Do you find yourself avoiding complying when someone yells “cheese” for a group photo? Have you been struggling to chew your favorite foods? Do you feel self-conscious about your appearance? Whether it's a single gap or multiple missing teeth, having parts missing in your smile can severely impact your confidence. But here's the good news: we have a fantastic solution for you – dental implants! This restoration solution is ready to transform your smile to give you back the confidence to bite into life (literally)!
The Power of Your Smile
Your smile is like a universal language, a confidence booster, and sometimes, the difference between a good day and a bad one - all rolled into one. But what happens when that smile is missing a few key players? Missing teeth, whether it's a single gap or multiple teeth, can be a real downer. It's not just about aesthetics (although that's important too!), missing teeth can wreak havoc on your confidence, your ability to eat, and even your overall health.
That’s what makes dental implants such a restorative game-changer. They can complete your smile and give you back the confidence to laugh, chew, and live life to the fullest. No more hiding your smile in photos, no more struggling to chew, no more feeling self-conscious.
What Are Dental Implants?
If you have missing teeth or a denture that moves when you eat and smile, dental implants can provide you with the solution. They are the closest thing you will ever have to your original teeth, and you’ll be able to chew with confidence and smile without the black gaps of missing teeth.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
A dental implant is quite simply a titanium tooth root. Implants look and feel just like your normal teeth and they provide a rock-solid foundation for dental crown to sit on. Thanks to such strong fit, dental implants do not require any special adhesives to stay in place, and patients can use them as they would use their natural teeth. Dental implants can not suffer from decay or cavities, and since they prevent the loss of bone which normally occurs after a tooth is extracted, they are the most predictable, long-term solution to replace teeth.
Without Implant, You Miss Out on More Than Just a Smile
Without Implant, You Miss Out on More Than Just a SmileYou might think, "I can just deal with it." But the impact of missing teeth goes way beyond appearances. Missing teeth can disrupt the balance of your entire oral health. When a tooth is missing, the surrounding teeth tend to shift and tilt to try and fill the empty space. This can lead to overcrowding, misalignment, and potentially gum disease. And the trouble doesn't stop there. Your jawbone thrives on stimulation from chewing, and with no tooth to stimulate it, it can start to deteriorate. This loss of bone density can lead to facial collapse, making you look older than you actually are.
With dental implants, you can invest in your health, happiness, and confidence. Don't let missing teeth become the domino that topples your well-being.
Missing a Single Tooth?
We place single-tooth implants securely into the space where the old tooth was and have a crown placed right on top. Your crown will be custom-made to mimic the shape of a natural tooth and feel completely normal to chew on – our objective is that nobody else can tell you have an implant crown, and after chewing and smiling with it like natural teeth, you might forget it’s there!
Missing Multiple Teeth in the Same Area?
If you are missing multiple teeth in an area, sometimes it’s possible to replace three or more teeth with two implants. Similar to a dental bridge, two implants can be placed at either end of your gap, and multiple teeth can be supported in the area. Part of the reason we spend so much time getting to know you and your situation is so we can recommend the solution that is best for you. Sometimes placing fewer implants will be better for you. With our in-house 3D X-ray machine and scanner, we can tailor a solution to meet your exact needs!
Missing All the Teeth in One or Both of the Jaws?
If you’re missing all your teeth in one or both of your jaws and are looking for an option that will allow you to chew the food you want and smile with confidence, implants can be a life-changing procedure.
There are multiple ways of restoring all the missing teeth, and the team at Cook Street Village Dental will discuss those options with you to see what suits you best. Two of the more popular options are teeth fixed in place (sometimes called All-on-4) or implant-supported removable dentures.
We Offer Innovative Dental Implants
Teeth Fixed to Implants
AA full arch of teeth attached to implants is the closest solution to having your natural teeth again. This is because:
- Between 4 to 6 implants are placed to replace your natural tooth roots
- The final teeth are secured in place and can’t be removed by the patient
- The teeth are securely fixed to the implants, so they won’t slip or move around.
- Your bite function is restored, so you can eat and chew without worry. Biting into apples, eating steak; it’s as close to natural teeth as you can get.
- You get a beautiful, natural-looking smile and will be able to smile with confidence.
Removable Implant Supported Dentures
Another option for patients missing all their teeth is to have removable dentures that are supported by implants. Two to four implants are placed, and the denture has assistance being held in place. The denture is better supported than just sitting on the gums, however the patient can still remove the denture to clean it at night.
Although not as solid as the fixed teeth option, for some patients this is a better choice, based on the amount of bone remaining, desired outcome, finances, and other variables.
What To Expect During Your Dental Implant Procedure
Although you may be nervous about the whole dental implant process, you shouldn’t be concerned. Compared to having a tooth removed, the place of a dental implant is much more controlled, comfortable, and straightforward. Cook Street Village Dental prides itself on keeping all aspects of the implant process in-house, from the 3D X-ray and consultation to the surgery and scans to make the final crown: you know you’re in good hands.
