A missing tooth affects more than your smile. It changes how you chew, how you speak, and over time, it affects the bone in your jaw. A dental implant is the closest modern dentistry can get to replacing a natural tooth from the root up. At Mint 32 Dentistry, we provide implant consultations and coordinate treatment to give you a result that looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth.
An implant is a small titanium post placed into the jawbone to act as a replacement tooth root. Three components work together to form the complete restoration.
The titanium post is surgically placed into the jawbone. Over a healing period of several months, it bonds with the bone through a natural process called osseointegration, becoming a stable, permanent anchor.
Once the implant has healed, a connector piece called an abutment is attached to the top of the post. This provides the attachment point for the visible tooth portion.
A custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is placed on the abutment. This is the part you see. It is fabricated to match the colour, shape, and size of your surrounding teeth.
Implants are not right for everyone. A thorough assessment is needed before treatment can be planned.
Active gum disease must be treated and stable before implant placement. Healthy gum tissue is essential for long-term implant success.
Sufficient bone volume and density are needed to anchor the implant securely. We assess bone levels using imaging at your consultation. If bone volume is insufficient, a bone graft may be needed before implant placement; we discuss this honestly if it applies to your case.
Certain health conditions and medications can affect how well the implant integrates with the bone. We review your medical history at the consultation to identify any relevant factors.
Smoking significantly reduces implant success rates by affecting blood flow and healing. We discuss this openly with patients who smoke so they can make an informed decision.
We discuss only the treatment options available at our clinic.
One implant post topped with a single crown replaces a missing tooth completely without involving the adjacent teeth.
Two or more implants can support a bridge spanning several missing teeth, providing a fixed, non-removable restoration without relying on natural teeth as anchors.
For patients missing all or most teeth in an arch, implants can be used to anchor a denture firmly in place, eliminating the slipping and discomfort associated with conventional removable dentures.
Implant treatment happens in stages. The full process from consultation to final restoration takes several months, with most of that time being healing rather than active treatment.
Most patients manage implant placement recovery well with over-the-counter pain relief.
Serious complications are uncommon when patients are properly assessed and follow post-operative instructions.
Both replace missing teeth. The right choice depends on your specific situation, bone health, and preferences.
| Factor | Dental Implant | Dental Bridge |
|---|---|---|
| Adjacent teeth affected | No | Yes — anchor teeth are prepared |
| Bone preservation | Yes | No |
| Longevity | 20 years or more with care | 10 to 15 years typically |
| Treatment duration | Several months | A few weeks |
| Cost | Higher upfront | Lower upfront |
Implant treatment involves multiple appointments and a laboratory cost, which means it is one of the more significant dental investments. The total cost depends on the number of implants, the type of restoration, and whether additional procedures such as bone grafting are needed.
Important CDCP note: The Canadian Dental Care Plan does not currently cover dental implants or implant-supported restorations. Bridges and dentures are covered alternatives for eligible patients. Some private insurance plans include partial implant coverage; we will check your specific plan at your consultation.
Book a consultation at our North York clinic, and we will assess your situation honestly.
From the initial consultation to the final crown placement, the process typically takes four to nine months. Most of this time is the healing period after implant placement, not active treatment.
The procedure is done under local anaesthetic. Most patients report the experience as less uncomfortable than they expected. Post-operative soreness for a few days is normal.
With proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits, dental implants can last 20 years or more. Many last a lifetime. The crown on top may need replacement after 10 to 15 years depending on wear.
Yes, in most cases. Sometimes an implant can be placed immediately after extraction. In other cases, a healing period is recommended first. We assess this at your consultation.
If there is insufficient bone to support the implant, a bone graft may be needed before placement. We discuss this at the consultation if it applies to your situation.
No. CDCP does not currently cover dental implants or implant-related procedures. Bridges and dentures are the covered alternatives for eligible patients.