Dental Implants
Dental Implants at Dentists In Annerley, Brisbane
Which Option Best Suits What You Are Looking For?
Benefits of Dental Implants
Single Tooth Replacement
Multiple Teeth Replacement
Full Mouth Replacement
Implant Supported Dentures (Over-Dentures)
Bone and Tissue Grafts
FAQs
Advanced Solutions for Replacing Missing Teeth
- The Fixture: Serves as a new, stable root that integrates into the jawbone.
- The Abutment: Acts as the connector between the fixture and the crown.
- The Crown: The visible part above the gum line, meticulously crafted to resemble a natural tooth.
Benefits of Dental Implants from Dentists In Annerley
Natural Appearance and Function: Implants are designed to feel and look like your own teeth, enhancing your natural smile.
Preservation of Oral Health: They are non-invasive to adjacent teeth and support the health of the jawbone.
Durability: Implants provide a robust, long-term solution for tooth loss.
Comfort and Confidence: Improve your speech, eating options, and overall self-esteem.
The Dental Implant Process at Our Annerley Clinic
Personalised Consultation: We conduct an in-depth assessment to ascertain your suitability for dental implants.
Precise Implant Placement: Our experienced team surgically places the fixture, followed by a period of bone integration.
Abutment Attachment: After integration, the abutment is attached securely to the implant.
Custom Crown Fabrication: We create a tailor-made crown that blends flawlessly with your existing teeth.
Comprehensive Implant Services in Annerley, Brisbane
Our dental implants offer more than just cosmetic solutions for missing teeth. They also prevent potential oral health problems like shifting teeth, bone loss, uneven bite pressure, and gum disease. Suitable for single tooth replacement, multiple teeth, or full mouth restoration, our implants also improve the functionality and comfort of dentures.
Aftercare and Maintenance
Maintaining your dental implants involves regular oral hygiene and routine check-ups at our Annerley clinic. Proper care ensures the longevity and success of your dental implants.
What are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
An implant replicates a tooth, multiple teeth or all the teeth. It restores function, aesthetics, and a balanced bite.
A missing tooth can cause more than just a gap in the bite. It can cause other issues including:
- Surrounding teeth move to fill in the gap – this can cause bite changes and crooked teeth
- Underlying bone is not stimulated – like a muscle, when it is not used it will start to resorb
- Increased forces on surrounding teeth – you are still biting with the same force but now have less teeth to distribute this force leading to higher chances of cracking adjacent teeth
- Inflammation to that localised area – no teeth in that area means nothing to protect the underlying gums
Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth or all the teeth. Implants can also be used under dentures to stabilize them, so they do not keep falling out or become unbalanced or pinch the gums.
Single Tooth Replacement
Single Tooth Replacement with Dental Implants
A single tooth replacement uses a single dental implant to replace the missing tooth. The titanium dental implant is surgically inserted at the site of the missing tooth. The dental implant will undergo osteointegration (fusion of bone to implant) over a period of time, and the implant will effectively fuse with the jawbone as it heals. This forms a strong and durable foundation in which a crown will be seated. An abutment is then placed on top of the metal fixture and this is the middle component which allows for the crown to connect to the implant.
At Dentists In Annerley, we excel in single tooth replacement using advanced dental implants, providing a comprehensive solution for missing teeth. Our process includes:
- Surgical Insertion: We surgically insert a titanium dental implant into the jawbone at the site of the missing tooth, ensuring precision and care.
- Osteointegration: The implant undergoes osteointegration over time, fusing with the jawbone to create a solid and enduring foundation.
- Abutment Placement: An abutment is then placed on top of the implant, acting as the connector for the final crown.
- Crown Seating: The final stage involves fitting a bespoke crown onto the abutment, perfectly restoring your smile.
