The allure of a beautiful smile can’t be understated. Not only does it boost one’s confidence, but it also plays a pivotal role in the overall aesthetics of an individual’s face. However, when you lose a tooth, it can lead to both functional and cosmetic issues. Thankfully, advancements in dentistry have made it possible for you to reclaim your smile. This is where dental implants come into play. They not only address the aesthetic concerns but also restore the functional aspects of lost teeth.
If you’re considering this procedure in Canada, specifically in Mississauga, located in the province of Ontario, many skilled professionals and state-of-the-art facilities can offer dental implants Mississauga to cater to your needs. But before diving in, it’s essential to understand the process and know what to expect.
Read on to learn more.
Understanding Dental Implants
Dental implants are essentially artificial tooth roots that are placed into the jawbone. Once securely in place, they act as a foundation for replacement teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures.
Among various tooth restoration treatments, dental implants have become a popular solution in restoring your smile due to the following reasons:
-
- Durability: Once implanted and properly cared for, these artificial teeth can last a lifetime.
- Natural Appearance: Implants are designed to fuse with bone, making them feel and look like natural teeth.
- Improved Oral Health: Unlike tooth-supported bridges, there’s no need to alter or reduce adjacent natural teeth, ensuring they remain untouched.
However, like any medical procedure, dental implantation has some risks. Although the level is relatively low, there’s still a risk of infection, nerve damage, and bone loss. Hence, it’s important to talk to your dentist about this treatment to help you decide whether they’re the right choice for you.
The Dental Implant Procedure: What to Expect
Now that you’re familiar with some essential things about dental implants, it’s time to know what to expect from this procedure. These include:
1 Initial Consultation
The journey towards dental implants begins with a thorough consultation with a professional who offers dental implants in Mississauga. They’ll assess the condition of your jawbone, the position of the missing teeth, and your overall oral health. They’ll use advanced imaging techniques, such as X-rays and 3D images, to get a comprehensive view of the mouth and develop a treatment plan that caters to your needs.
2 Treatment Planning
Every patient is unique. After the initial consultation, the dentist can tailor a treatment plan, taking into account the number of teeth to be replaced and the condition of the jawbone. For example, if you need two implants in the upper jaw based on the images, your dentist will coordinate with an oral surgeon and a prosthodontist to finalize the treatment plan.
3 Bone Grafting (If Necessary)
If the jawbone isn’t thick enough or is too soft, your dentist might recommend bone grafting. It’s a procedure that involves the replacement of a missing bone to repair bone fractures which are extremely complex or a significant health risk to the patient. It helps ensure the implant has a solid foundation. However, it’s essential to know that the bone grafting process could require several months of healing before the procedure begins.
4 Implant Placement
During this phase, a small incision is made in the gum to expose the bone. The surgeon will then drill a hole into the bone where the dental implant will be placed. Over time, the jawbone will heal and grow around the implanted metal post, anchoring it securely.
5 Osseointegration
A crucial step in the implant procedure is osseointegration. It’s the process where the jawbone fuses with the dental implant to provide a stable foundation for the new artificial tooth. It can take several weeks or even months. However, if you’re considering osseointegration, it’s crucial to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of this procedure.
6 Placing The Abutment
Once osseointegration is complete, an additional procedure might be required to place the abutment, the piece to which the crown will eventually be attached. In some cases, the abutment is connected to the dental implant itself during the initial procedure, eliminating the need for this step.
7 Customizing The New Tooth
After the gums heal, molds of the mouth and remaining teeth are taken. These molds are then used to create the crown, bridge, or dentures. When customizing a new tooth, you can choose from different popular materials. For example, titanium can be an excellent option if you want a strong and durable material. If you like a tooth that looks and feels natural, choosing Zirconia can be a good idea.
8 Attaching The Artificial Tooth
The final step involves securely attaching the custom-made crown, bridge, or dentures to the abutment. Once this is done, the patient leaves with a restored, natural-looking smile. During this stage, you need to avoid chewing hard foods for a few weeks to allow the crown to heal in place.
9 Aftercare And Recovery
After the procedure, it’s not uncommon for patients to experience some discomfort, including swelling, bruising, minor bleeding, and pain. However, these symptoms are manageable with over-the-counter pain medications and prescribed antibiotics.
Make sure to adhere to all aftercare instructions provided by the dentist. This includes dietary recommendations, maintaining oral hygiene, and regular check-ups. Remember, proper aftercare can ensure the longevity and effectiveness of the implants.
Wrapping Up
Choosing to undergo a dental implant procedure in Mississauga is a significant decision, one that comes with several considerations. However, with the right information, as mentioned above, and professional guidance, you can be on your way to restoring not just your smile but also your confidence and overall oral health. The process may seem lengthy, but the enduring benefits of a restored smile, boosted confidence, and improved oral health make it a transformative choice worth considering.
Read More:
All you need to now about dental failure
