Dental Implants at your Local Dentist in North Vancouver
Lonsdale Dental CentreA Permanent Solution for Tooth Loss at your Local Dentist
Your local dentist knows that many patients dealing with tooth loss are looking for a long-term solution that will allow them to replace their missing teeth comfortably, affordably, and permanently. Dental implants are an excellent solution for tooth loss.
Everything You Need to Know About Getting Dental Implants at your Local Dentist in Vancouver
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a restorative dental technique that allows false teeth (also known as pontics, prosthetic teeth, or crowns) to be fixed in the mouth permanently.
A dental implant is made up of three parts:
- The implant is a screw-like post that is embedded below the gum line to act as a root for the false tooth.
- The abutment is a permanent connection between the implant and the crown.
- The crown or false tooth is the visible part of the tooth that attaches to the abutment.
Your Local Dentist Explains How Dental Implants Are Created
To create dental implants, a steel post is surgically inserted into the gumline to mimic the tooth roots. Once healed, a false tooth can be attached to the top of the steel post. The result is a natural-looking, long-lasting restoration that feels and functions just like a natural tooth.
How and When Dental Implants Are Used
Dental implants are used when tooth loss affects someone’s oral health or overall wellbeing. Tooth loss may be caused by impact or injury, or due to tooth decay, infection, or overcrowding.
Replacement for a Single Tooth
Your local dentist can insert a single dental implant to replace a single missing tooth.
Replacement for Multiple Teeth (Or All the Teeth)
Dental implants can also be used to replace multiple teeth or for full tooth replacement.
As a Base for a Dental Bridge
Dental implants may be used as a support structure for other restorative dental options, such as dental bridges. In a dental implant-supported bridge, the dental implant serves as an anchor for the bridge structure.
Why Dental Implants Are Used
Tooth loss can affect people in many ways. Some of the reasons dental implants or other dental restorations are recommended include:
- Restoring chewing and eating abilities
- Making speech easier
- Restoring the shape of the face (missing teeth can cause the cheeks to look sunken)
- Increasing confidence by improving the look of the teeth
- Preventing other teeth from moving into the empty socket left by a missing tooth
The Benefits of Dental Implants
Natural Look and Feel
Dental implants provide a beautiful replacement for teeth. If one or two crowns are being placed, they can be matched to the shade of your natural teeth so they blend in well. If all the teeth are being replaced, the shade and shape of your teeth can be improved by making changes to the crowns.
Sturdy, Permanent Replacements
Many people enjoy the durability of dental implants, which can last a lifetime with proper at-home and in-office dental care. Implants do not move or shift in the mouth, and they provide a solid biting surface so you can continue to enjoy all your favourite foods.
Dental Implant FAQs
Your Local Dentist Explains: Who is a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Dental implants are designed to integrate with the natural structures in the mouth. This means the surrounding structures (such as the gums and jawbone) need to be healthy enough to fuse with the implant. Your local dentist in North Vancouver will perform a variety of tests and x-rays to ensure your oral health can support implants.
Dentists also typically recommend that smokers do not get dental implants, as the likelihood of a successful implant is less likely.
What Should I Expect During the Procedure?
Sedation is typically used during a dental implant procedure. Sedation relaxes you, aids with pain management, and makes it difficult to remember the procedure after it is complete. During the procedure, the implant will be placed into the jawbone. The abutment and crown will not be placed on top of the implant until the implant is fully healed and has integrated with the bone.
What is the Recovery Time After a Dental Implant Procedure?
Dental implants take some time to heal. Before a false tooth is placed on top of the surgically implanted post, the post must fuse with the jawbone to become fully stable.
Your Local Dentist Explains: How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
Dental implants are a more costly procedure than some other restorative options. However, many people choose this investment because it offers long-term tooth restoration. Dental implants in BC typically range between $900-$3000 per implant. See your conveniently located local dentist for a consultation to get a more accurate estimate for your dental implants.
Dental implants may or may not be partially or fully covered by insurance plans. Be sure to check with your insurance provider directly to learn about what level of coverage you have.
Your Local Dentist Explains: How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants are meant to be a permanent solution to tooth loss and can last a lifetime. The crowns placed over the implant can be easily replaced as they undergo wear and tear, while the implant itself remains permanently embedded in the gums.
Book a Consultation for Dental Implants in Vancouver
If you’re interested in learning how dental implants could help your oral health, book a consultation with our experienced dental team at Lonsdale Dental Centre today. We will conduct a health assessment, provide you with details, and help you take the next steps if it’s the right treatment for you.