Step 1: Consult
15 mins
Step 2: Treatment Planning
15 mins
Step 3: Implant Surgery
45-90 mins
Step 4: Abutment
30-45 mins
Step 5: Intra Oral Scan
30-45 mins
Step 6: Final appointment
30-45 mins
Duration, Aftercare, and Cost
From surgery to final insertion, the process can take approximately 4-6 months. If you require a temporary restoration in the mean time there are many options available and this will be discussed with you in your first 2 appointments.
A well placed dental implant should last for a very long time and studies indicate that the 10 year survival rate is 90%, which does mean that some still do fail. To minimise the chances of failure it is crucial to maintain excellent oral hygiene and attend regular dental check up and hygiene appointments.
Single tooth implants start at $4,990
At Dentists In Annerley, we are dedicated to ensuring your single tooth replacement journey is smooth, successful, and meets the highest standards of dental care.
Single Tooth Replacement FAQs
A single tooth dental implant is a complete tooth replacement solution that includes a titanium post (implant) surgically placed into the jawbone, an abutment attached to the implant, and a custom-made crown that sits on top of the abutment. It’s designed to replace a missing tooth without affecting adjacent teeth, mimicking the natural structure and function of a natural tooth.
A single tooth implant replaces only the missing tooth without altering adjacent teeth. A bridge, on the other hand, requires reducing the adjacent teeth to support the bridge structure, which spans the gap with a false tooth. Implants are often preferred because they preserve the integrity of surrounding teeth and maintain jawbone health.
The process typically involves several stages: initial consultation, implant placement, healing period (osseointegration), and crown placement. During the first visit, the dentist evaluates your oral health. The implant is then surgically placed into the jawbone. After a healing period (which can last several months), during which the implant integrates with the bone, an abutment is attached to the implant, and finally, a custom crown is fitted onto the abutment.
Recovery time varies but typically involves a few days of mild discomfort and swelling, manageable with over-the-counter pain medications. The complete healing and integration (osseointegration) of the implant with the jawbone can take several months, during which the patient can usually resume normal activities soon after surgery.
While rare, implant failure can occur, indicated by persistent pain, swelling, implant mobility, or gum recession around the implant. Poor oral hygiene, smoking, and certain medical conditions can increase the risk of failure. Prompt consultation with a dentist is crucial if failure symptoms are suspected.
In some cases, a single tooth implant can be done in one day, known as “immediate loading.” This procedure involves placing the implant and temporary crown during the same visit. It’s not suitable for all patients and depends on factors like bone density and oral health.
Not replacing a missing tooth can lead to several issues, such as shifting of adjacent teeth, bite problems, jawbone deterioration, and changes in facial aesthetics. It can also affect chewing efficiency and lead to further tooth loss.
Choose a dentist or oral surgeon with extensive experience and training in implant dentistry. Look for board certifications, reviews, and case studies. A good implant dentist will thoroughly assess your oral health and discuss all available options and potential outcomes.
Single tooth implants are often considered superior to partial dentures due to their stability, natural function, and ability to maintain jawbone health. Unlike dentures, implants don’t require removal for cleaning and don’t rely on adjacent teeth for support.
Yes, a single tooth implant can restore and even improve your bite and chewing ability. By replacing a missing tooth, it ensures even distribution of bite forces, helps maintain the alignment of surrounding teeth, and restores functionality comparable to a natural tooth.
Multiple Teeth Replacement
An Effective Solution For Multiple Missing Teeth
When multiple teeth are missing, rather than getting an implant to replace every missing tooth, which can be quiet costly, we can do an implant bridge. This is where 2 implants are used to replace multiple missing teeth. The titanium dental implant is surgically inserted at selected sites. The dental implants will undergo osteointegration (fusion of bone to implants) and over a period of time, the implants will effectively fuse with the jawbone as it heals. This forms a strong and durable foundation in which a bridge will be seated. An abutment is then placed on top of the metal fixtures, this is the middle component which allows for the bridge to connect to the implants.
Step 1: Consult
15mins
Step 2: Treatment Plan Discussion
15 mins
Step 3: Implant Surgery
60-120 mins
Step 4: Abutments
30-45 mins
Approximately 2-4 months after implant placement, an abutment is placed. This is the object which sits on the implant and allows the tissue to form around it.
