Care at Crystal Dental
Dental Implants
Explore options for replacing missing teeth, with an individual assessment and a clear treatment plan.
A secure foundation for a missing tooth
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium screw that serves as an artificial root for a missing tooth. During healing, bone integrates around the implant, helping to anchor it securely in the jaw. A single implant can support a custom-made crown, while several implants can support a bridge to replace a larger gap.
Unlike a bridge supported by natural teeth, an implant does not rely on neighbouring teeth to hold the replacement in place. At Crystal Dental, we assess the available space, surrounding teeth, gum health, and the amount and quality of supporting bone. A 3D X-ray scan called cone beam CT (CBCT) may be recommended to show the bone and nearby structures in more detail and help plan the implant’s position. Bone grafting is sometimes needed to build up an area with too little supporting bone.
Treatment takes place in stages, with time for healing. The finished crown or bridge needs daily cleaning and regular dental checkups to help maintain the restoration and the health of the gums and bone around the implant.
Replacing a missing tooth
When would I consider a dental implant?
Healthy gums and enough supporting bone are important. Your dentist also reviews your health, medications and smoking history because they can affect healing. Some people need gum treatment or a bone graft before an implant can be placed.
- You have one or more missing teeth and would like a fixed replacement.
- A gap affects your chewing or how comfortable you feel smiling.
- You want to compare an implant with a bridge supported by neighbouring teeth.
- A natural tooth has fractured and needs to be extracted, and you want to plan a replacement for the future gap.
- You no longer wish to wear a removable denture and would like to explore a more stable solution.
A closer look
Choosing how to replace the gap
An implant and crown for one tooth
A crown connects to the implant through a small component called an abutment. The replacement is shaped and shaded to suit your mouth, without needing neighbouring teeth to support it.
An implant-supported bridge for several teeth
A bridge can replace a row of missing teeth using implants for support. The number and position of implants depend on the available bone, the size of the gap and how the replacement will function.
A bridge supported by natural teeth
A conventional bridge uses neighbouring teeth for support and usually involves preparing those teeth for crowns. Their condition, your gum health and the care each option requires help guide the choice.
What to expect
What to expect, step by step.
01
Assess the space and plan your care
An examination, dental imaging and a review of your medical history help assess the implant site. We explain the recommended treatment, alternatives, expected visits and whether another clinician will be involved.
02
Place the implant and allow it to heal
The area is first numbed with local anaesthetic, then an implant is placed into the jawbone. Healing takes time as the bone integrates around the implant. Your care team explains eating, cleaning and follow-up during recovery.
03
Make and fit your replacement tooth
Records of your mouth guide a dental laboratory in making the crown or bridge. Once healing allows, the replacement is attached and its fit and bite are checked. You receive instructions for daily cleaning and ongoing reviews.
The Crystal Dental approach
Why choose Crystal Dental for dental implants?
A local family practice
Crystal Dental is family-owned and serves Burnaby and Langley. Your implant assessment starts with getting to know you, your dental history and what you want from a replacement tooth.
A clear sequence of care
We explain the proposed stages and healing periods so you can understand how treatment fits together and bring your questions to each appointment.
Support with everyday care
Fit, cleaning and follow-up all matter after the replacement is fitted. We help you understand how to look after it and when to arrange a check.
Your care team
Four doctors. One family approach.
Dr. Bogdan Stanisavljevic
B.Sc., DMD
Dr. Goran Stanisavljevic
DMD, M.Sc., PhD · Co-founder
Dr. Dragana Stanisavljevic
DMD · Co-founder
Dr. Nicole Stanisavljevic
B.Sc. (Honours), DMD
FAQs
Dental Implants: your questions.
Have another question? Contact our team and we will be happy to help.
Can an implant replace a fractured tooth?
An implant may be an option if a fractured tooth cannot be repaired. We first assess whether the natural tooth can be saved with a filling, crown or root canal treatment. If extraction is necessary, we can discuss implant suitability, alternatives and the timing of replacement based on the condition of the surrounding gum and bone.
How long does implant treatment take?
The timeline depends largely on your specific clinical situation. Treatment usually involves several visits over the course of several months, allowing time for planning, healing and making your replacement tooth. Bone grafting or other preparatory care may add to the timeline. Your dentist will explain the stages and expected timing for your treatment.
What if I do not have enough bone?
If there is not enough supporting bone, bone grafting may be an option. Your dentist will assess the site and may recommend a 3D scan (CBCT) to evaluate the available bone and nearby structures. This helps determine whether grafting is appropriate and how it would fit into your treatment plan.
Will I have a gap while the implant heals?
A temporary replacement is often possible, depending on the position of the missing tooth, your treatment plan and the needs of the healing area. Your dentist will discuss suitable options and when they can be used while the implant heals and your final replacement tooth is made.
How long can an implant last?
A dental implant can last many years with appropriate care. Gum and bone health, smoking, daily cleaning and regular dental follow-up all influence its long-term condition and lifespan. The crown, bridge or connecting components may need repair or replacement over time, even when the implant itself remains healthy.
How do I clean around an implant?
Daily brushing and careful cleaning around the implant and between your teeth help keep the surrounding tissues healthy. Our team will show you suitable cleaning aids and techniques for your restoration. Keep your recommended checkups, and contact us promptly if you experience pain or discomfort around an implant, or if the replacement feels loose.
Is it painful to get an implant?
With effective local anaesthesia, the area receiving the implant is numb, so you should not feel any discomfort during the appointment. Mild soreness and tenderness can occur afterwards and are generally manageable. Your dentist will explain what to expect and how to keep comfortable while you heal.
How do I book, and can I ask about costs first?
Choose Burnaby or Langley on our Contact page and call, email, or text the office to arrange a visit. Our reception team will confirm your appointment. Ask about estimates and bring your current benefit information; see our insurance and payment page for more details.
Further reading: Canadian Dental Association: Dental Implants · American Dental Association: Implants · NHS: Dental Treatments · Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust: Dental Implants · Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust: Having a Dental Implant · FDA: Dental Implants — What You Should Know · American Association of Endodontists: Cracked Teeth · Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust: Dental Implants · Clinical study: Pain after Implant Placement and Tooth Extraction
Your next visit
Let’s make time for your smile.
Choose the office that works for you. Our reception team will help arrange your appointment.