This information is general in nature and should not be relied upon to replace the requirement for the detailed, specific professional advice provided by your Denturist.

What is an Dental Implant?

Dental implants provide a solution to the long-time problem of ill-fitting and uncomfortable dentures.
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A dental implant is a small dental "post" or "screw" that is placed in the jawbone as an artificial substitution for a natural tooth root. This provides a strong foundation to support or secure a partial or full denture.

Dental implants are the closest possible replacement for natural teeth, and the optimal way to restore your natural smile. They have a long clinical history and an excellent success rate. Dental implants can be used to replace a single lost tooth or many missing teeth.

Why are Dental Implants a Good Choice?

Dentures secured on dental implants are more stable and feel more 'real' compared to conventional dentures. When dentures are secured and more stable in the mouth, a greater variety of foods can be chewed effectively without dislodging the dentures. Often harder and more nutritious foods can now be introduced into your diet, since chewing them effectively is no longer an issue. Many patients who have chosen implant secured dentures are pleased and comfortable for the first time since they lost their natural teeth. They no longer feel as if their dentures will 'slip' when speaking or laughing and they have improved confidence with their smile.

Benefits of Dental Implants

  • Improved ability to eat foods you may have avoided
  • Decreased denture discomfort
  • Increased denture stability
  • Significant decrease in bone loss at implant sites
  • Improved self esteem
  • Improved nutrition
  • Improved digestion
  • Reduced palate of an upper denture to increase taste, temperature and texture of food

Who can have Dental Implants?

Those considering dental implants to help secure their dentures should consult with their Denturist. During this consultation you should expect to discuss the advantages of implant treatment. A realistic time frame and a dialogue of all costs that may be expected should be discussed, to help you make and informed decision.
A consultation appointment and thorough examination will also be required with the implant placing Doctor* who works closely with your Denturist. The implant placing Doctor will assess whether you are in good oral and general health, and whether you are a suitable candidate for dental implants. To determine if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants, and x-ray or CT scan may be necessary. This is a simple and painless 'picture' that provides valuable information for the placing Doctor about the ideal placement of implants.
The collaboration and the communication shared between you, your Denturist and the implant placing Doctor is essential. Through the consultation, examination, and planning for implants, it will be determined whether dental implants are the right treatment for you, and the number of dental implants required to meet your expectations.
'Implant placing Doctor' refers to a Dental Surgeon Dentist), Oral Surgeon (Maxillofacial Surgeon), or Periodontist Gum Specialist) trained and licensed to place dental implants in the mouth.

What is the process for Dental Implants?

  • Make consultation appointments with your Denturist and implant placing Doctor to determine if dental implants are right for you.
  • Your Denturist and Doctor will coordinate the treatment plan that best suits your needs.
  • Several visits will be required with your Denturist (for the dentures to be fabricated and to be secured on the dental implants) and with the implant placing Doctor (to place the implants and to ensure, after a period of healing, they are integrated with the jawbone).
  • Checkups should be scheduled at regular intervals with: your Denturists, Dental Hygienist, and implant placing Doctor. Together your dental team will provide you with the dental care your implants require for your optimal dental health.
It is important for denture wearers to remove and clean their dentures regularly as proper cleaning of the denture and the gums is essential for your overall health. Ideally, your denture(s) should be cleaned after every meal in lukewarm water.