Health fund codes: 661 (x2), 691, 022
Step 5: Intra Oral Scan
30-45 mins
Step 6: Final appointment
30 mins
Duration, Aftercare, and Cost
From surgery to final insertion can take approximately 4-6 months. If you require a temporary restoration in the mean time there is many options available and this will be discussed with you in your first 2 appointments.
A well placed dental implant should last for a very long time, and studies indicate that the 10 year survival rate is 90%, which does mean that some still do fail. To minimise the chances of failure it is crucial to maintain excellent oral hygiene and attend regular dental check up and hygiene appointments.
Implant bridges start at $11,400
At Dentists In Annerley, Brisbane, we are committed to offering our patients advanced and suitable solutions for multiple teeth replacement, ensuring a comprehensive and comfortable experience from the initial consultation to the final fitting.
Multiple Teeth Replacement FAQs
Options for replacing multiple teeth with implants include implant-supported bridges and partial dentures. Unlike traditional bridges and dentures, these are anchored on dental implants embedded in the jawbone. The number of implants needed varies based on the location and number of missing teeth. Each solution is tailored to the patient’s specific needs, providing a stable and durable restoration.
Multiple tooth implants offer several advantages over partial dentures. They provide a more natural feel and function, as they are fixed in the jawbone and don’t require removal for cleaning. Implants prevent bone loss commonly associated with missing teeth, whereas partial dentures can lead to bone deterioration over time. Implants also don’t require modification of adjacent teeth, unlike partial dentures which may need clasps on neighboring teeth.
The procedure for multiple tooth implants involves several steps:
- Initial Consultation: Assessing oral health and creating a treatment plan.
- Implant Placement: Surgical insertion of implants into the jawbone.
- Healing Period: Allowing time for osseointegration (the process where the implant fuses with the bone).
- Abutment Placement: Attaching the abutment to the healed implant.
- This process can take several months from start to finish, depending on healing times and individual circumstances.
While the initial cost of multiple tooth implants can be higher than single implants, they can be more cost-effective in the long term. This is because they are a durable solution that can last many years with proper care, potentially reducing future dental costs associated with bridge or denture replacements.
Full Arch Replacement: All-on-4, All-on-6, All-on-X at Dentists In Annerley, Brisbane
Transformative Full Arch Dental Solutions
At Dentists In Annerley, we offer a transformative procedure known as full arch replacement, commonly referred to as All-on-4, All-on-6, or All-on-X. This advanced technique involves replacing all teeth in an arch using 4 to 6 implants, combined with a permanent denture, delivering a fully functional and aesthetically pleasing smile.
The Procedure
- Implant Placement: We strategically place 4 to 6 implants in the jawbone, establishing a strong foundation for the full arch prosthesis.
- Prosthesis Fitting: A prosthesis, designed to replicate natural teeth, is securely affixed to the implants.
Benefits of All-on-X
- Fixed Solution: Offers a permanent, non-removable alternative for all missing teeth.
- Natural Look and Feel: Designed to emulate natural teeth, enhancing both comfort and confidence.
- Dietary Freedom: Restores the ability to enjoy a wide range of foods, which may have been restricted with dentures or missing teeth.
- Cost-Effectiveness: A more affordable option compared to individual implants for each missing tooth.
- Ease of Cleaning: Simplified maintenance compared to traditional dentures.
- Immediate Teeth Option: In some cases, temporary teeth can be placed immediately post-surgery.
Tailored to Each Patient
As every case is unique, a comprehensive consultation is essential to determine the most appropriate full arch replacement approach for you.
Complimentary Consultations
We provide complimentary consultations for our All-on-4 procedures, discussing treatment options, expected outcomes, and addressing any concerns you may have.
Pricing
Our full arch replacement procedures start at $20,000 per arch, offering an effective solution to restore your smile.
