What Are Dental Implants?

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A dental implant is a permanent replacement for the root of a missing tooth. The implant itself is a small titanium post that is carefully placed in the jawbone. The implant integrates with the bone, over the course of 4-6 months, and a custom made dental crown is attached to create a replacement tooth that looks and feels much like a natural tooth.

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Why Choose Dental Implants?

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Dental implants offer several advantages over other tooth replacement options:

• They look and feel natural. Each implant crown is custom-made to match the colour and shape of your surrounding teeth

• You can eat with confidence. Implants are securely anchored in the jaw, allowing you to enjoy many of the foods you love.

• They protect your jawbone. Because implants replace the tooth root, they help preserve the bone that supports your facial structure.

• They are a long lasting solution. With excellent oral hygiene and regular dental care, implants can last for decades.

• Helps preserve healthy teeth. Unlike a dental bridge, implants don't rely on neighbouring teeth for support. ‍

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What Does the Dental Implant Process Involve?

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Dental implant treatment happens in stages, allowing time for the implant to become securely integrated with the jawbone before the final tooth is placed.

Consultation and planning: The first step is an assessment with Dr. John Christensen to discuss your goals, examine the area and determine whether a dental implant is the right option for you. Your treatment plan will depend on factors such as the health of your gums, the amount of available bone and the location of the missing tooth.

Implant placement: The titanium implant is carefully placed into the jawbone where the missing tooth root once was.

Healing: Over the next several months, the implant gradually integrates with the surrounding bone. This process, called osseointegration, creates a stable foundation for your new tooth.

Final restoration: Once healing is complete, a custom-made dental crown is attached to the implant. The crown is designed to blend naturally with the colour and shape of your surrounding teeth.

At Metral Dental, Dr. Christensen performs both the surgical placement of the implant and the final restoration, allowing your treatment to be planned and completed with continuity of care from beginning to end.

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Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?

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Dental implants can be an excellent option for many adults who are missing one or more teeth, but every situation is different.

Good candidates generally have healthy gums, sufficient bone to support an implant and overall health that allows for normal healing. If you have experienced bone loss, additional treatment may sometimes be needed before an implant can be placed.

Factors such as smoking, certain medical conditions and medications can also affect healing and implant success. A consultation with Dr. Christensen is the best way to determine whether dental implants are appropriate for you and to discuss any alternatives.

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How Long Does Dental Implant Treatment Take?

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Dental implant treatment typically takes several months from implant placement to the final restoration. Much of that time is simply allowing the implant to heal and integrate securely with the jawbone.

Every case is different. The treatment timeline can depend on the location of the implant, the condition of the bone and gums, whether a tooth needs to be removed first, and whether additional procedures are required.

At your consultation, Dr. Christensen can explain what the process is likely to look like for your individual situation.

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What Makes Implant Treatment at Metral Dental Different?

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Choosing dental implants is a significant decision, and we believe you should feel informed and supported every step of the way.

At Metral Dental, Dr. John Christensen works closely with each patient to determine whether dental implants are the right choice. Because he performs both the surgical placement of the implant and the final restoration, you'll have continuity of care throughout your treatment, with one dentist who understands every stage of your case. Our goal isn't simply to replace a missing tooth, it is to restore your confidence, comfort, and long term oral health.

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Dental Implant FAQs

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Are dental implants painful?

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The implant area is numbed during the procedure, and many patients are surprised by how manageable the experience is. Some tenderness, swelling or discomfort is normal afterward and usually improves as the area heals. Dr. Christensen will provide instructions for keeping you comfortable during recovery.

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How long do dental implants last?

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Dental implants are designed to be a long-term tooth replacement. With good oral hygiene, healthy gums and regular dental care, an implant can last for many years. The crown attached to the implant may eventually need replacement due to normal wear.

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Can I replace more than one missing tooth with implants?

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Yes. Dental implants can be used to replace a single missing tooth or as part of a treatment plan for multiple missing teeth. The best approach depends on your individual needs and will be discussed during your consultation.

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How much do dental implants cost in Nanaimo?

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The cost of dental implant treatment varies because every case is different. The number of teeth being replaced, the condition of the jawbone, the type of restoration and whether additional procedures are required can all affect the total cost. After assessing your individual needs, we can provide a treatment plan and discuss the expected fees with you.‍

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Can I get an implant after having a tooth removed?

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Often, yes. In some situations an implant can be placed at the time of extraction, while in others the area needs time to heal first. Dr. Christensen can recommend the appropriate timing based on the health of the tooth, gums and surrounding bone.

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From implant placement to final restoration, we treat patients across Nanaimo and its surrounding communities. Book a consultation today!

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