Dental implants in Calgary are a transformative solution if you’ve ever looked at a reflection or photo and felt disappointed by your smile. Many face similar challenges, whether it’s gaps from missing teeth or difficulty enjoying certain foods. Dental implants in Calgary offer a permanent fix, enabling you to eat, speak, and laugh easily. Under the care of skilled professionals in Calgary, you can restore the aesthetics of your smile and its functionality, boosting your confidence for years to come.
Understanding Dental Implants in Calgary
Dental implants are an innovative tooth replacement solution that has revolutionized dentistry. They allow you to regain your smile and have full chewing capability.
But how exactly do these cleverly designed implants work? Let’s examine dental implants in calgary and the different types available.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root, typically made of titanium, surgically embedded into the jawbone to replace missing or damaged teeth. Implants consist of three main parts:
- The titanium implant screw that integrates with the jawbone
- The abutment that connects the implant to the crown
- The custom-made crown that replicates a natural tooth
During the first stage of treatment, the implant screw is placed into the socket of the missing tooth and allowed to fuse securely to the bone through a process called osseointegration. Once fully integrated, the abutment is attached. Finally, the realistic-looking porcelain crown is secured to the abutment to match your natural teeth flawlessly.
Types of Dental Implants in Calgary
There are several types of implants to address different needs:
- Endosteal Implants – The most commonly used. These are directly embedded into the jawbone through surgical placement.
- Subperiosteal Implants – Placed on top of the jawbone under the gums and used when there is inadequate bone height to support endosteal implants.
- Zygomatic Implants – Anchor into the cheekbone for use in cases of extreme bone loss in the upper jaw. Provide a strong foundation when other types of implants are not possible.
The Dental Implant Procedures
Getting dental implants is a multi-step process requiring careful planning and precision. Knowing what to expect at each stage will help you understand the timeline and importance of every phase.
Initial Consultation and Assessment
The first step is an in-depth consultation and evaluation. We perform a comprehensive dental examination, including x-rays, scans, and impressions of your teeth and mouth. This allows us to assess the health of your teeth, gums, and jawbone and determine if implants are the right solution for you.
Schedule your initial consultation at East Village Dental for an accurate assessment and tailored treatment plan.
Surgical Placement of the Implant
During this dental implant surgery, a small incision is made in the gums to expose the bone. The site is prepared by gently drilling, and the implant is carefully placed into the socket. The gums are closed over the implant with stitches and allowed to heal for several months.
You can expect some swelling and tenderness for a few days afterward. Prescription medication will help manage discomfort. Proper oral hygiene and care are critical during the initial healing period.
Osseointegration and Abutment Placement
Osseointegration occurs as the jawbone grows and fuses to the implant over 2–6 months. This provides stability and stimulation to maintain bone volume. Once fully integrated, the abutment is connected to the implant, acting as the new tooth root.
Placing the Permanent Dental Crown
With the abutment in place, impressions are taken, and a custom crown is made to match your natural teeth precisely. The realistic-looking crown is attached to the abutment with dental cement for a secure, comfortable fit. Your implant restoration is now complete.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer many advantages, including improved aesthetics, function, and longevity. Here are some of the top benefits of implants over other replacement tooth options.
Improved Aesthetics
Dental implants in Calgary look, feel, and function like natural teeth. Custom crowns are crafted to blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth. You can smile confidently, knowing implants create a beautiful, natural-looking appearance.
Enhanced Oral Function
Implants allow you to eat, speak, and smile without pain or discomfort. By restoring the stable root foundation, implants enable comfortable biting and chewing like natural teeth. You can enjoy all your favorite foods again.
Long-Term Durability
With proper maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime. The success rate is over 95%, with most implants lasting 10–15 years.
The titanium and porcelain materials are solid and durable. Implant crowns won’t decay like natural tooth surfaces. They require minimal maintenance, good oral hygiene, and regular dental exams.
Comparing Dental Implants to Other Options
Two common alternatives to implants when replacing missing teeth are dentures and dental bridges. How do these options compare?
Dental Implants vs. Dentures
Unlike removable dentures, dental implants are securely fixed in the jawbone, providing superior stability and comfort. Implants feel and function like natural teeth, allowing you to eat and speak confidently.
Dentures require adhesives to prevent slipping and must be removed daily for cleaning. Implants allow you to brush and floss normally, eliminating the need for denture adhesives and pastes.
