It’s not only about appearance; losing a tooth can affect how you eat, how you speak, and even your confidence. You begin to hide your smile or avoid certain foods that you like, which can remind you constantly of what you’ve lost.
With technological advancements like dental implants in Winnipeg, you no longer need to bear with temporary arrangements, as it is an effective solution that looks and feels like natural teeth, and it enables you to regain confidence and comfort.
What Does Dental Implants Mean?
Dental implants are man-made tooth roots built of titanium that are inserted through surgery into the jawbone. After healing, they hold crowns, bridges, or dentures in place, replacing the function of natural teeth.
Unlike removable substitutes, implants are cemented in permanently and are meant to last for several years with proper maintenance.
What Is the Benefit of Dental Implants?
The advantage of dental implants extends well beyond aesthetics. Some of the greatest benefits follow:
• Stability: They do not shift or slide when speaking or eating.
• Bone Health: Implants will stimulate the jawbone, avoiding bone loss that often accompanies tooth loss.
• Durability: If you take proper care, implants can last for decades.
• Natural Feel: They feel, look, and function like your natural teeth.
• No Effect on Adjacent Teeth: Unlike bridges, implants do not need grinding down adjacent healthy teeth.
These advantages make implants the most sought-after solution that a dentist near you would suggest.
Are Dental Implants Right for You?
One of the crucial questions to ask a dentist before getting implants is, “Are dental implants appropriate for you?” You may be a good candidate if:
• You have one or more missing teeth
• Your jawbone is healthy enough to provide support for an implant
• You don’t have any chronic illnesses that are not under good control (e.g., diabetes)
• You don’t smoke or are a willing smoker who will quit forever.
• You’re committed to taking care of your oral hygiene.
It is important to take a thorough exam and possibly imaging (like X-rays) to confirm your eligibility. A qualified dentist near you can help determine this during an initial consultation.
How Long Does the Process Take?
Dental implants aren’t a one-visit procedure, as the entire process typically takes a few months and includes several steps:
• Consultation and planning
• Implant placement surgery
• Healing time (3–6 months) so the implant can bond with the jawbone
• Placing the crown, a prosthetic tooth
Despite the timeline, patients often say the long-term results are worth the wait.
How Do Implants Differ from Other Tooth Replacement Alternatives?
When deciding on the best way to replace missing teeth, it’s helpful to understand how dental implants stack up against other common options like bridges and dentures:
Lifespan
• Dental Implants: Can last 15 years or more with proper care.
• Bridges: Typically last 5 to 10 years before needing replacement.
• Dentures: Usually need to be replaced or adjusted every 5 to 8 years.
Bone Preservation
• Dental Implants: Help maintain jawbone density by stimulating the bone.
• Bridges and Dentures: Do not prevent bone loss in the jaw over time.
Stability
• Dental Implants: Fixed securely
• Bridges: Fixed in place but may rely on surrounding teeth for support.
• Dentures: Removable and may slip or move while speaking or eating.
Effect on Nearby Teeth
• Dental Implants: Do not affect adjacent teeth.
• Bridges: Require filing down neighboring teeth to anchor the prosthetic.
• Dentures: Do not require alterations to other teeth.
Comfort
• Dental Implants: Most comfortable option, feels like natural teeth.
• Bridges: Generally comfortable but may feel less natural.
• Dentures: May feel bulky or cause sore spots over time.
What Happens If You Delay Tooth Replacement?
Waiting too long to replace a missing tooth can cause the jawbone to shrink. Adjacent teeth may shift out of place, leading to bite problems and more complex dental issues.
Over time, these changes can make implant placement more difficult, or even impossible, without additional surgery.
Don’t Let Time Damage Your Smile Further
Delaying treatment may result in worsening bone loss, increased dental costs, and loss of facial structure. The longer you wait, the harder it can be to get the full function and appearance of your natural smile back.
A Healthy Smile Won’t Wait.
Take the important first step toward restoring your confidence and comfort. Our experienced team at Westend Dental is ready to guide you through the process of getting a lasting, natural-looking solution tailored to your needs and smile.