According to the Australian Dental Association, Australian adults have approximately 4.5 missing teeth. Missing teeth can lead to multiple oral health issues, including decay and bone resorption. Missing teeth can also adversely impact your appearance and self-confidence.
Dental implants offer a long-lasting, realistic solution for patients with missing teeth, helping restore the look and function of their smile. If you are considering getting a dental implant, it’s vital to get a dental consultation near you to discuss what to know before getting dental implants with your dentist.
What to Know Before Getting Dental Implants: What is a Dental Implant?
Dental implants are a permanent restoration for missing teeth. A standard dental implant consists of three main components:
- The implant, which is made of titanium alloy and is inserted into the jawbone
- The abutment, which is used to connect the implant to the replacement tooth
- The dental crown, made from porcelain or ceramic
Implants can be used to support a single tooth, a dental bridge, or even a full set of dentures. They can be placed in either the upper or lower jaw.
At Toothsome, we use Straumann dental implants with Emax/zirconia restorations to help you achieve a natural smile. Straumann dental implants are made from biocompatible titanium zirconium alloy. They are coated with SLActive®, a large grit-blasted and acid-etched SLA surface film, which facilitates more effective osseointegration.
What to Know Before Getting Dental Implants: The Benefits of a Dental Implant
Dental implants are the only permanent tooth replacement option. The implant post is designed to last a lifetime, while the restoration typically lasts around 20 years. A dental implant offers several other benefits over alternatives like a dental bridge and removable dentures, including:
Restore functionality
Unlike dentures and bridges, dental implants stimulate jawbone tissue growth, stabilising the implant post and providing a firm foundation for the restoration. This allows you to eat, chew, and speak normally.
Prevent misalignment
In addition to improving speech and eating, implant posts prevent your remaining teeth from shifting along the periodontal membrane, leading to crookedness and bite misalignment. A dental implant ensures you have a healthy, straight smile that is easy to clean.
Improve appearance
The implant posts are embedded in the jawbone, and the abutment that protrudes above the gum line is covered by a dental crown, denture plate, or bridge. These restorations are colour-matched to your natural teeth for a realistic appearance.
What to Know Before Getting Dental Implants: Who is a Candidate for a Dental Implant?
Not everyone is a suitable candidate for dental implants. To be eligible, patients must have healthy gums and sufficient bone density in their jaw.
There are a few conditions that may preclude patients from getting a dental implant, including:
- Autoimmune disease
- Some types of cancer
- Blood disorders
If you have any of these conditions, it’s crucial to get a consultation at your local dental clinic to ensure that the procedure is right for you.
What to Know Before Getting Dental Implants: The Dental Implant Procedure
The dental implant procedure can be performed using traditional surgery or computer-guided surgery.
Traditional implant surgery involves making an incision in the gums and drilling a small hole in the jawbone to place the dental implant.
Computer-guided surgery, also known as flapless keyhole surgery, is a minimally invasive surgical technique that uses a template created using 3D imaging to guide the placement of dental implants.
The implant post is punched through the gum tissue into the bone, resulting in a faster treatment time, minimal bleeding, and no stitches. This surgery is associated with fewer complications and a shorter recovery time.
Once the dental implant has been placed, it will take six to nine months to fuse with the jawbone. Once this process, known as osseointegration, is complete, the abutment and dental prosthesis can be attached to the dental implant.
What to Know Before Getting Dental Implants: How Much Does a Dental Implant Cost?
The price for dental implant surgery depends on the number of implants being placed as well as any preparatory surgeries that may be needed.
For example, requiring a bone graft to have dental implants placed increases the overall cost.
We understand that dental implants can be a significant financial decision, but we believe our patients deserve a healthy and beautiful smile, so we offer payment plans through ZipPay.
This way, you can spread the cost of your dental implants over time in affordable monthly payments.
During your dental implant consultation, we’ll be able to provide you with a quote based on your circumstances.
Restore Your Smile with Dental Implants at Toothsome
At Toothsome, our dentists offer consultations. We understand that your smile is important to you. That’s why we offer a range of dental implant options to help you restore your smile and rejuvenate your confidence.
We use the latest dental technology to ensure that your implants are placed accurately and securely. Our experienced dentists in Chatswood will work with you to create a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs ensuring you are comfortable with all aspects of your treatment before, during and after your surgery.
If you have questions about what you should do before getting dental implants, contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more.
- Sydney CBD on (02) 9159 3728
- Baulkham Hills on (02) 9158 6637
- Chatswood on (02) 8203 8786
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Dr. David Willis is a highly skilled dentist in Chatswood with over 20 years of experience as a Medical Doctor and Dental Surgeon. Specialising in oral surgery, including dental implants and wisdom teeth removal, Dr. David Willis is known for his expertise and friendly approach, providing exceptional care to patients in the Chatswood area.
