What Is A Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a natural-looking tooth replacement option for missing teeth. It can also be used to replace damaged or broken teeth if required. It is essentially an artificial screw that mimics the root of your tooth and, when combined with prosthetic teeth, gives you a smile that looks and functions just like your natural teeth.

Dental implants replace the roots of your missing teeth with a strong and durable titanium post that is strategically placed into your jawbone. In certain cases where bone density is low, bone grafts are necessary to promote bone regeneration and growth. Having a healthy amount of bone density is important to securely place the implants to your jawbone and allow it to fuse. This process creates a solid foundation for dental implants, ensuring their stability.

The post acts as a strong foundation for attaching a crown, bridge, or a full set of teeth that blends seamlessly with your existing teeth or restores your entire smile.

Benefits Of Getting Dental Implants

Dental Implants offer several benefits that improve your oral health, functionality, and overall well-being. Let’s explore some of these benefits:

• Preserves jawbone and facial structure
• Durable and long-lasting
• Improved speech and chewing 
• Gives a natural-looking appearance 
• No hassle of loose dentures
• Boosts self-esteem and confidence

By replacing missing teeth with implants, the jawbone remains stimulated, which helps maintain its density and prevents bone loss. This preservation of bone also ensures the integrity of your facial structure, preventing a sunken appearance.

Dental implants act as stable anchors in the jawbone, preventing adjacent teeth from tilting or shifting into empty spaces. This helps maintain proper alignment of your bite, which in turn reduces the risk of decay, wear and tear and cracks along existing teeth. 

Dental implants also prevent the need to alter or grind down adjacent existing teeth as required with certain other tooth replacement solutions like traditional dental bridges.

 

Types Of Dental Implants 

When it comes to dental implant treatments, there are a few different options available depending on your specific needs. Some common dental implant treatments include:

Single Tooth Implant

This treatment is used when you have one or just a few missing teeth. An implant is placed in your jawbone and a custom-made crown is attached to the implant, filling the gap left by the missing tooth.

Implant Bridge

If you have multiple missing teeth in a row, an implant-supported bridge can be used. This involves placing two implants with crowns on either side of the gap and attaching an artificial tooth in between, effectively filling the space.

All-On-X

All-On-X treatment is used for those who have lost most or all of their teeth in the lower or upper jaw. These implants are strategically placed in your jawbone and a full arch of artificial teeth is securely attached to the implants. It provides a stable and permanent solution for full teeth restoration. It also utilises your existing jawbone as much as possible, reducing the need for additional treatments like bone grafts.

Implant-Supported Dentures 

If you have difficulty wearing traditional removable dentures, implant-supported dentures can be a great alternative. Once the implants are placed into your jawbone and the denture is then attached to the implants, this provides increased stability and eliminates the need for messy denture adhesives.

It’s important to note that the specific type of dental implant treatment recommended for you will depend on factors such as the number of missing teeth, the condition of your jawbone, and your overall oral health. 

If you’re considering implants, speak to one of our experienced dentists at Warrnambool Smile Dental, we will assess your unique condition and guide you in choosing the most suitable treatment option.

How Does It Work

Getting Dental Implants at Warrnambool Smile Dental is a stress-free and easy process. Our experienced team ensures a smooth journey to your new confident smile.

 The treatment involves a few key steps:

1. Consultation

It all starts with a consultation with our experienced dentist. We will examine your teeth and mouth, take X-rays or 3D scans and discuss your dental history and goals. This will help us determine if you’re a good candidate for dental implants. 

2. Treatment Planning

Our dentist will create a personalised treatment plan based on your specific needs. We will consider several factors such as the condition of your jawbone, the number of missing teeth and any additional treatments that may be required.

3. Implant Placement 

Our professional dentist will first numb the area with local anesthesia to ensure your comfort. We will then carefully and strategically place the implant (titanium post) into your jawbone. This provides a firm foundation for the artificial tooth.

4. Osseointegration

A process called osseointegration happens, this is when your jawbone naturally fuses with your implant, creating a strong and stable bond. It’s like the implant becomes a part of your body.

5. Abutment Placement

A small connector called an abutment is placed on top of the implant. This abutment acts as a link between the implant and the artificial tooth (crown) that will be attached later.

6. Crown Placement

The final step is the custom-made crown. Our artisanal dentists will take impressions of your teeth to create a crown that matches your natural teeth in shape, colour and size. The crown is then securely attached to the abutment, completing the restoration of your beautiful smile.

Throughout your journey, our experienced dentists will provide guidance, support and follow-up care to ensure the long-term success and maintenance of your dental implants. 

How To Care For Your Implants

Caring for your dental implants is vital to keep your oral health in check and ensure they last for a long time. Luckily, after-care is pretty simple with this solution! Here are some essential tips on how to care for your implants:

• Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush.

• Floss regularly to clean between your teeth and around the implants. This helps remove plaque and food particles.

• Avoid harmful habits such as using your implants as tools for opening bottles or ripping off packages, biting or chewing on hard objects as this can damage your prosthetic teeth.

• Quit smoking and alcohol consumption to increase the longevity of your implants.

• Attend regular dental check-ups. Schedule routine dental visits to check the progress and health of your implants.

• Avoid strenuous activities that will impact your implants. Wear protective wear such as a mouthguard if you are engaging in physical activities like sports. 

With this step-by-step guide, you’re well-equipped to navigate the process of getting dental implants and embrace a healthier, happier smile with implants!