Everything You Need To Know About Dental Implants

Looking for a way to replace missing teeth? Dental implants may be the answer for you!

This comprehensive guide will tell you everything you need to know about this popular tooth replacement option. From what they are, to how they work, to the various benefits they offer, you’ll have all the information you need to determine if dental implants are right for you.

Keep reading to learn more!

What Are Dental Implants?

Among the many tooth replacement options available for people who have lost one or more of their natural teeth, dental implants are among the most popular. Unlike dental bridges or dentures, dental implants are designed to provide a durable and long-lasting replacement for missing teeth.

Teeth implants could either be endosteal, subperiosteal, or zygomatic.

• Endosteal implants are the most common type, and they are placed directly into the jawbone.
• Subperiosteal implants are placed on or above the jawbone but under the gum.
• Zygomatic implants are placed in the cheekbone.

A dental implant has three main parts:

• Implant:
  The implant is a small metal post inserted into the jawbone. It can be made out of titanium or another biocompatible metal.
• Abutment:
  The abutment is called a connector piece. It sits atop the implant and provides support for the dental crown. They are usually made of titanium, but gold and zirconia are also used.
• Dental Prosthetic:
  The dental prosthetic is the visible portion of the implant. It looks like a natural tooth. The prosthetic could be either a dental crown, a dental bridge, or a denture. These are usually made out of porcelain or ceramic and are custom-crafted to match the colour and shape of your existing teeth.

Dental implants are a safe and reliable way to improve your oral health and restore your smile. If you are considering dental implants, talk to a qualified oral health professional to see if they are right for you.

Who Needs Dental Implants?

Dental implants are often considered a cosmetic dental procedure. But, they can also be a necessary tooth replacement option for people with certain dental conditions.

Dental implants, however, are not right for everyone. They may be a good option for you if you have one or more of the following conditions:

• You have lost teeth due to decay, injury, or gum disease
  
• You have extensively damaged teeth that need to be extracted
  
• You cannot wear dental prosthetics such as dentures due to discomfort or irritation
• You want a long-term tooth replacement option that looks and functions like a natural tooth

Talk to your dentist about whether dental implants are the right solution for you.

What Are The Advantages And Disadvantages Of Dental Implants?

Dental implants may be popular for their benefits, but having them also comes with some drawbacks. It’s important to know the advantages and disadvantages of dental implants so you can make an informed decision before getting them.

Advantages of Dental Implants

Dental implants offer many advantages that make them an ideal choice for those looking to replace one or more missing teeth. Some of the advantages are as follows:

• They help to preserve oral health. Dental implants fill in the gaps left by missing teeth, preventing complications such as shifting of remaining teeth and bite alignment issues.
   
• They do not require the surrounding teeth to be modified, as is often necessary with traditional dentures. Because of this, dental implants can help preserve your mouth’s natural structure. 
  
  
• They promote bone health. The implant post fuses with the jawbone, preventing bone loss and maintaining facial structure. 
  
  
• They look and feel like natural teeth, and they are designed to blend in seamlessly with your smile. 
  
  
• They are highly durable and can last for many years with proper care. On the other hand, dentures and dental bridges need to be replaced every few years. 
  
  
• Dental implants are easier to care for compared to dentures. You brush and floss them just like your natural teeth.

For these reasons, dental implants are considered a suitable tooth replacement option for many people. However, they also have some disadvantages that you should know about.

Disadvantages of Dental Implants

There are a few disadvantages of dental implants to be aware of before deciding to get them. Here are some of them:

• They require a surgical procedure for placement. Dental implant surgery can be invasive and may require a longer healing process than other tooth replacement options. 
  
  
• They can be more complicated to install than other tooth replacement options, such as bridges or dentures. This means that the procedure can be more expensive, and there is a greater risk of complications. 
  
  
• There is the potential for implant rejection, which can occur if the body does not accept the implant. In rare cases, this can lead to serious health complications. 
  
  
• They can interfere with oral and dental health if not cared for properly. This is because bacteria can build up around the implant, leading to infections. 
  
  
• They are more expensive than other tooth replacement options, such as dentures or bridges.

Therefore, it is important to consult with a dental professional before opting for dental implants to know that they are the right choice for you.

What Are The Different Types Of Dental Implants?

There are four types of dental implants: single-tooth, implant-supported bridge, implant-supported dentures, and All-on-Four. Each type of dental implant has its own advantages and disadvantages that should be considered before making a decision.

