What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium post that gets surgically placed into the jaw bone to act like a natural tooth root. It provides a strong, stable foundation for replacing one missing tooth or several, depending on your needs.
Once the implant is placed, it fuses with the bone over time, creating a secure anchor for a crown, bridge, or denture. This helps restore the function and appearance of your smile.
Beyond just filling a gap in your smile, dental implants offer a range of long-term benefits that go far beyond aesthetics. They help keep the surrounding teeth stable by preventing them from shifting into the empty space, which is a common issue that can lead to misalignment and bite problems over time. Implants also help maintain proper bite function, making it easier and more comfortable to chew and speak.
They’re also designed to be a long-lasting solution. With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, making them a reliable and cost-effective choice in the long run. Plus, because they’re securely anchored in the jaw, implants can feel and function like natural teeth.
Why Replace Missing Teeth?
When a gap is left from a missing tooth, the nearby teeth can start to shift into the empty space. In addition to creating misalignment and bite problems, this can cause the jaw bone in the area to begin to break down due to lack of stimulation. This can weaken the support for neighbouring teeth and increase the risk of further tooth loss.
The Dental Implant Process
Getting a dental implant involves three main parts: the implant itself (a small titanium screw), an abutment, and a custom tooth replacement.
If our dentists determine that a dental implant is the right option for you, we’ll refer you to a local oral and maxillofacial surgeon for the first step. The surgeon will place the implant into your jaw bone beneath the gum line. Over the next three and six months, your jaw will naturally heal and fuse with the implant, creating a strong foundation.
Once you’ve fully healed, you’ll return to our Kelowna office to complete the process. We’ll attach a small connector piece called an abutment to the implant, followed by your tooth replacement. Your tooth replacement, which can be a crown, bridge, or denture depending on your needs, will be customized to match the rest of your natural teeth so your smile looks great and functions just like it should.
Dental Implant FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions about dental implants at One Dental.
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How long does a dental implant last?
With proper care, a dental implant can last a lifetime. That means brushing and flossing regularly at home and keeping up with routine cleanings and checkups at your dental office.
How long your implant lasts can also be influenced by other factors, like your overall health, nutrition, genetics, and whether any dental conditions develop over time.
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How do I care for my dental implants?
Caring for a dental implant is just like caring for your natural teeth.
Keeping up with regular dental hygiene visits and a consistent brushing and flossing routine at home helps protect the gums and surrounding teeth. This lowers the risk of infection or disease that could impact the health and stability of your implant.
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Does getting a dental implant hurt?
Your oral and maxillofacial surgeon will use anesthesia to keep you comfortable, so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure.
Afterward, most people experience only mild discomfort, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers for a few days.
To help with healing and avoid irritation, you’ll also want to stick to a soft diet for the first week or two after the procedure.
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How long does the dental implant process take?
The whole dental implant process can take anywhere from three to nine months, depending on your individual treatment plan and how fast you heal.
Your dentist will be able to give you a clearer timeline that's based on your specific situation.
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Will my insurance cover dental implants?
Insurance coverage for dental implants can vary; some plans cover the full cost, others only a portion, and some may not cover it at all.
To find out what your insurance will pay for, it’s best to check directly with your provider before starting treatment.