Dental Implants
The development of dental implants is a great way to replace missing teeth and allows for the elegant substitution of bulky and ill fitting dentures. Dental implants stabilize dental appliances.
Dental implants as explained by Dr. Cholakis ‘are artificial roots and teeth (usually titanium) that are surgically inserted into the upper or lower jaw bone”. These fabricated teeth are cemented to the implants to achieve a very natural looking dentition that often improves a patient’s smile!
Dental implants have an excellent track record. Studies have indicated these treatments are over 90% successful after ten years. Still on rare occasions, they will have to be re-tightened or replaced due to normal wear.
Considerations for dental implants:
- Does not affect adjacent teeth when replacing one or more teeth.
- Can potentially improve jaw joint problems or bite issues caused by teeth shifting into collapsed tooth spaces.
- Improve a patient’s smile.
- Increase chewing efficiency, speech, and digestion.
- Support facial tissues.
- Stabilize a fixed bridge or removable denture, thereby making them more secure and comfortable.
What does getting dental implants involve?
The process starts with a consultation. Dr Ernest Cholakis can be contacted at 204-488-8888. Your call will be answered by an implant coordinator who will be pleased to make you a consultation appointment for you or answer any questions you may have.
X-rays are often taken at the initial consultation to help determine the appropriateness of implant treatment. This includes examining the jaw and teeth to determine bone, gum tissue, and spacing available for an implant.
Patients will be given an appraisal of their options. If it is decided that implant treatment is to proceed then appropriate appointments will be made.
At the implant placement appointment the area is made to be numb, so that the implant will be surgically placed into the bone painlessly. Here the implant is sometimes immediately restored with a temporary crown for appearance considerations (front teeth). Then it is allowed to heal and integrate into the bone for between four to six months. After several weeks of healing the artificial teeth are made and fitted to the post portion of the anchor. After the prescribed healing period, the permanent teeth are securely attached to the implant, providing excellent stability and comfort to the patient.
Finally you will receive oral hygiene instructions as to how to care for your implants. Periodic dental visits for scaling and maintenance will aid in the life of your new implant.
