Dentist in Calgary, AB describes the various ways dental implants can be used
At Lake Chaparral Dental Care, patients in and around the community of Calgary, AB can benefit from high-quality methods of restoring their smile when tooth loss occurs. With the use of dental implants, Dr. Palka Sawhney Sharma and her team ensure that patients have the ability to enjoy a fully functioning smile for life. Dental implants are an incredibly versatile treatment option for patients to consider.
Dental implants explained
When patients hear of dental implants for tooth replacement, they are often unfamiliar with their use. Most patients think of dentures when they hear of tooth replacement options, but dentures are not the only way a patient can restore their smile. In fact, there are various methods including
- Dental implants
- Dental bridges
- Dentures
Dental implants are a popular choice for replacing missing teeth for a number of reasons. They consist of titanium posts that are placed into the bone of the jaw during oral surgery, which then act as a tooth root replacement. The tooth can then be restored on the implant in a number of different ways, depending on the patient’s specific needs. For example, a dental implant can replace a single tooth with a custom dental crown placed over the abutment, or connecting piece, of the implant. Or several teeth can be replaced with a dental bridge, using the implant as an anchor on one or both sides of the bridge. Another option is for patients to utilize dental implants for implant-supported dentures. When all the teeth within the arch are lost, patients can have their full dentures held in place with several dental implants along the ridge of the gum line. This provides the stability that cannot be obtained in any other manner. Dental implants are often considered the most desired solution for tooth loss, whether patients are missing a single tooth or the entire dental arch.
Who is a candidate for dental implants?
Dental implants are perfect for patients who have enough bone structure within the jaw to support the implant. This is incredibly important because the implant itself requires the bone to hold it in place. The implantation procedure stimulates the growth of bone in the jaw during a process called osseointegration, ensuring the implant is strong and stable.
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Without enough bone, patients may need to consider alternative treatments, or they can speak to their dentist about the possibility of bone grafting. This helps build up the bone of the jaw with natural or manmade materials to prepare the smile for the placement of one or more dental implants. This does add to the cost, but it can be a wise investment for patients who are serious about improving the function and beauty of their smile.
How to care for dental implants
Restorations such as dental implants require minimal care and attention. Patients are always encouraged to visit their dentist every six months for a cleaning and examination. This is the perfect time for the dentist to evaluate your smile and ensure that it is healthy and free from periodontal disease or tooth decay. During this time, Dr. Palka Sawhney Sharma and her team can also take x-rays to check the positioning of the dental implant and make sure it is stable and secure in the jaw.
Patients who experience any type of bone loss, often from conditions such as periodontal disease, will want to work with their dentist to ensure their dental implant stays firmly in place, as a bone loss can cause an implant to become loose and unstable.
Everyday cleaning of the dental implant and tooth restoration includes brushing and flossing after every meal and paying close attention to the area of the dental implant to make sure the gums and bone are healthy for many years to come.
With proper attention, patients can expect their dental implants to last a lifetime, making them one of the most recommended solutions for patients seeking a permanent replacement for missing teeth.
Ready to discuss your options for tooth replacement?
Dental implants are one of several options for patients who are interested in restoring their smile after tooth loss. If you are ready to find out how dental implants can be used to enhance your smile and restore functionality, we encourage you to book an appointment with Dr. Palka Sawhney Sharma of Lake Chaparral Dental Care in Calgary, AB today by calling (403) 768-2271. The dental practice is conveniently located at 202-10 Chaparral Drive SE and is equipped with today’s most advanced solutions.
