Frequently asked questions from a dentist who does dental implants

Dental implants have become a reliable and popular option for patients who have faced tooth extraction and tooth loss. But they are not for everyone. Knowing what a dental implant is and how it is used to replace missing teeth is vital in determining if you are a proper candidate. At Riverside Dental Clinic, Dr. Ken Poznikoff and his team are here to help Drumheller, Alberta, area residents determine if they are a good fit for this or other tooth replacement options. Let’s take a look at some of the frequently asked questions heard by him and his team!

What is a dental implant?

Dr. Ken Poznikoff describes the dental implant as a small titanium post that our dental team surgically places into the jawbone to replace missing tooth roots. The implant naturally fuses with the bone and provides a stable foundation for one of many available dental prosthetics, such as a crown, bridge, or denture.

How is it done?

Many patients have questions about the process of obtaining a dental implant. There are several steps required.  First, the dental implant is surgically placed into the proper position in the jawbone. Then, it is allowed to heal and integrate with the surrounding bone tissue in a process called osseointegration. This can take several months but helps solidify the dental implant into place so it is structurally sound. Once the dental implant has fully integrated with the natural bone, an abutment (or a “connector piece”) is attached to the top of the implant. The final step is the placement of a prosthetic on top of the abutment, which may include a crown, bridge, or denture.

What are the benefits of dental implants?

One of the primary advantages of quality dental implants is their natural look and feel. They are also designed in such a way that they blend seamlessly with your existing teeth, both in appearance and functionality. With proper care, they often last a lifetime, making them a long-term solution for missing teeth. Furthermore, dental implants are designed to preserve the jawbone and prevent the expected bone loss that can occur with missing teeth. They do not require support from neighbouring teeth like bridges and partial dentures, which helps maintain the overall health of adjacent teeth.

Who is a good candidate for dental implants?

Any adult patient with good overall health and enough bone structure in their jaw to support the dental implant may be a candidate for this tooth replacement option. However, individuals with certain medical conditions or habits, including smoking, may not be good candidates for dental implants. We invite our patients to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ken Poznikoff and his team at Riverside Dental Clinic to determine if they are suitable candidates.

Who can I call to discuss dental implants and other tooth replacement options?

At Riverside Dental Clinic, we offer dental implants and other tooth replacement solutions for our patients. If you are considering your options, we welcome you into our office to learn more about dental implants and how they are placed. Call our office at (403) 823-7755 to request an upcoming appointment at 180 Riverside Drive East in Drumheller, Alberta.

Dr. Ken Poznikoff, General Dentist

With over 38 years of experience, Dr. Ken Poznikoff is a highly skilled General Dentist and the owner of Riverside Dental Clinic. A graduate of the University of Alberta, he holds a Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree as well as degrees in Science and Pharmacy. Dr. Poznikoff is committed to advanced dental education and has completed extensive training in orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry, implant dentistry, sleep disordered breathing, sedation dentistry, dentures and restorative dentistry. He holds hospital privileges at the Drumheller Regional Health Complex, providing surgical care under general anesthesia. Dedicated to long-term patient relationships, Dr. Poznikoff’s expertise and compassionate care makes him a trusted dental professional in the Drumheller community.

Dr. Xufan Huang, General Dentist

Dr. Xufan Huang is a dedicated General Dentist at Riverside Dental Clinic, known for his expertise and compassionate approach to patient care. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Alberta, where he received the prestigious Dr. E. J. Rajczak Student Scholar Award for achieving the highest standing in Restorative Dentistry and Prosthodontics. Dr. Huang believes in listening to his patients and educating them about their oral health, empowering them to make informed decisions. He is committed to continuous learning, regularly updating his skills with the latest dental techniques and technologies. Dr. Huang also values mentorship, sharing his knowledge and experience with others in the field. At Riverside Dental, Dr. Huang is focused on building long-term relationships with his patients, fostering trust, and helping them achieve healthy, confident smiles.

Dr. Claude Boutin, Orthodontist

Dr. Claude Boutin is a Board-Certified Orthodontist with over 35 years of specialized orthodontic care in Calgary and at Riverside Dental Clinic. A University of Alberta graduate, he pursued advanced orthodontic training at the University of Toronto. Dr. Boutin is a Fellow of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada and an active member of multiple orthodontic associations. Known for staying at the forefront of orthodontic advancements, Dr. Boutin frequently attends national conferences and lectures at prestigious meetings. His dedication to excellence and his involvement in the community solidifies his reputation as a leading orthodontic specialist.

Dr. Ben Thomas, Periodontist

Dr. Ben Thomas is a distinguished Periodontist with a Doctor of Dental Surgery, a Master of Public Health, and a Specialty Certificate in Periodontics from the University of North Carolina. With IV Sedation and Advanced Cardiac Life Support certifications, Dr. Thomas provides comprehensive periodontal care, including implant placement, gum grafting, and periodontal regeneration. A fellow of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada and a member of several prestigious periodontal organizations, Dr. Thomas stays at the forefront of periodontal advancements. His dedication to patient care and extensive expertise makes him a trusted professional at Riverside Dental Clinic.

Dr. Scott Townsend, General Dentist

Dr. Scott Townsend is a General Dentist with 19 years of experience. A former hockey player in the Western Hockey League, Dr. Townsend brings the same dedication and teamwork to his dental practice. He holds a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Alberta and is a member of the College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta, The Alberta Dental Association and the Canadian Dental Association. Dr. Townsend specializes in oral surgery including wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, and periodontal treatments. His compassionate approach and commitment to ongoing education ensure that patients receive personalized surgical care at Riverside Dental Clinic.

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