There are many reasons tooth loss occurs, including gum disease, not seeing a dentist regularly or following an appropriate at home oral health routine, smoking or tobacco use, accidents, injuries, extractions, or having certain health conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, high blood pressure, or diabetes.

Dental implants are recommended treatment for many patients who are experiencing tooth loss or have teeth that are so badly damaged that they require extraction. Depending upon the reason for a tooth extraction, in certain cases the tooth may be removed and a dental implant surgically placed at the same time.

The benefits of dental implants include:

• Dental implants replace the root of the missing tooth with a safe and sturdy titanium post, topped with a dental crown
• Neighbouring teeth aren’t reduced or changed to replace the missing tooth
• Bone levels are better maintained
• The implant may support additional teeth if future tooth loss occurs
• Cleaning around an implant is simpler than other options
• Restored oral function for chewing and speaking
• Natural-looking, permanent, durable

The best cases to benefit from dental implants are those in which the patient has sufficient jawbone and is a non-smoker. If the jawbone is comprised or weakened, a bone graft can strengthen the jawbone for later insertion of a dental implant.

For patients who have tooth loss or require an extraction and are considering dental implants, the first step is scheduling a comprehensive consultation with a dentist with experience and training in implant surgery. At Wellness Dental in Calgary, AB, our biological and holistic dentist Dr. Kindal Robertson is a doctor of dental surgery (DDS) with a background in biochemistry and extensive training in dental implant techniques. As a biological dentist, he also understands the systemic relationship between oral health and overall physical health. Consultation with Dr. Robertson will assess a patient’s medical history and any risk factors for treatment.

If a patient is determined to be a candidate for dental implants, Dr. Robertson will explain the procedure, benefits, and any risks associated in detail. The implant is then inserted into the bone, using a technique which is less invasive than traditional implant incisions which cut into the gum and bone. The bone will fuse to the titanium post over a period of weeks. Once securely bonded in the jaw, an extension is attached to the implant and an aesthetically pleasing ceramic crown is placed.

Dental implants may replace one tooth, several teeth, or may be used to hold other prosthetic teeth in place, such as dentures and bridges.

Wellness Dental serves patients from Calgary, Red Deer, Airdrie, and Canmore, and is located at #208-3604 52nd Avenue NW, Calgary, AB. Appointments may be scheduled online or by calling us at (403) 800-0818.