Do you have missing or damaged teeth? If you’re after a permanent solution for a natural-looking and fully-functioning smile, dental implants may be right for you. There are alternatives to dental implants. However, those who choose this cosmetic treatment path report experiencing a significant beneficial impact on their life.
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is inserted into your jawbone to replace a missing natural tooth. Implants and their attached crowns mimic the look and function of real teeth. Dental implants can also be used to support multiple teeth with an implant-supported bridge or to help retain removable dentures.
Our experienced dentists take the time to get to know you. They work together with you to perfect the design of your prosthetic teeth. The design is based on complementing your face, mouth and natural teeth. This includes helping you choose the perfect shade of white so your new teeth blend in with your existing ones.
With dental implants, we can give you a smile that looks, feels and performs as a natural one would. Don’t let tooth loss inhibit your life. Our knowledgeable and compassionate team of dental professionals is here to help you.
Dental Implant Benefits
Thanks to modern dentistry, implants have become one of the more popular solutions for tooth loss. Dental implants provide a wide array of benefits. This highlights why they are preferred amongst many patients over more traditional options, like dentures.
Here are some of the key advantages that dental implants can offer:
- An exceptionally natural look and feel.
- A permanent solution with no removing necessary.
- Dental implants eventually become like a part of you, offering you optimal comfort.
- They function as your natural teeth would, making speaking and eating simple.
- Restored confidence with better oral health and an enhanced smile.
- Bone loss prevention for your jaw which reduces the risk of adjacent natural teeth becoming loose with time.
- Prevention of hollowed/collapsed cheeks that can occur after tooth loss.
- Possible prevention of gum recession.
- No need for cutting and reshaping of neighbouring healthy teeth (unlike bridges).
- Dental implants do not need a separate cleaning routine as dentures do. You maintain them the same way as your natural teeth.
The Process For Getting Dental Implants
The process for getting dental implants is carried out over multiple appointments. You will need time between some of these appointments to heal. The process does take time and consists of multiple steps. However, patients agree it’s a small price to pay for how dental implants have enhanced their lives.
Meticulous planning goes into your dental implant treatment plan. So, it’s not uncommon for a team of specialists to work together customising your dental implant journey.
The first step involves your dentist taking x-rays of your teeth and gums. This helps your dentist assess the current condition of your teeth and gums and also create a replica of your mouth. Sometimes you may need a tooth extracted to accommodate your new dental implants. If you do, the extraction will take place in one of your first appointments.
The next step involves the surgical insertion of your implant/s. These titanium screws will form the post and anchor for your artificial teeth to attach to. You will need a period of healing after the insertion of your dental implants. Once they are healed and can provide a solid foundation for your prosthetic teeth, you’re ready to move on to the next step! In the meantime, your dentist can provide you with partial temporary dentures or a temporary bridge. These will fill any gaps left by your missing teeth whilst you wait for your implant sites to heal.
Your custom-designed prosthetic teeth are now ready to attach to your implants. Your dental specialist will work with you to ensure the perfect fit. Sometimes, this can take a few fittings as you learn to adjust to your new teeth.
Now, all that is left for you to do is enjoy eating, speaking and smiling with complete confidence!
Dental Implant FAQs
Our friendly front desk team is more than happy to answer any questions you may have. For quick reference, here are the answers to some questions about dental implants that we get asked often:
Are dental implants right for me?
This question is best answered by a dental specialist. You will need to have a consultation with one of our dentists to determine if dental implants are right for you. The good news is though, most patients make suitable candidates for the treatment.
What if I don’t have enough bone to support a dental implant?
A dental implant needs a certain amount of bone to be able to be adequately supported. Should you need a dental implant but don’t have enough jaw bone to facilitate the procedure, a bone graft or bone augmentation may be a solution for you. These procedures are used to supplement your existing bone, allowing for greater support for your future dental implant.
What is a dental implant made from?
A dental implant is made from titanium because of its biocompatibility. The use of titanium ensures that your surrounding bone, gum, nerves and other soft tissues knit well to the implant. Titanium provides the added benefit of being exceptionally durable and long-lasting.
Does getting dental implants hurt?
The process for getting dental implants is substantial. A local anaesthetic is used for the insertion of your dental implants. So, you’re unlikely to experience much discomfort at this point. Following the placement of your dental implants, it is normal to experience pain and discomfort as well as minor bleeding, bruising and swelling. All these side-effects are manageable through medication and usually subside after a few days.
