Dental Implants in Perth

Individuals with healthy jawbones, gums, and teeth, who practice good oral hygiene and do not smoke, are generally good candidates for dental implants. Dental implants are suitable for those with one or more missing teeth or teeth that are broken or decayed beyond repair. Additionally, if you are dissatisfied with conventional dentures, partial dentures, or dental bridges, implant dentistry may provide a beneficial alternative.

On the other hand, people with periodontitis, severe oral health problems, insufficient bone, or specific medical conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or immune disorders, as well as those who smoke, are typically not ideal candidates for dental implants. However, thanks to advancements in diagnostics and bone reconstruction, many of these individuals may still be able to benefit from dental implants.

Dental implants are the closest option that resembles natural, healthy teeth. If you’ve been thinking about getting this tooth replacement option or want to learn more about it, we’ve provided a list highlighting the benefits of having one. These include the following:

• Stability and Security:

  Dental implants do not shift or slip, providing the same level of stability as natural teeth. They are also easy to maintain with regular brushing and flossing.

• Jawbone Health:

  Implants act as artificial tooth roots, stimulating the jawbone and preventing bone loss. This helps maintain your facial structure and prevents the sunken appearance that can occur with missing teeth.

• Enhanced Functionality:

  Implants allow you to speak and chew comfortably, functioning like natural teeth. They restore full functionality, enabling you to eat a wide variety of foods without discomfort.

• Longevity:

  With proper care, implants can last for several years. This durability helps reduce long-term costs and ensures a reliable and aesthetically pleasing smile.

• Preservation of Adjacent Teeth:

  Implants do not require altering adjacent teeth, as needed with dental bridges, thus preserving their natural structure and health.

• Improved Comfort:

  Implants eliminate the discomfort often associated with removable dentures, such as sore spots or the need for adhesive.

• Enhanced Confidence:

  With a stable, natural-looking replacement for missing teeth, you can feel more confident in social and professional settings.

Dental implants provide a stable, functional, and natural-looking replacement for missing teeth, enhancing your oral health and confidence. If you’re considering implants, speak with your dental professional to see how this option could benefit you.

The manner in which your dentist performs the dental operation is determined by the type of implant you need and the state of your jawbone. Some patients may undergo multiple dental procedures to complete the dental implant process.

Essentially, here’s what you can expect with the entire dental implant treatment:

• Initial consultation:

  Your dentist will perform a complete evaluation to assess your overall and oral health. This initial evaluation will include X-rays, impressions, and tooth colour matching so that your implant appears as natural as possible. The dentist will also review your medical history and current medications.

• Tooth extraction:

  If you still have a damaged tooth that requires replacement, your dentist will extract it before the implant placement. Your dentist will discuss several anaesthetic choices with you to numb the surgical area and keep you comfortable. You should refrain from blowing your nose, smoking, excessively spitting, or drinking via a straw. These actions may result in a dry socket and associated pain.

• Dental implant:

  The placement of dental implants involves a precise surgical procedure to insert titanium posts into the jawbone. First, the dentist administers anaesthesia to numb the area, keeping the patient comfortable throughout the surgery. Next, a small incision is made in the gum to expose the jawbone. Using specific dental instruments, the dentist drills a hole into the jaw bone where the implant will be placed. The titanium post is then carefully inserted into the access hole. After the tooth implant is securely placed, the gum tissue is stitched back over the implant to protect it during the healing process.

• The healing period:

  Following the placement of dental implants, the healing period is a crucial phase known as osseointegration. During this time, the implant integrates with the jawbone to form a stable and durable foundation for the replacement tooth. This process usually takes between three and six months, though the exact duration can vary based on individual healing rates and overall health.

• Abutment placement:

  Once the implant is sufficiently stable, the dentist will attach an abutment. This minor surgical procedure involves reopening the gum to expose the implant. The dentist attaches a small connector, known as an abutment, to the top of the implant. This abutment will protrude slightly above the gum line and serve as the attachment point for the final crown.

