Dental Implants

Losing one or several teeth can dramatically affect the shape and function of your mouth, as well as the appearance of your smile. The most practical solution for optimal cosmetic and functional restoration is dental implants. Gaps in the smile can lead to changes in the shape of the mouth, and therefore changes in the appearance of facial symmetry. Missing teeth also inhibit your chewing functionality and can lead to degeneration or loss of other teeth.

Losing a tooth, or even several teeth, does not mean losing your healthy, beautiful smile. We provide a wide range of tooth replacement options here at sherway dentistry. Although every situation is unique, dental implants are the treatment of choice in most situations. They provide greater stability and oral health benefits than alternative restorations, because only dental implants replace the tooth root.

Reasons for replacing missing teeth

For many people, the primary concern after losing one or more teeth is cosmetic. However, that is only one of many excellent reasons to fill that gap. Without treatment, the loss of natural teeth may lead to, or exacerbate:

• Crooked teeth, because the remaining ones shift towards the gap
• Cavities, excess wear and tear on previously healthy teeth
• Periodontal disease
• Mispronunciation of certain words or sounds
• Difficulty chewing
• Dissatisfaction with your smile, and embarrassment in social situations

Why choose implants

Whereas traditional tooth replacement options only account for the visible upper portion of the tooth, implants are “rooted” in the jawbone, just like natural teeth. Dental implants are placed in the jawbone during a comfortable, minor oral surgery, performed right here in our office. They serve the same functions as the roots of natural teeth, preserving healthy bone tissue and providing rock-solid support. You can eat, speak, laugh, and live your life with confidence, free from worry about loose, falling out, or uncomfortable dental appliances.

What to expect

We will begin with an examination to determine if implants are a viable option for you, and prepare your custom treatment plan. Implants are a versatile solution, which can be used in conjunction with several types of restorations. We may recommend a single implant topped with a specially designed cosmetic crown if you are only missing one tooth. If you are missing all of the teeth in an arch, several implants supporting a full denture plate is usually preferred. For a few missing teeth, we may recommend an implant bridge.

Unlike some general dentists who refer implant patients to multiple offices, we complete every step of the process right here, in a familiar and comfortable setting. We use modern technology, such as intraoral cameras and digital x-rays, for precision planning and efficient treatment. The actual surgery is gentle, and we use local anesthetic to numb the area completely. We also offer nitrous oxide, which can help you relax during the procedure.

After the implants are in place, your dentist will add temporary restorations or a healing collars, to protect the surgery sites and keep you comfortable during healing. Your gums should heal quickly and the post-procedure discomfort is minimal. However, it can take several months for the bone to finish attaching itself to the implants. Once this has occurred, we will proceed with the final step, which is adding your brand new teeth. Implants can last for the rest of your life with regular dental care and diligent oral hygiene.

Let us make the whole, healthy, beautiful smile of your dreams a reality. Call sherway dentistry at 416.639.2546 and schedule a consultation today.