The Dental Implant Difference
Dental implants are the industry-leading approach to attractive tooth-replacement. Unlike dentures, a competing tooth restoration option, dental implants won’t slide around in your mouth as you eat and socialize.
Due to their design, the only portion of your implant that your friends will see is your permanent porcelain crown—and don’t worry, we use a shade guide to ensure it blends in seamlessly with the rest of your smile.
Our comfortable and convenient dental implants provide Thunder Bay patients with a durable addition to their smile that will last a lifetime with proper care. Beyond superior aesthetic improvement, dental implants are the most cost-effective tooth replacement option available.
What are Dental Implants?
A dental implant can be broken down into three pieces: the fixture, the abutment, and the porcelain crown.
The implant fixture is surgically placed on your jawbone, functioning as the root for your new replacement tooth by holding the implant in position. Due to the fixture’s titanium composition, your jawbone will fuse to it through a process called osseointegration.
The abutment rests on top of the fixture and acts as the connector that holds the other two pieces together. Dr. Chow will attach the abutment once your jawbone has fully adjusted to the implant fixture.
The third and final part of the implant is the crown. This porcelain structure is secured to the abutment and is the only visible piece of the implant. Our crowns are customized to fit the shape, size, color, and strength of your natural teeth.
The Dangers of Being Toothless
Your overall health is directly linked to your oral health. This matters because if you’re missing even one tooth, you could increase your risk of developing serious medical conditions such as strokes, heart disease, osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s disease, and diabetes.
In addition to affecting the rest of your body, tooth loss can cause dental complications like jawbone depletion, gum disease, and more.
At Oasis Family Dental, we can help you love your smile again—boosting your confidence and self-esteem—with dental implants.
Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Due to technological advancements in implant dentistry, dental implants are available to more patients than ever before. However, there are a few situations that need remedying before you can continue the implant process.
For example, patients who suffer from cavities and gum disease can be treated quickly, while patients who are pregnant or under the age of 18 will need to wait until Dr. Chow clears them before continuing.
The Dental Implant Process
The dental implant process involves the following three steps:
- Your free consultation with Dr. Chow: The first step in the process is to schedule your no-obligation consultation with your Thunder Bay dentist, Dr. Chow. She’ll perform a dental examination and recommend the ideal treatment plan for your unique smile.
- Implant Surgery: Dr. Chow will surgically place the implant fixture on your jawbone, initiating the healing and osseointegration processes.
- Placing the abutment and crown: After allowing ample time for your jawbone to adjust to the implant fixture, Dr. Chow will attach the abutment to the permanent porcelain crown restoration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dental implants worth the price?
It’s definitely worth it to receive dental implants if you can afford them. No other tooth replacement solutions provide the same benefits as dental implants. Even if you’re missing one tooth, your jawbone can start to weaken over time. Fortunately, these restorations are designed to mimic your natural teeth from root to crown and are easy to care for.
How much do dental implants cost in Ontario?
The exact cost of your dental implant procedure will depend on your case. Factors such as how many teeth need to be replaced and the state of your oral health can also impact the expense of your procedure. Most dentists in Ontario will provide you with an estimate as to how much your dental implant surgery will cost after your initial consultation.
What’s the overall success rate of dental implants?
Dental implants have a success rate of 98 percent and are considered one of the most successful restorative procedures in dentistry. The success of your dental implant procedure will also depend on your candidacy and overall oral health. Your dentist may advise you to undergo supplemental procedures before receiving dental implants to further improve your smile’s response to receiving these fixtures.
Can my child or teen get a dental implant?
Dental implants aren’t recommended for children or teens. While they’re a great option for adults, they can pose a risk for mouths and jaws that are still growing. However, if you are interested in dental implants for your teen, it’s recommended that you wait until they’re 16 years old for girls and 18 years old for boys to ensure a more successful treatment experience.
Visit Oasis Family Dental for Dental Implants
Are you looking for a stable, beautiful restoration for missing teeth? If so, then dental implants may be the right solution for you. At Oasis Family Dental, Dr. Elaine Chow has helped hundreds of patients complete their smiles with these custom-made restorations. Want to experience the benefits of dental implants? Call our Thunder Bay, ON office at (807) 700-1383 or fill out our online contact form below to schedule your appointment. We also serve patients living in Intercity, Northwood, and West Fort William, ON.