DR. GERARD CHARANDUK

Implant Dentistry in Calgary

Calgary - Dr. Gerard Charanduk

Calgary Dental Implants
Treatment

Dental implants are becoming more popular as a means of replacing missing teeth. Not only do they look more like natural teeth, but they also act as a better long-term solution. They are placed directly into the jaw and are not removed every day like dentures. They also will not fall victim to cavities and other dental diseases, making them ideal for a healthier mouth. Overall, 95 percent of dental implants are successful, which it nearly ensures that your implants will be in place for years to come.

What Are the Different Types
of Dental Implants?

There are two different dental implants that you should know about. Endosteal implants go into the bone and are the most common. To fit the implant into the bone, cylinders, screws or blades are used to secure the implant into the jawbone and each prosthetic tooth is on its own implant. This is a viable alternative to removable dentures or bridges.

Subperiosteal implants are on the bone. These use a metal framework to place the prosthetic tooth on top of the jaw. If you have minimal bone height or are not able to wear dentures, this is an option for you.

What to Expect During a Dental Implant Procedure

How long the procedure takes will depend on several factors, including:

  • Your overall dental health
  • Which teeth are being replaced
  • How many teeth are being replaced
  • If an extraction is necessary before the implant can be secured

There are a variety of aspects for this procedure, from getting you prepared and anesthetized to placing the implants and taking care of any cleaning. The time to place the actual implant is around 30 to 60 minutes on average.

There is always a chance of discomfort with a surgical procedure, so we will talk about the level of anesthesia that will be given. Oral or IV sedation or local anesthesia (numbing the area that will be worked on) are the most common types of anesthesia for this procedure and these generally keep the patient relatively comfortable. Following the procedure, you may be prescribed medications to help control any post-surgical discomfort, such as prescription pain medications. The discomfort can typically be controlled by regular painkillers and most people are able to return to work the following day.

As with all surgical procedures, there is a small risk of complications that you want to be aware of before having this procedure done. Complications may include:

  • Infection affecting the surrounding gums and bone
  • Bone loss around the area of the implant
  • The body rejecting the implant
  • The implant not properly adhering to the bone

It is important to note that complications are not common and most people will have no issues with their dental implant. Make sure to keep all of your post-surgical appointments and follow all after-care instructions to reduce the risk of complications.

What to Expect Throughout the Creation of Your Crown

After the dental implant is in place your dentist will have you come back in to create and place the crown. This is what replaces the visible part of your tooth as the implant simply works as an anchor. We will work to create a mold that the crown is created from by taking impressions of your teeth. Once the new crown is created, you will usually go in for a fitting to ensure that it is the proper size and that it fits well in your mouth. Once the proper fit is had, the crown is placed and the procedure is complete. It can take six to nine months from the time of your pre-implant consultation to the placement of your crown.

Caring for Your Dental Implant

Once you have your new implant in place, you will care for it like you do the rest of your teeth. Regular brushing and flossing are important for the overall health of your mouth. You will continue to see your dentist twice a year for a checkup and cleaning to ensure that your teeth are healthy and that the implant is in good shape.

As long your body does not reject the dental implant and you maintain proper oral care, implants last for years. There are some people who have had these implants for over 40 years.

What to Consider When Choosing a Dentist

Choosing a skilled and experienced dentist ensures that your dental implants are done right and in a way that ensures that they will last. You should feel comfortable throughout all aspects of the process because dental procedures do not have to be incredibly painful.

A skilled dentist will make sure that you are a good candidate for dental implants because certain medical conditions do not work well with implants. We will go through your medical history with you and will relay all of the viable options available to you. This ensures that getting dental implants is the best option and that you will find the procedure successful.

Contact us today to discuss dental implants and what it involves. Having your implants done by a skilled and experienced dentist ensures the highest level of quality and the best possible experience.

“This is a photograph of Dr. Charanduk’s patient and treatment. Photographs are for informational purposes only because individual treatment results will vary from patient to patient. Some patients may not be candidates for treatment.”