New Smile, New You
Losing a tooth can impact your smile and oral health. With a dental implant, we can restore your smile with a replacement that looks and feels natural.
When a tooth is lost, it can disrupt function and even affect jaw structure. Teeth may lean or shift, causing uneven pressure that can lead to damage or discomfort. Fortunately, a dental implant can replace a lost tooth caused by injury, decay, or gum disease, without relying on traditional dentures or bridges.
At Shine Dental, our team has over 15 years of experience in dental implants with over 5000 cases. Book a FREE consultation today to see if a dental implant can renew your smile.
What are Dental Implants?
A dental implant acts as an artificial root, replacing the part of the tooth below the gum line. The implant provides the foundation for an artificial tooth, mimicking the stability and strength of a natural tooth.
Usually made from titanium, the implant stays hidden under the gum line, so only the artificial tooth is visible when you smile. A crown is commonly used for single-tooth replacements.
Dentures vs. Implants
An implant serves as a permanent replacement for missing teeth. Once in place, gum tissue and bone grow around the titanium root, enhancing its stability and strength. The implant can also help preserve facial shape and prevent bone loss.
On the other hand, dentures are removable oral appliances that fit snugly on the gums. While dentures can be customized for comfort, they’re designed to be taken out, affecting stability during eating or speaking.
Both options can offer benefits, so talk to your dentist to find the right choice for you. We're here to answer any questions during a consultation.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
First, we need to determine if you are a candidate for dental implants. We need to make sure that your gums and jawbone are healthy and stable enough to hold the implant. In some cases, your dentist may be able to perform a bone graft on your jaw so it is suitable for implants.
Several conditions can also affect the success of the implant procedure, including:
Being a smoker
Pregnancy
Untreated gum disease
Diabetes
Certain medications
Once we determine that you are a candidate for dental implants, we will decide how many implants you will need. From there, we will determine the type of dental implant we will use: endosteal implant, subperiosteal implant, or all-on-4 overdenture.
After we have assessed your health and your teeth, we can help you set up a payment plan and educate you on what your options are.
Types of Dental Implants
There 3 primary types of dental implants available.
A single implant can effectively restore a single lost tooth, but dental implants also provide the opportunity to replace multiple missing teeth.
The choice between multiple single implants and implants for anchoring a bridge or dentures depends on various factors.
During your consultation, we'll thoroughly examine your oral health, considering factors like the affected tooth's position. We'll provide comprehensive information about your options, empowering you to make an informed decision that suits your needs. Feel free to ask any questions.
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A single implant can replace a single missing tooth. Patients can also have multiple single implants if they’ve lost several teeth. However, in some cases, we may recommend individuals with multiple missing teeth consider an implant-supported bridge or dentures to enhance overall stability and aesthetic appearance.
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A dental bridge can help fill the gap caused by a missing tooth. It consists of 2 posts on either side, which offer stability for an artificial tooth. Typically, a traditional bridge relies on 2 adjacent teeth to support the missing tooth.
However, in cases where these teeth lack strength or stability, a dental implant can be used to secure the bridge.
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Sometimes called an all-on-4 overdenture or snap-in denture, this type uses multiple implants to support a permanent denture. This type typically replaces a full set or multiple missing teeth that need extra reinforcement.
Dental Implant Procedure
Getting a dental implant usually involves multiple appointments. To start, we'll have a consultation to evaluate your oral health and help you find a solution that meets your needs.
The implant procedure is typically divided into 2 stages: implant placement and attaching the artificial tooth.
Your customized replacement tooth may be made during a separate appointment, whether it's a crown, bridge, or denture. With our technology, we can take precise digital images and use computer software to create your new tooth within minutes.
Our team is here to support you every step throughout the process.
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During your consultation visit, your dentist will carefully check your mouth and take x-rays of your head, jaw, and teeth to determine if dental implants are a good option for you. Our team will discuss the different kinds of implants available and answer any questions you have. Then, we can schedule a date for implantation.
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During the first step, a small incision is made in the gum to expose the jawbone. Then, the implant is carefully placed beneath the gum tissue and into the bone. Finally, the gum is stitched together. It may take several months for everything to heal fully and for the implant to fuse with the bone.
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After your tissue has fully healed and the implant has successfully fused with the bone, your dentist can attach the new tooth. Depending on the type of implant, the replacement could be a crown, bridge, or denture.
No matter what type of replacement you receive, it can be customized to fit comfortably and restore functionality.
After the Implant Procedure
After your dental implant procedure, it's normal to feel some discomfort, such as bruising, swelling, or minor bleeding. Our team may recommend eating soft foods and avoiding hot liquids within the first 24–48 hours. To help reduce swelling, you can use a cold compress for 10 minutes at a time.
We'll provide you with detailed instructions for aftercare, including medication to alleviate any discomfort. We also welcome you to reach out if you have any questions.
Long-Term Implant Care Tips
Like natural teeth, implants must be cared for to help them last and function properly. Your dentist can show you how to clean your implants and offer a few oral health tips.
Schedule regular checkups with your dentist so we can assess if your implants are secure and your bite is comfortable.
Remember to keep up with your regular brushing and flossing routine too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Should I Get Dental Implants?
Dental implants can provide a range of benefits. An implant can restore the appearance and function of your teeth. It also helps prevent your jawbone from shrinking, maintaining the integrity of your facial structure and bone density.
Additionally, replacing a lost tooth helps keep nearby teeth stable.
Am I A Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Most patients who are generally healthy are considered good candidates for dental implants. However, you may not be an ideal candidate if:
Your jaw bone is weak or insufficient
You smoke
You have gum disease
You have diabetes or an autoimmune disease
You are receiving chemotherapy or radiation
Are There Any Risks?
While complications are rare, dental implant procedures can lead to potential issues such as bleeding, infection, numbness, and muscle or sinus cavity injury. In some cases, the implant may not successfully bond with the bone.
Visiting your dentist for checkups throughout the following year is essential to assess if your implants are working properly.
Should I See an Oral Surgeon or a General Dentist?
An oral surgeon is trained in surgical approaches to correct medical issues that affect the head, neck, mouth, jaw, and face. Both oral surgeons and general dentists can perform dental implant procedures. However, not all general dentists perform them.
Schedule Your Implant Consultation Today
If you have more questions or are ready to book your consultation, we’d love to hear from you. You can get in touch by filling out the contact form on our website or calling us directly.