If you or a loved one has recently lost a tooth, you might be considering your options for replacing the tooth and restoring your smile. There are factors to account for when deciding to get dental implants. These include dental implant cost, how dental implants are done, and the benefits of getting them.
Restorative dentistry is a term used to refer to the practice of replacing missing or damaged teeth. Dental implants fall under the category of restorative dentistry and are an extremely effective and popular method for tooth replacement.
Dental implants made of titanium
Dental implants play the role of an artificial root inserted into jaw bone. This allows for a permanent artificial tooth to be placed into the implant and fill the space of the missing tooth.
The implant itself is made of titanium and zirconium and is embedded into the jaw bone. Because the body responds so well to titanium, new bone begins to grow around the titanium post to hold it securely in place. This is known as osseointegration.
Dental implants don’t shift or impact neighbouring teeth
Dental implants are fixed in your mouth. They don’t need to be removed like dentures. In addition, unlike a dental bridge, dental implants do not require an anchor to the surrounding teeth, so they don’t adversely impact healthy teeth.
How dental implants are done – you may be a candidate for same-day implants
The procedure for getting dental implants can vary in length. Generally, the process can take anywhere from 4 weeks to six months, but some practices, like ours here in Chatswood or Baulkham Hills, offer a same-day implant procedure.
Sometimes it is possible to receive your replacement tooth the day your dental implants are installed. However, the general wait time to receive the replacement is six to eight weeks, or when the implant has completely healed.
You may need a bone graft or sinus lift
Your first appointment for dental implants will involve a thorough examination and discussion of your oral health and planning for your treatment.
Any questions or concerns you might have can be addressed at this appointment. We take X-rays or other diagnostic imaging to plan your implant placement.
If you need bone grafting, a sinus lift or additional extractions, we schedule these appointments first before you receive your dental implants. These procedures add additional healing time.
There are two types of surgery available
On the day of your second appointment, your dentist will attach the implant by performing a guided keyhole style surgery through the gum or using a small incision. Either conscious sedation or general anaesthetic is used.
Although there are some variations in how dental implants are done, most dental practices follow this general outline.
Dental implant cost depends on a number of factors
Dental implant cost in Australia will vary depending on a few factors. For example, the number of teeth that need to be replaced, a bone graft or sinus lift, the experience of your surgeon and the extent of the surgery.
At Toothsome, we offer monthly payment plans for restorative dental procedures such as dental implants. In addition, our portfolio of extensive dental implant procedures performed reveals our expertise for a sense of security in your investment.
When considering the cost of dental implants, it is important to remember that sometimes we must make an investment in our health for the longevity and well-being of our body.
Dental implants look and function like natural teeth
Dental implants are truly a sound investment in your oral and overall health. One of the main reasons patients opt for this procedure is that dental implants look and function like regular teeth. However, unlike natural teeth, they will never get a cavity.
You can brush and floss your implants the same way you would your normal teeth.
Dental implants preserve your jawbone
In addition to aesthetics and functionality, dental implants have the capability of preserving the integrity of the bone structure. When a tooth or teeth get compromised or have to be removed, the jawbone, if not structurally supported, will begin to shift. This can cause dental issues in the future, which equates to more money spent in the long run.
Dental implants provide enough bite pressure, similar to natural teeth, to keep the jawbone from deteriorating. Dentures do not provide this same pressure, and they will need to be refitted every 5-7 years.
The Takeaway
Dental implants are becoming one of the most performed dental procedures in the world. The advantages of dental implants in comparison with other tooth replacement therapies are undeniable and more dentists are recognising this in their treatments.
Dental implants help to protect the existing teeth and structure of the bone to prevent further dental issues. Our Toothsome practices have three convenient locations in Chatswood, Baulkham Hills, and Sydney. Contact us to set up your consultation for dental implants on Chatswood (02) 8203 8786, Baulkham Hills (02) 9158 6637.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