Additional Considerations
- Customisation: The procedure is highly adaptable, with options like All-on-6 providing additional support for specific cases.
- Long-Term Durability: Designed for lasting use, these implants can significantly improve your quality of life.
- Improved Oral Health: Aids in preventing bone loss and maintaining facial structure.
- Comprehensive Care: Our team offers ongoing support and guidance throughout the treatment process.
At Dentists In Annerley, Brisbane, our aim is to deliver transformative dental solutions that markedly enhance our patients’ lives. The full arch replacement procedure exemplifies our dedication to innovative and patient-focused dental care.
Full Arch Replacement FAQs
Yes, it’s possible to replace all teeth with implants through full-arch restorations, commonly known as All-on-4 or All-on-6, depending on the number of implants used. This solution involves placing a series of strategically positioned implants in the jaw, which support a full arch of prosthetic teeth, providing a stable and natural-looking replacement for all teeth.
The key difference is how they are anchored. Traditional bridges rely on adjacent natural teeth for support, while implant-supported bridges are anchored on dental implants. Implant-supported options don’t require altering adjacent healthy teeth and provide better jawbone preservation.
The timeline for multiple tooth implants varies based on individual cases. It typically spans several months, accounting for the surgical placement of implants, healing time, and fabrication of the final prosthetic. The exact duration depends on factors like the number of implants, need for preliminary procedures (like bone grafting), and the patient’s healing capacity.
Yes, in many cases, multiple implants can be placed during a single surgical session. This approach is efficient and can reduce overall treatment time. However, the feasibility depends on the patient’s oral health status and specific treatment needs.
No, multiple tooth implants are typically fixed and not removable like traditional dentures. They are securely attached to implants embedded in the jawbone, offering a stable and permanent solution. However, there are implant-supported dentures that can be removable, designed for easy cleaning.
Multiple tooth implants can improve speech compared to missing teeth or traditional dentures. They provide stability and mimic natural tooth function, enabling clearer and more natural speech. Unlike removable dentures, which can slip and cause slurring or mumbling, implant-supported restorations remain firmly in place.
All-on-X dental implant treatment is a revolutionary approach for patients who have lost most or all of their teeth. This technique involves using a set number of implants (usually four, six, or more) in the upper or lower jaw to anchor a full arch of prosthetic teeth securely. The “X” in the name refers to the number of implants used. This treatment provides a permanent, stable solution that mimics the look and functionality of natural teeth.
The number of implants used in All-on-X treatment typically ranges from four to six per jaw, depending on the patient’s bone density, the anatomy of their jaw, and their specific needs. Four implants are the most common configuration (All-on-4), but more implants may be used for increased stability.
The advantages of All-on-X over traditional dentures include:
- Improved Stability: The implants provide a secure fit, reducing movement and slippage common with dentures.
- Enhanced Comfort: They feel more like natural teeth and don’t require adhesives.
- Better Functionality: They allow for normal chewing and speaking.
- Jawbone Preservation: Implants stimulate the bone, preventing deterioration.
- Aesthetics: They offer a more natural look compared to traditional dentures.
While any surgical procedure can involve some discomfort, the All-on-X procedure is typically performed under anesthesia, making it virtually pain-free during the procedure. Post-operative discomfort is generally manageable with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication and tends to subside within a few days.
The actual surgical procedure to place All-on-X implants can often be completed in one day. However, the entire process, including initial consultations, planning, the procedure itself, and recovery time, can span several months. The initial fitting of the prosthetic teeth may be temporary, with the permanent set being fitted after full healing and integration of the implants.
Maintenance of All-on-X implants involves regular brushing and flossing, just like natural teeth. Special attention should be given to cleaning around the implant sites. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential to monitor the health of the implants and surrounding tissues.
Yes, All-on-X dental implants can be used for both the upper and lower jaws. The procedure is adaptable to each patient’s needs and can provide a comprehensive solution for those missing all teeth in one or both jaws.
