What a Dental Implant Is
A dental implant uses a small titanium post that fuses with your jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. A custom-made crown is then attached, so the result looks, feels and functions like a natural tooth. An implant is made of three parts: the titanium post that acts as an artificial root, an abutment that connects the post to the tooth, and the crown itself. Implants are designed to be long lasting, and with good care they can last many years.
Benefits of Dental Implants
- Improved ability to chew and speak naturally.
- Designed to be a long-lasting solution for missing teeth.
- Cared for the same way you care for natural teeth.
- Stability, because implants do not move or slip along the gums.
- A more confident smile and a natural appearance.
- Protection for surrounding healthy teeth, which are not trimmed down as they are for a traditional bridge.
- Support for your jawbone, because the implant acts as a replacement root.
Who Is a Good Candidate
The best candidates for dental implants generally have healthy gums and no active oral disease, and enough jawbone to support the implant post. If the jawbone is not thick or strong enough, a bone graft may be recommended first, which adds healing time before the implant is placed. Your dentist will assess this at your consultation, often with 3D imaging, and explain whether implants are right for you or whether another option such as a bridge or denture would suit you better.
How the Implant Process Works
- Free consultation: we review your health, your goals and your questions, and take the images we need.
- Planning: 3D imaging helps map the placement of the implant precisely before we begin.
- Implant placement: the titanium post is placed in the jawbone using local anesthesia.
- Healing: over a period of months, the post fuses with the bone in a process called osseointegration. A temporary solution may be possible while you wait.
- Abutment and crown: once the post has fused, the abutment is attached and your custom crown is placed on top.
Your dentist will explain who will place your implant and the exact steps and timeline for your case.
Comfort During Treatment
We want you to feel at ease. Local anesthesia numbs the area during treatment. If you feel nervous about any part of the process, let us know when you book and we will talk through your options.
Before Your Visit
- Bring a list of medications and any information about your medical history.
- Tell us if you smoke or have been told you have gum disease, since these can affect healing.
- Bring recent dental X-rays if you have them.
- Write down your questions about cost, timing and options.
- Follow any instructions you are given about eating, drinking or medication before implant surgery.
After Your Treatment
- Some swelling, tenderness or minor bleeding is normal in the first few days.
- Eat soft foods and avoid chewing on the treated area until your dentist says it is safe.
- Keep the area clean as instructed and avoid disturbing it with your tongue or fingers.
- Take any prescribed or recommended pain relief as directed.
- Brush and floss around your implant as you would natural teeth, and keep all follow-up visits.
- Call the clinic if you have swelling that increases, fever, lasting pain or bleeding that does not stop.
Cost, Insurance and Direct Billing
Our fees run 5% below the Alberta Dental Association Fee Guide, and we give you a written cost estimate before any treatment begins. We bill your insurance directly and offer easy financing and monthly payment plans. Offers are currently available, so ask our front desk. Book a free implant consultation to find out whether you are a candidate, or use our online tool to get an accurate cost estimate.
Why Choose Allard Station Dental for Implants
- A free, no-obligation implant consultation.
- 3D imaging for precise implant planning.
- Direct insurance billing and financing options.
- Evening and weekend appointments, with the clinic open seven days a week.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do dental implants cost in Edmonton?
The cost depends on how many teeth you are replacing and whether you need extra procedures such as a bone graft. Our fees run 5% below the Alberta Dental Association Fee Guide, and you will receive a written estimate before treatment begins. You can also use our online cost estimate tool.
Does getting a dental implant hurt?
The area is numbed with local anesthesia during treatment. Some soreness and swelling afterward is normal and usually manageable with the pain relief your dentist recommends.
How long do dental implants last?
Implants are designed to be long lasting, and with proper care many last for years. Daily brushing, flossing and regular checkups help protect them.
How long does the implant process take?
It usually takes several months because the post needs time to fuse with the jawbone before the final crown is placed. If a bone graft is needed, the process takes longer. Your dentist will give you a timeline.
Am I too old to get dental implants?
Age alone is not usually the deciding factor. What matters most is the health of your gums and jawbone and your general health. Your dentist will assess this at your consultation.
Does insurance cover dental implants?
Coverage varies by plan, and some plans cover part of the cost. We bill your insurance directly and can give you a written estimate so you know what to expect.
What happens if I do not have enough bone for an implant?
A bone graft may be recommended to build up the jawbone first. This adds a healing period before the implant is placed. Your dentist will explain whether this applies to you.