Single-tooth implants are the most common type of implant. They use one implant post and a dental crown to restore a single missing tooth. They require no special care and help protect your oral health by preventing bone loss and teeth shifting.
At West Vancouver Dental, we offer implant-retained dentures. These are similar to traditional dentures, but they snap onto a series of 4-6 implants that are placed in the upper, lower, or both arches of teeth. This means they do not shift or move. They look and feel more natural, and are much more stable when you eat, chew, and speak.
Dental implants never move, since they’re surgically placed into your jaw. They also last 30+ years with proper care, and require minimal maintenance compared to dentures. Your implants will also look and feel completely natural. In addition to all of this, they prevent bone resorption after tooth loss. The implant stimulates and strengthens the jaw bone, preventing it from weakening.
At your first appointment, Dr. Hawthorne will clean your mouth, numb the area, and create a small opening in the gums and jaw. Your implant will be placed into this opening, which will then be sanitized and sutured shut.
Initial healing takes a few weeks, but it takes 3-6 months for the implant to bond with your jaw. You’ll come into our office for a few follow-ups to check on your progress and start building your restoration.
As the final step, you’ll come back to our office once your mouth has fully healed. Dr. Hawthorne will attach your restoration, such as a dental crown, to the implant. Then, you’ll be sent home to enjoy your new smile.
As long as your mouth is healthy and your jaw bone is strong enough to accommodate an implant, you are likely a good candidate for a dental implant. To learn more about dental implants and explore other tooth replacement options like partial dentures and dental bridges, contact West Vancouver Dental for a consultation.
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