Dental Implants

Replace Missing Teeth

Compared to dentures, dental implants are a popular and effective long-term solution for patients who suffer from missing/failing teeth or chronic dental problems. Once placed in the mouth and restored with a dental crown, they are permanent and do not need to be removed daily like dentures or partial dentures.

Dental implants typically have three different parts:

• Implant: A titanium screw that serves as the root for your new tooth. This component fuses to the jawbone and should remain permanent for life.
• Abutment: The connecting component between the implant and dental crown.
• Dental Crown: This is the prosthetic tooth and is usually composed of porcelain or zirconium for a natural, attractive appearance.

Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Many factors play into the success of dental implants. During a consultation, your dentist will look for a few components including:

• Adequate bone support: Since dental implants fuse with the jawbone to support the replacement tooth, adequate bone density is required for its success.
• Good overall health: Dental implants require a surgical procedure which is why it’s important that any patient considering this tooth loss solution is in good health. Patients who smoke, drink & have diabetes usually have lower success rates with dental implants.
• Healthy gums: Healthy gums are necessary to support the dental implant as it fuses with the jawbone. Patients who suffer from periodontal disease are at a higher risk of implant failure.
• Good dental habits: A dental implant requires a strong commitment to excellent oral hygiene. This includes brushing and flossing daily as well as scheduling regular appointments with your dentist.

Dental Implant Process

At Dr. Korol Dental, we use 3D planning software that increases the safety and accuracy of the implant placement. The technology helps decrease the risk of surgical complications and increase the probability of implant success.

The Dental Implant Process is typically as follows:

1. Scan – a CBCT (3D scan) is taken of your mouth
2. Plan – the CBCT scan is merged with a digital impression of your teeth and a surgical guide is fabricated for use during the surgical implant procedure
3. Place – the implant is inserted into the correct anatomical position in the mouth (using the surgical guide) and left to heal
4. Restore – the abutment and dental crown are placed onto the implant, thus restoring the form and function of the tooth the implant has replaced

How Do I Care for My Dental Implants?

Caring for your dental implants is just like looking after your natural teeth. Make sure to brush, floss and maintain regular checkups with your dentist.

While replacement teeth cannot get cavities, they are vulnerable to the same wear-and-tear as your natural teeth. With proper home care and regular professional maintenance, you can keep your replacement teeth for a lifetime.

4 DENTAL IMPLANT AFTERCARE TIPS

For the implants to be successful, it’s very important to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions.

Here are 4 tips to help promote healing and ensure your procedure is a success:

1. As the local anesthetic wears off, take care to avoid any hot foods or drinks. For the first day, refrain from touching the implant area with your tongue or fingers.
2. For at least 48 hours avoid any strenuous physical activity and make sure you get ample rest.
3. Any bruising or swelling from the procedure can last up to 3 days. Use a cold compress to encourage blood flow and reduce any swelling.
4. Watch out for infections. Rinse with salt water 2-3 times per day to help reduce risk of infection.  If you experience any extreme pain or swelling, contact your dentist IMMEDIATELY.