Adequate bone density is crucial for the success of All-on-X implants, as the implants need sufficient bone to integrate and stabilize. Patients with low bone density may require bone grafting procedures prior to implant placement. A thorough evaluation, including bone density assessment, is conducted during the planning stages.
All-on-X dental implants provide significant aesthetic benefits. They are designed to look like natural teeth, offering a more youthful appearance compared to traditional dentures. They also support the facial structure, preventing the sunken look often associated with tooth loss.
Yes, All-on-X implants can be placed in patients who have worn dentures for a long time, provided they have adequate jawbone to support the implants. For those with significant bone loss, pre-treatments such as bone grafts may be necessary to ensure successful implant placement.
Implant Supported Dentures (Over-Dentures)
What are Implant-Supported Dentures?
Implant-supported dentures are a type of overdenture attached to and supported by implants. Unlike traditional dentures, which rest on the gums, these are anchored to dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone. Typically, a few implants are inserted into the jaw, and the denture is designed to snap onto these implants securely.
Benefits of Implant-Supported Dentures
- Improved Stability and Comfort: They don’t slip or shift, providing more comfort and stability than traditional dentures.
- Enhanced Chewing Ability: Patients can eat a wider range of foods, as these dentures are more effective in chewing.
- Bone Preservation: Dental implants help maintain jawbone structure, preventing bone loss that often occurs with tooth loss.
- Improved Speech: Better stability means patients can speak more clearly and confidently.
- Longevity and Durability: They tend to be more durable than regular dentures, often lasting many years with proper care.
- Aesthetics: Implant-supported dentures look more natural and can enhance facial structure.
The Process of Implant Supported Dentures
- Consultation and Planning: A thorough dental examination, including X-rays and possibly 3D imaging, to determine bone density and the placement of the implants.
- Implant Placement: Dental implants, small titanium posts, are surgically placed into the jawbone. This procedure is typically done under local anesthesia.
- Healing Period: There’s a waiting period (usually a few months) for the jawbone to fuse with the implants – a process called osseointegration.
- Denture Fabrication: While healing, impressions of your mouth will be taken to custom-make the dentures.
- Fitting: Once healed, the dentures are attached to the implants with special mechanisms that ensure a secure fit.
- Adjustments: Follow-up appointments to ensure comfort and proper function.
Additional Considerations to Make
- Cost: They are generally more expensive than traditional dentures due to the surgery and materials involved.
- Maintenance: Regular cleaning and dental check-ups are essential to maintain oral health and the integrity of the implant-supported dentures.
- Eligibility: Not everyone is a candidate for implant-supported dentures. Adequate bone density and general health are required for successful implantation.
Conclusion
Implant-supported dentures represent a significant advancement in dental prosthetics, offering benefits in comfort, functionality, and aesthetics. It’s essential to consult with a dental professional to determine if this option is suitable for your needs and to understand the specifics of the procedure, care, and costs involved.
For more detailed advice and consultation, you can visit Dentists In Annerley, located at 470 Ipswich Road, Annerley QLD 4103, or contact us at (07) 2111 5189. Our team is well-versed in the latest dental implant technologies and committed to providing personalized, high-quality care.
This procedure greatly varies from patient to patient and so a consult is essential prior to providing more information.
Prices for an over-denture with 2 implants and conversion of the existing denture start at $6,665
Implant Supported Dentures (Over-Dentures) FAQs
Overdentures are a type of removable denture that is supported and anchored by dental implants. Unlike traditional dentures that rest on the gums, overdentures snap onto implants placed in the jawbone, providing improved stability, comfort, and function. They are designed for individuals who have lost several or all of their teeth but still have enough bone to support implants.
The primary difference between overdentures and traditional dentures lies in stability and support. Traditional dentures rest on the gums and often require adhesives, while overdentures are anchored to dental implants, offering a more secure fit. This reduces movement and slippage, making overdentures more comfortable and functional, especially when eating and speaking.
