OTTAWA DENTAL IMPLANTS

Benefits of Dental Implants

Second important benefit of dental implants is that they tend to decrease or slow down bone resorption of the jaw. Missing teeth (and missing roots) can lead to bone resorption, meaning that the bone without a root system slowly shrinks and becomes more brittle. As a result, the jawbone is likely to become more susceptible to injury and damage. Dental implants, acting as a replacement for the missing root system, tend to slow down the resorption process, allowing the bone in the area to stay stable longer than it would otherwise (i.e., without any root system in place).

Finally, dental implants represent a long-lasting solution. In fact, the manufacturers of implants that we use offer lifetime warranties on their products. Thanks to medical and technological advances, implant failures have become very rare. Whether dental implants require repairs mostly depends on how well they are being taken care of (much like regular teeth). Proper oral care and regular check-ups with your dentist should preserve your dental implants for many many years (decades).

When To Consider Dental Implants

Missing teeth can lead to a number of these conditions down the line. It is therefore important to replace missing teeth as soon as possible. Talk to your dentist right away and see what your options are.

How Does Implant Dentistry Work?

The process begins with a thorough examination and evaluation by your dentist.

The next step, if required, is the preparation of your jawbone for dental implant surgery in a process called “bone grafting.” This is necessary whenever your jawbone has already receded to a point where it cannot support theimplant properly. In that case, a bone graft will be used to “build up” your jawbone. The bone graft will strengthen the jawbone and provide an additional support base for the dental implants. Bone grafting surgery will require more healing time and will,therefore, somewhat delay the next step.

Once your jawbone is deemed healed and strong enough, the dental implants will be surgically placed. This step, much like the bone grafting surgery, will be followed by a healing period that will allow the bone to recover and integrate with the implant. The implants will be temporarily covered with protective abutments. In about 6 months, once everything has healed, the abutments are removed and a restorative prosthesis, implant-supported crown, bridge or denture, is simply screwed or cemented in place.

It is important to note that some temporary post-surgical discomfort, such as bruising, swelling, minor bleeding, or pain can occur. These can easily be addressed with medication as prescribed by your health provider. However, should they persist or worsenover time, please make sure to contact your dentist.