Dental Implants in Lethbridge

If you are missing a tooth or a whole set of teeth, 5th Ave. Dental Clinic can help you restore your smile with dental implants in Lethbridge. Dental implants are artificial roots and teeth (usually titanium) that are surgically placed into the upper or lower jaw bone by a dentist or periodontist. The teeth attached to implants are very natural looking and often enhance or restore a patient’s smile. You can discuss your dental implant options with Dr. James Evanson. If you have any questions or want to schedule an appointment, contact us today.

What Does Getting an Implant Involve?

The process of getting implants requires a number of visits over several months. First, X-rays and impressions of the jaw and teeth are taken. After injecting a local anesthetic, the implant is surgically placed into the bone. It is allowed to heal and integrate itself onto the bone for up to six months. Depending on the type of implant, a second surgery may be required in order to place the “post” that will hold the artificial tooth in place.

After several weeks of healing, the artificial teeth are fabricated and securely attached to the post portion of the anchor. As several fittings may be required, this step may take one to two months to complete. Once you heal, the artificial teeth are securely attached to the implant, providing excellent stability and comfort to the patient. You will be given care instructions when your treatment is completed.

Partial Implants

If you have one tooth or a couple of teeth missing, our dentist can help you get partial implants. A partial implant is easier to manage and better adjusts to your mouth without hurting the health of the neighbouring teeth. The bone is better preserved as the implant replaces your tooth root. Sometimes, if the adjacent teeth are missing, we use a bridge to replace the teeth.

Full Implants

If all of your teeth are missing, we can provide full implants. This treatment is the only way to fully restore the appearance, function and comfort of your mouth if you have to replace each tooth. The process takes several months and multiple appointments. The planning and diagnostic stages will revolve around X-rays, smile design, mock-up teeth design, planning and more. The process will also include fabrication of upper jaw implants, lower jaw implants and bridges. The artificial teeth are then screwed or cemented into these implants.

Immediate (Same Day) Implants

If you have missing teeth and need to replace them immediately, we can provide you with immediate dental implants where the implants are placed in your mouth in one sitting. These implants reduce surgical interventions, treatment time and tissue loss in the mouth. They are also more comfortable and convenient as you will not have to wear partial or full dentures while your implants heal. There is minimal disruption when it comes to eating or talking. Immediate implants are successful in the long-term as well.