Dental Implants have been in use since the 1970’s and are a very successful treatment for replacing a missing tooth. Implants look, feel and function like a tooth.
A Dental Implant is often perceived as a scary treatment when in fact the procedure is painless and can be performed under local anesthesia or for anxious patient’s sedation is also available.
Implants can also be used to stabilize dentures.
What is the involved in getting a dental Implant ?
Consultation – Surgery – Implant Placement – Restoration of the Tooth
The first step in getting a dental implant is an assessment with our visiting Oral Surgeon. A 3D x ray is often required beforehand to assess the quality of the bone where the implant is to be placed.
Not everyone is suitable for an dental implant. There are many factors that come into play such as certain medical conditions and bone quality.
Once the surgeon has given you the all clear the implant surgery is booked.
The implant is placed in the jaw and left to integrate for a period of around 12 weeks. A temporary tooth can be made to wear for this period if the gap is visible.
After 12 weeks the surgeon will give the dentist the confirmation the dental implant has integrated and then the crown/ tooth on top is fabricated.
There are many different implant systems available – at The Tooth Company we use a wide range of implant systems with particular preference for the Nobel Biocare and 3I systems.
Implants should last a lifetime if well cared for and maintained. Recent research confirms implants have a high success rate with a success rate of 90% after 10 years.
Implants are not a cheap treatment as they are a specialized treatment and should be viewed that way. The rough cost of an implant is $5000-$7000 depending on the bone quality where the implant is placed.