• Integration of the dental prosthesis:

  After your gums have healed, your dentist will attach the final restoration—a custom-made crown or prosthesis—to the abutment. This step completes the dental implant process and provides a fully functional and natural-looking replacement tooth.

The steps involved in your dental implant procedure can slightly differ from those mentioned above. Your dentist will discuss the steps further with you to help you prepare for the surgical process.

The dental implant procedure is generally not painful because the dentist administers anaesthesia to numb the affected areas. They may also use sedation and sleep dentistry services to help you feel calm during the entire process. However, you may experience some discomfort during the recovery process. However, you will be given further instructions about post-operative care to help alleviate pain and promote optimal recovery.

Not everyone is an ideal candidate for dental implants, but many patients can benefit from this tooth replacement option. Here are some factors that determine eligibility:

• General health:

  Good overall health is crucial for dental implant success. Candidates should not have uncontrolled chronic conditions such as diabetes or heart disease, which can interfere with healing and osseointegration (the process where the implant fuses with the jawbone). Smoking can also impede healing, so non-smokers or those willing to quit during the healing process are preferred candidates.

• Oral health:

  Healthy teeth, gums, and sufficient jawbone density are essential for supporting dental implants. Patients with gum disease or significant bone loss may require additional dental treatments, such as bone grafting or periodontal therapy, before implants can be placed.

• Age considerations:

  While age itself is not a barrier, the jawbone must be fully developed. This means dental implants are generally not recommended for children or adolescents whose jawbones are still growing. Older adults, however, can successfully receive implants if they meet other health criteria.

• Commitment to oral hygiene:

  Candidates must be committed to maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular dental check-ups. Proper care is crucial to prevent infections and protect the longevity of the implants.

A consultation with a dentist will help determine if dental implants are a suitable choice for you. If you have concerns about your suitability for dental implants, discuss them with your dental professional to explore all available options.

Bone grafting is a common preparatory procedure for dental implants, necessary when the patient’s jawbone lacks the adequate density or volume to support the implant securely. Here are the primary reasons and conditions that might require bone grafting:

• Bone loss due to tooth loss:

  After a tooth is extracted or missing, the jawbone may begin to deteriorate. This can result in insufficient bone density for tooth implant placement.

• Periodontal disease:

  Severe gum disease can result in significant bone loss around the teeth, compromising the jawbone’s ability to support titanium screws.

• Long-term denture use:

  Wearing dentures for a long period can lead to bone resorption since they do not stimulate the jawbone like natural teeth or implants do.

• Congenital conditions:

  Some individuals are born with conditions that affect jawbone development. These congenital defects might require bone grafting to create a stable base for dental implants​.

Bone grafting is an essential step for many patients seeking dental implants, particularly those with significant bone loss due to various conditions. A thorough evaluation by your dentist will determine if bone grafting is necessary and what type of graft will be most suitable for your specific needs.

As with any dental surgery, recovery may involve some discomfort. Common and expected side effects include swelling around the gums and face, bruising, pain at the implant site, and minor bleeding. It is usually advised to avoid eating hard foods while healing, and your dentist may prescribe pain medication following surgery to aid in recovery.

For optimal healing, follow these additional aftercare tips:

• Maintain Oral Hygiene:

  Gently brush and floss around the implant area as recommended by your dentist, avoiding the surgical site to prevent irritation.

• Use an Antiseptic Rinse:

  Your dentist may recommend an antiseptic mouthwash to help keep the area clean and reduce the risk of infection.

• Apply Ice:

  Use ice packs on the outside of your face to help reduce swelling and discomfort.

• Avoid Smoking and Alcohol:

  Smoking and alcohol can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of complications.

• Stick to Soft Foods:

  Consume soft, non-sticky foods to avoid putting pressure on the implant site. Gradually reintroduce harder foods as advised by your dentist.

• Follow Post-Operative Instructions:

  Adhere to any specific instructions given by your friendly dentist regarding care and follow-up appointments.

If you notice that these issues have gotten worse or are causing severe pain, contact us immediately. The dentist can then check the problem and prevent it from aggravating.