All you need to know about dental implants
Are you missing teeth? Do you feel self-conscious when you smile? Whether your teeth were knocked out during an accident, or they had to be surgically removed, losing teeth can affect your self-confidence and can be detrimental to your oral health.
Improve your self-confidence with a beautiful smile
Dental implants are one of the most common ways to replace missing teeth, but how much do you know about the procedure?
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are an alternative to dentures, but unlike dentures, they cannot be removed. They can be used to replace single or multiple teeth and look and function like natural teeth.
Basically, dental implants replace the root of a tooth. They are usually made from titanium alloy and are placed into your jawbone during surgery. Once the implant is inserted, the mouth is left to heal for approximately three to four months.
After healing is complete, our dentists place a custom-made crown onto the top of the implant and match it to your remaining teeth. It’s important to us that the dental implants look and function the same as your natural teeth.
5 benefits of dental implants
- They give you added confidence if you are missing teeth.
- Dental implants are fixed and won’t fall or slide out.
- They look and feel like natural teeth.
- Short recovery time.
- Can be cared for the same as natural teeth.
What to expect when you get dental implants?
When you visit The Practice to get dental implants, we’ll take a CT scan of your mouth. This will give your dentist a 3D image of your mouth and jaw. This scan uses the latest technology and is very safe, with very low levels of radiation.
These scans give our dentists the best view to see exactly where the dental implants need to be placed. All this behind-the-scenes planning ensures when you come into our clinic, the procedure is quicker and with less risk of complications.
Who can get dental implants?
Everyone is different, so it’s difficult to answer this question without seeing your teeth. To find out if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants, we recommend you make an appointment with The Practice, West End. You can book online or call (07)3733 3223.
Types of dental implants
We offer single and multiple dental implants. Some of the dental implants we offer include:
SNAP-IN DENTURES
Snap in dentures are held in place with screws in your jawbone. Normally, two to four implants are used in each jaw, with a maximum of ten inserted. Once the implants are in your jaw, the implant supported denture (overdenture) will be set into place. It can be fixed permanently or be removable for cleaning.
ALL ON X DENTAL IMPLANTS
A modern procedure that is used to replace all teeth with only four or five dental implants. The implants are inserted into the jawbone, then the prosthetic replacement teeth are attached either as a single tooth or a bridge of multiple teeth.
By tilting the implants we avoid the need for grafting and avoid important anatomical structures such as the maxillary sinuses or inferior dental nerve when replacing a full set of teeth. With this procedure the dental prosthesis is immediately attached to the implants, so patients can walk out of our clinic with a new set of teeth.
IMPLANT SUPPORTED DENTURES
Instead of just being supported by the gums, these are supported by dental implants. They are more secure than traditional dentures.
Is it a painful procedure?
Generally, the dental implant procedure isn’t painful. Your dentist will administer either general or local anaesthesia to numb the area. You may feel a little pressure during your time in the clinic, then as the anaesthesia wears off you may feel some mild discomfort or pain as you recover from the surgery.
Your dentist may prescribe painkillers for pain and swelling. After two weeks you should be completely pain-free. If you feel severe pain it could be a sign of infection, so we recommend contacting your dentist immediately.
Recovery after dental implants
Normally symptoms will reduce approximately a week after dental implant surgery, but it will vary depending on the individual. It can take between four to six months for the dental implants to fully integrate into your jaw.
How much do dental implants cost?
The cost of dental implants will vary depending on the type of implant and how many teeth you need to replace.
How long do dental implants last?
With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime.
Taking care of your dental implants
You should take care of your dental implants as you would take care of your natural teeth. This includes brushing them twice a day with a soft toothbrush, using non-abrasive toothpaste, using mouthwash and flossing daily.
Overdentures can be removed daily and soaked in a cleaning solution.
Dental implants at The Practice, West End
If you’re looking for a dentist in South Brisbane, the experienced team at The Practice can help you achieve that winning smile with dental implants. For more information book online or call (07) 3733 3223.
