take your medical history and examine your jaw bones at your initial consultation.

Our experienced dentist will then perform dental implant surgery to install your implants. Opting for this procedure is also a way to help maintain your neighboring teeth healthy because if the issue is ignored they tend to move in and attempt to occupy the space left by the missing tooth. 

During the healing process, we will make sure to provide enough healing time between surgical procedures for your jaw to recover and for bone grafting to occur. Our oral surgeons will place a temporary denture (or replacement tooth) in your jawbone if necessary. This is usually to enhance appearance.

Then, we will insert the implant where the roots of your natural teeth ought to be and allow it time to bond with your jawbone. A final procedure will attach the abutment which could be either a temporary crown or a bridge. Once this is done, your jaw will be allowed time to heal. We may prescribe antibiotics and pain relievers as part of the treatment plan to help you cope during the healing process. 

How long do dental implants last?

Dental implants can last for a lifetime depending on how often you attend follow-up appointments without dental professionals. The dental crown can last between 10 to 15 years after which you would need a replacement.

Looking for dental implants in Toronto?

Dental implants are a permanent solution to missing teeth problems such as jaw bone loss. They are also a long-lasting tooth replacement option which can improve the appearance of your teeth and your chewing function. Our dental implant specialists provide safe-to-use, natural-looking implants that can help restore your smile. Our implant dentists will make sure you are given proper care and that you have access to effective procedures throughout the process so that you are comfortable and your implants are firmly fixed. Book an appointment with us today to get started!