A dental implant in London Ontario is a small, screw-like post made of biocompatible materials such as titanium that is surgically inserted into the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. Once the implant has fused with the bone in a process called osseointegration, a prosthetic tooth, bridge, or denture can be attached to it to restore function and aesthetics.
Dental implants offer several advantages over traditional tooth replacement options such as bridges and dentures. They are more durable, longer-lasting, and feel and function more like natural teeth. Implants also help preserve the jawbone and prevent the bone loss that can occur when a tooth is missing.
The dental implant procedure typically involves multiple steps over several months, including a consultation, implant placement surgery, healing time, and placement of the prosthetic tooth or teeth. It is important to have good oral hygiene habits and regular dental check-ups to ensure the longevity of the implant and prevent complications such as infection or implant failure.
Types Of A Dental Implant In London Ontario
There are several types of dental implants in London Ontario available, and the most common types include:
Endosteal Implants:
These are the most common type of dental implants in London Ontario and are surgically implanted directly into the jawbone. They are made of titanium and are shaped like small screws.
Subperiosteal Implants:
These implants are placed on top of the jawbone but under the gums. They are used in patients who have a shallow jawbone and cannot undergo bone augmentation.
Zygomatic Implants:
These implants are longer than traditional implants and are anchored in the cheekbone (zygoma) instead of the jawbone. They are used in patients who have severe bone loss in the upper jaw.
All-on-Four Implants:
This is a specialized technique in which four implants are placed in the jawbone, and a full arch of teeth is secured onto them. It is used in patients who need a full set of teeth but do not have enough bone density to support individual implants.
Mini Implants:
These are smaller than traditional implants and are used to stabilize dentures or partial dentures.
The type of dental implant used depends on various factors, such as the patient’s oral health, the amount of bone present, and the location of the missing teeth. Your dentist or oral surgeon can help you choose the right type of implant for your needs.
Procedure For A Dental Implant In London Ontario
Dental implants are a common procedure for replacing missing teeth. The following is a general overview of the steps involved in the dental implant process:
Consultation:
The first step in the dental implant process is to schedule a consultation with a qualified dental implant specialist. During the consultation, the dentist will examine your mouth, take X-rays, and discuss your treatment options. The dentist will also evaluate your oral health and determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure.
Planning:
After the consultation, the dentist will develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs. This will involve determining the best location for the implant and the size and type of implant that is needed.
Implant Placement:
The next step is to place the dental implant into the jawbone. This is done under local anesthesia and typically involves making a small incision in the gum tissue to access the bone. The implant is then placed into the bone and left to heal and fuse with the bone over a period of several months.
Abutment Placement:
After the implant has fused with the bone, a small connector called an abutment is attached to the implant. This will serve as the foundation for the replacement tooth.
Restoration:
The final step in the process is to attach the replacement tooth or teeth to the abutment. This may involve placing a crown, bridge, or denture over the abutment.
Follow-Up:
After the procedure is complete, the dentist will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure that the implant is healing properly.
Overall, the dental implant process can take several months to complete, but the result is a durable and long-lasting replacement tooth that looks and functions like a natural tooth.
Benefits Of Dental Implant
Dental implants in London Ontario are an effective and popular solution for replacing missing teeth.
Here are some benefits of dental implants:
Improved Appearance:
Dental implants are designed to look and feel like natural teeth. They are custom-made to fit perfectly in your mouth, and they can be color-matched to your existing teeth.
Improved Speech:
Missing teeth can cause slurring or mumbling of words. Dental implants can help improve speech by providing a stable and permanent solution for missing teeth.
Improved Comfort:
Unlike dentures, dental implants are permanently fixed to the jawbone, so they do not slip or move around while eating or speaking. This provides greater comfort and stability.
Improved Chewing Ability:
Dental implants function just like natural teeth, which means you can enjoy your favorite foods without any discomfort or difficulty.
Improved Oral Health:
Dental implants help prevent bone loss in the jawbone, which can occur when teeth are missing. This also helps maintain the structure of your face.
Long-Lasting:
With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last for many years, even a lifetime.
Convenience:
Dental implants eliminate the need for adhesives or creams that are often required with dentures, making them a more convenient option for tooth replacement.
Overall, dental implants offer a long-lasting and convenient solution for replacing missing teeth while improving the appearance, function, and health of your smile.
Dental Implant Vs Dental Bridges
Both dental implants and dental bridges are common treatments for missing teeth, but they work in different ways and have different pros and cons.
Dental implants involve the placement of a small metal post (usually made of titanium) into the jawbone to serve as an artificial tooth root. This post is then covered with a replacement tooth, such as a crown, bridge, or denture. Implants are often considered the most durable and long-lasting option for replacing missing teeth, as they can last for decades with proper care. Additionally, implants help to preserve the jawbone by providing stimulation to the surrounding tissues.
Dental bridges, on the other hand, involve the placement of a false tooth (or teeth) between two existing teeth, which are typically crowned to hold the bridge in place. Bridges are a less invasive option than implants and can be completed in a shorter amount of time.
However, they require that the supporting teeth be filed down, which can damage healthy tooth structure. Bridges also typically have a shorter lifespan than implants and may need to be replaced every 10-15 years.
Ultimately, the choice between dental implants and dental bridges will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Your dentist or oral surgeon can help you weigh the pros and cons of each option and choose the treatment that is best for you.
How Painful Is Getting A Dental Implant?
The pain associated with getting a dental implant can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the patient’s pain tolerance, the extent of the procedure, and the use of sedation or anesthesia.
During the initial placement of the implant, the patient may experience some discomfort, but it is typically mild and manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. The area around the implant may also be swollen or tender for a few days after the procedure.
