Whether it’s because of injury, infection, or functional problems, there are several reasons why you may lose a tooth at some point in your life. However, just because you’ve experienced tooth loss doesn’t mean there aren’t ways to achieve a fuller-looking smile.
Dental implants can permanently replace missing teeth, restoring the functionality and look of your smile while preventing potential issues from developing in the future.
We are proud to perform dental implants at Hometown Dental. Find out if an implant is right for your needs and request an appointment today.
Dental implants are artificial teeth held in place by metal roots fixed to your jawbone.
If you’re missing a tooth, the tissues around the open area can resorb and cause your remaining teeth to shift, affecting how your bite functions. You may also lose bone material in your jaw over time, which could cause issues with your bite and facial structure.
Implanting an artificial tooth can help preserve the quality of your bite as well as prevent bone loss and shifting teeth.
Dental implants are a fantastic way to restore the look and function of your teeth, but they may not always be the right choice for you.
In some cases, we may recommend bridges, which can restore multiple teeth at once, or full dentures to address more serious issues. We can determine if an implant is right for you when you come in for a consultation appointment.
We can perform implant surgeries in our office, but we may refer out some procedures on a case-by-case basis.
Before starting the implant procedure, we need to examine your teeth and jawbone. If you’ve had a missing tooth for a while, you may have lost some bone material that we’ll need to replace with a bone graft before placing the implant.
We can examine these areas using x-rays and CEREC scanning technology to create a comprehensive 3D look at your jaw and plan your implant.
During the implant procedure and after we’ve applied anesthetic, the first step is to create a hole in your jawbone where we’ll fix the implant. We’ll make an incision into your gums to access your jawbone and use various drilling techniques to create the hole for your implant.
The implant is a metal root we secure into your jawbone. We may use different types of metal roots for your implant, like single implants and screw-retained implants, but we can go over the differences and recommend one before starting the treatment.
Once the implant is placed, an abutment is screwed to the top of the implant, where it will appear above your gum line. After stitching the gum tissue back together, we’ll have it heal for a few weeks before finishing the treatment with a crown.
The crown is the visible tooth of your dental implant. It is placed over top of the abutment and cemented in place.
Using CEREC technology or 3D printing technology, we can create custom crowns unique to your needs, thanks to the information we gather during the planning process.
After we place the crown, we may have you in for a few follow-up appointments to see how you’re adjusting to your implant and address any concerns. Your implant can help retain look and function just like your natural teeth as long as you keep the crown clean with regular brushing and flossing.
See how a dental implant can help you enjoy a fuller-looking smile. Start today by requesting your appointment at Hometown Dental.
We’re conveniently located in lovely Okotoks, across from Westmount School near the Tucker Parkway.
Keep up-to-date with the latest advancements in dentistry. Read our blog to learn more about oral health, cosmetic dentistry, whitening, and more.
There are 206 bones in the human body, yet, when discussing oral health, many people assume teeth are simply another type of bone. After all, they’re both hard, white, and crucial to our overall health. But are teeth truly considered bones? The short answer is no. While teeth and bones share some similarities, they are […]
Brushing your teeth is a daily routine. Most people follow it without thought—after all, we all learned it from a young age! However, regular brushing is key to maintaining a healthy smile. But what if this habit could be done to excess, eventually leading to oral health issues? You can brush your teeth too much, […]
Many common dental issues are preventable—as long as you have the right habits and knowledge. Taking care of your teeth is often much easier than you think, but it does require a proactive approach. But what if you’re already dealing with a condition like gum recession? Can this be reversed, or is it permanent? Gum […]
Dental procedures can be uncomfortable experiences for some people, but they’re essential for your dental health. Something like a tooth extraction can prevent infection from spreading and remove decaying teeth. After undergoing a dental procedure such as this, your dentist may advise you to use gauze to control bleeding and promote healing. Gauze is a […]
Good oral hygiene isn’t difficult to accomplish, but it can sometimes be hard to stick to good habits when life gets busy. Unfortunately, even when adhering to a dentist-recommended schedule for teeth exams and cleanings, sometimes tooth decay can get away from us. And if left unchecked, this tooth decay can begin causing problems in […]
The new Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) came into effect in December 2023 and will be gradually opened for applications throughout 2024 and into the start of 2025. The CDCP offers some dental coverage for specific eligible people but may not fully cover the cost of your dental services. It’s important to fully understand the […]
Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is essential for both dental health and overall health, yet many people delay or put off seeing the dentist due to anxiety. While dental anxiety is widespread and nothing to be ashamed of, it can be overcome through different techniques like bringing a friend, taking anxiety medication, practicing meditation, or […]
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a serious oral health condition that can lead to tooth loss and other significant health issues if left untreated. At Hometown Dental, we understand the importance of addressing gum disease with the proper professional care. While it might be tempting to rely on home remedies to manage […]
Both Invisalign and braces are two common orthodontic treatments used to straighten and align teeth. For mild to moderate misalignment, some may find that Invisalign is more convenient than braces because they are discreet and removable. However, it’s still important for your dentist to properly assess alignment issues and recommend the right treatment. Understanding Invisalign […]
In recent years, vaping has surged in popularity–particularly among younger demographics–as a perceived safer alternative to traditional cigarette smoking. While the long-term health effects of vaping are still under investigation, one area of concern that warrants immediate attention is oral health. Specifically, how does vaping impact your teeth and gums? Let’s explore the evidence and […]
Dental cleaning and exams may take up valuable time in a day, but they’re critical for good oral health for years to come. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer for how long a dental cleaning takes because there are so many variables, but the average cleaning takes between 30 and 60 minutes. One thing to remember […]
Flossing can pose some challenges, but you can use threaders, interdental brushes, or water flossing to maintain good oral hygiene with a permanent retainer. […]
Many people strive for a bright, white smile. Fortunately, with the rise of teeth-whitening treatments like the Zoom whitening offered at Hometown Dental, achieving a bright and shining smile is easier than ever. But there’s an important question worth asking: Does teeth whitening damage enamel? Teeth whitening is typically safe when performed by an experienced […]
If you’ve ever had a toothache that somehow made your head ache, know that it’s not just bad luck. Your toothache could radiate through your jaw and facial muscles to become the sneaky cause behind that unwelcome headache. Nothing ruins your day like pain, and it could be a sign of something that requires immediate […]
For many people, dental anxiety can turn what should be routine oral care into a source of distress. While one option people turn to is sedation dentistry, the Solea dental laser can be a unique way to reduce your family’s discomfort during a procedure. In some cases, you may not even need an anesthetic. The […]
Cavities are no fun, and they can lead to serious problems with your teeth and gums if you aren’t careful. While a dentist can treat a cavity, cavities can often be easier to prevent than to treat. If you’ve ever noticed a toothache or seen a discoloured spot on your teeth, you might have wondered: […]
Sleep apnea is a disorder that results in breathing pauses while you sleep. Surprisingly, your dentist can help with breathing issues like sleep apnea. Several factors can increase your risk of developing sleep apnea. While central sleep apnea is not inherited, obstructive sleep apnea is hereditary. What Is Sleep Apnea? Sleep apnea presents with interrupted […]
Smoking can be a tough habit to quit, but it’s crucial to grasp the risks linked to smoking after a tooth extraction. Understanding these risks can help you make an informed decision about your oral health and avoid the need for restorative dental care or emergency dental care in the future. You should avoid smoking […]
Botox treatments have become increasingly popular for their cosmetic and anti-aging benefits. While it’s often associated with beauty clinics and medical spas, there’s another group that can provide Botox: dentists. But why should you see a dentist for Botox instead of another clinic? Dentists are trained in the complex anatomy of the face, which is […]
Dental fillings help repair teeth, significantly improving their look and function. While fillings have traditionally required noisy drills that patients sometimes find uncomfortable and time-consuming, modern technology has revolutionized the process. Thanks to innovative advancements like Solea laser technology, you can get a dental filling and be in and out of your dentist’s office in […]
When it comes to straightening teeth, you’ve likely heard of a familiar brand before—Invisalign. While Invisalign is well known, it isn’t your only option. SureSmile can help improve your smile by shifting your teeth into place. If you’re debating between SureSmile and Invisalign, what are their differences? A Difference in Price & Treatment Timeline There […]
You no longer have to be a Hollywood celebrity to have bright, nearly flawless teeth. Thanks to advancements in dental technology, veneers have become popular aesthetic options for people from all walks of life. Veneers are thin, custom-made shells bonded to the front surface of your teeth to improve their colour, shape, or size. The […]
