Dental Implants: What You Need to Know

Consider this scenario: your dentist at Queen Street Dental has just recommended dental implants to restore your mouth structure and smile following a loss of a tooth or teeth. You are likely nervous about the procedure and have a ton of questions. We hope that these FAQs will be helpful in helping you understand the benefits of a dental implant while alleviating your concerns.

Queen Street Dental Answers Your Questions About Dental Implants

Q: Why do I need dental implants?

Beyond needing teeth for basic function, such as eating and speaking, your teeth play an important role in your overall mouth function. When you lose a tooth you are at a much higher risk for bone loss resulting in facial deformities, gum disease, misalignment and even tooth decay. Replacing the tooth with a dental implant is often your best option to restore function and put the smile back on your face.

Q: What is a dental implant?

Dental implants are tiny titanium posts placed in the jawbone where the tooth or teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium creating a strong foundation to which the artificial teeth, typically crowns for a single tooth or bridges for multiple teeth, are adhered. They are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like new.

 Q: Can I go with a denture or a bridge instead of a dental implant?

Ultimately you are looking to restore both function and aesthetics to your mouth and smile. While there are a few options to achieve the end goal – think dentures – we believe that a dental implant is often the best choice. Compared with the alternatives, dental implants are traditionally long-lasting, up to 25 years if maintained properly; strong; and have a more natural look and mouth feel. Here at Queen Street Dental, we have seen many patients love their dental implants for years!

Q: What can I expect in the recovery process?

We find that the recovery is much more manageable than people expect. Immediately following your procedure, you might experience swelling, slight bleeding, pain, or sensitivity and/or bruising. Symptoms should be relatively mild, and you should return to normal function (i.e. back to eating all your favourite foods) quickly. If the pain seems excessive and/or the symptoms last for more than 2 or 3 days, we advise you to contact your dentist in Tottenham immediately to discuss.

Q: What if I want to wait before getting a dental implant? Is there a rush?

While there is no specific deadline we do recommend deciding on corrective action regularly quickly. When you lose a tooth or teeth, the gum and the bone in the open area start to deteriorate leaving you at risk for losing additional teeth, gum disease. Plus, you’ll notice that your teeth and facial structure will start to shift (quite quickly) to compensate for the missing tooth, which can lead to loss of function making tasks like eating difficult. By replacing a missing tooth, you are not only restoring your smile but protecting your facial structure from further damage. So, while we encourage you to talk with your dentist and take the time needed to make a decision that works for you, don’t delay the process too long. 

Your dentist in Tottenham is here to answer all your questions so that you can make the decision that is right for you. We understand that this can be an overwhelming time, so let us be there for you.

Our office welcomes families of all ages. We are conveniently located at 22 Queen Street North in Tottenham, ON. Call us at 905.936.4663 to schedule your dental appointment or to ask any questions. Your visits make us smile!