Everything you should know about Dental Implants: Interview with Dr. Amir Gourgui

With a remarkable career spanning over two decades, Dr. Gourgui is renowned for his expertise, precision, and compassionate approach, all of which have led him to become a trusted name in the field of Canadian dentistry. From complex implant surgeries to comprehensive restorative treatments, Dr. Gourgui's commitment to exceptional treatments and results has led him to be at the forefront of improving patients' lives and smiles.

We sat down with Dr. Gourgui to dive into his wealth of knowledge, experience, and passion for innovating dental health treatments with the help of dental implants.

Q1: Nice to meet you, Dr. Gourgui! Before we dive into our topics, could you take us through your experience in the dental implant industry?

Certainly! I first started my career in 2001, when I decided to focus my specialty on dental implant surgeries and sedation practices across Toronto. Nowadays, I work on many different kinds of treatments, from single-tooth extractions to full-mouth reconstructions, and I would say that I enjoy the challenge of taking on cases that have previously been deemed not restorable the most. The most rewarding part of implant dentistry for me is the ability to give my patients back their smiles and the confidence they deserve.

Q2: Amazing. Jumping in, how does your process work when meeting with a new patient? Could you run us through what your consultation and treatment process looks like on your end?

When I first meet with a new patient, I take them through a comprehensive assessment of their biggest needs and concerns, after which I take a few initial panoramic x-rays and review their dental history. I usually then go ahead and schedule a later consultation to go over the specifics of their treatment with them, where I might even order a CAT scan for more detailed 3D images of their teeth, if needed.

Q3: To follow up on that, many people nowadays are under the impression that dental implants are a painful and intimidating procedure. What would you say to people who might be scared of getting an implant?

A lot of patients I see have a pre-existing fear of dental implants because of a past negative experience they had at the dentist, or even just a general anxiety about dental procedures. That's why I always take the time to reassure my patients with the fact that getting a dental implant is often far less painful and intimidating than they might be anticipating. In fact, many patients of my patients are often pleasantly surprised by the minimal discomfort they end up feeling, along with how easy and predictable the treatment really is.

I also want to point out that addressing any dental concerns you might have sooner than later is essential, since waiting too long to address your issue might end up requiring additional preparation and work to ensure a successful implant placement.

At the end of the day, the whole point of dental implants is to seamlessly blend with your natural teeth, and custom shading options will help you find the perfect match for natural and aesthetically pleasing results.

Q4: So, would it be safe to say that your cost for the procedure would be actually higher the longer you postpone it?

Yes, it probably would be safe to say that. I would say that one of the biggest reasons for that would be the potential need for bone grafting, since natural bone loss occurs over time, and if a patient delays getting a dental implant, their jawbone might end up needing bone grafting to create a strong foundation for their implant, and bone grafting can significantly increase the cost of your procedure.

Q5: And for any patients that might be worried about the potential complications of sedation, how would you say sedation actually helps with dental implant procedures?

I would say that in general, complications related to sedation are rare, and sedation actually plays a crucial role when it comes to dental care and implants.

Conscious sedation is something I really on often, since it allows me to create a more comfortable and relaxed experience for my patients without the need for general anesthesia. During conscious sedation, patients are still awake and able to breathe on their own, but it also lets them feel calmer throughout the procedure. I should point out, though, that not all patients necessarily need sedation for their dental implants, especially if they have already developed a tolerance to anxiety medications.

Q6: Now, once you're gone through with your implant procedure, it's safe to say the hard part is over. What would you remind readers are the most important steps in maintaining your implants once you've gone through the procedure?

Great question. I would say that as a whole, dental implants are designed to be functional and natural replacements for your original teeth, which means you should continue using them as you would your natural teeth for biting, chewing, and speaking. Also, just like natural teeth, implants need regular dental cleanings and diligent oral hygiene practices, including brushing your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled brush, using dental floss or interdental brushes to clean between the teeth and implants, and using an antibacterial mouthwash.

Q7: And what would you say is the typical recovery time for a dental implant procedure?

The initial recovery period usually lasts a few days, during which it's common to experience some discomfort or mild pain, which can usually be mitigated with the help of a mild analgesic. In terms of full healing, though, it generally takes around four months from the placement of your implants to complete healing because of what we call osseointegration, where your implants fuse with their surrounding jawbone.

Also, when it comes to downtime after your surgery, many people often expect it to be more significant than it actually is. While you'll probably experience some temporary discomfort or swelling, most people are usually able to resume their normal daily activities within a few days following their procedure.

Q8: That makes sense! Lastly, for readers who have decided they're interested in consulting with a dentist about potentially getting implants, what would you recommend they be on the lookout for?

First of all, I would advise readers to take the time to explore different dentists, and to look into their qualifications, expertise, and reputation. Reading reviews and testimonials from previous patients is also valuable for getting a sense of their quality of care.

The experience of your surgeon is also a critical factor, since implants need specialized skills and knowledge. Make sure that the dentist you choose has a lot of experience in performing implant surgeries, and a track record of success. It's also important to schedule a consultation and use this opportunity to ask questions, express any concerns, and understand your treatment plan in detail. A good dentist will take the time to listen to you, provide clear explanations, and address any doubts you may have.

If you still have reservations, there's nothing wrong with getting a second opinion. Another dentist can offer fresh insights and perspectives, giving you a broader understanding of your options.