Dental Implants

At Luka Dental Care in London, ON, Dr. Rand Luka provides the latest in dental implants and restorative dentistry technology. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that serve as anchors for replacement teeth. When a patient is missing one or more teeth, dental implants are the most permanent (and often the most comfortable) solution. Visit our smile gallery to view some before-and-after photos of the results enjoyed by dental implant patients.

Steps for Dental Implants

The first step in the dental implants process for our patients is a consultation with Dr. Luka, during which all possible tooth replacement options will be discussed. To be a good candidate for dental implants, the dental patient must have sufficient bone in his or her jaw to support the implants. Once it is determined that the patient is a good candidate for dental implants, Dr. Luka will surgically implant the titanium screws that serve as anchors into the patient’s jaw. 

The next step in the dental implants process will occur three to six months later, after the titanium tooth roots have completely fused to the patient’s jaw bone. Once this has occurred, the patient returns to our office where Dr. Luka will fit the custom-crafted replacement teeth onto the patient’s artificial tooth roots.

Dental Implants

Dental Implants Preferred Over Dentures

Many of the dental implant patients prefer permanent dental implants over traditional removable dentures for several reasons. Dental implants are nearly indistinguishable from a patient’s natural teeth, unlike dentures which look artificial. While traditional dentures need to be removed nightly for cleaning, dental implants are a permanent tooth loss solution that require no additional maintenance outside of a good oral hygiene routine. Dental implants also allow patients to feel more comfortable while speaking and eating because dental implants are permanently affixed to the patient’s jaw and won’t shift or slip as with traditional dentures.

How many teeth can be replaced with dental implants?

You can replace a single tooth, multiple teeth or all your teeth with implants (View Examples). You don’t even need one implant for every missing tooth. As few as two Implants can support a removable lower denture, while as few as four implants can provide a full, permanent set of top or bottom teeth.

Can anyone receive dental implants?

Dr. Chetty will be happy to discuss whether you are a good candidate; however, there are some limitations. You must be in good health and have the proper bone structure and healthy gums for the implant to stay in place. People who are unable to wear dentures may also be good candidates. If you suffer from chronic problems, such as clenching or bruxism, or systemic diseases, such as diabetes, the success rate for implants decreases dramatically. Additionally, people who smoke or drink alcohol may not be good candidates.

What can I expect during this procedure?

First, Dr. Chetty performs surgery to anchor the “artificial root” into or on your jaw bone. The procedure is done in our office with local anesthesia. The gum is then secured over the implant, which will remain covered until it fuses with the bone. This usually takes about 3-6 months. The dentist then uncovers the implant and attaches an extension, or post, to the implant. With some implants, the implant and post are a single unit placed in the mouth during the initial surgery. Finally, the dentist makes an artificial tooth, or crown, that is attached to the implant post. It will be as if you never lost your tooth.

How long does the process take?

The process can take up to nine months to complete. Each patient heals differently, so times will vary. After the implant and posts are placed surgically, the healing process can take up to six months and the fitting of replacement teeth no more than two months. Sometimes, if a patient has good bone quality, posts can be placed and replacement teeth fitted in one appointment.

Replace your missing and broken teeth with top-quality custom dental implants from Luka Dental Care,
Call our London, ON office at (519) 472-4460
For more information or to schedule your appointment today!