Missing teeth can affect your ability to enjoy essential everyday activities, especially chewing, speaking, and smiling. Dental implants are a restorative option designed to replace missing tooth roots and provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth. At Maple Ridge Smiles Dental, we take a thoughtful, personalized approach to dental implant care, carefully assessing your oral health and discussing options that may be appropriate for your individual needs.
Dental Implants at Maple Ridge Smiles Dental
Dental implants are small titanium posts placed in the jawbone to replace missing tooth roots. Over time, the implant integrates with the bone, creating a secure base that can support a dental crown, bridge, or denture. Implant treatment is planned based on a comprehensive assessment, and not all patients are suitable candidates.
Our compassionate dental team will take time to explain the process, review alternatives, and answer questions so you can make informed decisions about your care.
How Dental Implants Work
Dental implant treatment typically involves several stages, which may vary depending on individual needs:
- A comprehensive examination and diagnostic imaging to assess suitability
- Placement of the dental implant into the jawbone
- A healing period to allow the implant to integrate with the bone
- Attachment of a dental restoration, such as a crown, bridge, or denture
Your dentist will review which steps apply to your situation and outline the expected timeline.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants may offer several potential benefits for our patients with missing teeth, including:
- Improved chewing ability and comfort
- Support for jawbone health and structure
- A stable, fixed tooth replacement option
- A natural-looking result that blends with surrounding teeth
- Reduced reliance on adjacent teeth for support
With proper care and regular dental visits, durable dental implants can function for many years.
Implant-Supported Restorations
Once healed, dental implants can support a variety of restorations, including:
Implant-Supported Crowns
Implant-supported crowns are commonly used to replace a single missing tooth. A dental implant serves as the root, with a custom crown attached to restore function and appearance.
Implant-Supported Bridges
For patients missing multiple adjacent teeth, implant-supported bridges may be an option. This approach uses dental implants to anchor the bridge without relying on surrounding natural teeth.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures provide added stability for patients missing many teeth or a full arch. These dentures attach securely to implants, offering improved comfort and function compared to traditional removable dentures.
Implant Materials and Treatment Options at Maple Ridge Smiles Dental
Implant-supported restorations may be made from different materials based on clinical needs, durability, and aesthetic considerations. In some cases, options such as zirconia restorations or smaller-diameter implants may be discussed. Your dentist will review materials and options appropriate for your situation.
Suitability and Assessment
Dental implants are not suitable for every patient. Factors such as bone density, gum health, medical history, and overall oral health must be carefully evaluated. A thorough consultation and diagnostic imaging are required before determining whether implant treatment is appropriate.
In some cases, additional procedures such as bone grafting may be recommended to support implant placement.
The Dental Implant Process
At Maple Ridge Smiles Dental, implant treatment begins with a detailed consultation and gathering the necessary information to design your custom treatment plan. Throughout the process, our team focuses on clear communication, comfort, and safety. While timelines vary, many patients experience a smooth healing process and long-term results.
Schedule Your Dental Implant Consultation
If you are considering dental implants, our team at Maple Ridge Smiles Dental can review your options, explain the process, and answer your questions. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn whether dental implants are right for your smile.
