• Improved biting pressure – Healthy teeth are able to absorb over 500 pounds of biting pressure per square inch. If you’ve worn dentures for a long time, that pressure can be diminished to as little as one tenth that of natural teeth. Dental implants can often restore the amount of pressure to nearly the same level as that of natural teeth.

• Comfort and fit – Because your replacement teeth are anchored securely to the implants in your jawbone, they can’t slip and slide like unsecured dentures can. When dentures aren’t secure enough, they often cause sores in the mouth and an annoying clicking sound. Dental implants eliminate these problems.

• Longevity and reliability – With proper oral hygiene and care, scientifically tested and approved dental implant systems have been shown to last as long as 20 years or more with few complications.

• Increased self-confidence – Because dental implants function like natural teeth, most people who get them experience a renewed sense of self-confidence once they realise they can chew, talk, laugh and smile with confidence.

What risks are involved?
Dental implant surgery has proven to be successful for hundreds of thousands of people over the years. Negative effects such as bleeding, infection, injury to the nerves or sinus cavity or incomplete healing of the bone around the implant resulting in failure are rare.

During the healing process however, discomfort, swelling and inflammation of the gums – normal responses to oral surgery – may be present in varying degrees. If you have questions about your individual situation or want to discuss what is considered normal in the healing process, we will be happy to discuss your concerns.

How do I know if I am a good candidate for implants?
If you face the loss of one or several teeth, or if you are dissatisfied with dentures or other options, you may find that implants are right for you. Age is not typically a major factor – successful implants have been performed on young people as well as the elderly.

During your initial consultation, we’ll help you decide. In general, we look for the following characteristics:

• General good health.
• Healthy gums.
• Sufficient underlying jawbone to support the implants.
• A good attitude to ensure that you follow through with vital oral hygiene habits.

What type of care is required for dental implants?
The care you give to your dental implants makes a tremendous difference in the overall satisfaction you experience, as well as the longevity of the implant itself. With proper oral hygiene habits – brushing, flossing and regular dental check-ups – your implant will serve you well.

Contact Us at Bay Dental to find out how this exciting new implant technology can help create your beautiful new smile.