FAQs Dental Implants
What is a Dental Implant?
Dental implants are root shape metal posts that permanently replace one or more missing teeth. They are inserted into the jaw bone and a ceramic tooth or teeth are attached to them. Dental implants are usually are made of titanium alloys. Once they are inserted into the jaw bone the bone cells grow on them and form a bond to the implant surface, a process called osseointegration.
How long do dental implants last?
Implants have been an established treatment for decades, and are deemed safe. With proper care and regular dental check ups and cleans, most implants placed today can last indefinitely, however the crown portion may need to be replaced after 15-20 years due to wear. Straumann® dental implants are also covered by a lifetime guarantee for your piece of mind.
I just have one missing tooth. Am I a candidate for an implant?
Implants are considered an option for one tooth up to a full set of teeth.
Is everyone with missing teeth a good candidate for implants?
Your suitability for implants rests on the condition of your oral health and your jawbone. Once your dentist has examined your mouth and the implant site then they would be able to determine your suitability for implant treatment or any other options. At Boutique Dental Bondi we do an initial consultation where we take an x-ray to access your suitability for implant placement and discuss any queries you may have regarding the treatment.
Does it hurt to have implants placed?
Implant placement does require a minor operation, which can be performed under local anaesthetic with or without sedation. You will not feel pain during the procedure, but you should expect some soreness and swelling after the procedure, both normal parts of the healing process. We do recommend avoiding vigorous activity and alcohol consumption for 48 hours after the procedure.
When do I get my new teeth?
After implant placement, expect to wait while the implants become integrated into your jawbone. This can take 2 to 3 months for lower teeth, and 3 to 4 months for the upper teeth. For implants to replace front teeth you would receive a temporary solution to use while you wait. If you already wear dentures, you should be able to use them almost immediately after the procedure.
How long will it take to complete treatment?
Length of treatment varies slightly depending on the complexity of the treatment. During your initial consultation, the dentist will be able to give you an idea of how long it will take to complete the treatment.
How do I clean the new teeth?
You will need to practice good oral hygiene just as with natural teeth. Regular dental check ups and cleaning are extremely important for the maintenance of implants and their crowns/bridges.
Are the implants susceptible to gum disease?
Just as with natural teeth, the gums around implants do carry the potential for gum disease. However, good oral hygiene habits help to prevent gum problems around implants.
Will I be able to take out the teeth attached to the implants?
Generally, implanted teeth are permanently affixed and can only be safely removed by the dentist. However, sometimes complete dentures are placed using implants. In this situation, you can remove them for regular cleaning.
Will my implants show?
Your dental implants are inside the jaw bone and are covered with gums.
Will each missing tooth require an implant?
If you are having one tooth replaced, you will have one implant. However, implants usually support multiple teeth so as to minimise the length of the procedure. Generally, four to six implants can support an entire jaw.
How expensive is implant treatment?
Dental implants can be costly. However, often it does not cost much more than a bridge. Sometimes it is really the preferable option. For instance, implanting one single tooth prevents performing bridge work on the surrounding teeth. Implants will also maintain the jawbone around them.
At your next appointment, we can help answer any unanswered questions you might have, and get you started on the smile you've always wanted.
Any treatment carries risks. A full medical history and an initial consultation is required with one of our qualified dental practitioners to ensure that the treatment is right for you. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.