At Dubreuil Lévesque Dental Centre our Gatineau dentists use dental implants to replace missing teeth to help you regain a radiant smile!
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a titanium rod that the dentist inserts into the jawbone and replaces the natural root of a tooth. Dental implants are used to replace one or more missing teeth.
Implant placement is a minor surgery in which implants are placed in the jawbone as an anchor.
Dental implants help prevent surrounding teeth from moving, resolve bite problems or joint pain, and restore facial tissue and appearance.
Why replace missing teeth?
If a tooth is missing, neighboring teeth can start to shift position and cause misalignment problems. The bone mass around them can be absorbed and lose volume, which can have a negative impact on your face shape, speech, and chewing.
The Dental Implant Procedure
The procedure has several stages, punctuated by healing periods, which span over several appointments.
Before proceeding, a thorough examination should be carried out. Using x-rays, in particular, the dentist will make sure that there is sufficient bone mass in the jaw to stabilize the implants.
The dentist then makes an incision in the jawbone below the gum line and inserts the implants into the bone. During the healing period, the bone reforms and fixes the implants.
It takes 3 to 6 months to return to the clinic to complete the procedure. Your dentist will then afix a replacement tooth that will fit perfectly into your smile.
Dental Implant FAQs
Read the answers to our most frequently asked questions about dental implants at Dubreuil Lévesque Dental Centre.
- How long does a dental implant last?
If you maintain good oral health, your dental implant can last a lifetime. Oral hygiene at home, as well as regular dental cleanings and check-ups at our dental clinic are essential.
The longevity of a dental implant can also depend on other factors, such as nutrition, genetics, or the onset of dental disease.
- How do I care for my dental implants?
Take care of your dental implant just like you take care of your natural teeth.
Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and maintain a good oral routine at home to help prevent cavities or the onset of diseases that can affect your dental implants.
- Does getting a dental implant hurt?
Placing an implant is a minor surgery lasting about an hour, under local anesthesia.
Sensitivity varies from patient to patient following surgery. Most patients can manage their pain with a simple over-the-counter pain reliever.
Immediately after implant placement, it is strongly recommended that you eat soft foods for two weeks to avoid any pain or irritation.
- How long does the dental implant process take?
The entire dental implant placement procedure lasts from two to nine months, depending on your treatment plan.
Your dentist will provide you with an accurate estimate.
- Will my insurance cover dental implants?
Depending on your insurance, the cost may be fully or partially covered.
To find out if your dental implant treatment will be covered, please contact your insurance company directly.