Dental Implants can permanently restore your smile if you have missing teeth. They are designed to provide you with the same look, feel and function as your natural teeth, so you will be able to eat, speak and brush like normal.
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Dental implants replace the root of the tooth, then a crown is placed on top to create a full smile. Implants are an alternative to a bridge or dentures and can be used to replace one or more missing teeth and they can even be used to hold dentures in place.
A Dental Implant can be thought of as an artificial tooth root that is submerged into the jaw bone. When dental work such as a crown, fixed bridge or a full set of dentures is added one or more teeth can be replaced. A dental implant is fabricated from a very strong biocompatible material that is surgically placed in a relatively simple straightforward procedure.
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After an initial healing period of 7-days, the implant is left unloaded (without a crown) for 4 months which allows the surrounding bone to grow onto the implant.
What is a Dental Implant?
After 4 months an x-ray is taken to assess bone integration. At this stage, impressions are taken and a dental technician will fabricate the crown/s. These are then returned to the surgery for placement at a subsequent appointment generally 2 weeks later by your dentist.
About the Dental Implant Procedure
Dental Implant treatment is generally carried out in 2 steps:
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Step 1 - The implant placement.
The titanium or alloy implant is surgically placed and left to fuse with the jawbone
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Step 2 - The implant restoration.
The artificial tooth, crown or denture is fitted on top of the implant.
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At West Pymble Dental Surgery you'll have at least 3 appointments with our team to complete your dental implant procedure.
First, you'll need to visit one of our experienced dentists for a consultation where we check to see whether you are an ideal candidate for dental implants. We'll chat to you about what you're looking for and the challenges you're looking to overcome by getting a dental implant.
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​The second appointment is what the implant placement is conducted and once the implant has fully integrated with the jaw bone the implant restoration is completed at your third appointment.
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Every smile is different and additional appointments may be needed depending on your oral health but our clinicians will walk you through your treatment plan before it starts. Just like your natural teeth, implants need maintenance so regular check-ups are also a must.
Not everyone is suited for dental implant treatment. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek advice from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. Availability of listed treatment options may vary. Please contact the practice for more details.