Determining Your Dental Implant Candidacy
If you’re looking for a permanent solution to missing teeth that will restore your smile’s beauty and functionality, dental implants may be the right choice for you. However, before undergoing any dental procedure, it’s essential to understand if you’re an ideal candidate for it. At Oasis Family Dental, Dr. Elaine Chow’s goal is to provide you with the knowledge and insights needed to make an informed decision about your dental health.
Do you qualify for dental implants?
Dental implants are not suitable for everyone, and Dr. Chow will evaluate your oral health to determine if they’re right for you. Someone with ideal implant candidacy should have:
Good oral health: You should have healthy gums and enough bone to support the implant. If you have gum disease or have lost bone in your jaw, you may need additional treatments before getting dental implants.
Good overall health: Dental implant surgery is a minor surgical procedure that requires anesthesia. You should be healthy enough to tolerate the procedure and heal properly.
No underlying medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes, may affect your ability to heal after surgery. You’ll need to discuss your medical history with Dr. Chow to determine if dental implants are a safe option for you.
Does not smoke: Smoking can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of implant failure.
Supplemental Procedures to Improve Implant Candidacy
If you’re not an ideal candidate for dental implants in Thunder Bay, ON, you may need supplemental procedures to improve your oral health. These procedures may include:
Bone grafting: If you have lost bone in your jaw, you may need a bone graft to create a strong foundation for the implant.
Gum Grafting: Gum grafting is a surgical procedure in which tissue is taken from one part of the mouth and placed onto the area where the gum has receded, in order to restore a healthy gumline.
Gum disease treatment: If you have gum disease, you’ll need treatment to eliminate the infection and prevent further damage to your gums and bone.
Sinus lift: If you need an implant in your upper jaw, you may need a sinus lift to create more space for the implant.
Dr. Elaine Chow will discuss these options with you if necessary and create a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.
*Oasis Family Dental may not provide all of these procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care. They’re made of durable materials that are designed to withstand daily use and fuse with your jawbone, creating a strong and stable foundation for your replacement teeth. Proper oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and avoiding bad habits like smoking can help ensure the longevity of your dental implants.
Does getting dental implants hurt?
The procedure itself is painless thanks to anesthesia, but you may experience some discomfort during the healing process. Dental implant surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia, which means that the area being treated is numb, and you won’t feel any pain during the procedure.
However, it’s normal to experience some discomfort after the anesthesia wears off as your body begins to heal. Your dentist will provide you with instructions for managing pain and discomfort after your dental implant procedure.
Are dental implants expensive?
The cost of dental implants varies depending on the number of implants you need and any additional procedures you require. While dental implants may be more expensive than other tooth replacement options like dentures or bridges, they offer a more permanent solution that looks and feels like natural teeth. At your dentist’s dental practice, they offer various payment options and financing plans to help make dental implants more affordable for their patients.
How long does it take to get dental implants?
The entire process can take several months, as the implant must fuse with your jawbone before the permanent crown can be placed. After the implant is placed, you’ll need to wait several months for the implant to fuse with your jawbone in a process called osseointegration. Once the implant has fused with your jawbone, your dentist will attach a small connector piece called an abutment to the implant, and a custom-made crown will be placed on top. The result is a long-lasting and natural-looking tooth replacement option.
Ready for a New Smile?
If you’re looking for a permanent solution, dental implants may be the answer you’ve been searching for. Our experienced and compassionate team of dental professionals is here to help you every step of the way. We understand the emotional and physical impact of missing teeth, and we’re committed to providing you with the highest quality care and personalized treatment plan to restore your smile’s beauty and function.
So why wait? We proudly serve patients in Thunder Bay, Wild Goose, Rosslyn, and the surrounding areas in Ontario. Call us at 807-700-1383 today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a new, healthier, and happier you.