Single-Tooth Dental Implants

Single-tooth dental implants are used to replace a single missing tooth. They are less invasive than other types of implants and can be placed in a single visit. However, they are also an expensive option for replacing a single tooth.

Implant-Supported Bridges

Implant-supported bridges are used to replace two or more missing teeth in a row. They require dental surgery to place the titanium posts. However, they are much stronger than traditional bridges and do not require support from nearby teeth.

Implant-Supported Dentures

Implant-supported dentures are used to replace all of the teeth in the upper or lower jaw. They are strong and stable but require surgery to place the implant posts and can be more expensive than traditional dentures.

All-on-Four Dental Implants

All-on-Four dental implants are used in cases where the replacement of all the teeth in both jaws at once is necessary. They provide immediate results and do not require as much bone density as other types of implants, but they are also more expensive.

Choosing the right type of dental implant is an important decision that should be made with the help of a qualified dentist or oral surgeon. Remember to ask about your options and get second opinions before making a final decision.

What Are The Steps Of Dental Implant Treatment?

The dental implant process usually takes place over several months and involves several different stages. Here is what typically happens during each stage of treatment.

Initial Consultation and Preparation

These are important steps in determining if dental implants are the right choice for you.

During this stage, your dentist will:

• Review your medical history:
  Remember to tell your dentist about any medical conditions you have and any medications you are taking, as these can affect the success of your dental implant surgery.
  
  
• Take X-rays and impressions (moulds) of your teeth:
  These will be used to determine your implants’ size, shape and location.
  
  
• Make a treatment plan:
  Your dentist will develop a personalised treatment plan outlining the type of implant that will be used, the number of implants to be placed and the timeline for your surgery.
  
  
• Assess your oral health and natural tooth structure to determine if you are a good candidate for oral surgery. Your dentist will move forward with the procedure if you have healthy gums and enough bone density to support the implant.

Patients who lack adequate bone density or have thin gums may require additional procedures such as bone grafting, sinus lifts, or gum grafting. In some cases, extracting the damaged natural tooth is also needed before placing the implant.

Once all the necessary preparations have been made, the dentist will schedule your surgery and help you plan for a successful recovery.

Implant Installation

The implant placement stage starts with the oral surgeon making a small incision in the gum tissue to expose the jawbone. Next, a hole is carefully drilled into the natural tooth, and a titanium screw is placed into the hole. Once the screw is in place, the incision is closed with sutures.

Osseointegration

The osseointegration stage of the dental implant process begins after implant installation surgery. During this stage, the implant post fuses with the natural bone in your jaw. This process can take several months, but it’s an important step in achieving a long-lasting, tooth replacement.

While your implant is integrating with your jaw bone, you’ll need to take good care of your oral health. This includes flossing and brushing regularly, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding tobacco products.

Abutment Placement

Once the implant has been installed, a second surgery may be necessary. The oral surgeon will make another incision in the gum tissue during this stage to expose the implant. Then, an abutment, or a small connector piece, is placed on top.

This allows the natural tooth to be attached to the implant. The oral health care professional then checks to see if the implant is secure and stable. In some cases, this step may not be needed, and the abutment can be placed during the initial implant surgery.

Dental Prosthesis Placement

The next and final stage of the dental implant process is to place the artificial tooth (or teeth) on the abutment. This is done by creating a custom-made dental prosthesis (crown, bridge or denture) that is specifically designed to fit onto the abutment. The prosthesis is attached to the abutment, and the whole system is checked to ensure it is secure.

After the dental implant process is complete, you will have a new artificial tooth (or teeth) that looks, feels, and functions like your regular teeth. With proper care, your new teeth can last for many years.

Can Dental Implants Last A Lifetime?

Many people with dental implants have enjoyed them for many years, but it is important to remember that they are not natural teeth. As with any artificial restoration, certain factors can affect longevity.

Dental implants are the go-to choice for tooth replacement because they are designed to last a lifetime. However, certain factors can affect the longevity of dental implants, including the following:

• The oral health of the patient:
  Patients with good oral health and who practice good dental hygiene will be more likely to have dental implants that last for many years. 
  
  
• The surgical placement of the dental implant:
  Proper placement is critical for its long-term success. 
  
  
• The type of dental implant:
  The type of dental implant used can also affect its longevity. For example, titanium implants are known to be very durable and last longer than other types of implants. 
  
  
• The number of remaining natural teeth:
  If you have fewer natural teeth, there will be more stress on the implants, and they may not last as long. 
  
