Dental Implants in Edmonton: Expert Dental Implant Services for Healthy Teeth and Beautiful Smiles
Dental implants are artificial replacements for tooth roots and missing teeth. Patients may seek implant dentistry to improve their smile or to increase their ability to speak or chew naturally.
Contrary to popular belief, dental implants do not destroy or replace bone. They actually encourage new bone growth and prevent bone deterioration! Patients will be relieved to learn that this type of oral surgery ranks as one of the safest dental procedures available when performed by a trusted and experienced implant dentist such as Dr. Li here in Edmonton.
What are Dental Implants?
Each dental implant system is comprised of three parts:
- The implant’s body is a small metal rod inserted into the jawbone and acts as a base for the crown to rest on.
- The connector (also known as an abutment) attaches the body of the implant to the crown.
- The crown is custom-made to match the surrounding natural teeth for an organic appearance.
The most commonly used materials for the implant body include titanium and zirconia. Both are sturdy and reliable metals that can last for decades if the patient practices proper oral hygiene. Dental crowns are made of porcelain caps, which are durable and mimic teeth’ color.
Why Dental Implants?
Dental implants are prosthetics that can replace one or more missing teeth. Many patients choose dental implants over other replacement teeth, such as bridges and dentures, because implants provide a more natural look, feel, and function.
Dental Implants vs Dental Bridges
With proper care, a dental bridge lasts 15 years. However, dental implants are designed to be permanent, with only the denture crown needing to be replaced in 15-20 years.
Dental Implants vs. Removable False Teeth
Dentures or removable false teeth can slip or shift while eating. Patients with dental implants report that speaking and eating feels natural and secure.
Dental implants can replace 1-2 missing teeth on each arch—what partial dentures can resolve—without having to worry about clasps and precision attachments.
Dental implants can also achieve full arch replacements through a bar attachment denture, so the patient will only need four implants instead of 5-8 implants.
Dental Implants Maintain Jaw Bone Strength
Another positive feature that dental implants offer over other tooth replacement procedures is that they help to stimulate the natural bone replacement cycle.
When tooth loss occurs, the root no longer interacts with your jawbone, and this interaction between the two helps new and healthy tissue replace old and damaged ones. Without this process, your jawbone can become thin and weak over time, causing damage to your other teeth.
Denture and bridges don’t instigate the bone replacement cycle, though dental implants do.
Dental Implant Tooth Procedure
The dental implant procedure consists of multiple procedures over several months. Time is taken between phases to encourage new jawbone growth and allow the patient time to heal.
Dental implant procedures consist of the following:
- Removal of the damaged tooth (if necessary)
- Placement of the implant body into the jawbone
- Placement of the abutment
- Placement of a temporary crown for comfort and function
- The implant is allowed to heal for a few months
- And finally, the installation of the permanent crown
Depending on the patient’s unique oral health circumstances and treatment plan, some phases may be combined, or additional steps may be taken.
Do Dental Implants Hurt?
Patients should not feel any part of the dental implant procedure. Sedatives, general anesthesia, or a combination of methods will ensure patient comfort during dental care. After surgery, patients may experience facial swelling, soreness in the cheeks or jaw, or minor bleeding or bruising. Dr. Li will prescribe pain medication as needed to help patients through recovery.
Dental implant patients report high satisfaction and much less discomfort than patients who undergo other major dental surgeries or procedures. Although patients may experience anxiety about the surgery, Dr. Li will listen to all of your concerns regarding implant placement and tooth replacement. She’ll work with you to find a sedative or anesthesia method that is right for you.
How Do I Care for My Dental Implants?
Following the procedure, taking proper care of your surgical site is essential:
- You’ll want to eat soft foods while the gum tissue and mouth heal.
- Avoid tobacco, as it can increase the risk of infection.
- Be sure to speak with your dentist about foods and drinks to avoid during the healing process and proper at-home care.
- After the permanent crown is installed into your dental implants, maintaining healthy teeth and gums is a must.
Dental Implants in Edmonton: Visit Your Dentist for a Smile Restoration
If you’re seeking dental implants in Edmonton, look no further! Dr. Li and her compassionate care team understand you’ll have many questions about implant dentistry and teeth restoration.
During your consultation, Dr. Li will thoroughly examine your health history to identify if dental implants are the right choice for you to ensure the best success rates. We have numerous payment options available, and if you have dental benefits, we will submit your claims on your behalf. We also welcome cash, Visa, MasterCard, and e-Transfer payment methods to help make the dentist visit as pain-free as possible.
We look forward to helping you reclaim your smile in our Edmonton office.
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