Our Kelowna dentists may place a dental implant as part of the process to replace a missing tooth.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that your dentist surgically places into your jaw bone to support a tooth replacement. Together, the implant and tooth replacement can look and function like a natural tooth.
Uses For Dental Implants
Replacing missing teeth can be key to preserving your long-term oral health. If you're missing one or more teeth, dental implants can be used to address a number of oral health issues, including:
- To restore aesthetics and facial tissues
- To prevent surrounding teeth from shifting
- To resolve jaw joint pain or bite issue
- To improve chewing, speech and digestion
- To support a dental crown, dental bridge or dentures
The Implant Procedure
The dental implant procedure requires three pieces: a titanium screw, an abutment, and a crown or denture locater that attaches to the screw.
Your dentist will first place the titanium screw into the jaw bone. The screw will bond with the bone over time.
Next, your dentist will attach the abutment and crown or denture locater to the screw to create the appearance and function of a natural tooth.