If you’ve ever had a chipped tooth, you likely know how uncomfortable and unsettling it can be. But can a chipped tooth heal itself? No, a chipped tooth cannot heal on its own. If you experience tooth damage, you should see your dentist as soon as possible to get treatment. Dental treatment is essential for […]
Many people don’t necessarily associate sleeping well with dentistry, but dentists can be essential to determine if you have sleep apnea. You may have heard of sleep apnea before, but you may not be entirely sure what it is or whether you have it. Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that may affect not […]
If you or someone you know has missing teeth, your dentist or doctor may recommend dentures as a replacement. As an artificial replacement for missing teeth and gums, dentures can be an excellent option for retaining your ability to speak and eat normally. There are two types of dentures: complete and partial. Complete dentures are […]
The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, is the joint where your lower jaw connects to your skull. It controls how you chew, how to speak, and how your jaw moves in general. Temporomandibular disorders, also known as TMJ or TMD, are a group of several different conditions that can cause pain, discomfort, or irritation in the […]
If you’re experiencing dental anxiety, you’re not alone. People of all ages struggle with apprehension at dentist appointments, which can lead to patients postponing visits and potentially worsening dental conditions. Now, it’s possible to face dental anxiety head-on with options like sedation dentistry and Solea laser dentistry. Once you try alternative treatment styles, you can […]
For many people, it takes a lot to work up the courage to get a root canal done. After the procedure is over, it may feel like a whole other ordeal to have to go back for a dental crown procedure. You might be wondering “Do I even need a crown?”. If you want to […]
Your oral health is an important part of your overall health, and it’s essential to maintain regular dental exams and cleanings with your dental professional. Building good dental health habits for the whole family goes a long way in preserving your smile. Routine oral assessments and cleanings help prevent cavities and other issues and ensure […]
Identifying Sleep Apnea Getting a good night’s sleep is essential. But when sleep apnea affects your rest, you can experience uncomfortable, challenging symptoms. About 858,900 Canadian adults have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, and more than 1 in 4 adults have reported symptoms or risk factors associated with obstructive sleep apnea. While most people might […]
Nice looking teeth are more than just about physical appearance. In many cases, it’s also a matter of self confidence. That’s why teeth whitening procedures are a hit, whether at-home or in-office. People often start with an at-home treatment such as whitening toothpaste or mouthwash for convenience. Unfortunately, the stains on our teeth sometimes become […]
The countdown is on to my favourite holiday of the year – Christmas! The best part, of course, is getting together with the people I love most, sharing in family traditions, enjoying a wonderful meal, and basking in the glow of a brightly decorated Christmas tree. All that brings back wonderful memories from my childhood. […]
Tomorrow is Remembrance Day, and I would like to take this opportunity to honour the sacrifices that military people have made – and continue to make – by putting their duty and country ahead of themselves. In what might be seen as a break with tradition, I also want to honour the health care heroes […]
We all hope you had an excellent Thanksgiving! The Hometown Dental crew and I certainly did, and we agreed that this year, the holiday felt more significant than ever.These days, I see more folks trading in their warm smiles for perpetual jaw-clenching frowns, despite our attempts to distract patients with Netflix while they’re in for […]
You can finally stop scrolling through dental hygienist job postings because your dream job is right here at Hometown Dental! Our amazing team is seeking all passionate, skilled, and experienced dental hygienists to join our war on cavities and gum disease. If that sounds like YOU, let us tell you about who we are so […]
I’ve been asked the question many times, “Why did you decide to become a dentist?” I can’t say it was initially a childhood dream but part of the reason does stem back to my first experiences at the dentist as a child. I grew up in Mazeppa, just east of High River with my three […]
Have you ever had a toothache?If you have, you probably don’t want to have another one.If you haven’t, you really don’t ever want one! In that case, let’s talk about oral health, more specifically hygiene and prevention. YOUR DIET AND YOUR TEETH Let’s start with diet. Yup, you read that right! Diet is a huge […]
Did you know that 1 in 4 people suffer from Sleep Apnea? It is an under-diagnosed medical issue (80% of people with sleep apnea are undiagnosed) that can have a lot of medical consequences if left untreated. It is more than just snoring or not having a good night’s sleep…although those can be signs of Obstructive […]
We’re thrilled to welcome Tatem Anderson to our team here at Hometown Dental, where he’s been making beautiful smiles since December of 2020. Tatem is our specialist in dentures, providing everything you need related to dentures. Originally from Lethbridge, Alberta, Tatem has been a long-time dental professional. He first entered the dental field when a family […]
