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Dental Implants

Dental Implants replace missing teeth. They look just like natural teeth, and restore the structural integrity and function of the mouth.

Titanium Dental Implants

In the 1950s, Per-Ingvar Branemark, a Swedish scientist, observed that titanium could bond with bone. He called this process osseointegration. Since this discovery, systems have been developed using titanium for dental implant procedures, tooth root replacement and other medical applications.

Dental Implant Q & A

Read through this helpful Q&A for answers to some of the most common questions we're asked about dental implants.

How successful is this procedure?

Over thirty years of clinical documentation has proven the success of the cylindrical implant system, with over a half million patients treated. Cylindrical type implant systems continue to lead the world in dental implant treatment with one of the highest success rates in dentistry.

Are implants always successful?

There is a small possibility that the implant and bone will not attach correctly or that an implant will fail after some period of time. If this happens, the implant can be removed and often replaced by another implant.

Will my new tooth or teeth look natural?

Depending upon your condition, your new tooth or teeth will ideally look, feel and function like your own. Dental implants currently provide some of the finest restorative results in dentistry.

How long will my implant last?

The first cylindrical-type implants were put in place 30 years ago and are still functioning perfectly. Dental implant types continue to improve and to date, there is no time limit on the life expectancy of successful cylindrical implant systems.

How long does the implant procedure take?

The first procedure, placement of the implants, takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes for each implant. The second procedure to uncover the implants and attach the abutments usually takes an hour or less depending on the number of implants that you have.

Is the procedure painful?

If you are like most patients, you will experience no major discomfort during or after the operation. Dr. Vaida will discuss with you options for anesthesia and plan your procedure accordingly. In general, however, it is done with local anesthesia.

Will there be any swelling after the implant procedure?

This too can vary, but most people experience only minimal swelling. Any that does occur usually ends within one or two days after the procedure.

How long before I receive my replacement tooth?

The implants should usually be left undisturbed in the jaw for 3 to 6 months for osseointegration to take place. The new tooth or teeth can THEN be attached to the implants. Some of the newer systems, however, allow the teeth to be placed within TWO months - ask Dr. Vaida for more information on this special type of implant.

How are the teeth attached to the implant?

After osseointegration has occurred, a minor procedure is performed to expose the top of the implant and attach a small post. Then the new tooth or teeth are custom designed to fit precisely on top of this post.

Will I be able to chew normally on the implant teeth?

Yes. Studies have shown that chewing efficiency improves significantly after treatment with cylindrical implant systems and, following a brief adaptation period, is comparable to the chewing efficiency of natural teeth.

How much will implant treatment cost?

The actual cost of the procedure will depend on the number of implants necessary, the position of implant placement and the type of replacement teeth that will best meet your needs. All in all, dental implants represent a wise investment in overall health and well-being and provide you with substantial long-term benefits. Dr. Vaida will be glad to discuss the costs with you at the time of your consultation.

Dental Implants at Surrey's Cloverdale Crossing Dental Group

Whereas a dental bridge may have to be replaced 2-3 times in one's lifetime, studies indicate that dental implants can last for life, thus saving money, time and hassle in the long run. Implants can be also be placed to anchor dentures and ensure that they don't move about in the mouth and/or cause discomfort.