  
• The overall health of the patient:
  Generally speaking, patients who are in good health tend to have dental implants that last longer than those who are not in good health. 
• Smoking:
  
  Smoking cigarettes increase the risk of infection and delay the healing process after implant surgery, decreasing their longevity.

These are just a few factors that can affect the longevity of dental implants. It is important to discuss all of these factors with your dentist before having dental implant surgery to ensure that you understand all of the risks and benefits involved.

How Do You Care For Dental Implants?

Just like your natural teeth, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene for your dental implants. This way, you can help prevent any potential issues, such as infection or gum disease. The good thing is that implants are simple to care for, much like natural teeth.

Here are eight tips for caring for your dental implants:

1. Practise good oral hygiene habits:
   This means flossing daily, brushing your teeth twice a day, and using an antibacterial mouthwash. Brushing around the base of your dental implants is especially important to remove any food particles or plaque that could lead to infection.
   
   
2. Eat a healthy diet:
   A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can help promote healing after dental implant surgery and keep your gums healthy. Avoid sugary and acidic foods that can damage your teeth, and remember to chew carefully and slowly to avoid putting too much pressure on your implants. 
   
   
3. Quit smoking:
   Smoking increases your risk of complications after dental implant surgery and can also cause damage to your natural teeth, gums, and jawbone. If you smoke, it is important to quit before implant surgery and avoid smoking afterwards to protect your investment.
   
   
4. See your dentist regularly:
   Even if your dental implants do not require special care, it is still important to make time to see your dentist every six months for a cleaning and checkup. Regular dental visits will help you catch any issues early on and prevent serious complications down the road. 
   
   
5. Avoid hard foods:
   While dental implants are quite strong, they are not indestructible. Avoid biting into hard and crunchy foods like candy or ice cubes to avoid damaging your implants. Also, be careful when chewing tough meats or vegetables—cut them into small pieces before eating so that you don’t put too much strain on your implants. It’s highly recommended to stick to soft food, especially after surgery. 
   
   
6. Use caution with whitening products:
   Many over-the-counter whitening products contain chemicals that can damage dental implants. If you want to whiten your teeth, talk to your dentist first to get recommendations for safe products that will not harm your implants. 
   
   
7. Be gentle when brushing:
   When caring for dental implants, it’s important to use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Remember to brush gently to avoid irritating the gum tissue around the implant. 
   
   
8. Recognise warning signs:
   If you develop any swelling, redness, or discharge near your implant site, contact your dentist immediately, as this could be a sign of infection.

Taking good care of your dental implants is essential for maintaining their longevity and preventing complications. Following these tips can help keep your dental implants healthy for many years.

How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?

Dental implant surgery is a major surgical procedure, and the cost of dental implants can be significant. In general, the average cost of dental implants is as follows:

• Single-tooth implants: Between $3,000 and $6,000
• Implant-supported bridges: Between $6,300 and $9,500
• Implant-supported dentures: Between $15,000 and $18,000
• All-on-Four implants: Can range from $16,000 to $42,000per arch

Here are factors to consider when determining the cost of dental implants:

1. The type of implant:
   Different types of implants are available, and some are more expensive than others. 
   
   
2. The number of dental implants:
   The more implants that are needed, the higher the cost will be 
   
   
3. The location of the implants:
   Implants placed in the front of the mouth typically cost less than those placed in the back 
   
   
4. The condition of your jawbone:
   If you have weak or poorly developed bones, you may need special procedures to prepare your jaw for an implant, increasing the price.
    
5. Your oral health:
   Good oral health is crucial for a successful dental implant treatment. If you have active gum disease, periodontal disease, or other conditions that impact your oral health, you may need additional dental treatments before surgery, which can add to the cost. 
   
   
6. The dental surgeon’s experience:
   Highly experienced surgeons may charge more for their services, but they are also more likely to have a successful outcome. 
   
   
7. The location of the dental practice:
   Dental implant surgery is usually more expensive in large metropolitan areas than in smaller towns.

Ultimately, the proper way to determine the exact cost of dental implants is to consult with a qualified implant dentist.

Final Thoughts

Dental implants are a great way to restore your smile after tooth loss. They offer a wide range of benefits, making them an excellent choice for enhancing your smile.

Dental implants help maintain healthy teeth and gums and can even improve oral health. Not only do they look and feel natural, but they also last longer than other forms of restoration, like dentures or bridges.

If you’re considering dental implants, we invite you to book an appointment via our website or call the Dentalcare of Forrestfield clinic today. Our team of professionals will be happy to answer any questions you may have about this life-changing procedure.