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implants is a system that uses a man-made
titanium "tooth root" that often fuses to the jaw bone
to form a secure foundation for tooth replacement.
This
process is known as osseo-integration. Dental implants can often
be used to replace a single lost tooth or many missing teeth.
When
state of the art Dental Implants are combined with modern
dental procedures, permanent replacement of missing teeth can often improve your appearance, comfort and function.
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What
is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium fixture that serves
as the replacement for the root portion of a missing natural
tooth. The implant is placed in the bone of the upper or
lower jaw and allowed to bond with the bone and serve as
an anchor for the replacement tooth. Dental implants can often
be used to replace a single lost tooth or many missing teeth.
Implants may also be used to help retain dentures. Implant
supported replacement teeth usually look, feel and function like
natural teeth. Dental implants may help preserve
the integrity of the facial structure and reduce the inconvenience
associated with tooth loss. |
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Before Dental Implant
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After Dental Implant |
| PLEASE NOTE: As with any dental procedure it is important to note that the before and after results shown will vary for each individual situation and you cannot expect equivalent or identical results to those portrayed in these photographs. Any material risks associated with your specific dental situation will be explained during your consultation at Enhance Dental. ©copyright |
Contact Enhance Dental on (03) 9533-8488
TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT
DENTAL IMPLANTS |
BENEFITS OF DENTAL IMPLANTS
Improved
Appearance
When
teeth are lost, ongoing shrinkage of the jawbone often occurs and this could make
the face look older. Dental implants can usually slow or stop this process.
Improved
Comfort
Dental
implants often eliminate the pain and discomfort of removable full or
partial dentures. Since dentures sit on top of the jawbone and
gums, continuous shrinkage of the jaw bone alters the fit of the
denture resulting in slipping or rocking of the dentures. Exposed
nerves and irritation of the gum tissue may add to the discomfort.
Implant
supported replacement teeth are closer to natural teeth because they
are anchored securely to your jawbone. Gum irritation and the
pain of exposed nerves that may be associated with conventional full or partial
dentures are often eliminated.
Eat
Better
Dental
implants can restore chewing efficiency comparable to that of
natural teeth. Unlike dentures they do not move when you chew on them. This usually allows you to eat your favourite foods with
confidence and without pain. A full upper denture covers the palate
of the mouth and reduces the ability to taste foods. With dental
implants, you can have the palate removed from your upper denture
so you can better taste and enjoy your food.
Convenience
Dental
implants can eliminate the numerous embarrassing inconveniences
of removable partial and full dentures. You will eliminate the
use of gooey denture adhesives that may be used. You will no longer need to cover your mouth when
you laugh or smile, for fear that your teeth could pop out or fall
down.
Protect
Your Remaining Natural Teeth
Dental
implants may be more appropriate than a bridge for the replacement
of one or more adjacent teeth. With conventional bridgework, the
teeth surrounding missing teeth must be ground down. Dental implants
often eliminate the need to modify these teeth.
FREQENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What
is the success rate of Dental Implants?
Dental implant success depends on several factors including the quality and quantity of the bone available at the site, the patient's oral hygiene and overall general health. The consensus is that implants carry a success rate of around 95%[1]
Certain medical diseases including gum disease and smoking may
contraindicate implant treatment. Your dentist will determine
if you are a candidate for dental implants after a careful evaluation
of your dental and medical health history.
How
long does it take?
The
complete implant reconstruction process normally takes from 4 to 6 months. Faster methods are being developed but are only suitable in specific circumstances. Up until the implant is ready to be permanently connected to a crown, bridge or removable denture a temporary tooth or teeth can be placed over the implant(s). Time
is needed for your jawbone to grow around the implant and for
your replacement teeth to be made. Procedures vary, but it usually
includes one or more surgical steps and then the restoration is fabricated over two or more appointments.
How
much do implants cost?
The
fee for tooth replacement with dental implants will depend on
several factors, including the number of teeth being replaced
and the number of implants required to support your replacement
teeth. Some additional procedures may be required prior to or at the time of
placement of your dental implants to help improve the long-term health
of your dental implants. Typically, there is a fee for the surgical
procedures and a separate fee to attach the posts (called abutements) and construction of
your replacement teeth. To obtain a specific fee estimate, it
is necessary to have a dentist and/or a dental specialist examine your mouth.
Is
there pain?
Just
as with any surgery, there can be some pain or discomfort. Anaesthesia
and patient sedation are used to reduce any discomfort at the
time of the procedure. Your doctor will prescribe
medications to ease any pain discomfort that may occur after the procedure. Your dentist
may recommend that you speak with another patient who has already
had a dental implant to assess their personal experience.
Who
is a candidate?
If you are missing one or more of your teeth due to injury,
disease or decay, you may be a suitable candidate for dental implants. If one
or a few teeth are missing, dental implants in conjunction with
a crown or bridge may be able to replace those teeth. If all or most of your teeth are missing, then dental implants
may be placed to replace a loose fitting full or partial denture.
Adequate bone in your jaw is needed to support the implant(s) along with healthy gum tissues that are free of gum disease. Certain diseases may
contraindicate implant treatment. Your dentist will determine
if you are a candidate for dental implants after a careful evaluation
of your dental and medical health history.
REFERENCE:
[1]
Esposito M, Grusovin MG, Willings M, Coulthard P, Worthington HV (2007). "The effectiveness of immediate, early, and conventional loading of dental implants: a Cochrane systematic review of randomized controlled clinical trials". The International Journal of Oral & Maxillofacial Implants 22 (6): 893–904.
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