From the moment you feel a twinge in your tooth, you’re filled with dread. Then, you finally set up the appointment. When the day arrives, you wake up with knots in your stomach. I understand! Lots of people may feel nervous or anxious about visiting the dentist. In fact, up to 40% of Canadians have reported […]
AT HOMETOWN DENTAL IN OKOTOKS, WE OFFER DENTAL FILLINGS AND RESTORATIONS Tooth decay or cavities are most commonly treated with direct restorations which are commonly referred to as fillings. Tooth decay is the result of oral bacteria in plaque converting sugar from our diets to acid. Plaque is constantly forming and is very sticky to […]
LEARN MORE ABOUT DENTAL CROWNS AND BRIDGES WHAT IS A CROWN? When a tooth has been compromised structurally or esthetics needs improvement, a crown or cap can be placed on the tooth. The tooth is first anesthetized and then prepared with a handpiece to reduce the size of the sides and the top of the […]
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR PORCELAIN VENEERS COSMETIC DENTAL SERVICES Porcelain veneers are a restorative option for front teeth where aesthetic improvement is desired. They can improve colour, shape and position of the front teeth. Veneers at Hometown Dental are made out of porcelain in the same way that crowns are, however the difference is they […]
Root canal treatment or endodontic therapy is the process of cleaning and disinfecting the pulp chambers and canals inside a tooth when there has been injury, infection or damage to the pulp (nerve and blood vessels). This can result from deep decay that infects the pulp with bacteria or trauma that damages the tooth and […]
LEARN MORE ABOUT ORAL SURGERY OPTIONS AND OUR PROCESS Oral surgery might be recommended at times when teeth need to be removed. Teeth often require removal if there is extensive decay or fracture of the tooth and it cannot be restored or preserved. If a tooth requires root canal therapy but a patient choses not […]
Dentures are dental appliances that replace missing teeth and can be taken in and out of the mouth. Depending on the number of teeth missing, either partial dentures or complete dentures can be fabricated. There are also options for attaching dentures to implants to provide further stability. Partial Dentures When multiple teeth are missing in […]
At Hometown Dental in Okotoks, we understand that going to the dentist can make patients nervous or apprehensive. For those patients, we offer two types of conscious sedation: oral and inhalation (as well as a combination of the two). Sedation is a process used to create a relaxed and calm state through the use of […]
AT HOMETOWN DENTAL IN OKOTOKS DENTAL, WE OFFER INVISALIGN AND SURESMILE ORTHODONTICS SERVICES When teeth are misaligned, crowded, crooked and/or don’t fit together correctly, orthodontics (braces) can be used to correct these problems. Invisalign or Suresmile is an esthetic option to treat certain malocclusion cases. Instead of the traditional metal brackets and wires, a series […]
LOOKING FOR EMERGENCY DENTISTRY IN OKOTOKS? HOMETOWN DENTAL IS HERE TO HELP! At Hometown Dental, we understand dental emergencies occur. Teeth can be damaged or fall out due to accidents and sometimes a toothache will spontaneously occur where the pain is unbearable. Even if a crown falls off or a filling falls out, treatment should not […]
LEARN MORE ABOUT HOMETOWN DENTAL’S KID-FRIENDLY DENTAL APPROACH Hometown Dental is a family dental practice which means kids make up a significant portion of our clinic. Our sensitive, fun, kid-friendly approach can help create a comfortable experience at the dentist and establish great long-term oral health. It is very important to start seeing children early […]
AT HOMETOWN DENTAL IN OKOTOKS DENTAL, WE OFFER MOUTH GUARDS SERVICES Night Guards For people who experience tooth wear from grinding/clenching their teeth at night or have TMD (temporomandibular joint dysfunction), a night guard or bite splint is a very beneficial appliance. It can help alleviate symptoms and prevent further damage to the teeth and […]
AT HOMETOWN DENTAL IN OKOTOKS DENTAL, WE OFFER TEETH WHITENING SERVICES Teeth whitening or “bleaching” is a popular esthetic service at Hometown Dental. We offer in-office “Iveri” whitening, “Zoom” whitening as well as the take-home whitening kit option. Teeth whitening is done when a patient desires a brighter, more esthetic smile. The peroxide-based solutions can […]
AT HOMETOWN DENTAL IN OKOTOKS, ALBERTA WE OFFER HYGIENE CLEANING Hometown Dental’s hygienists are an integral part of our team as oral hygiene is extremely important to one’s overall oral health. Gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and Periodontitis (inflammation of the supporting structures of the tooth) can be prevented with excellent home care and regular […]
AT HOMETOWN DENTAL IN OKOTOKS, WE OFFER DENTAL IMPLANTS When there are missing teeth in the jaw, dental implants are a great option for replacing them. The titanium implant mimics the root structure of a tooth and is bio-compatible so that the bone actually grows and attaches to it (osseointegration). Understanding Tooth Loss The Dental […]
Do you wish your smile was brighter? It’s a fairly common desire and one I hear in the office all the time. After all, there are so many things that can cause your teeth to become discoloured. From drinks like coffee and red wine to ageing, and genetics, it’s nearly impossible to keep your teeth from […]
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