Diagnosis
The first step of the process is a thorough examination and 3D X-ray. This will give our team all the information we need to see if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants and get all the information we need to replace your missing teeth. We will also take a digital scan of your mouth so we have a record of everything above and below the gums. We then meticulously plan the process from start to finish to make it as straightforward and successful as possible.
Placing the Implant
Using all the information we gained in the examination, the implant (or titanium tooth root) is placed in the jaw (diagram 1). Patients are given any prescriptions they need and are then seen one to two weeks later for a follow-up appointment.
It takes approximately 8 to 12 weeks for the implant to fuse to the bone (diagram 2). As long as the patient follows the postoperative instructions, nothing needs to be done other than wait for the body to heal and integrate the implant into the jaw.
After this stage, a scan of the implant and surrounding teeth is taken, and a custom-made crown is built for you. This includes the custom abutment, which is the part that secures the crown to the implant. Once all this is fabricated, the crown is secured to the implant (diagrams 3, 4, and 5).
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
Asking how much dental implants cost is like asking how much a car costs – there is a big difference between cars, and not everything suits everybody. For some people, a minivan is what they’re after, while others may want a convertible sports car, and there is no one solution for everyone. When comparing the price of dental implants, make sure you are comparing apples to apples. Some practices will advertise a seemingly affordable price for the dental implant. However, that may not include the crown or the other parts, so the real cost to you is much higher! To make it easier for our patients, we have provided some of the price ranges below. Please remember that every situation is different; after your comprehensive examination, 3D X-rays, and consultation, an exact quote for your entire treatment can be given.
Single Tooth Dental Implant Cost
At Cook Street Village Dental, the cost of a single tooth replacement can range from $2950 to $4380, or as low as $100/month. This includes the surgery to place the implant, all the parts required to restore the implant, and the crown that is fixed to the implant. Note, that there may be additional charges if bone grafting is required, a sinus augmentation is required, or soft tissue grafting. All these procedures can be done in-house, however, this may change the complexity, time, and cost of the case. After your first consultation, we will be able to give you an exact fee.
Dental Implant Bridge Cost
The cost for an implant retained bridge at Cook Street Village Dental ranges from $4980 to $8950. This includes the surgery to place the implant, all the parts required to restore the implant, and the crown that is fixed to the implant. There may be additional charges if bone grafting is required, a sinus augmentation is required, or soft tissue grafting. All these procedures can be done in-house, however, this may change the complexity, time, and cost of the case. There is a large range in the prices due to differences in each patient’s needs. After your first consultation we will be able to provide exact fees for you.
Full Arch Implant Cost
The cost for a full arch of fixed implants and teeth ranges from $24,500 to $33,500, or as low as $500/month. This includes the surgery to place the implants, a temporary healing prosthesis (either attached or removable, depending on a number of variables), 3D printed surgical guides, all parts required to restore the jaw, and the final prosthesis. The range of cost depends primarily on the final material you want- this is a life-changing treatment, and we have a number of options to discuss after the examination and consultation to make sure the solution fits what you desire. At Cook Street Village Dental, we have an in-house 3D x-ray machine, so combined with thorough examination and consultation, we can get all the information we need.
Removable Implant Supported Denture Cost
The cost for implant-supported dentures ranges from $3890 to $13,900, or as low as $200/month. This includes the surgery to place the implant, converting the existing denture to fit the implants and any parts involved. The cost range is dependent on available bone, the number of implants to be placed, whether specific parts (like a bar) are required to support the denture, and other factors.
Ready to Schedule an Appointment for Dental Implants?
As you can see, our dental implants in Victoria, BC, can be tailored to each individual patient. To see which solution would suit you the best, call us today or check out our Virtual Dental Consult.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who’s a good fit for dental implants?
Dental implants are a great restorative solution, but they're not a one-size-fits-all solution. Generally, healthy adults with strong jawbones are a great match. Though, the best way to know if they’re the right fit for you is to consult with Dr. Thode! He’ll consider your overall health, gums, and remaining bone to see if implants will fit your smile journey.
Will getting dental implants hurt?
Our implant surgery is performed under local anesthesia or sedation to ensure minimal discomfort. You may experience some soreness or swelling after the surgery, but we will help you manage this with pain medication.
How long will they last?
With proper care, dental implants can last forever! Just like your natural teeth, regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups are key, but if you treat them right, they'll treat you to a lifetime of confident smiles.
Can I smoke after getting my dental implants?
Smoking and tobacco products aren't the best for dental implants as they can increase the risk of implant failure. If you're considering implants, we recommend quitting smoking for ensure optimal success rates for your new smile.