Implants

Implants are a more cosmetic dentistry procedures but can also be a long-term solution for replacing missing teeth. They are an alternative to bridges-- which use adjacent teeth as anchors-- and removable dentures -- which rest on your gums.



Implants have three parts:

• Titanium metal, which fuses to the jawbone
• An abutment, which fits over the part of the implant that sticks out from the gums
• The crown, which a special restorative dentist creates for a natural, tooth-like appearance

You can have a single implant to replace a tooth, or multiple implants to provide a stable support for replacing several teeth. If you have bone loss from periodontal disease or lost teeth, a surgeon will likely need to first graft bone, so the implant has something to be secured to.

Having implants requires several steps, including:

1. A comprehensive exam, X-rays, and consultation
2. Surgical implantation of the titanium posts
3. Taking impressions of the upper and lower jaws
4. Making a model for the creation of the dentures or crowns
5. Placement of the crown
6. Follow-up exams with members of your implant team



Dentures

There are several types of dentures:

Conventional Dentures

Conventional dentures are made after the teeth have been removed, and the gum tissue has begun to heal, then a conventional denture is ready for placement in the mouth about eight to 12 weeks after the teeth have been removed.

Immediate Dentures

Unlike conventional dentures, immediate dentures are made in advance and can be positioned as soon as the teeth are removed. As a result, the wearer does not have to be without teeth during the healing period. However, bones and gums shrink over time, especially during the healing period following tooth removal. Therefore, a disadvantage of immediate dentures compared with conventional dentures is that they require more adjustments to fit properly during the healing process and should only be considered a temporary solution until conventional dentures can be made.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are removable dentures which consist of replacement teeth attached to a pink or gum-coloured plastic base, which is connected by a metal framework that holds the denture in place in the mouth. Partial dentures are used when one or more natural teeth remain in the upper or lower jaw. Not only does a partial denture fill in the spaces created by missing teeth, it prevents other teeth from changing position. A precision partial denture is removable and has internal attachments rather than clasps that attach to the adjacent crowns. This is a more natural-looking appliance.

Are There Alternatives to Dentures?

Yes, dental implants can be used to support permanently cemented bridges, eliminating the need for a denture. The cost is usually greater, but the implants and bridges more closely resemble the feel of real teeth. Dental implants are becoming the alternative to dentures, but not everyone is a candidate for implants.

Different materials are used in our office to fit your needs:

• Full acrylic dentures
• Full acrylic dentures supported implant
• Partial acrylic with metal framework
• Valplast
• Snap-ons

For better stability and comfort with dentures, an implant will be an excellent choice and a great investment

How Are Dentures Made?

The denture development process takes about three to six weeks and over several appointments.

Once your dentist determines what type of appliance is best for you, the next steps are to:

1. Make a series of impressions of your jaw and take measurements of how your jaws relate to one another and how much space is between them.
2. Create models, wax forms, and/or plastic patterns in the exact shape and position of the denture to be made. You will "try in" this model several times and the denture will be assessed for colour, shape, and fit before the final denture is cast.
3. Cast a final denture
4. Adjustments will be made as necessary