The benefits of implant-supported overdentures include:
- Improved Stability: They are less likely to move or slip, providing confidence while eating and speaking.
- Enhanced Comfort: Reduced irritation and sores compared to traditional dentures.
- Better Oral Health: Implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss.
- Improved Chewing Efficiency: Stronger bite force compared to regular dentures.
- Natural Appearance: They look and feel more like natural teeth.
In some cases, existing dentures can be modified to function as overdentures. This process involves retrofitting the denture base to attach to the dental implants. However, not all dentures are suitable for conversion, and in some cases, a new overdenture may be recommended for optimal fit and function.
The number of implants needed for overdentures varies depending on the individual case. Typically, a minimum of two implants is required for a lower overdenture, while a more stable fit for upper overdentures may require four or more implants. The exact number is determined based on jawbone density, the size of the denture, and the patient’s specific needs.
Implant-supported overdentures are significantly more stable than traditional dentures. The implants provide a secure anchor, which helps to keep the overdenture firmly in place during daily activities like eating and speaking, greatly reducing the risk of slippage or movement.
With proper care and maintenance, implant-supported overdentures can last many years. The lifespan of the overdenture itself varies, typically requiring replacement or refurbishment due to wear and tear over time. However, the implants can last a lifetime if well-maintained.
It’s generally recommended to remove overdentures at night to allow the gums and underlying bone to rest. This also provides an opportunity to clean the overdentures thoroughly, maintaining good oral hygiene and prolonging the lifespan of the denture.
Overdentures are suitable for most individuals who have lost several or all of their teeth and have enough jawbone to support implants. They are particularly beneficial for those who have difficulty wearing traditional dentures due to poor fit or discomfort. A dental assessment is necessary to determine individual suitability.
Implant-supported overdentures significantly improve the ability to eat a wide variety of foods compared to traditional dentures. They provide a stable biting and chewing surface, allowing individuals to enjoy foods that might be challenging with regular dentures, such as apples, nuts, and steak. This can lead to a more balanced diet and overall better nutrition.
Understanding Bone Grafts and Soft Tissue Grafts at Dentists In Annerley, Brisbane
Bone Graft; Foundation for Implants
At Dentists In Annerley, we sometimes encounter situations where there is insufficient bone or tissue at the intended implant site. In these cases, we may recommend a bone graft or a soft tissue graft. These grafts are vital in creating a suitable foundation for the successful placement of a dental implant.
The Grafting Process
- Assessment: A thorough evaluation of the implant site is conducted to ascertain the need for a graft.
- Material Selection: Grafting material may be sourced either externally or harvested from another area within the patient’s mouth.
- Grafting Procedure: The selected material is used to augment the bone or soft tissue at the implant site.
Types of Grafts
- Autograft: Tissue taken from the patient’s own body, providing high compatibility.
- Allograft: Bone from a human donor, typically used for more significant augmentation.
- Xenograft: Bone sourced from another species, often bovine, processed for safety and compatibility.
- Alloplastic Grafts: Synthetic materials that stimulate natural bone growth.
Benefits of Grafting
- Stability: Provides a robust foundation, critical for the long-term success of dental implants.
- Enhanced Bone Volume: Particularly important in cases where bone loss has occurred due to missing teeth.
- Improved Aesthetics: Helps in maintaining the natural contours and structure of the face.
- Versatility: Appropriate for various implant types and degrees of bone loss.
Personalised Consultation
Each patient’s needs are unique, and we discuss the necessity and type of grafting during initial consultations at our Annerley clinic. The decision is tailored to each individual’s specific requirements.
Aftercare and Recovery
- Healing Period: A period of healing is required post-grafting before proceeding with implant placement.
- Follow-Up Care: Regular check-ups are necessary to monitor the integration and healing of the graft.
At Dentists In Annerley, Brisbane, our team is proficient in performing grafting procedures, focusing on patient comfort and the efficacy of the treatment. Our approach is always customised, ensuring the best overall oral health outcomes and the success of the implant procedure.
