Having a missing tooth does not automatically mean an implant is appropriate. This guide focuses on suitability factors rather than promising a treatment result. Our dental implants service page describes the treatment, while the assessment preparation checklist explains what information to bring.

Review Your Health and Medicines

Tell the dentist about medical conditions, medicines, allergies, smoking and previous surgery or healing concerns. The relevance of a condition depends on the individual situation. Do not stop or change prescribed medicine on your own to prepare for dental care.

Assess Gum and Bone Support

The dentist examines the mouth and uses diagnostic information when clinically needed to assess supporting tissues. Gum problems may need care first. Where bone is limited, the discussion may include additional treatment, a different approach or another tooth-replacement option. Bone grafting does not guarantee implant eligibility.

Consider the Planned Restoration

The position of the space, bite, nearby teeth and restoration design matter. Ask how the proposed replacement would function and be cleaned. Discuss bridges and dentures where appropriate, rather than assuming that an implant is the only reasonable choice.

Understand Stages, Risks and Follow-up

Implant treatment can involve surgery, healing and a later restoration. Timing varies, and some stages may require referral. Ask about material risks, alternatives, expected limitations and what would happen if healing or the restoration does not progress as planned. A general dentist is not automatically a specialist.

Plan for Maintenance

Implants need daily cleaning and professional review. The implant, surrounding tissues and attached replacement tooth can each develop problems. There is no guaranteed lifespan or complication-free result. Ask which symptoms should prompt contact and how future maintenance will be arranged.

Check Coverage Separately

Dental implants and implant-related procedures are excluded from CDCP. Any examination or other proposed care requires its own coverage check. The CDCP information page links to the federal guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does every missing tooth qualify for an implant?

No. The dentist assesses oral health, supporting tissues, the planned restoration, medical history and maintenance needs before discussing suitability.

Does bone loss always rule out an implant?

Not necessarily, but it requires assessment. Additional treatment or a different replacement option may be considered; a graft does not guarantee eligibility.

Should I change my medicines before an implant assessment?

Do not change prescribed medicines on your own. Provide an accurate medication list and follow advice from the responsible clinicians.

Who provides each stage of implant treatment?

Ask the clinic who will perform the assessment, surgery, restoration and follow-up, and whether specialist referral is appropriate for any stage.

Are dental implants covered by CDCP?

No. Implants and implant-related procedures are excluded. Other services in a proposed plan require their own eligibility and coverage checks.

Patient Information and References

These independent resources do not endorse the clinic. This article is general patient information; diagnosis and treatment require an individual assessment.

Request an appointment or contact the clinic to discuss your concerns with our general dentists in Richmond Hill.