Implant Dentistry
What are the advantages of dental implants?
Dental implants are a permanent solution with a precision fit that looks and feels like natural teeth. They’re attractive, and you can eat and speak comfortably without the slipping and irritation of dentures and bridges. They don’t need to be removed for cleaning and are attached without adhesives.
Is the placement of an implant painful?
Most of our patients never need to take the analgesics that are prescribed preventatively, noting that they experience zero discomfort. If a tooth extraction were rated to be a 10 on a pain scale of 1-10, an implant would just be a 2-3. When bone needs to be transplanted, some swelling and discomfort can occur that’s similar to having an extraction.
Am I a candidate for dental implants?
Some medications are contraindicated for dental implants. Nonsmokers are usually better candidates, and we encourage our patients to take a ‘’smoking holiday” while the implant process is underway.
What measures are taken to prevent pain?
Marcaine® is used for a local anaesthetic to numb the area for approximately 6-8 hours. If you’re having the implant placed in hospital, Marcaine is also routinely administered to spare you any challenges after the procedure. Marcaine at the beginning of the procedure on a sleeping patient seems to aid their recovery, allowing the anaesthesia process to be more peaceful due to numbness. Insurance is accepted and can be processed immediately with our HICAPS facilities. Contact us today!
How do I know if they’ll work for me?
Some medications are contraindicated for dental implants. Nonsmokers are usually better candidates, and we encourage our patients to take a ‘’smoking holiday” while the implant process is underway.
What is the process of receiving dental implants?
After your thorough evaluation, we’ll have a session to place the implant with a quick follow-up visit soon after. After a period of time, while your implant settles, we’ll have another appointment to place the crown or other restoration onto it.
Everything you need to know about dental implants
What are dental implants, and how do they work?
A dental implant is a modern way of replacing a completely missing tooth. People choose implants over dentures or bridges for a few reasons. They are designed to look and feel natural, an implant doesn’t require removal for cleaning.
The process involves placing a titanium threaded implant into the jaw. A tooth is then attached to the implant, without the use of adhesive. Expect a precise fit.
In terms of everyday living, the effect can prove transformative. The process restores chewing function, and depending on the tooth’s location, improves the aesthetics of your smile.
Implant dentistry also stops other teeth from drifting out of position. If you suffer from gum disease, the issue must be addressed first. Gum health is important to the success of your implants.
Our experienced dentists can discuss your needs and evaluate your suitability for dental implants. Certain medications are known to interact, threatening implant performance. A full medical history will be taken to ensure that the correct treatment is recommended.
In terms of the process, local anaesthetic allows a pain-free procedure. For some more advanced procedures or, if you are nervous, implants can be placed asleep under a general anaesthetic in hospital. Post-care analgesics are prescribed, yet often not required. Swelling and discomfort differs from person to person but is usually considered relatively mild.
Not long after the implant has been placed, we schedule a quick follow up visit to monitor your progress. We then wait until the implant has settled before organising another appointment to place the crown or other restoration. The waiting period can be from a few days in very special circumstances to a few months.
How much do dental implants cost in Perth?
There are many ways implants can be used, and cost is impacted by your specific situation. The number of teeth required and the placement of the teeth are both important factors.
For a single tooth supported by one implant, the cost can range from $5,500 to $6,000. But often implants are able to support more than one tooth, greatly reducing the cost per tooth.
An example? Four implants supporting a full arch of teeth. Known as “all-on-four”, the cost for this option generally ranges from $18,000 to $27,000.
Other times, a removeable denture is stabilised with two implants. The cost for this implant procedure is around $8,000 -$9,000.
Every case is different. The team at our Vic Park dental surgery will discuss your situation, tailor a solution, and provide a detailed estimate. We recommend confirming if the procedure is covered or part-covered by your health insurance provider.
How long do dental implants last?
When done well, an implant should be a lifelong treatment. Despite this, complications can sometimes occur. At Aardent Dental Centre, we discuss potential outcomes in full before proceeding.
On occasion, some maintenance is required over the years. One thing is for sure, implants are not a “set and forget” option.
Regular check-ups and cleans with your dentist are essential. You also need to do your part to keep implants clean by maintaining your everyday dental routine.
We want you to feel confident and comfortable when undergoing implant dentistry. If you need more information or have further concerns, our friendly team is happy to help. To discuss the possibility of dental implants, contact us today.