Ground Floor, 4 Bridge Street Sydney, NSW 2000
Effective Dental Implants in Sydney
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a screw-like anchor used as replacement for natural tooth roots made from biocompatible materials like titanium. Implants have been used in both upper and lower jaws for decades. Dental implants provide a strong foundation for artificial replacement teeth, including crowns, bridges, and dentures. They can be used to replace a single tooth or multiple teeth or to support partial or full dentures. They remain inside the mouth without adhesives and are the most natural-looking restoration option, ideal for replacing missing or severely diseased teeth.
Why Should I Get a Dental Implant?
Dental implants offer –
- Longevity: They last longer than bridges or dentures.
- Bone Preservation: They prevent bone loss associated with missing teeth.
- Stability: They are a sturdy alternative to removable dentures.
- No Impact on Adjacent Teeth: They do not cause wear and tear on surrounding teeth.
- Natural Appearance: They look like natural teeth and are only identifiable by dentists.
- Functionality: They allow you to eat hard foods without issues.
- Confidence Boost: They can improve self-confidence.
- Universal Eligibility: There are no age restrictions; anyone can get dental implants.
Procedure for a Dental Implant?
Dental implant treatment takes approximately 6 months and involves three steps:
- Placement: The damaged tooth is removed, and the implant is placed into the jaw. A screw is inserted to prevent debris from entering. It takes 2 to 3 months for the implant to fuse with the jawbone, during which the gum is secured over the implant.
- Post Attachment: Once the implant has fused, the gum is uncovered, and a post (extension) is attached. The gum tissue heals around the post, acting as the new tooth’s foundation. A digital impression is taken for crown construction.
- Crown Placement: A crown is custom-made to match your natural teeth in size, shape, and colour. Once completed, the crown is attached to the implant post, providing a functional and aesthetic tooth.
Helping you find the optimal solution
Is the cost of dental implants covered by health funds?
In Australia, most health insurance extras do not cover implants. High-level extra cover is needed for implants to be included. While general dental treatments like check-ups and fillings are usually covered, significant procedures like implants are not.
Am I a Good Candidate for a Dental Implant?
You are likely eligible for a dental implant if you have a strong jawbone, do not suffer from gum disease (periodontitis), and do not smoke. CT scans are taken prior to ascertain if there is enough bone level to support an implant.
Discuss your options and medical history with Dr Michalopoulos during your initial consultation.
Type of dental implant placed.
- Endosseous Implants: Cylinder or screw-shaped, made of titanium metal which are placed within the jawbone.
- Recovery Time for Dental Implants? Recovery time varies based on your medical and dental history, jawbone condition, number of teeth replaced, and whether bone or gum grafting was needed. Generally, feeling normal takes a couple of days to a few weeks. Complete healing of the jawbone and gum tissue takes approximately 3-6 months.
- Are Dental Implants Safe? Dental implants have been a safe and effective solution for over 30 years. Made from biocompatible materials, they provide a strong foundation for replacement teeth.
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Are there any risks or side effects from dental implants? Risks & side effects are rare but can include:
1. Infection
2. Nerve damage, or damage to other teeth
3. Sinus issues when upper-jaw implants are placed and can protrude into sinus cavities - Should I Go Overseas for Dental Implants? While getting dental implants overseas might be cheaper, it often involves lower quality materials and questionable infection control, increasing health risks. Australian dentists adhere to strict regulatory requirements, ensuring quality care.
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Risks of Going Overseas for Dental Implants? Getting implants in countries with less stringent regulations can lead to complications such as:
1. Infection: Poor infection control can lead to peri-implantitis, causing bone loss and implant failure.
2. Poorly Positioned Implants: Misaligned implants can cause chewing issues, hygiene problems, and aesthetic concerns, often requiring removal and replacement.
Are Dental Implants Painful?
After healing, dental implants should be painless. Mild pain and discomfort are expected immediately after surgery, lasting up to a week. Pain can be managed effectively with painkillers.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
With proper maintenance, dental implants are expected to last a lifetime. However, depending on their care, the attached artificial tooth (crown, bridge, or denture) typically lasts 5-15 years.
Caring for Dental Implants
Proper care includes maintaining good oral hygiene and regular visits for professional cleaning and check -ups.
We will provide the necessary products and instructions for implant care at home.
Dental Implant Alternatives
Common alternatives include:
- Removable partial dentures (acrylic or metal)
- Removable complete dentures (acrylic or metal)
- Tooth-supported fixed bridges
- Resin-bonded (Maryland) bridges
- All-on-4 dental implants
Dentures vs. Dental Implants
Dental implants are often preferred for replacing one or two missing teeth because they preserve jawbone health and provide a natural appearance. Dentures can be less secure and restrict food choices but are suitable for multiple missing teeth and patients not eligible for implants.
Bridges vs. Dental Implants
Considerations include:
- Implants can last at least 15 years, bridges last on average 5-7 years.
- Some health funds cover bridges, but not implants.
- Implants prevent bone loss, while bridges may not.
- Implants can be maintained with regular brushing and flossing; bridges require special care.
- Both provide natural results, but implants mimic real teeth better.
- Bridges can be fitted in 2-3 visits; implants require longer healing.
What If I Don't Get a Dental Implant?
Delaying treatment can lead to bone loss, instability of remaining teeth, and increased costs and healing time due to necessary bone grafts. Most bone loss occurs within the first year of missing a tooth and continues after that.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants are a strong, sturdy, and long-lasting solution for replacing teeth. They require minimal maintenance compared to other options.
Disadvantages of Dental Implants
Dental implants are more expensive than bridges and dentures, so some health funds may not cover them. They also require a robust and healthy jawbone for support, making some patients ineligible.