Dental Implants: The Gold Standard for Replacing Missing Teeth
Missing teeth affect more than your appearance. They can impact your ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. At Finch & Dudley Dental in North York, we offer dental implants – the closest thing to natural teeth that modern dentistry can provide.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a three-part system that replaces a missing tooth from root to crown:
The implant: A small titanium post surgically placed in the jawbone, serving as an artificial tooth root.
The abutment: A connector piece that attaches to the top of the implant and holds the restoration.
The crown: A custom-made artificial tooth that attaches to the abutment, visible above the gum line.
Why Implants Stand Apart
Dental implants offer advantages that other tooth replacement options cannot match:
Bone Preservation
When you lose a tooth, the jawbone beneath it begins to deteriorate – a process called resorption. Implants are the only replacement option that stimulates the bone like natural tooth roots, preventing this bone loss.
Stability and Function
Implants are anchored in bone, providing a stable foundation that functions like natural teeth. Eat your favorite foods without worry. Speak clearly without concern about slipping dentures.
Longevity
With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. While the crown may need replacement after 10-15 years, the implant itself typically remains permanently.
Preservation of Adjacent Teeth
Unlike bridges, implants don't require grinding down healthy neighboring teeth for support. Your natural teeth remain untouched.
Natural Appearance and Feel
Implant crowns are crafted to match your natural teeth in size, shape, and color. Most people can't distinguish an implant from a natural tooth.
Are You a Candidate?
Most adults with missing teeth are candidates for implants. Ideal candidates have:
- Good general health
- Adequate jawbone to support the implant
- Healthy gums
- Commitment to good oral hygiene
- Non-smokers (or willing to quit)
Even if you've experienced bone loss, bone grafting procedures can often build up the bone to support implants.
Certain conditions may complicate treatment, including uncontrolled diabetes, cancer treatment, and heavy smoking. During your consultation, we'll assess your individual situation.
The Implant Process
Getting dental implants involves several stages:
Planning
We conduct a thorough examination including 3D imaging to assess bone quantity and quality, plan implant placement, and design your restoration.
Implant Placement
The implant is surgically placed in the jawbone under local anesthesia. Most patients report less discomfort than expected – similar to a tooth extraction.
Healing (Osseointegration)
Over the next three to six months, the implant fuses with your jawbone in a process called osseointegration. This creates the strong foundation for your new tooth.
Abutment Placement
Once healing is complete, we attach the abutment to the implant. Your gums are allowed to heal around it.
Crown Placement
Finally, we attach your custom-made crown. Your new tooth is complete, ready to function like a natural tooth.
Implant Options
Implants can replace single teeth or support larger restorations:
- Single tooth implant: One implant supports one crown
- Implant-supported bridge: Two or more implants support a bridge replacing multiple teeth
- Implant-supported dentures: Four to six implants support a full arch of teeth, providing stability far superior to traditional dentures
Caring for Your Implant
Implants require the same care as natural teeth:
- Brush twice daily
- Floss daily (special floss or interdental brushes may help around implants)
- Maintain regular dental checkups
- Avoid chewing hard objects like ice
Investment in Your Future
While implants may have higher upfront costs than other options, their longevity and benefits often make them the most cost-effective solution over time. We offer financing options to help make implants accessible.
Discover if dental implants are right for you. Schedule a consultation at Finch & Dudley Dental, located at Yonge and Finch in North York.