Key Takeaways
- Dental implant treatment typically involves placing a titanium post in the jawbone, allowing time for it to heal and integrate with the bone, and then attaching a custom restoration such as a crown.
- A bone graft can add support if the jawbone is too thin or soft to support the implant post.
- Daily cleaning and regular checkups help keep implants healthy for years.
Missing a tooth can affect how you chew, speak, and feel about your smile. Dental implants offer one option for replacing a missing tooth while supporting function and appearance. If you have been living with a gap, our team at Cooper Dental offers options that look and feel natural.
A dental implant replaces a missing tooth with a titanium post that fuses to your jawbone, then holds a custom crown on top so you can eat, speak, and smile with a stable, natural-looking result. In scenarios where there is more than one tooth to replace, multiple implants can be used to bridge the gap or to support a denture.
Overview of Dental Implants
A dental implant is a titanium post that replaces your natural tooth root. It is surgically placed into your jawbone where the missing tooth used to be, and it fuses with your bone to create a stable foundation.
On top of that post sits a crown, which is the part you see when you smile. That strong foundation is what makes an implant feel and act much like a natural tooth, allowing you to clean the area like a normal tooth.
Who Makes a Good Candidate for Implants
Your dentist will assess several factors before determining whether implants are appropriate for you, including:
- The health of your gums.
- Your bite.
- The amount and condition of your jawbone.
- Your overall health and medical history.
- Whether any existing oral health concerns need to be addressed first.
Having one or more missing teeth does not automatically mean an implant is the right option. Your dentist can help determine the right treatment for your needs.
Bone Grafts
Some people need a little extra support before an implant can go in. When the jawbone is thin or soft, a bone graft can help support the area so the post has a solid base.
A graft can use natural or synthetic materials. Depending on the condition of the area, a bone graft may be completed before implant placement or at the same time as the implant procedure.
The Dental Implant Process
Consultation & Treatment Planning
Your first visit sets the foundation. Your dentist in downtown Calgary may begin with a full exam and X-rays so they can see your bone and gums in detail.
Your dentist also reviews your health history and talks through your goals for your smile. From there, you receive a treatment plan tailored to your mouth and lifestyle.
Surgery & Recovery Stages
The next step in getting an implant is placing the post. This part of the procedure is done with local anesthetic, and our team is trained to help you feel comfortable and informed throughout every step of the process.
After the placement, the post needs time to fuse with your jawbone (a process called osseointegration). This healing period often takes several months, commonly around 4 to 6 months, although timing varies by patient and treatment plan.
After the post is fully integrated with your jawbone, you will return to our office to have the final crown attached to the implant post.
Recovery After Surgery
Recovery feels different for everyone, though most people manage it at home with simple care. In the first few days, you might notice mild swelling and mild soreness around the site.
Soft foods make eating easier while you heal. Think eggs, soup, and other gentle meals that ask little of the area. Follow your dental team’s instructions for keeping the area clean during healing, including any recommendations for rinsing.
Caring for Your Implant During Healing
Your dentist will provide personalized instructions based on your procedure. General recommendations may include:
- Follow your dental team’s instructions for cleaning the area.
- Choose softer foods while the surgical site heals.
- Avoid putting unnecessary pressure on the implant site.
- Attend any recommended follow-up appointments.
If soreness persists or new symptoms appear, contact our team for guidance.
How to Keep Your Implants Healthy Long Term
One of the main benefits of implants is that day-to-day care is very similar to caring for your natural teeth. Here are a few general recommendations to follow to support your implant for the long term:
- Brush your teeth twice a day, for at least 2 minutes.
- Floss or use a Waterpik to clean between your teeth daily.
- Schedule regular dental visits with our team.
- Avoid chewing on hard foods like ice or hard candy, or using tobacco products.
Schedule Your Consultation
At Cooper Dental, we take the time to assess your oral health, explain your options, and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs. If you are curious about implants, we can walk you through each step and help you decide what fits your smile. Book a consultation today and take the first step toward a stable, natural-looking tooth.
