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Missing or damaged teeth can be the source of aesthetic and functional dental concerns for many. As an effective solution, dental implants are a type of dental restoration used to replace missing teeth. They are considered a long-term solution that mimics natural teeth’ function and appearance.
The benefits of dental implants
Dental implants offer numerous benefits, including improved appearance, enhanced chewing and speech capabilities, preservation of adjacent teeth, and long-term durability. However, it is essential to have a thorough consultation first to determine if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure, as this will ultimately determine whether or not you can benefit from the treatment.
What the treatment process involves
Depending on the specific type of treatment that you choose, a dental implant procedure generally consists of three main components:
- Implant fixture:The implant fixture is a small titanium post surgically inserted into the jawbone. It replaces the tooth root and provides a stable foundation for the artificial tooth or crown.
- Abutment: The abutment is a connector attached to the implant fixture. It protrudes above the gum line and serves as a support for the artificial tooth or crown.
- Artificial tooth or crown:The artificial tooth, also known as a dental crown, is the visible part of the dental implant that resembles a natural tooth. It is custom-made to match the shape, size, and colour of your existing teeth, ensuring a natural-looking smile.
The process of getting dental implants typically involves several steps:
- Evaluation and planning: The dentist will evaluate your oral health, take X-rays or CT scans of your jawbone, and determine if you are suitable for dental implants. A personalised treatment plan will be created based on your specific needs.
- Implant placement: In a surgical procedure, the dentist or oral surgeon will place the implant fixture into the jawbone. This is done under local anaesthesia or sedation to ensure your comfort. Over time, the implant integrates with the bone through osseointegration, which provides stability and support.
- Healing and osseointegration: The implant usually takes several months to bond with the jawbone fully. A temporary tooth replacement may be provided during this healing period to maintain aesthetics and functionality.
- Abutment placement: Once the implant has integrated with the jawbone, a minor surgical procedure is performed to attach the abutment to the implant fixture. This step requires accessing the implant through the gum tissue and attaching the abutment.
- Dental crown placement: After the gums have healed and the abutment is in place, a dental crown is custom-made to fit onto the abutment. The crown is then attached to the abutment, providing a natural-looking and functional tooth replacement.
Types of dental implants at Oasis Dental
At Oasis Dental, we offer a variety of dental implant treatments.
The suitability of these different types of dental implants depends on various factors, including the individual’s oral health, bone quality, and specific dental needs. A comprehensive consultation will help determine the most appropriate treatment option for your particular situation.
Singular Tooth Loss
A dental implant consists of three main elements: the implant itself, the abutment, and the crown. These components are carefully positioned in the space previously occupied by the missing tooth.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures, also known as implant-retained or over-dentures, are removable dental prosthetics secured in place by dental implants. Traditional dentures rely on adhesives or suction for stability, while implant-supported dentures offer a more secure and stable fit. Typically, a few dental implants are strategically placed in the jawbone, and the denture is then attached to the implants using special connectors or attachments. This implant benefits individuals who have lost multiple teeth or require complete arch restoration.
Teeth in a Day (All-on-4 or All-on-6)
Teeth in a Day is a concept that allows for the placement of dental implants and the attachment of a temporary set of teeth on the same day. This technique is often used for full arch restoration, where a complete set of teeth is replaced in either the upper or lower jaw. The procedure involves the placement of four or six dental implants in the jawbone, followed by attaching a temporary bridge or set of teeth on the same day. This immediate restoration option provides functional and aesthetic benefits while allowing for proper healing and eventual placement of a permanent prosthesis.
Implant Bridges
An implant bridge, also called an implant-supported bridge, is a dental restoration that replaces multiple adjacent missing teeth. It involves the placement of dental implants on either side of the gap, and a custom-made bridge is attached to the implants. Implant bridges provide a fixed and stable solution for replacing multiple missing teeth, improving functionality and aesthetics. They eliminate the need for removable dentures or the alteration of healthy adjacent teeth, which is typically required with traditional bridges.
Bone Grafts
Bone grafting is often performed with dental implant placement when insufficient bone volume or density in the jaw supports the implant. It involves adding bone graft material to the deficient area to stimulate new bone growth and provide a stable foundation for implant placement. The bone graft material may be sourced from the patient’s body (autograft), synthetic materials, or processed bone from a tissue bank (allograft). Bone grafts can help restore bone structure for successful implant integration and long-term stability.
Oasis Dental Gold Coast, Brisbane & Pottsville
At Oasis Dental, our team of highly skilled clinicians strive to assist in creating and maintaining the smile our patients desire.
We provide an extensive range of advanced dental procedures and a thorough consultation process to help you choose the right solution for your needs.
During your consultation on the Gold Coast, Pottsville or in Brisbane, we will aim to understand you and your specific requirements as well as answer any questions you have about dental care. While you may already know what you need, our team will evaluate the most suitable options for you and customise a plan to achieve your desired results.
If you think you may need one of our dental implant treatments, please get in touch with us today to schedule your initial consultation!
