Dental Implants in Regina
Dental Implants: Restoring Your Smile
Are you considering dental implants? Understanding what a dental implant is and the process involved is the first step toward restoring your smile and confidence. In Regina, our office provides comprehensive dental implant services, from initial consultation to final restoration.
What is a Dental Implant?
Think of a natural tooth: it has a crown (the part you see) and a root (which anchors it to the jawbone). A dental implant effectively replaces the root when you lose a tooth. This biocompatible titanium screw is carefully placed into the jawbone, providing a stable foundation for a replacement tooth. Dental implants are a long-lasting solution for missing teeth.Once the implant integrates with the bone (a process called osseointegration), a small connector post, called an abutment, is attached. This abutment serves as the base for the new artificial tooth, usually a crown that is custom-made to match your existing teeth in size, shape, and color.
The beauty of dental implants lies in their versatility. They can replace a single missing tooth, several teeth, or even support a full set of dentures. For multiple missing teeth, implant-supported bridges offer a strong and secure alternative to traditional bridges. For those struggling with loose or uncomfortable dentures, implant-supported dentures provide significantly improved stability and chewing function.
Dental implants aren’t just about aesthetics; they restore a natural-looking smile. They also play a crucial role in maintaining jawbone health. When a tooth is lost, the jawbone in that area can begin to deteriorate. Implants stimulate bone growth and prevent this bone loss, helping to preserve facial structure and prevent that “sunken-in” look that can occur with tooth loss.
Dental Implants Process in Regina
- Initial Consultation: Your journey begins with a thorough consultation with Dr. Piché or Dr. Ebenal. They will assess your oral health and discuss your treatment options.
- Treatment Planning: If dental implants are the right choice for you, a consultation with a surgeon will be arranged. This allows you to address any concerns about the implant placement procedure.
- Restorative Records: We gather essential records, including photographs, dental models, and radiographs, to precisely plan your dental implant treatment.
- Estimate and Insurance: A detailed written estimate is provided, and we assist with submitting documentation to your dental insurance carrier.
- Surgical Guide: Drs. Piché and Ebenal provide the surgeon with a guide to the number and desired position of implants.
- Cosmetic Approval: Before the final restoration, you’ll have the opportunity to review and approve the aesthetics of your new tooth (or teeth).
Ensuring the Success of Your Dental Implant
The key to a successful dental implant is osseointegration – the process where the bone fuses directly to the implant surface. This creates a strong, stable foundation. Regular check-ups and proper oral hygiene are crucial for long-term success. In our Regina office, we prioritize patient education and follow-up care. We’ll guide you through every step, from the initial consultation to post-operative care, ensuring you understand how to care for your new implant.
This includes demonstrating proper brushing and flossing techniques and explaining the importance of attending all scheduled follow-up appointments. During these appointments, we’ll assess the implant’s integration, check for any signs of infection, and provide a professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup.
With our comprehensive approach and your commitment to oral hygiene, your dental implant can provide a long-lasting and functional solution for tooth loss.
Completing the Dental Implant Process
Once the dental implant has fully healed, the restorative phase begins. This involves taking impressions and creating a custom-designed restoration (crown, bridge, or denture) that perfectly matches your natural teeth. We use high-quality materials and advanced techniques to ensure a natural-looking and functional result.
Maintaining Your Dental Implant for Long-Term Success in Regina
We will provide detailed instructions on how to care for your dental implants properly. This includes regular brushing, flossing, and any recommended special aids. Routine follow-up visits in Regina are essential for monitoring the health of your dental implant and addressing any potential issues. For the first year of a dental implant-supported prosthesis, these recall visits are done at no additional charge. Taking care of your dental implant is critical for its longevity. Should any soft tissue problems occur around dental implants, they should be treated to prevent damage to the supporting bone. With proper care, your dental implant can provide you with a beautiful and functional smile for many years. If you’re in Regina and considering dental implants, contact us today to schedule a consultation. We’re here to help you achieve a healthy and confident smile with dental implants.