Maintenance and care are easier with an implant-supported prosthetic, like a fixed denture, than with a traditional removable denture. You’ll spend less time adjusting and managing your teeth.
Dental Implants vs. Bridges
Dental bridges require shaving down the adjacent healthy teeth to support the bridge. This tooth reduction can lead to nerve damage and an increased risk of decay.
With an implant, nearby teeth are not impacted. Implants stand on their own without relying on other teeth for support. They also help prevent bone loss in the empty tooth socket.
Bridges typically last 5-7 years, compared to 10-15 years for dental implants. With proper care and maintenance, implants are the more durable long-term solution.
Cost of Dental Implants in Calgary
The cost of dental implants in Calgary ranges from $3,982-$5,752 per implant. The total cost for your implant treatment depends on several factors, including:
- Number of implants needed to replace missing teeth
- Bone grafting or ridge augmentation is required
- Advanced technology like digital imaging and implant planning software
- The highly skilled, experienced implant surgeon
- Premium implant materials and technology used
- Complexity of the dental implant procedure
East Village Dental uses state-of-the-art technology and the highest-quality implant brands to ensure optimal results. Our experienced specialists make treatment planning and implant placement highly precise.
Financing Options and Insurance
Many dental clinics offer payment plans that break up the cost of implants over several months, making treatment more affordable.
Some insurance plans provide partial coverage of implant procedures up to a yearly limit. Check your policy details to see if implants are included.
Choosing the Right Dental Implants in Calgary
Selecting the right implant dentist is crucial for safe and successful dental implant treatment. This complex procedure requires advanced skills and extensive experience. What credentials should you look for when researching implant specialists?Choosing a licensed dentist who has received additional extensive training in implant dentistry is essential. Many pursue fellowship training and earn board implant certification after completing dental school. Look for credentials like:
- Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology (DABOI)
- Fellow of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada (FRCDC)
An implant dentist with these qualifications has demonstrated mastery of complex techniques through written and clinical exams. They must also undergo continuing education to stay current on the latest advancements.
Opt for a specialist with many years of hands-on experience placing different types of implants. An experienced implantologist will be adept at treatment planning, surgical placement, and managing follow-up care. More routine expertise leads to better judgment and fewer complications.
At East Village Dental, our skilled implant dentists have earned diplomate status and have placed thousands of implants. We use advanced 3D imaging to plan and place implants precisely for optimal function and aesthetics. Trust our expertise for your care.
Aftercare and Maintenance
Once your dental implant treatment is complete, following proper care guidelines is critical for long-term success.
Post-Procedure Care
During the first few days after implant placement, you can expect some swelling, bruising, and tenderness at the surgery site as you recover. Your dentist will provide instructions on minimizing discomfort and keeping the area clean.
Initial bone healing takes about 3–6 months. During this osseointegration period, avoid putting too much pressure on the implant site when chewing. Stick to soft foods and practice excellent oral hygiene.
Once healed, implants can last many years with proper maintenance. Keep implants clean by brushing gently around the implant crown attachment and flossing daily. Avoid tobacco products and hard foods that could damage the implant.
Regular Dental Check-Ups
Schedule twice-yearly dental exams even after your implants are fully integrated. If caught early, your dentist will check for issues like gum recession, inflammation, or loosening that require intervention.
Professional cleanings are essential for removing plaque that can build up around implants. Report any discomfort, swelling, or changes you notice to catch potential problems immediately.
With diligent at-home care and regular dental visits, your implants should continue functioning like natural teeth for many years. Be sure to keep up with your maintenance schedule.
Restore Your Smile with Confidence
Dental implants in Calgary offer many benefits for replacing missing teeth – improved function, natural-looking aesthetics, and long-term durability. With advances in technology, implants can be precisely placed for optimal results.
If you are considering implants, consulting with a highly skilled specialist is essential. In Calgary, the expert implant dentists at East Village Dental have the experience and credentials to provide exceptional care.
Ready to restore your smile with expert care? Contact East Village Dental today to book your consultation.
With dental implants in Calgary, you can regain your confidence and enjoy an improved quality of life. Trust your smile to the professionals devoted to your comfort, safety, and satisfaction. Take the first step and contact us to start your implant journey. We’re here to help you smile brightly again.