IMPLANTS (PLACEMENT & RESTORATION)
A dental implant is a screw-shaped post, often made of titanium, that is surgically placed into the bone, and acts as the root of the missing tooth. Through a process called osseointegration, the bone actually starts to grow onto the threads of the implant, and thus creates a very strong bond. A crown is then either screwed directly onto the implant, or it is cemented onto an abutment attached to the implant. The beauty of this fixed treatment option is that we don't need to touch the adjacent teeth. So when you want a long term fixed option, and you have adjacent teeth that do not need crowns, you can replace the missing tooth with an implant, instead of cutting for a bridge.
Implants have a high success rate, and have become the gold standard when it comes to tooth replacement. During the initial appointment a space is created in the bone for the implant. The implant is then placed and depending on a variety of factors, the implant site is closed up and left for 3-6 months to allow for osseointegration. In certain cases, a temporary restoration can be placed right away. But usually we are closing it up or placing a healing cap on it while we wait. After the implant has integrated a few months later, another appointment is needed to take an impression which is then sent to the lab. A couple weeks later, we are able to deliver the final prosthesis.
Sometimes certain sites aren't ideal for implant placement, usually due to lack of bone, or proximity to vital structures. In these cases, additional procedures may be required prior to placement. In these more complex cases, a referral to an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon is necessary.
LOCATION
6585 Malden Road – Unit 101
LaSalle, ON
N9H 1T5
info@loft32dentistry.ca
(226) 708-1010