Dental Implants in North York
A missing tooth can make it harder to eat, speak, or smile with confidence. Dental implants are a stable way to replace one or more missing teeth. At Dentistry at Sullivan, Dr. Sepideh Maleki and our dental team check your teeth, gums, jawbone, and overall oral health to see if dental implants are right for you.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a small post placed in the jawbone that acts as an artificial tooth root. After the implant heals, it can support a crown, bridge, or denture.
Dental implants can replace one missing tooth, several missing teeth, or help support some types of dentures.
For more patient information, see the Canadian Dental Association's guide to dental implants.
Dental Implant Options
Single Tooth
Implants
A single dental implant can replace one missing tooth. Unlike a traditional bridge, the implant does not need nearby natural teeth for support.
A custom crown is placed on the implant to replace the missing tooth. If you need a tooth removed before implant treatment, you can learn more about our tooth extraction services.
Multiple Dental Implants
If you are missing several teeth, dental implants can support individual crowns or a fixed bridge. The number of implants needed depends on the number and location of missing teeth, your jawbone, and your overall oral health.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Dental implants can help hold a denture in place and reduce unwanted movement when eating or speaking.
Depending on the design, an implant-supported denture may be removable or fixed. Learn more about our denture treatment options.
Full-Mouth Dental Implants
If many or all of your teeth need to be replaced, dental implants may be used to support a full-arch restoration.
Your dentist will look at your remaining teeth, gums, jawbone, and overall health before planning treatment.
Are Dental Implants Right for You?
Dental implants may be an option if you have one or more missing teeth, but they are not right for everyone.
Your dentist may look at:
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The number and location of missing teeth
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The health of your gums
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Your remaining teeth
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The amount of bone in your jaw
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Any tooth decay or infection
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Your general health
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The type of replacement tooth you need
Healthy gums and enough jawbone are important for implant treatment. If you do not have enough bone, you may need a bone graft before an implant can be placed.
What to Expect During Your Dental Implant Treatment
At Dentistry at Sullivan, we begin with a detailed assessment so we can understand your needs and determine the right approach for your treatment.
1. We Assess Your Smile
We examine the area of the missing tooth, your gums, surrounding teeth, and overall oral health. We also discuss your concerns and what you would like to achieve.
2. We Plan Your Treatment
When needed, we use dental X-rays or CBCT 3D imaging to examine the jawbone and surrounding structures. This gives us a clearer view of the area and helps us plan treatment.
3. We Discuss Your Options
We explain the available treatment options and answer your questions. You will know what each option involves before deciding how you want to proceed.
4. We Create Your Implant Plan
Using the findings from your examination and imaging, we develop your implant treatment plan. This includes the type and placement of the implant and any additional treatment you may need.
5. We Place the Implant and Restoration
The implant is placed to support your replacement tooth. Once the implant has healed, the final crown, bridge, or implant-supported denture is placed.
We will explain each stage of treatment and what you can expect as you move forward.
Do You Need Bone Grafting?
Not everyone needs a bone graft.
After a tooth is lost, the jawbone can slowly lose some of its size and strength. If there is not enough bone to support an implant, a bone graft may be recommended.
Your dentist will check your jawbone and explain whether a graft is needed as part of your treatment.
Dental Implants vs. Bridges vs. Dentures
There are several ways to replace missing teeth. Dental implants, bridges, and dentures each work in different ways.
If you are comparing tooth-replacement options, you can also learn more about our dental bridges and dentures.
Your dentist can explain the benefits and limits of each option and help you choose the right one for your needs.
Benefits and Risks of Dental Implants
Dental implants can provide a stable way to replace missing teeth. They can also support crowns, bridges, and some types of dentures.
However, dental implants have possible risks. These can include:
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Bleeding
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Infection
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Pain or swelling
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Injury to nearby structures
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Numbness or changes in feeling
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The implant not joining properly with the bone
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The need for more treatment
Your dentist will explain the possible risks and other treatment options before you decide.
Benefits and Risks of Dental Implants
The cost of dental implants is different for each patient. There is no single price for implant treatment.
The cost may depend on:
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How many implants you need
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The type of restoration
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Dental X-rays or 3D imaging
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Tooth removal, if needed
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Bone grafting, if needed
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The number of treatment steps
An exam and consultation can help your dentist create a treatment plan and give you a better idea of the cost.
Dental insurance coverage for implants also varies by plan, so check with your insurance provider to understand your benefits.
How Do You Care for Dental Implants?
Dental implants need regular care, just like your natural teeth.
Your dental team can show you how to clean around the implant and restoration. Brushing, flossing, regular dental visits, and professional cleanings can help keep your gums and implant healthy.
Regular checkups also allow your dentist to check the implant and restoration.