Dental Implants

If you have one or multiple teeth that you wish to replace, a standard dental implant can be carried out. A single tooth can be replaced by a dental implant but if you have more than one tooth that needs replacing, you will need larger implants to support your teeth. Some patients may opt to replace their entire mouth (a major restoration), or the teeth on the upper or lower jaw (partial restoration).

Fixed bridgework is a popular technique that replaces missing teeth. As the name suggests, the bridge will be “fixed” to your teeth and cannot be removed. Unlike standard bridges, fixed bridgework isn’t dependent on the support of your remaining teeth.

With emerging technology, dentures are no longer the traditional ‘false teeth’ that can be removed every evening before bed. Now, they can be implant-supported to deliver a more permanent and secure fastening using special attachments to reduce movement. Dentures can be made to closely resemble your original smile or they can be designed to give you a smile makeover. If you have enough healthy bone in your jaw to support implants, then you may be a candidate for implant-supported dentures.

Ideal for dental emergencies and teeth lost during trauma, temporary dental implants are used when your mouth, gum and bone need time to heal before a permanent dental implant is inserted. While your mouth is healing, a temporary dental implant can give you back your confidence.

Traditionally, the installation of dental implants is a multiple-step process that takes place over the course of a couple of weeks. Most patients can expect a process similar to this one:

1. An oral examination that assesses bone density and space in the mouth
2. Checking that the surrounding gums are healthy and preparing the area where the tooth is missing
3. The titanium screw is inserted
4. A healing cap is placed on the screw for a number of weeks, while the dental crown is prepared
5. Once the tailored crown is sent by the laboratory (approximately a two-week process), it can replace the healing cap

Some dentists offer one-day implants, though there are some risks associated with these. Make an appointment with your dental professional to find out if you’re a good candidate.

Not all insurance policies cover dental implants, but if you have an extras policy that includes major dental work, then you may be able to offset some of the cost of dental implants by making a claim.

Check with your insurer before having any kind of dental work done to find out what the terms and conditions are, and what you can expect to pay out-of-pocket.

Dental implants are a type of restorative technique, but aren’t covered by a particular field of specialism, meaning that a general dentist can carry them out. 

Always seek qualified dentists with the appropriate accreditations to ensure you’re receiving the highest levels of care and results. More complex cases - such as bite complications, depleted bones and multiple missing teeth - may require the attention of a specialist. We work closely with the top specialists in Melbourne to help you achieve the best results.