Dental Implants in Saskatoon
Dental Implant Treatment
Tooth loss can be attributed to a variety of dental conditions and causes, among which can be decay, disease or injury. Missing teeth can affect daily functions like chewing and speaking. One solution to tooth loss is the dental implant.
What are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root made of medical-grade titanium which is placed into the jawbone to replace the root of the natural tooth. Dental implants provide a rigid foundation for the dental crowns, bridges, and dentures allowing for the restoration of proper function of the mouth in those missing one or more teeth.
What are the Advantages of Dental Implants?
There are multiple advantages to dental implants, among which are the following:
No Preparation or Damage to Adjacent Teeth
Prevents bone loss: When you lose a tooth, you will also lose a portion of the bone that used to surround that tooth. Dental implants can stabilize the bone and prevent further loss by providing needed stimulation to the jaw.
Restored Biting Force: Because dental implants are anchored into your jaw with a titanium post that replaces the tooth root, they allow you to bite with a similar amount of force to your natural teeth. Other tooth replacement options do not restore nearly as much of your bite force because they simply sit on top of the gums.
Maintain Face Structure and Contours: Your teeth help support your facial structure. When you lose teeth, you lose that support, which eventually causes your face to change shape. Dental implants support your face and prevent it from changing shape, similar to the way your natural teeth do.
Restore Natural Speech: Some tooth replacement options, like dentures, can impact your ability to pronounce words correctly. Missing teeth can also alter your speech. Dental implants allow you to speak easily and naturally, since they feel and function like real teeth.
No Embarrassing Slippage: Denture wearers may feel self-conscious when it comes to eating, speaking or laughing in public, as dentures can visibly move or slip inside your mouth. Dental implants are firmly anchored in place.
Longevity and Durability: Dental implants can last a lifetime if the patient practices good oral hygiene habits and makes regular visits to their dentist.
Who Is A Candidate?
In order to provide the necessary support for a dental implant, you must be in good health and have adequate bone density in the jaw. Your dentist can evaluate your jawbone suitability and overall health to ensure they are able to support this type of restoration.
What Is the Process for Getting Dental Implants
Firstly, your dentist will perform a thorough examination of your mouth and conduct X-rays to assess if dental implants are the best option for you.
The first stage of actual surgery will require your dentist to surgically insert the implant beneath your jawbone and stitch your gum tissue. Your implant will fuse with your jawbone as your tissues heal.
Once your tissue has healed and the implant has properly bonded, an abutment will be placed by your dentist which will support the replacement tooth in the next step.
Lastly, your dentist will design a replacement tooth which will be attached to the abutment.
If several teeth or all of your teeth are being replaced, your dentist will place a fixed bridge to anchor your dental implants. This restoration spans the area that has no teeth and is held firmly in place by the dental implants on both sides of the missing tooth or teeth.