Dental implants
When a tooth decides to go missing, there are several replacement options available: dentures,
bridges, do nothing, or you can get dental implants.
Unlike dentures or bridges, the natural look and feel of an implant means there’s little need to change
your eating or oral hygiene habits. So once fitted you can laugh, smile, leisurely lunch, and chew your
friend’s ear off with your latest news, as normal.
What are dental implants and
how do they work?
Luke, the lead dental implant dentist at Keppel Dental says:
“Tooth implants can be used to replace one tooth or multiple teeth. The procedure involves placing a titanium, screw-like fitting into the jawbone. This is the ‘implant’ and does the same job as a natural tooth’s root: it anchors the new tooth so it stays put.
Implants come in different sizes. Which one is used will depend on the tooth we’re
replacing and the size of your mouth, jaw and the gap we’re filling.
Once the implant is in, we then work on the aesthetic aspect of the tooth
replacement. This means placing a natural-looking ceramic crown on top of
the implant so it looks and feels like all your other teeth.”
Are dental implants painful?
During the procedure, you’ll feel very little. A local anesthetic is used to numb the area, so you’ll feel some pressure and movement at most but there shouldn’t be any pain. Once the treatment is complete and the anesthetic wears off you can expect some tenderness. Before you leave the practice your dentist will talk you through pain relief options and methods to help with the healing process.
How long do they last?
Dental implants can last 10-20 years, which is generally longer than bridges or dentures, because they are fixed to your jaw. Just like a natural tooth. They are more secure—so are less likely to break or come loose—and like with all teeth, as long as you practise good oral hygiene and have them checked regularly they will go the distance.
Dental implants work really
well if you:
- Are free from gum disease
- Have a healthy, strong jaw
- Don’t have any tooth decay
- Are in overall good physical health.
How much does a dental
implant cost?
The cost for a single dental implant in Australia ranges from $3,000 to $8,000, with factors such as pre-procedure care, the dentist’s location, and the brand of implant they use all affecting the cost.
On top of this, receiving an implant isn’t always a quick or easy task. And when done to a high standard it lets you get on with everyday life as if you still had a natural tooth. So this procedure means investing in your oral health.
Before deciding whether this dental procedure is right for you it’s important to get hold of all the facts — including cost and payment options. The best way to get a price that’s relevant to your situation is to start the conversation by contacting your dentist to begin working out your personal treatment plan.
When you’re ready to know more or book-in
for dental implants
The first step is to call our helpful reception staff. They will schedule in a time for
you to speak with one of our dentists about your requirements.
Dental implant FAQs
How painful is getting a dental implant?
You’ll feel very little pain during the procedure. To place the implant without causing you any discomfort, we numb the area with a local anaesthetic. Work to fit the dental implant only begins once the anaesthetic has kicked in. What some people do experience—and may confuse with pain—is pressure and movement as the implant is fitted.
What is the downside to dental implants?
The main downside, and barrier for many, is the cost of dental implant treatment. But treatment time, the need for surgery, and the time it takes to heal may put some patients off. It’s best to speak with your dentist to let them know if you have any of these dental implant anxieties before moving forward with treatment.
How common are problems with dental implants?
When talking about problems with dental implants, we’re referring to dental implant failure. And while it’s true that dental implants in Australia can fail, the good news is that the chance of it happening is very low. Here are the steps you can take to minimise the risk.
