All you need to know about dental implants
From an increase in confidence through to regaining the full ability to chew, dental implants can improve quality of life in so many lasting ways. We offer dental implants to viable candidates wanting to restore function and confidence with a complete, natural-looking smile. We’re often asked about our dental implant procedure, so we’ve curated a list of the top questions we get asked to help you on your journey to a healthy smile.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants work by replacing three missing tooth components. That is, the root of the tooth, a small amount of bone around the missing tooth, and the crown of the tooth. Each of these three components are meticulously planned out by our dentists. Once sufficiently prepped, these components are placed with near perfection to provide a long-lasting solution to a missing tooth.
Why are dental implants beneficial?
An incredibly strong and long lasting solution to missing or damaged teeth, dental implants have a host of benefits. While some implants may require periodical adjustment, on the whole they are a low maintenance option when compared to alternatives such as dentures. Dental implants are the most popular tooth replacement service we offer because they preserve the health of the jawbone and gum tissue. Because dental implants are placed inside the bone, just like a natural tooth root, the bone is stimulated every time you bite and chew food. This action works to keep the jawbone healthy, active, and alive.
How do dental implants work?
A screw like anchor is used as an artificial replacement for the natural tooth roots. Dental implants provide a stable base for artificial replacement teeth such as dental crowns, bridges and dentures. Dental implants are attached to the jawbone and gum tissue and are designed to function like a normal tooth, remaining a permanent fixture in the mouth. An implant looks and functions just like a natural tooth, they’re designed to feel just as if you never lost a tooth in the first place.
How does a dental implant procedure work?
Dental implant procedures are completed in two separate phases. The first phase of the procedure involves surgical treatment under local anaesthetic. During the first phase, an incision is made into the gum. Following this, a titanium implant is drilled into the jawbone, to replace the root of the tooth. Our dentists work carefully to replace any missing bone volume that may occur during this first phase. The second phase typically occurs 3-4 months after the titanium implant. This second phase involves a porcelain crown being fitted to the titanium implant, completing the tooth. This phase is painless and local anaesthetic is not required.
What’s the recovery and aftercare?
Recovery is subjective to the individual, but we find that patients typically return to work or normal duties 1-2 days after the first surgical phase in the two-step procedure. We provide our patients with a script for appropriate pain management medication, should it be required. We’ll also supply a medical certificate to cover any time off work required. In terms of aftercare, you’ll need to treat your implants just like regular teeth. That includes regular brushing and flossing, as well as regular professional check ups. Good dental hygiene will help to ensure long term success for your dental implants.
What are dental implants made of?
A natural tooth is made up of two parts, the root which sits in the jawbone and the crown which is visible in your mouth. An implant has a similar structure in that a titanium implant post forms the ‘root’ and a porcelain crown replaces the visible tooth. Dental implants are made of materials compatible with the human body, and are safe to use. If well maintained, the permanent titanium anchors have a usable life well over thirty years.
Bridges vs Dental Implants
A dental bridge and a dental implant are both effective solutions for replacing missing teeth, but they differ significantly. A dental bridge involves anchoring an artificial tooth to the adjacent teeth, which requires those neighboring teeth to be filed down. In contrast, a dental implant involves surgically placing a titanium post into the jawbone, which acts as a root for a crown and does not affect adjacent teeth. Implants are generally more durable and can help prevent bone loss in the jaw, while bridges are less invasive and can be a quicker, more cost-effective solution. The choice between the two depends on individual dental health, budget, and personal preferences.
Parking at
Newstead Dental Co
There’s plenty of street parking around or you can find a couple hours of free parking at Gasworks shopping precinct down the road.
Show up
a little early
Come in five to ten minutes early for your initial appointment. We’ll get you to fill in a patient information form with a bit about your dental and medical history.
Find our clinic located in Newstead
Our clinic is based just between Newstead, Teneriffe, and New Farm and is handy to public transport and car parking. Based on Kyabra Street in Newstead, we’re just a short walk from Gasworks and Skyring Terrace.
A few more FAQs about dental implants
In Australia, health insurance extras don’t typically cover implants. More often than not dental implants are only covered on high level extras cover. The majority of extras cover policies include general dental procedures, such as check ups or small fillings but usually don’t include major dental procedures like implants or root canals. You can check with your health insurance provider to see if your level of extras cover includes dental implants.
Quite often it depends on a patient’s individual medical and dental history. It also depends on the condition of the jaw, how many teeth are needing to be replaced, as well as if bone or gum grafting is required. On average it takes 1-2 days to return to regular duties following the surgical phase of the treatment.
Dental implants are designed to be painless and comfortable. Mild pain and discomfort is expected immediately after surgery, however, this is only expected to last up to a week. Once healed, a dental implant will function like any of your other ‘real’ teeth.
If given the correct care, the titanium dental implant should last a lifetime. The artificial replacement tooth attached to the implant does have a lifespan generally between 5-15 years, depending on how well it is cared for.
Find our price list for dental implant procedures here.