FAQs
Maintaining oral hygiene with dental implants involves regular brushing twice a day and flossing daily, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Special interdental brushes or water flossers can also be helpful for cleaning around implants.
After getting dental implants, avoid hard and chewy foods in the initial healing period. Smoking and alcohol should also be avoided as they can hinder the healing process and negatively affect the longevity of the implants.
Regular dental visits, typically every six months or as advised by your dentist, are important after getting dental implants. These visits allow for professional cleaning and monitoring of the implants and surrounding tissues.
Dental implants cannot get cavities since they are made of artificial materials, but the surrounding gums can still be affected by gum disease. Proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits are crucial to prevent peri-implant diseases.
With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime. Their longevity depends on good oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and overall health.
While regular dental tools like a soft toothbrush and floss are generally sufficient, some patients may benefit from special cleaning tools like interdental brushes, water flossers, or antimicrobial mouth rinses, especially for hard-to-reach areas.
Immediately after implant surgery, it’s recommended to stick to soft foods and liquids. Once healed, there are generally no dietary restrictions, but it’s wise to avoid extremely hard or sticky foods to protect the implants.
Prevent implant infections by maintaining excellent oral hygiene, avoiding tobacco products, controlling diabetes or other systemic health conditions, and attending regular dental check-ups for professional cleanings and monitoring.
Signs of implant failure include persistent pain or discomfort, swelling or inflammation of the gums, implant mobility, and difficulty biting or chewing. Contact your dentist immediately if you notice any of these symptoms.
Dental implants should be checked by a dentist at least once a year during regular dental check-ups. If you experience any problems or discomfort with your implants, schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots, typically made from titanium, used to support restorations for missing teeth. They are surgically placed into the jawbone and, over time, fuse with the bone, providing a stable foundation for replacement teeth such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. Implants are a preferred solution for tooth loss due to their durability, functionality, and ability to maintain jawbone health.
Dental implants work by osseointegration, where the titanium implant fuses with the jawbone, creating a strong and stable base. After the implant is placed and has healed, a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is attached to it via an abutment. This process restores the functionality and aesthetics of natural teeth, allowing for normal eating, speaking, and smiling.
Dental implants are considered safe and one of the most successful dental procedures. Made from biocompatible materials, they are well-tolerated by the body. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are risks, such as infection, nerve damage, or implant failure. Choosing an experienced dental professional minimizes these risks.
Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. Their longevity depends on factors like oral hygiene, lifestyle habits, and regular dental check-ups. While the implant itself can last indefinitely, the crown or restoration on top may need replacement due to wear over time.
A good candidate for dental implants is someone with good overall health, adequate jawbone density to support the implant, and healthy gums. People with chronic illnesses, heavy smokers, or those who have undergone radiation therapy in the head/neck area may need additional evaluation. Age is typically not a barrier to receiving implants.
Dental implants are not noticeable as they are designed to look and feel like natural teeth. The visible part of the implant, the crown or bridge, is custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, blending seamlessly with your smile.
Caring for dental implants involves maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing. Special attention should be given to cleaning around the implant. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are also crucial for monitoring the implants and the health of surrounding gums and teeth.
The success rate of dental implants varies but is generally high, with averages above 95%. Success depends on factors like the implant’s location in the jaw, patient health, and dental care post-surgery. Implants in the lower jaw tend to have slightly higher success rates than those in the upper jaw.
The risks associated with dental implants include infection at the implant site, injury or damage to surrounding structures, nerve damage, sinus problems (for upper jaw implants), and implant failure. These risks are relatively low and can be further reduced by choosing an experienced dental surgeon.
The cost of dental implants can vary widely depending on factors like the number of implants, the need for additional procedures (bone grafting, sinus lift), the type of restoration, and geographic location. While implants can be more expensive upfront compared to other tooth replacement options, their durability and longevity often make them a cost-effective solution in the long term.