Dental Implants
Dental implants might be the perfect solution for you if you are missing a tooth or have gaps in your smile. They are durable, long-lasting, in fact these tooth replacements are the closest thing to a natural tooth.
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant involves implanting a titanium, high-grade titanium screw into the jawbone, acting as an artificial root for your replacement tooth. Over time, the screw fuses with the bone, creating a strong and stable support that looks and functions like a natural tooth. On top of the screw, we place a tooth-coloured crown, adding to the appearance and functionality of the implant. The process may involve single or multiple implants depending on individual needs.
Who Can Benefit?
While the objective for many dentists is to restore rather than replace your natural teeth, there are several scenarios where implants may be the best option:
- You have a cracked or broken tooth that is beyond repair
- You are missing one or more of your natural teeth
- You have an infected tooth or teeth that are causing pain
- You have joint pain or bite issues that cause teeth to shift
- You have bone loss in the jaw
- You have ill-fitting dentures
Who Is a Candidate?
While implants offer an excellent solution, they may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals with a long-standing history of uncontrolled gum disease, or those with poor healing ability, like medically compromised patients, older and frail patients, and patients who haven’t completed growth, are not ideal candidates. We typically recommend these tooth replacements for adults aged 21 and above who have lost a single tooth or multiple teeth and want to restore function and aesthetics.
What to Expect
The process begins with an initial consult involving a full checkup of the mouth and bone health. We assess the patient’s dentition to ensure it is suitable for implant treatment and undertake preparatory work like cleans and fillings to remove any active infection. We then take a 3D X-ray and a digital scan for the implant planning. The patient is then invited back for a second consult to discuss the plan and the cost. After gaining consent, we proceed with the surgery.
After the procedure, we provide verbal and written aftercare instructions that discuss diet, hygiene, and medication. Regular maintenance is crucial for successful and long-term dental implant treatment. We usually schedule follow-up appointments at one week, one month, three months, and six months and provide a tailored maintenance plan.
Book an Appointment
Contact Six Twelve Family Dental today to learn more about dental implants and take that first step towards a natural-looking, complete smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dental implants permanent?
Why choose implants over other treatment options?
* Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.