If you are self-conscious about missing teeth or wearing dentures, there’s an alternative that may be right for your dental implants. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are inserted into the jawbone to replace missing natural teeth. Implants closely mimic the look and function of natural teeth™s the closest thing to having your real teeth back!
A dental implant is effectively an ‘anchor’ made of titanium that is placed in your bone, similar to the way your natural tooth root sits in your jaw. This allows an artificial crown or ‘cap’ to be placed on top of this anchor. Sometimes, implants can also be used to stabilise loose dentures.
Dental implants help restore the ability to chew food, are firmly secured in the jaws, are more comfortable and do not have to be taken out compared to dentures also prevent one loss in the jaw. They are essentially cared for, and function like, your own natural teeth.
Dental implants are usually placed in three stages. In the first step, the surgeon surgically places the implant in the jaw. The gum is then secured over the implant and left covered for approximately three to six months. This allows the implant to fuse to the bone, a process called ‘osseointegration’. This procedure is generally performed in the dental office with local anaesthetic. There may be some swelling or tenderness for a few days after the surgery, but recovery time is generally minimal. In the second stage the implant is uncovered and an abutment (connector) is placed on-top of the implant. This allows a crown (artificial cap) to be placed on this abutment in the final stage of the process.
Dental implants anchored by sufficient bone can last for many years, and has one of the highest success rates of any procedure performed in dentistry. However, like any form of surgery there are potential complications that will be discussed by your Carrum Downs Family dentist.
Implants can be placed in patients of all ages, if you are in good health and have adequate bone to support an implant. Your Carrum Downs Family Dental dentist will carefully assess whether you are candidate, usually with the aid of a special CT X-ray.
At Carrum Downs Family Dental , we are able to offer dental implants at your local clinic . Our visiting specialist oral surgeon, Dr Naser has advanced training in implant surgery, having completed his masters in oral surgery and several further surgical courses throughout the world. His friendly and gentle approach will ensure your experience is a positive one.
We service Carrum Downs, Skye, Frankston, Langwarrin, Seaford, Patterson Lakes, Sandhurst, Bangholme, Cranbourne West and surrounding areas.
So call us on (03) 9786 2144 or visit us at info@carrumdownsdentist.com.au