Dental Implants

Depending on your package, private health insurance may cover some costs relative to the type of treatment. Rebates often vary by insurance type and policy.

Before proceeding, our team can assist you with any queries about your ‘itemised’ treatment plan from our dentists regarding your private health.

Patients with Major/Extras may be entitled to more cost savings. It is essential to check with your provider if your package includes any items in the treatment plan.

Medicare does not cover the cost of dental implants.

The lifespan of dental implants depends on several factors, such as the quality of the materials used, the oral hygiene practices of the patient, and any habits or behaviours that may cause damage to the implant.

On average, dental implants can last between 15 to 25 years or even longer with proper care and maintenance. Some people may need to replace their implant sooner, while others may be able to keep their implant for many years beyond the typical lifespan. It’s important to discuss the expected lifespan of a dental implant with your dentist and ask any questions you may have before deciding to get an implant.

The lifespan of a dental implant depends on a variety of factors, including:

1. Implant placement: The success of a dental implant depends on the quality and quantity of the bone in the jaw where the implant is placed. If the implant is placed in an area with sufficient bone density and the procedure is done correctly, the implant is more likely to last.
2. Oral hygiene: Good oral hygiene is essential for the long-term success of a dental implant. Brushing, flossing regularly, and visiting the dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings are vital.
3. Smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of implant failure, affecting the healing process and reducing blood flow to the area.
4. Health conditions: Certain conditions, such as diabetes or autoimmune disorders, can increase the risk of implant failure.
5. Bite forces: Excessive biting forces or teeth grinding (bruxism) can cause damage to the implant or surrounding teeth, reducing their lifespan.

To help ensure the longevity of dental implants, it is crucial to practice good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing regularly and visiting the dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings. It is also important to avoid habits that can damage the implant, such as chewing on hard objects, using teeth as tools, or grinding or clenching the teeth.

Regular check-ups with a dentist are essential to monitor the implant’s health and detect any signs of damage or wear.

If a dental implant becomes loose, damaged, or infected, it is important to seek prompt dental care to prevent further damage and maintain the function and appearance of the implant. Sometimes, a damaged or infected implant may need to be replaced with a new one.

Dental implants typically involve some discomfort, but most patients do not report significant pain during the procedure. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia; sometimes, sedation may also be used to help the patient relax.

During the implant surgery, the dentist will make an incision in the gum tissue to access the jawbone and place the implant. The procedure can cause discomfort, but most patients only feel pressure and vibration during the surgery. After the surgery, the patient may experience soreness, swelling, and bruising in the treated area. Still, these symptoms can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications and ice packs.

It is essential to follow the post-operative instructions provided by the dentist to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications. Patients should avoid strenuous physical activity and eat soft foods for a few days after the surgery. They should also regularly maintain good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing, to prevent infection and promote healing.

In some cases, complications such as infection or implant failure may occur after implant surgery. It is essential to contact the dentist promptly if any unusual symptoms or pain develop after the surgery. With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can provide a durable and natural-looking solution for missing teeth with minimal discomfort during and after the procedure.

While dental implants are a safe and effective way to replace missing teeth, there are some risks and potential complications associated with the procedure. These can include:

• Infection: Like any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection with dental implants. This can occur during or after the procedure and can be treated with antibiotics if caught early.
• Implant failure: In rare cases, dental implants may fail and not integrate properly with the bone. This can be due to various factors, including inadequate bone density, infection, or poor implant placement.
• Nerve damage: The nerves in the jaw can be damaged during the implant placement procedure, which can cause numbness or tingling in the chin, lips, or gums. This is usually temporary but can be permanent in rare cases.
• Sinus problems: Implants in the upper jaw can sometimes protrude into the sinus cavities, causing sinus problems or infections.
• Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to the materials used in the implant, such as titanium or zirconia.
• Damage to surrounding teeth: During the implant placement, nearby teeth may be damaged or loosened.
• Pain and swelling: Some pain and swelling are expected after the implant procedure, but it can be more severe and long-lasting in rare cases.

One of the main risks for older adults is the potential for slower healing, as the body’s natural healing processes may not be as efficient as in younger patients. This can increase the risk of complications such as infection or implant failure. Additionally, older adults may be more likely to have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or osteoporosis, that can affect the success of the implant surgery.

Other potential risks of dental implant surgery for older adults include:

• Anesthesia risks: Older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of anesthesia and may be at higher risk of complications such as heart attack or stroke during the procedure.
• Medication interactions: Older adults may take multiple medications for various health conditions, which can increase the risk of drug interactions or complications during the implant surgery or the recovery period.
• Existing dental issues: Older adults may have other dental problems, such as gum disease or decay, that can affect the success of the implant surgery and require additional treatment.

Despite these potential risks, dental implant surgery can still be a safe and effective option for older adults. Older patients need to discuss their medical history and any concerns with their dental professional to determine the best course of treatment for their individual needs.

It’s important to discuss these risks with your dentist and ask any questions you may have before deciding to get a dental implant. Your dentist can help you understand the procedure and the potential risks and benefits to determine if a dental implant is the best option.

Whether a broken dental implant can be fixed depends on the extent of the damage.

