Single-tooth Dental Implants

What is a dental implant?

Dental implants are titanium inserts that are permanently fixed into the jawbone as a support for a replacement tooth.

Over a few months, the dental implant starts to fuse with the jawbone effectively replacing the root of the missing tooth.

A custom-made dental crown that matches your existing teeth is then permanently fixed to the top of the implant, completing the restoration.

The new prosthetic tooth has a virtually identical feel, function and appearance to a natural tooth.

What are the advantages of dental implants?

Dental implants are an effective solution to replace one or more missing teeth and restore your smile, having a few important advantages:

1. Restore eating comfort – dental implants are firmly bonded to the jawbone and help restore full chewing function.
2. Long-lasting – with optimal home oral hygiene and regular check-ups, dental implants are a durable solution that can last many years.

Replacing missing teeth also reduces the risk of additional oral health issues including:

• Reduces stress on other teeth when chewing.
• Prevent adjacent teeth drifting into the gap.
• Improve eating comfort and dental hygiene.
• Enhance the appearance of your smile.

Is a dental implant right for me?

The general health and integrity of your jawbone is a key factor in the success of dental implants to replace one or more missing teeth.

After reviewing your medical history, taking X-rays and using high-tech dental imagery, your dentist will be able to advise you if dental implants are right for you.

A number of potential solutions may be appropriate if your jawbone is not strong enough to receive implants, including:

• Bone Augmentation – a bone graft can increase bone mass.
• Sinus Lift – a bone graft specifically for the sinus region for implants in the upper back jaw.

What is the procedure for a dental implant?

We use high-tech digital imagery of your jaws to establish a personalised plan for your dental implant treatment.

At the start of the procedure, a local anaesthetic is administered to numb the area to be treated. Treatment can also be carried out under sedation.

A surgical process is carried out to allow the titanium implant to be permanently anchored into the bone.

Your dentist may fit a temporary crown to protect the implant and gum area once the surgery is complete.

What happens after an implant procedure?

Some patients may feel temporary soreness, swelling or sensitivity for a few days after a dental implant procedure.

After several months, the implant will usually have fused with the jawbone for maximum strength, stability and longevity.

A dental crown is then custom-made to fit on the implant, with a virtually identical size, shape and colour to your natural teeth.