Implant Dentist Bundaberg

The long-lasting tooth replacement treatment, there is no better option than dental implants.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants work by having a titanium screw placed into the jawbone, which bonds with the bone to hold it in place and provide stability and strength.

An abutment sits on top of the implant, which is the small metal post which holds an artificial tooth or crown firmly in place on top. The crown is the visible part which restores the aesthetics and function of your smile.

Can everyone get dental implants?

Not every patient is suitable for dental implants, as there are some reasons which prevent dental implants from being successful, such as:

• Unhealthy jawbone
• Conditions impacting the growth of bone
• Gum disease
• Smoking tobacco
• Not committed to spending months

What are the benefits of dental implants?

 There are many benefits for getting dental implants, which include:

• Long-term tooth replacement
• Natural aesthetics
• Strong and very durable
• Improves bite and speech
• Less discomfort
• Treat just like a natural tooth

Dental implant treatment process:

Initial dental implant consultation

The initial consultation will decide whether you are suitable for dental implants or not, as another restorative treatment may be more suitable if you don’t qualify for implants.

The team at van der Walt Dental will need to know your medical history, any medical conditions and medications you take. You will also undergo a full dental exam, including x-rays and 3D imaging.

The information gathered about your overall and oral health will be used to decide whether you qualify for dental implant surgery. If so, the treatment process can begin.

Dental implant surgery

Dental implant surgery begins with the gums being cut back where the tooth is missing to expose the jawbone.

Next, a drill will be used to drill down into the bone to make room for a dental implant. The implant will be placed down into the bone.

You will have to wait a few months for the bone and implant to bond in a process known as osseointegration. The bone grows back around the implant and holds it down for durability and strength.

A temporary denture may be placed over the implant to provide protection.

Placement of the abutment

Once the bone and implant have fused together, many months later you will return for the abutment to be placed. The abutment is a small connecting piece between the implant and the artificial tooth or crown.

You may have some gum tissue cut away to expose the dental implant, so that the abutment can be placed.

This may also require two weeks healing before you receive the artificial tooth or crown.

Crown or artificial tooth

You can either choose between a dental crown or an artificial tooth. The artificial tooth has removable or permanent options. The removable version is attached by a metal frame, whereas the permanent tooth is cemented down.

How safe are dental implants?

For patients who are suitable for dental implants, they are very effective and safe. Generally, people with adequate jawbone and google dental health are able to successfully get implants.

What if my dental implants fail to fuse with the bone?

There is a chance that dental implants can fail to fuse with the bone and in this scenario, the implant will be removed, and you will have to wait a few months before you can retry the process.

Implants generally only fail if you smoke tobacco, suffer a facial injury or an infection. You will know if the fusing has failed as the implant will move around.

Are there any side-effects of dental implants?

During the dental implant procedure, you will not experience any discomfort due to the anaesthetic and sedation. However afterwards you may experience:

• Discomfort and pain
• It may slightly bleed
• Swollen gum tissue
• Bruising around the implant

Dental implants Bundaberg

If you are missing a tooth or more, and you have an interest in restoring, please get in touch with the team at van der Walt Dental in Bundaberg as we offer dental implants among other restorative dental treatments. We will restore both the function and aesthetics of your smile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I a good candidate for dental implants?

You may be an excellent candidate for dental implants if you have good overall oral health, sufficient bone density, and are committed to maintaining post-operative care. Dental implants offer a long-lasting solution for missing teeth, and with the guidance of a qualified dentist or oral surgeon, you can look forward to enjoying the benefits of a restored smile and improved oral function.

Is the dental implant procedure painful?

The dental implant procedure typically involves minimal pain due to the use of local anaesthesia during the surgery, ensuring you don’t feel pain at the time of implant placement. Some discomfort, swelling, and mild pain may be experienced in the days following the procedure, which can be managed with over-the-counter or prescribed pain medications. The post-operative discomfort is temporary and usually subsides within a week, allowing most patients to resume their normal activities quickly. While there may be some initial discomfort, the long-term benefits of having a restored smile and improved oral function make dental implants a worthwhile option for many individuals.

How long do dental implants last?

Dental implants can last for decades, often a lifetime, when properly cared for and maintained. Factors such as diligent oral hygiene practices, overall health, the quality of materials used, the skill of the dental surgeon, bite force management, regular follow-up care, and initial bone density all contribute to the longevity of dental implants. While there is no absolute guarantee of their duration, with the right care and attention, many individuals can enjoy the benefits of dental implants for 20 years or more, making them a durable and reliable solution for tooth replacement.