If the implant has a minor fracture or damage to its abutment (the part that protrudes above the gum line and supports the crown or bridge), the dentist may be able to repair it by replacing the damaged component with a new one.

However, if the implant has sustained extensive damage, such as a fracture in the implant post or damage to the surrounding bone, it may need to be removed and replaced with a new implant.

It’s important to have the broken implant evaluated by a dental professional as soon as possible to determine the best course of action. Delaying treatment can lead to further complications and potentially compromise the success of the implant in the long term.

Dental implants can be more expensive than other tooth replacement options, such as dentures or bridges, for several reasons:

• Complex Procedure: Dental implant procedures require multiple steps, including consultation, planning, surgery, and follow-up care. Each step involves specialized equipment, materials, and expertise.
• High-Quality Materials: Dental implants are typically made of high-quality, biocompatible materials, such as titanium, designed to last many years. The cost of these materials can be high.
• Specialized Training: Dentists and oral surgeons who perform dental implant procedures require specialized training and expertise. This additional training and expertise can also contribute to the higher cost of dental implant procedures.
• Customization: Each dental implant procedure is unique and requires customization based on the individual patient’s needs and preferences. This customization can add to the overall cost of the procedure.
• Insurance Coverage: Many dental insurance plans do not cover the total cost of dental implant procedures, which can leave patients responsible for a significant portion.

Despite the higher cost, many people choose dental implants because of their durability, convenience, and natural-looking appearance. It’s important to discuss the costs and benefits of dental implants with your dentist or oral surgeon to determine whether they are the right option for you.

If the crown on your dental implant breaks, it’s essential to contact your dentist or oral surgeon as soon as possible. Depending on the severity of the damage, there are a few different options for repairing or replacing the crown.

1. Repair the crown: If the damage is minor, the height may be able to be repaired. Your dentist or oral surgeon can assess the extent of the damage and determine whether restoring the crown is a viable option.
2. Replace the crown: If the damage is too extensive to repair, the height must be replaced. In this case, the old crown will be removed, and a new crown will be placed onto the implant.
3. Evaluate the implant: If the implant itself is damaged or loose, it may need to be evaluated and replaced. Your dentist or oral surgeon can assess the implant to determine whether it needs to be replaced.

In any case, it’s essential to address a broken or damaged crown on your dental implant as soon as possible to prevent further damage or complications. It’s also important to follow proper oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing regularly, to help avoid damage to the crown and implant in the first place.

In most cases, a root canal procedure is not necessary before getting a dental implant. Dental implants are typically used to replace missing teeth and are placed directly into the jawbone, whereas root canals treat infected or damaged teeth still in place.

However, if the tooth that is being replaced with a dental implant has an active infection, your dentist or oral surgeon may recommend that you undergo root canal therapy before the implant procedure. This is to ensure that the infection is fully treated and to prevent any further complications.

In some cases, if a tooth has been missing for a long time, the jawbone may have deteriorated, and a bone graft or other procedure may be necessary to prepare the jawbone for the implant. Your dentist or oral surgeon may recommend root canal therapy to save any remaining tooth structure and stabilize the area before beginning the implant procedure.

Ultimately, the need for root canal therapy before a dental implant procedure will depend on your situation and the condition of your teeth and jawbone. It’s important to consult your dentist or oral surgeon to determine the best treatment plan for your needs.

Smoking can significantly increase the risks and complications associated with dental implants.

Smoking can have several adverse effects on the oral cavity, including reducing blood flow to the gums and bone, impairing the immune system, and increasing the risk of infection. These effects can make it more difficult for the body to heal after implant surgery and increase the risk of implant failure, gum disease, and other complications.

Studies have shown that smokers have a higher risk of implant failure than non-smokers, with some studies reporting failure rates up to two or three times higher in smokers.

Additionally, smokers may experience slower healing and a higher risk of infection after implant surgery, which can further increase the risk of complications.

Therefore, it is highly recommended that smoking patients quit before dental implant surgery. This can help reduce the risks and improve the chances of a successful implant procedure. If quitting smoking is not possible, it is vital to inform your dental professional, who can take extra precautions and closely monitor your healing and recovery process.

Dental osseointegration is when a dental implant fuses with the surrounding bone tissue in the jaw. It is a crucial factor in the success of dental implant surgery, as it provides a stable and durable foundation for the implant.

The dental implant, typically titanium, is surgically placed into the jawbone during osseointegration. Over time, the bone tissue in the jaw gradually grows and fuses with the implant, forming a strong and permanent bond. This process can take several months to complete, during which the patient may wear a temporary restoration to protect the implant and allow for proper healing.

Once the osseointegration process is complete, the dental implant is securely anchored in place and can support a variety of restorations, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. Because the implant is fused with the bone, it can function and feel like a natural tooth, allowing patients to eat, speak, and confidently smile.

The success of osseointegration depends on several factors, including the patient’s overall health, the quality and quantity of the surrounding bone tissue, and the skill and experience of the dental professional performing the surgery. It is crucial for patients to carefully follow their dentist’s instructions for post-operative care and maintenance to ensure the best possible outcomes.