A dental implant essentially acts as an artificial tooth root that is implanted into the jaw. Typically composed of titanium, the screw-shaped implant supports an artificial replacement tooth. Because the implant completely fuses with the jaw bone, it is a permanent and extremely successful means of tooth replacement.
Candidates for dental implant procedures will ideally have sufficient gum and bone to support the implant. If there is not adequate bone required for the implant, a minimally invasive bone grafting procedure will be performed. Today, bone grafting usually involves using a sand-like material to build up healthy bone where it has been lost. After some time, the patient's jaw bone will be prepared to take on the dental implant surgery.
Once the patient’s jaw bone is ready for implantation, they will visit our dentist in Thornhill to have it placed. The patient will be numbed and may be sedated if they wish, and the implant will be strategically placed into the jaw. After this, the patient will go through a healing phase over several months (also known as osseointegration), where the implant will gradually merge with the bone. Once the patient is completely healed, he or she will come in to have their new artificial tooth finally fixed to the implant.
Patients who undergo dental implant surgery must look after their new tooth just like they would their natural tooth. This includes twice a day brushing ideally using a soft bristled toothbrush, as well as flossing once a day and not forgetting to see our Thornhill dentist and hygienist routinely for check-ups and cleanings. With the right daily care, a dental implant can often last a lifetime
Our team would love to help you restore your smile. Contact our Thornhill dental clinic today to schedule a free dental implants consultation.
When it comes to restoring individual teeth, dental implants are the premier choice of treatment.